A popular mountain resort town with year-round charm
The mountainside resort town of Big Bear City is set about 42 miles northeast of San Bernardino and 100 miles east of Los Angeles, known for ski resorts, a 7-mile lake with natural hot springs and plenty of wildlife. While the town is home to around 13,000 people, the population swells with tourists in summer and winter. “A good amount of the residences here are second homes or investment properties,” says Erin Lanza, longtime resident and Realtor with REMAX Big Bear. “Big Bear is different than most other markets in Southern California."
In summer, tourists flock here for hiking, mountain biking, fishing and boating, and in winter, for skiing and other snow sports. Throughout the year, though, Big Bear City's full-time residents belong to a slow-paced community where most residents know each other by name, the police department is known for being attentive and locals don’t need to commute into larger cities for shopping and dining. A few major local employers include the Bear Valley Unified School District and the Big Bear Retreat Center.
Nearby is Big Bear Lake where you can go for a walk, fishing or a hike.
It's only a short hike to Woodland Trail 1E23 for a nice view and for a fishing spot.
Big Bear City provides abundant natural trails for hiking and biking enthusiasts to enjoy.
Big Bear Snow Play is a family friendly resort for snowy slopes for tubing.
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Cabins, chalets and lakeside luxury
As of late 2024, Big Bear’s median home price is roughly $585,000, significantly lower than California’s roughly $890,000. Housing styles here have an alpine aesthetic that complements the mountain surroundings. Log cabins have small front porches and lodge-style homes have large decks, while A-frame chalet-style homes have steeply pitched roofs that allow snow to slide right off. Newer construction generally blends a rustic mountain vibe with 21st-century technology and upgrades. Big Bear City's most expensive homes are set by the lakefront, with floor plans that range from 5,000 to 8,000 square feet and usually have 5 to 8 bedrooms and bathrooms.
A single-family home in Big Bear City featuring a front deck offers the perfect spot to relax.
Experience the charm of a small, cozy cabin home in Big Bear City, providing a warm retreat.
A row of quaint A-frame cabins graces the landscape of Big Bear City.
A stunning black A-frame cabin stands as a captivating and picturesque in Big Bear City.
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Highly ranked education in the mountains
The Bear Valley Unified School District earns an overall A-minus from Niche, serving about 2,200 students across six different schools. The district's high schools offer a dual enrollment program that enables students to earn up to 34 credits at San Bernardino Valley College.
Big Bear Middle School presents an aerial view, showcasing its vibrant environment.
Students are the highest priority at Big Bear High School.
Valley College campus in the neighborhood.
Enter Baldwin Lane Elementary School in Big Bear City through its welcoming entrance.
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Year-round festivities and seasonal celebrations
Big Bear City offers residents access to over 100 miles of hiking trails in the San Bernardino National Forest; one of the most popular is the 7-mile Pineknot Trail, which offers views of Big Bear Lake, about 5 miles to the south. The town's Juniper Point Picnic Area is a favorite local spot for dog walks and lakeside gatherings.
The Big Bear Valley Recreation and Park District organizes most of the city’s community events throughout the year. Sheila Dash, Recreation Coordinator, explains, “Our most popular community event is Summer Fest, where we have a bunch of vendors come out and games for kids to play. In the spring we do an easter egg hunt and this past September we did ‘Talk Like A Pirate Day,’ where one of the lakeside marinas had an actual cannon. During Halloween, we do our Big Scare event.” The district also offers summer programs, including Science Camp for kids and Lions League for locals with special needs.
The 7-mile Pineknot Trail is one of the most popular places to hike in Big Bear City.
Big Bear City's Juniper Point Picnic Area has incredible views of the forest and lake.
Take in a scenic hike or walk by the lakeside in Big Bear City.
Reconnect with nature on a nice hike at Alpine Pedal Path Trail 1E50.
