$1,056,234Average Value$730Average Price per Sq Ft50Homes For Sale
Proximity to recreation near Los Angeles
About 4 miles north of Pasadena, Altadena is a sleepy, unincorporated area in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains. The name is derived from the Spanish word "alta," meaning high or above, and "dena," as in Pasadena. The eclectic and diverse town of about 40,000 people values outdoor access and proximity to the city — it's only being about 15 miles from downtown Los Angeles. “We’re so close to the big city, but it’s like living in the country,” says Compass broker Teresa Fuller, a local of over 30 years. “We’re right up against the mountains, and when my kids were little, they used to ride their bikes to a stream and swim. That’s how natural this city is.” Buyers in Altadena are looking to be removed from the hustle and bustle, according to Sotheby’s broker associate Brandon Road, who has over 20 years of experience in the market. “Typically people who buy here are looking to be closer to nature, and the bonus is it’s a little bit less expensive than much of Pasadena, with larger lots. And it’s unincorporated, so it’s less restrictive for building.”
The community in Altadena takes pride in their farmers' market and nature-based city living.
Altadena residents love the proximity to nature that surrounds them on all sides.
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Rapidly growing home prices
In late 2024, Altadena’s median home price was $1.3 million, more than three times the national number and well above the broader California median of $900,000. The median price has risen sharply in the last few years; in 2020, it was closer to $850,000. “You can still find some less expensive homes here, it’s just that everything has gotten ridiculously expensive everywhere,” Road says. The city is almost entirely single-family, with a broad mix of architecture and a price range between $850,000 and $5 million. One of the city’s standout neighborhoods is Jane’s Village, a historic neighborhood of about 200 heritage homes, mostly storybook cottages and Tudor-style homes. “On the northeastern side, there are estates, larger homes on larger lots that were mostly built in the 1920s, '30s and '40s,” Road says. “Some old hunting lodges have been turned into single-family homes. There’s a lot of history and historical homes here.”
Find midcentury homes that are a part of the park planned development in Altadena.
Find larger Spanish-style homes beneath the Angeles National Forest in Altadena.
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Pasadena Unified is above average
The city is served by Pasadena Unified, an above-average public school district graded B-plus by Niche. The district serves over 14,000 students in 15 walkable community elementary schools, seven middle schools and six high schools.
Altadena is about 4 miles north of one of the most prestigious learning centers in the world — the California Institute of Technology. Known as Cal Tech, the school’s alumni include countless engineers and physicians and nearly 50 Nobel Prize winners.
Jackson Elementary School serves grades K-5 and has a B rating from Niche.
Pasadena High School serves grades 9-12 and has an A rating from Niche.
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Lake Avenue is a primary commercial stretch
There are commercial stretches in downtown Altadena on Lake Avenue and about 2 miles west on Lincoln Avenue. The downtown area offers a variety of independent and chain dining, as well as small retail and service-based businesses. “Lake Avenue is more old, established businesses, while Lincoln is more of a revitalized hipster sort of area with coffee shops and Hispanic restaurants,” Road says. “Altadena doesn’t have a ton of commercial, though. If you’re looking for a larger-scale shopping and dining experience, you’re probably going to Glendale, La Canada, or probably Pasadena, the hub city for this general area.”
Altadena is filled with a variety of delicious restaurants, including several sushi spots.
Locals can indulge in an agave latte from Café de Leche on Lake Avenue in Altadena.
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On the edge of the Angeles National Forest
The outdoor vibes are real in Altadena, a nature lover’s paradise on the periphery of the Angeles National Forest. “The main access to the trails is on the western part of town, but there are other access points like Eaton Canyon and Millard Falls,” Road says. “Eaton Canyon has hiking trails and a road that takes you up to Henninger Flats, which is kind of a daytime picnic area.” Closer to the city center, Charles S. Farnsworth Park hosts summer concerts and offers two tennis courts, an amphitheater and other amenities. Golfers have options too. “Altadena Country Club has orange tees, and nobody’s uptight. Nobody’s judging you there,” Fuller says. “It’s more like a beautiful rec center with tennis and pickleball. You can eat on the patio there, and it’s one of the best views in Los Angeles.”
