$1,055,770Average Value$738Average Price per Sq Ft47Homes 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.
1/2
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.
1/2
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.
1/2
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.
1/2
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.
1/2
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
Brooke Dianich,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
On average, homes in Altadena, CA sell after 39 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Altadena, CA over the last 12 months is $1,217,500, down 10% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
BROKERS WELCOME! Introducing a brand-new luxury two-story home, perfectly situated within the prestigious, guard-gated community of La Vina. Designed with exceptional attention to detail, this residence offers the ideal blend of comfort, style, and elevated living. Step into a grand open-concept floorplan with soaring ceilings and an abundance of natural light, all framed by city and mountain
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
Brand New Single Level Home, Ready for Move In! No HOA! The rebirth of Altadena begins here! Ask about Builder Financing Incentives. Thoughtfully crafted by New Pointe Communities, this exceptional new single-level modern farmhouse hosts 4 spacious bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms and a stylish powder room for guests, this residence blends modern design with timeless comfort. The well-appointed chef's
Welcome to 1578 Morada Place, a soulful and timeless 1928 storybook English Tudor that exquisitely blends historic pedigree with today's luxuries. Located on a classic NE Altadena tree lined street surrounded by architecturally beautiful homes and estates awaits this joyful forever home ready for its next chapter. Updated systems, thoughtful finishes, warm wood flooring and pristine
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,
This graceful Traditional home is nestled in a quiet neighborhood close to the Altadena golf course. Inside, enjoy a bright living room with an elegant picture window, a floor-to-ceiling brick fireplace, and gleaming hardwood floors. The formal dining room embellished with wainscotting leads to both the family room & kitchen. Take in the lush backyard through the expansive corner window in this
RARE OPPORTUNITY - BRAND NEW AND MOVE-IN READY 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 1 on Home Site
Rebecca Clausnitzer-AnbardanWarmington Residential California
Experience the perfect blend of Altadena charm and modern luxury in this stunning compound featuring a 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom main residence and a private, income-generating 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom ADU with in-unit laundry. Meticulously updated in 2019, the main home showcases high-end finishes and custom craftsmanship, while the 2021-built ADU offers a turnkey rental opportunity with its own
Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity. Imagineering is in the air. Don't miss this opportunity to own one of Altadena's most desirable neighborhoods, this huge lot of approximately 10,257 sq ft (per L.A Assessor, buyer to verify) is now a blank canvas for a rare opportunity to design, reimagine and build a masterpiece. Surrounded by gorgeous views of the San Gabriel Mountains, nature and
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
Discover this stunning, fully renovated single-level home in the highly sought-after Pasadena neighborhood, offering a seamless blend of modern luxury and move-in ready comfort. This property features an open-concept layout flooded with natural light, designer finishes, and thoughtful upgrades throughout. The heart of the home is a showstopping chef’s kitchen, featuring custom light wood
Prime Multi-Unit opportunity in Southwest Altadena! Set on a 9,900 sqft lot with picturesque mountain views, 2115-2117 Marengo Ave offers turnkey potential on day one. The front house is a charming Craftsman with 3-beds and 2-baths. Newer features include updated windows, copper plumbing, forced air furnace, and bolted foundation. The rear bedroom has a separate entry and dedicated bathroom.
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
Experience modern comfort in these newly remodeled and freshly painted residences, located in a beautiful, quiet Altadena neighborhood. Every unit has been updated from top to bottom with pristine interior paint and high-end finishes that complement the functional, open layouts. To ensure a seamless living experience, each home is equipped with its own brand-new washer and dryer, as well as a
Nestled in desirable Altadena, this charming duplex offers a rare opportunity to enjoy two thoughtfully updated residences on one property, both complemented by newly completed landscaping that enhances curb appeal and outdoor enjoyment.The front house (3101), renovated in 2014 and approximately 1,400 square feet including an addition, features a bright and well-maintained interior with practical
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
One of a kind, remodeled MODERN home in Northeast Pasadena with 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, 1954 living square foot, and a guest suite with one car EV ready garage. The property has been fully remediated from the Eaton Fire and has all new appliances, new kitchen, bathrooms. Everything was touched. You will have to see for yourself. Here's an opportunity to live in a close to brand new home in the
Nestled on a quiet street in north Pasadena near the Eaton Canyon hiking trails, this well maintained front house blends charm, comfort, and everyday convenience. The home offers 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, an updated kitchen, original built-ins, and a cozy fireplace. Modern essentials include a laundry area inside, central heat and air, a newer roof, and natural light throughout. The spacious
Welcome to this charming and well-maintained front unit of a duplex in desirable Pasadena. This bright 1-bedroom, 1-bath home offers approximately 700 square feet of comfortable living space, featuring beautiful hardwood floors in the living room and bedroom and a spacious kitchen with ample counter space and a dishwasher—perfect for everyday living and entertaining. Enjoy the convenience of
The neighborhood is minutes from JPL, Old Town Pasadena, The Rose Bowl, along with numerous hiking and biking adventures along the Arroyo Seco, Eaton Canyon, Mt. Wilson, Mt. Lowe and Inspiration Point. There is nearby transportation and shopping, also easy accessibility to the 110, 210, 2, 134, 710, 605, and 57 freeways to get you where you need to go.3 bedroom + 3
Welcome to this beautifully remodeled back unit of a duplex in a quiet Pasadena neighborhood. This 2-bedroom, 1-bath home offers approximately 735 square feet of thoughtfully updated living space, featuring hardwood floors throughout and abundant recessed lighting that creates a bright, modern feel. The spacious kitchen is a standout feature, complete with an open island that flows seamlessly
Brand New ADU in Altadena 2 Bed / 2 BathBe the first to live in this brand new ADU in a quiet Altadena neighborhood. This unit features a bright, open layout with 2 full bathrooms and a modern kitchen with all brand new appliances.Includes in-unit laundry hookups and 1 assigned parking space. Water and trash are included; all other utilities are tenant's responsibility.No
Boasting a versatile **7-bedroom, 4-bathroom** floor plan, the home is anchored by **Dual Primary Suites**, making it an ideal solution for multi-generational living, a sprawling creative studio, or a high-end home office compound. The interior flow balances historic charm with modern peace of mind, featuring: * **Climate Control:** Dual HVAC systems for zoned efficiency.* **Upgraded
Tarah WalkereXp Realty of Greater Los Angeles, Inc.
Tucked into a quiet North East Pasadena property, this beautifully updated ~960 sq. ft. home offers the perfect blend of comfort, privacy, and convenience.The thoughtful layout includes two bedrooms connected by a Jack-and-Jill bathroom, plus a separate guest powder room—ideal for everyday living and entertaining.Step outside to your own private fenced yard, a rare feature that
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