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Shopping at The Village and dining at historic haunts
About 5 miles south of Big Bear City, The Village at Big Bear Lake is the area's main shopping district, filled with rustic shops, family-friendly sit-down restaurants and a few places for adults to grab a drink. Captains Anchorage restaurant, found about 2 miles from town along Highway 18, has been a local mainstay since 1947, known for prime rib dinners, lobster tail and a cozy atmosphere, as well as sightings of a friendly ghost named George who reportedly visits the bar.
You'll find a collection of stores like used books, fun socks and souvenirs at Village Faire.
The Village in Big Bear City has many eateries to choose from including El Jacalito Grill.
Captains Anchorage fine dining restaurant has been a mainstay of Big Bear City since 1947.
Tourists and residents alike will spend the day shopping at The Village in Big Bear City.
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Getting around the mountain
Big Bear is set along State Highway 18, also known as the “Rim of the World Highway,” which connects it to San Bernardino, approximately 40 miles away. The city can also be accessed via State Route 38, which offers a scenic drive through the San Gorgonio Mountains. Big Bear is primarily car-dependent, but Mountain Transit provides public bus service within Big Bear and to surrounding mountain communities on select days. The area is served by Bear Valley Community Hospital, which offers 24-hour emergency care and various medical services. Ontario International Airport, the nearest major airport, is located about 70 miles from Big Bear.
Forest surroundings pose wildfire risk
According to FBI statistics from December 2023, the Big Bear Lake Police Department reported violent crime at an annual rate of about 12 incidents per 1,000 residents, on par with the national rate of around 12 and slightly higher than the California rate of about 10. Property-related crime was reported at an annual rate of around 12 incidents per 1,000 residents, lower than the California rate of 20 and the national rate of 17. Because Big Bear is in the San Bernardino Mountains and heavily wooded National Forest, the city has a high risk for wildfires in summer and fall. In September 2024, the nearly 40,000-acre Line Fire spread through the mountains and caused evacuations. The San Bernardino National Forest participates aims to enhance wildfire safety and lower the risks.
Written By
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Photography Contributed By
Michael Ng
Video By
Melinda Anselmo
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 Big Bear City, CA sell after 97 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Big Bear City, CA over the last 12 months is $420,000, down 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Gorgeous and Fully Upgraded Newer Home * MOVE IN READY * Light & Bright * Open Floor Plan * New Gourmet Kitchen with White Cabinets, Quartz Counter Tops and Island * New Stainless Appliances. Pantry. New Wood-Like Laminate Flooring * White Quartz Stackstone Entertainment Center & Colorful Fireplace in the Open Family Room. New Fully Remodeled Bathrooms. Oversized Master Suite with Walk in Closet.
Tucked away at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac in sought-after Pinewood Estates, this 3-Bedroom 2.5-Bath home offers 2,145 sq ft of comfortable mountain living on a beautifully landscaped 7,475 sq ft lot. Underground utilities, beautiful surroundings and a fully fenced yard create a peaceful setting. Inside, you'll find generous living areas, central air conditioning for year-round comfort and two
Charming, meticulously maintained Big Bear City residence -- an excellent option for full-time living ora seasonal retreat. Centrally located with convenient access to local amenities, this home offers a flexible floor plan with three bedrooms (one on the main level; please note the main-level bedroom does not include a closet) and 1.5 baths. The main level also features a large laundry room and
HOME ON 20 ACRES WITH TENTATIVE MAP! A rare opportunity to not only own a nice size home on 20 acres, but also have the ability to sub-divide into FIVE PARCELS (4+ one remainder). The Proposed Parcel Map includes THREE-3 ACRE lots (on Hatchery), ONE-7.49 Acre lot (on State Ln.) and A REMAINDER 2.9 ACRE lot (partially fenced) includes a 5 Bedroom, 3 Bathroom HOME with real-rock fireplace, covered