Eaton Canyon has trails for people of all ages to enjoy in Altadena.
Altadena residents can utilize the pickleball courts at Charles S. Farnsworth Park.
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Christmas Tree Lane is an annual highlight
Christmas Tree Lane is the highlight of calendar events. Ongoing for over a century, each December a half-mile stretch of 135 deodar cedar trees is strung with lights every year. It takes volunteers months to prepare for the annual tree lighting ceremony and Winter Festival — weekend preparation events bring residents of all ages together. “They do such a great event every year, and people come from all over the place to do a drive-through of Christmas Tree Lane,” Road says.
Direct highway access and minimal local traffic
Altadena is about 15 miles north of Los Angeles, 4 miles north of Pasadena and about 10 miles east of Glendale. The city has direct access to Interstate 210, which connects north to Santa Clarita and east to San Bernardino. “Altadena does not really ever have traffic. The only sort of traffic, if you could call it that, is you have people that leave Cal Tech and head home,” Road says. “I guess you could call that traffic. The busiest time might have five cars backed up at a stoplight.” Lake Avenue is the city’s main thoroughfare — it’s a four-lane road with street parking and views of the mountains when driving north. For those who rely on public transportation, Pasadena Transit operates bus routes, and there are Metrolink stations a few miles south. The closest major airport is Hollywood Burbank, about 20 miles west.
Serious fire risk and dropping crime
The summer climate in Altadena is warm and arid, with temperatures in the mid-to-upper 80s. The winter is mild and rainy, with temperatures in the upper 60s. There are nearly 300 days of sunshine annually, almost 100 more than the national average. Due to its location in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains, the city’s wildfire risk is substantial on the northern and eastern edges. “We haven’t had a fire that threatened anything since the 1990s,” Road says. “But it’s definitely a risk — it has been before and it likely will again, so fire insurance is something buyers have to consider, especially if you’re close to the mountains.”
Crime in Altadena fell between 2023 and 2024. According to numbers released by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, violent crime dropped almost 10% in the year. Property crime also declined 5% during the same span.
Written By
Amber Steinmetz-Cole
Photography Contributed By
Bryant Lucero
Video By
Kristen Wilson
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
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an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Altadena, CA sell after 40 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Altadena, CA over the last 12 months is $1,160,000, down 15% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
RARE OPPORTUNITY!! BRAND NEW AND MOVE IN READY HOME IN ALTADENA!! For those looking to reestablish roots - or plant new ones - this is your chance to come home to Altadena, a special place that blends tradition, resilience, and fresh beginnings. You can be an integral part of restoring and preserving the greatness of this beloved hometown. Warmington Residential is pleased to offer Plan 2 on Home
Rebecca Clausnitzer-AnbardanWarmington Residential California
Welcome to 1809 Sonoma Drive, a charming residence set along one of Altadena’s desirable streets. This four-bedroom, three-bathroom home blends classic traditional character with thoughtful updates, offering comfortable living in a setting known for its natural beauty and strong sense of community.The interior is filled with natural light and features hardwood floors, a welcoming living room
Set on a peaceful stretch of Rising Hill Road, this three-bedroom, two-bathroom Altadena home offers privacy, character, and scenic views. Light-filled living spaces and well-proportioned rooms create an inviting atmosphere throughout the home. Large windows frame beautiful outlooks and connect the interiors to the surrounding landscape. The floor plan flows comfortably for everyday living while
Welcome to this Altadena charmer, where classic 1940s craftsmanship meets thoughtful modern living. This inviting 3-bedroom, 1-bath home spans 1,141 sq. ft. on a 5,727 sq. ft. lot, offering the perfect balance of comfort, functionality, and Southern California style. Step inside and be greeted by the warmth of original hardwood floors and a cozy gas fireplace — ideal for cool evenings or quiet
Priced at the lower end of the Altadena market, this property is a rare foothill opportunity with real upside. Located in a quiet cul-de-sac surrounded by mountain views and minutes from Pasadena, the Rose Bowl, and top local trails, this home sits in one of Altadena’s most sought-after pockets. The lot offers strong usability for reimagined outdoor living, expansion, or future ADU possibilities.
