$1,039,841Average Value$578Average Price per Sq Ft3Homes For Sale
Aromas offers rural living in the hills of Monterey County
Aromas is a rural town tucked away in the wooded hills of Monterey County. Residents live along winding country lanes with large, rural lots and views of emerald-green mountains in the distance. With a population of just under 2,700, it offers a slow pace of life within commuting distance of Watsonville and coastal cities like Monterey and Santa Cruz. It’s primarily residential, with a handful of local businesses, a post office and a public library. “It’s a small community with lots of open space, country properties and custom homes,” says Realtor Patty Thompson of Country Properties & Estates, who lives in Aromas. “You’re not going to find any cookie-cutter subdivisions here, just beautiful countryside.” The community was originally named Aromitas y Agua Caliente, or “little odors and warm water,” which was thought to refer to a nearby sulfur spring. The U.S. Post Office, which at the time preferred shorter names, later shortened it to Aromas.
Aromas offers a relaxed pace of life within commuting distance of Watsonville, Monterey, and Santa Cruz.
With its open landscapes and agricultural heritage, Aromas is a haven for homebuyers who value land, tranquility, and a slower pace of life.
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A wide range of homes, from ranches to hilltop estates
Housing in Aromas is as diverse as its landscape. The community has everything from modest ranch-style homes and farmhouses to custom-built homes perched on forested hillsides. Many homes date back to the mid-20th century, but some newer builds are also found here. Streets are quiet and often unpaved or lightly trafficked, adding to the town’s rural ambiance. Lot sizes tend to be generous, with properties ranging from half-acre parcels to sprawling multi-acre properties. Because of the wide range of acreage and home styles, prices range from $700,000 to $1.7 million, with large estates with acreage typically taking top dollar. Homes typically stay on the market for about 58 days, slightly less than the national average. “There’s not a lot of inventory,” Thompson says. “Once people move here, they really don’t want to leave.”
Ranch-style homes are a common architectural style in Aromas, often situated along forested hillsides.
Large hill-top estates surrounded by hills and greenery usually go for top dollar in Aromas.
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Dry summers and rural terrain increase fire concerns
Given its rural location, Aromas is at a high risk for wildfires. Local efforts to reduce risk include creating defensible space around homes, organizing community fire safety workshops and collaborating with state and local fire departments for brush clearing.
Small-town shops and a historic hall for local events
Aromas’ small commercial area is centered around the intersection of Garden Avenue and Carpenteria Road. Two restaurants are in town: Aromas Grill serves California cuisine using local produce, and Marshall’s Market offers savory Mexican fare in addition to a small selection of groceries and snacks. The Aromas Grange is a historic community hall that serves as a gathering place for local events and meetings. Founded as part of the national Grange movement, it supports agricultural education and civic engagement among rural residents and hosts everything from farmers' markets and craft fairs to music performances. “The Grange is a central meeting place for the community. There are all sorts of events, breakfasts and exercise classes,” Thompson says. For groceries and essentials, residents head to nearby towns like Prunedale or Watsonville, both within about 15 miles, where larger stores such as Safeway and Nob Hill Foods provide a full range of options.
Aromas Grange is a historic community hall that hosts local events, classes, and gatherings.
Aromas Grill is known for its burgers, teriyaki bowls, and seafood quesadillas.
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Parks and trails offer quiet escapes and family-friendly fun
Aromas is surrounded by natural beauty and offers several community parks for residents to enjoy. Aromas Community Park is a central gathering spot with playgrounds, picnic areas, a dog park and sports fields. For those seeking outdoor activities, The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park is just 20 miles away and offers hiking and wildlife viewing in stunning redwood forests. Pacific beaches are about 15 miles away, offering gorgeous views from rocky vistas and windswept boardwalks.
Forest of Nisene Marks State Park, once a logging site, is now a 10,000-acre park and redwood sanctuary.
Located in the heart of Aromas, the Community Park provides a quiet spot for mid-day walks and neighborhood gatherings.
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Local schools offer AP classes and career-focused programs
Students start their education at Aromas School, which serves kindergarten through eighth grade. Niche gives it a B-minus. The final four years can be spent at Anzar High School, which earns a B rating. The high school offers four AP courses and a wide range of career and technical education courses. All students are required to finish a Senior Exhibition Project, a capstone class where students present research and potential community service projects to a panel of educators at the end of the year.
Aromas School serves students from kindergarten through eighth grade and currently holds a B-minus rating on Niche.
Anzar High School, located near Aromas, California, has recently added new facilities.
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Highway access makes commuting to nearby cities easy
While Aromas is primarily car-dependent, its compact layout makes it moderately walkable, especially around the town center. The town is conveniently located near Highway 101, providing easy access to larger cities like Salinas, Monterey and San Jose. “Most people in Aromas commute,” Thompson says. The nearest hospital is Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital, about 21 miles away. For air travel, residents typically use San Jose International Airport, about 60 miles north.
Written By
Daniel Berti
Photography Contributed By
Samantha Houtchens
Video By
Daniel Quattro
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
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On average, homes in Aromas, CA sell after 67 days on the market compared to the national average of 52 days. The median sale price for homes in Aromas, CA over the last 12 months is $950,000, up 14% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Discover your dream retreat in this beautifully remodeled single-level home on a private serene hilltop, just minutes from charming Aromas. Set on 2.3 acres with stunning Valley views, enjoy your personal citrus and avocado grove from the inviting wrap-around porch. The light-filled interior features an open layout with walls of windows, a state-of-the-art kitchen with granite countertops and
Michele Whitehead - SampleseXp Realty of California Inc
36.5± Acre Private Aromas Ranch with deeded interest in an irrigation well, loamy sand soil and approx 10± acres under irrigation with a 4" mainline. Land boasts mature oak, pine and fir trees providing both privacy and windbreak. Warm growing climate ideal for vineyards, orchards, family farm and a new home build. Located approx 10 minutes from Hwy 101.
Discover your dream retreat in this beautifully remodeled single-level home on a private serene hilltop, just minutes from charming Aromas. Set on 2.3 acres with stunning Valley views, enjoy your personal citrus and avocado grove from the inviting wrap-around porch. The light-filled interior features an open layout with walls of windows, a state-of-the-art kitchen with granite countertops and
Michele Whitehead - SampleseXp Realty of California Inc
One-of-a-Kind Decagon Home Nestled in the Trees of Aromas, CA Escape the ordinary with this architecturally unique 10-sided home tucked into the peaceful woodlands of Aromas. Surrounded by nature, this stunning 3-bedroom, 2-bath retreat blends rustic charm with modern comfort. Step inside to find soaring ceilings, exposed beams, and an open living area filled with natural light. The distinctive
Conveniently located just minutes from Highway 101 and 156, with multiple exit options to bypass traffic.The surrounding area provides opportunities for outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and exploring nature. Aromas, is a small, community that offers a distinct rural and peaceful atmosphere, is a place where you can escape the hustle and bustle of city life.This apartment is near
Walk Score® measures the walkability of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
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