Nicely Remodeled Gambrel on the Quiet Side of Town. This cute cabin has been gone over with a loving hand. New roof, exterior paint and redone deck. Inside boasts new laminate flooring, redone kitchen and bathroom with fresh paint and a new water heater. New vanity and tile and fixtures in the bathroom. High beamed wood ceilings. Good sized bedrooms. Close to the national forest and trails. Great
If you are looking for a home with peace and serenity and loads of special features, this is the home for you! Located on a corner lot with fenced yard, lots of trees great patio with room for entertaining and so much more! Put your boat, RV, toys on this property too! The home is light and bright with newer laminate flooring. Full bathroom centrally located in the home. The deck is a composite
THE PRICE IS RIGHT! Even Bob Barker would agree that this immaculate one-bedroom, one full bath,single-story home is priced to sell! Features include a woodsy interior with a corner brick fireplace, anopen floor plan, a 3-seat breakfast bar with a cedar slab bar top, natural gas heating, dual panewindows, natural wood siding, a front deck and a rear patio area, a storage shed and a
FOREST SPRINGS ESTATES Wait until you see the quiet location and tranquil setting on this light andairy 3-bedroom, 2 1/2 bathroom two-story with an open floor plan. Features include high vaultedceilings in the living room, a beautiful rock fireplace w/ gas log lighter, a full floor bay window withPalladian glass, a huge sunken game/ bunk room, a spacious kitchen with matching
Gorgeous and Fully Upgraded Newer Home * MOVE IN READY * Light & Bright * Open Floor Plan * New Gourmet Kitchen with White Cabinets, Quartz Counter Tops and Island * New Stainless Appliances. Pantry. New Wood-Like Laminate Flooring * White Quartz Stackstone Entertainment Center & Colorful Fireplace in the Open Family Room. New Fully Remodeled Bathrooms. Oversized Master Suite with Walk in Closet.
Escape to the mountains and enjoy the best of outdoor living with this charming 2-bedroom, 1-bath main home plus a detached 1-bedroom, 1-bath guest house perfect for family, guests, or rental income! Set on a spacious 7,500 sq. ft. lot, this property offers plenty of room to breathe and unwind. The main home welcomes you with cozy mountain charm, featuring a comfortable living area, a warm and
Welcome to this 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home located in the desirable Whispering Forest neighborhood.Offering 2,848 sq ft of living space on a 10,800 sq ft lot, this property provides comfort, flexibility, and views.The main living area is filled with natural light and connects seamlessly to the kitchen, dining area, and a sunken seating area with a fireplace. Multiple decks provide outdoor
Seller is motivated!Welcome to this storybook cabin nestled in the heart of Sugarloaf, where charm and character meet thoughtful updates and cozy comfort. Taken down to the studs and lovingly rebuilt, this two-bedroom, one-bath gem has been transformed into a stylish mountain retreat and its being sold fully furnished, including all dishware and essentials, making it completely turnkey and
FOUR BEDROOMS WITH SPECTACULAR VIEWS. You won't believe the breathtaking lake and ski slope views from this charming four-bedroom, two-bath home, complete with a family room. The property features two fireplaces and an open floor plan, including a spacious kitchen island and a roomy dining area. Enjoy the cozy, woodsy interior with tongue-and-groove "western" cedar, a full laundry room, central
Tucked among the pines, this warm and welcoming 1-bedroom, 1-bath cabin blends rustic mountain charm with thoughtful updates. Loved for its character and simplicity, it offers the perfect escape for anyone craving a peaceful getaway or a low-maintenance full-time home.Step inside to a bright, open living area anchored by a massive rock fireplace, the kind that makes winter evenings feel extra
Charming spacious grambrel style cabin for rent super clean fully furnished all utilities including gated back yard pet friendly with monthly pet fee month to month lease.