Experience the perfect blend of indoor and outdoor living in this stunning single-story 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom Altadena home, just minutes from scenic Eaton Canyon. Situated on a large, private lot with majestic oak trees and lush landscaping, the property offers serene mountain views and a peaceful retreat.Inside, expansive windows bring the outdoors in, filling the home with natural light and
This stunning and rare single-story estate seamlessly blends elegance and comfort, while offering a serene retreat with stunning city light and mountain views. Inside, you'll find an inviting rotunda entry that leads to open hallways and spacious living and dining areas, all bathed in natural light from floor-to-ceiling windows. Soaring ceilings create a sense of warmth and sophistication,
Top-of-the-World Views on Historic Zane Grey Terrace.Experience the pinnacle of Altadena living on this exceptional 180-degree view lot, perched high above the city in the prestigious foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains. Located on historic Zane Grey Terrace--named for the legendary Western novelist who once called this enclave home--this property offers a rare opportunity to build a custom
Nestled in the coveted foothills of Altadena, 348 Parkman Street offers an opportunity to reimagine and rebuild in a peaceful, tree-lined neighborhood . Set on a generous lot framed by mountain views, this parcel is just moments from scenic hiking trails and the charm of North Lake Avenue's shops and cafes.This home was destroyed in the Eaton Fire, and the property is being sold as land only.
6,050 Sq.ft Lot Size. Rare opportunity to acquire commercial land in the heart of Altadena. The existing structure was lost in a recent fire, leaving a cleared site ready for redevelopment. This offering is for land value only, presenting a blank slate for investors, developers, or owner-users looking to build new.Zoned for commercial use (buyer to verify permitted uses), the property offers
Rare development opportunity in Altadena. This lot features approved and stamped plans with building permits valid through January 2030. The project includes a modern residence. The detached ADU offers additional living space. Total livable space is approximately 1,976 square feet. The main home offers an open-concept floor plan. The detached ADU provides flexibility for various uses.
Nine acres. Two parcels. One extraordinary opportunity.Perched high above Altadena where the San Gabriel Mountains meet the sky, 4700 Risinghill Road is one of Altadena's most coveted and seldom-available parcels. An extraordinary nine acres of estate land with sweeping views stretching from the glittering lights of downtown Pasadena all the way to Catalina Island.Privately held for years, this
Nine acres. Two parcels. One extraordinary opportunity.Perched high above Altadena where the San Gabriel Mountains meet the sky, 4700 Rising Hill Road is one of Altadena's most coveted and seldom-available parcels. An extraordinary nine acres of estate land with sweeping views stretching from the glittering lights of downtown Pasadena all the way to Catalina Island.Privately held for years, this
Nestled in the high foothills on a serene cul-de-sac, this property presents an exceptional opportunity to build your dream home. Enjoy crisp mountain air, breathtaking sunsets, and tranquil surroundings with scenic views of the San Gabriel Mountains. Conveniently located just moments from Farnsworth Park, the property is ready for its next chapter with Phase 1 and Phase 2 cleanup already
Margarit TorgomyanBerkshire Hathaway Home Services Golden Properties
An exceptional opportunity to create something new in Altadena. 2339 Kellogg Court was once home to a charming 1,256 sq.ft. 1920's residence and now offers a 4,039 sq.ft. lot ready for redevelopment. Phase 1 and Phase 2 debris removal have been completed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, providing a valuable head start for future plans. The property’s LCC2 zoning allows for a range of
Centrally located in Altadena, this beautiful & private & Separate 1-bed, 1-bath unit features brand-new quartz countertops, cabinets, backsplash, LED lighting, ceiling fans, Central AC, and a walk-in closet. Enjoy the convenience of in-unit washer & dryer INCLUDED , a dishwasher, and PRIVATE PARKING. Appliances included: Refrigerator, Stove, Washer & Dryer. All utilities covered in rent!
