Buttonwillow, CA Houses for Sale

Buttonwillow has a rural setting and a close-knit farming community in Kern County, about 20 miles west of Bakersfield. Named for a lone willow tree that once served as a gathering place, the town has a population of around 1,200 and is surrounded by farms and orchards that stretch across the Central Valley. Housing here is modest and low-key, with mostly one-story ranch- and Spanish Revival-style homes built in the mid-20th century. Dining and shopping options are limited but locally rooted. They include casual barbecue spots and longtime Mexican restaurants, plus a small neighborhood grocery. Buttonwillow is also known among racing fans, thanks to Buttonwillow Raceway Park and nearby Kern Raceway, while locals use the Buttonwillow Recreation & Park District fields and playgrounds for everyday recreation. Tule Elk State Natural Reserve and Buena Vista Lake add outdoor options within a short drive. Schools include Buttonwillow Elementary and Shafter High School, which is recognized for its agricultural programs. State Route 58 and Interstate 5 connect residents to Bakersfield and Los Angeles. Like much of the Central Valley, the area experiences summer heat and periods of poor air quality.