Nestled in a quiet Big Bear City neighborhood, this cozy and well-maintained cabin offers the perfect mountain retreat. Updates include new interior and exterior paint, a renovated kitchen, new fencing around parking pad, updated decking in the front, balcony, and backyard. A large backyard offers a private outdoor space to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Here’s a clean and attractive description of your RV rental in Baldwin Lake, Big Bear, CA:Cozy 1-Bedroom RV Rental with Porch & Stunning Views – $1,099/monthLocated in Baldwin Lake, Big Bear, CA 92314Enjoy peaceful mountain living in this well-kept 8x40 ft 2017 RV with a spacious 1-bedroom layout and a charming front porch overlooking beautiful natural scenery. The unit
3 to 6 Month Lease may be considered... 2 Bedroom 1 Bath home located in Big Bear City. Efficient fireplace. laundry hookups only. fully fenced yard. Furnishings Negotiable. Utilities Negotiable. Pets negotiable. Avail Now. Rent: $1500/mo, Sec Dep: $1800, Sqft: 650, Lot Sqft: 3000. Directions: E. Big Bear Blvd, Left on Greenway, Left on arbor.
Spacious 4-Bedroom Mountain Home for Long-Term Lease in Big Bear City Experience comfortable mountain living in this spacious 4-bedroom, 3-bath home available for long-term lease in Big Bear City. Offering approximately 1,473 square feet of living space, this charming cabin-style home combines warmth, character, and a flexible layout perfect for families or anyone looking to enjoy the peaceful
Manuel Flores CancholaIberri & Associates Real Estate
This home at Big Bear is the perfect Big Bear City home in the mountains. From the moment you pull up to your new home, you will be enchanted by all of the touches this cabin has to offer. Located in a serene neighborhood that is under 2 miles from the convention center which holds great seasonal events such as Oktoberfest, the local farmer's market, and Wyatt's line dancing, and only 3 miles
Welcome to our cozy cabin! Our house is 936 sq ft, suitable for families, including 1 (one) furry friend. This is a 2 bedrooms 1 bath cabin. We have a large fenced front yard with enough space for two cars. You can also keep warm by our fire pit in the backyard, or the fireplace inside. 5 to 7 miles to Big Bear Lake, The Village and Ski resorts.
Fully Remodeled 3-Bedroom Mountain Cabin for Lease | Quiet Big Bear City Neighborhood Experience modern mountain living in this beautifully remodeled 3-bedroom, 2-bath cabin located on a peaceful, tree-lined street in Big Bear City. Offering approximately 1,400 sq ft of updated living space on a 5,700 sq ft lot, this home has been thoughtfully upgraded and exceptionally well maintained. Recent
Michele KerseyVista Sotheby's International Realty
Elevate your lifestyle in this stunning 1,592 sq. ft. "Mountain Modern" retreat, perfectly positioned in the heart of Big Bear City. This isn't just a rental; it’s a fully furnished luxury experience designed for those who want the ultimate home base for adventure and relaxation. The Interior ExperienceStep into a masterfully curated space where rustic charm meets high-end convenience. The
Imagine living in this adorable, cozy mountain cabin among the trees and the lake with the fresh pine air. A 2-bedroom 1-bathroom cabin is just waiting for you. All you need to bring are your clothes and a toothbrush. It is already prepared for you with furniture, kitchenware, and linens. You can bask in the ambiance, sipping your coffee or wine by the fire, looking out through the majestic
2 Bedroom with a loft. Attached one car garage. Spacious floor plan. Fully Fenced yard. All utilities paid by renter. Furnishings negotiable. Pets Negotiable. Available Now. Rent: $1900.00/mo, Sec Dep: $2200.00, SQFT: 875, Lot SQFT: 4850. Directions: East on Big Bear Blvd, Right on Paradise, Left on Booth.
Lovely updated cabin in the heart of Big Bear City. Living room with cozy fireplace and fan. Galley kitchen with washer and dryer hookups. Recessed lights and bathroom and shower on the first floor. The second floor has 2 bedrooms with mirrored closet doors, built in drawers, recessed lights and fans. Central heating and air conditioning throughout the cabin. Nice front porch on the first floor
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