Nestled in a desirable residential neighborhood of Pasadena, this well-maintained 1-bedroom, 1-bath back-house ADU offers a comfortable and private living environment. The home features a bright and functional layout with a thoughtfully designed interior, along with a versatile den ideal for a home office, creative space, or additional storage. Enjoy your own private outdoor areas, including a
Nestled in the foothills of the beautiful San Gabriel Mountains in Pasadena, is the charming Foothills at Eaton Canyon community. Where traditional style meet with modern conveniences and distinguished interior amenities. Enter past the beautiful water feature. Walk through courtyards bordered with lush landscaping, and settle into your stylish new home, complete with granite countertops and
Charming guest house with beautiful character and privacy. The dwelling is located at the back of the main house, detached, with a private gate surrounding the property. The hardwood floors have been refinished and a electric fireplace has recently been added, providing even more warmth to the space. There are 2 spacious bedrooms, 1 full bathroom, and a very cute kitchen. Laundry is available.
Apartment for Rent – PasadenaBeautiful apartment overlooking the San Gabriel Mountains in desirable Pasadena. Walking distance from Eaton Canyon Hiking Trail. Features hardwood floors, plantation shutters, and a bright, inviting living space with stunning views.Great location close to shopping, dining, and more.East Pasadena, CA
Fully remodeled Craftsman bungalow with mountain views in a quiet Pasadena neighborhood. The spacious front porch welcomes you and your guests and provides the perfect spot to enjoy coffee and a good conversation. Stepping inside, this single-level home offers a bright, open feel with cathedral ceilings, recessed lighting, and easy-to-clean laminate flooring throughout. The remodeled kitchen is
Property Id: 2405634Spacious, comfortable, cozy part of a duplex close to markets banks and elementary school. has a nice backyard and a small side yard.
Built in 2025, 3 Bed/3 Bath Beauty with lovely yard and privacy. Located on one of the most desirable streets in Altadena. Less than 5 minutes from JPL, 2 minutes from the I-210, 6 minutes from the Rose Bowl, and just 7 minutes from classy La Canada Flintridge. Step into this 2025 built modern home, offering a sleek and sophisticated design with chic finishes and contemporary elegance. This
Property Id: 1736952*$200 Move-In Bonus* Newly Remodeled Gem in Altadena! Be the first to step into this beautifully updated 1-bed, 1-bath unit in a charming multi-family property. Offering a smoke-free, serene environment, this cozy retreat is perfect for those craving peace and comfort. Opportunities like this don’t last—schedule your showing today and make it yours!***$200 Move
Located in beautiful Altadena, this charming, fully furnished Spanish-style home blends timeless character with inviting outdoor spaces and thoughtful updates. Exceptional curb appeal welcomes you with lush landscaping, a manicured lawn, and a spacious brick front porch and patio, perfect for relaxing under the shade of a mature tree. Inside, the home's original character shines. A classic front
Property Id: 1427030***$200 Move in Bonus*** Introducing a brand newly remodeled charming 2-bed, 1-bath unit in Altadena! This inviting multi-family property is ready for you! Enjoy a comfortable and smoke-free environment. This cozy home is perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat. Sorry, no pets allowed. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity!
This charming 2-bed, 2-bath single-level unit is located in a small community of homes on a quiet cul-de-sac in a convenient Altadena location. The turnkey unit has been tastefully updated and features fresh interior paint, an updated kitchen with appliances, 2 full bathrooms, interior laundry room with hook-ups, spacious bedroom with ample closet space, and a large living room/dining area with a
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