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
Braxton Chea
Photography Contributed By
Michael Ng
Video By
Melinda Anselmo
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Mary Ann Garcia Berges,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Big Bear City, CA sell after 103 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Big Bear City, CA over the last 12 months is $410,550, down 5% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Assumable FHA Loan at 2.75 interest rate** Experience the charm of mountain living in this inviting Big Bear City retreat, where fresh alpine air, star-filled skies, and year-round adventure create the perfect escape from city life. Ideally located within walking distance to Oktoberfest and the Convention Center, and just minutes from hiking trails, ski resorts, Big Bear Lake, dining, and
Huge price drop. Come take a look Inside this House. Beautifully remodeled interior. Home is located in the desirable Shay Meadows neighborhood of Big Bear City. This upgraded property features 3 bedrooms plus an office/den, including a private third bedroom above the garage, perfect for guests or flexible use. The interior offers laminate and tile flooring, granite counters, stainless steel
Dont miss this Fully Remodeled Home. ALL Interior is Updated. New Custom Flooring in ALL Rooms. Kitchen has new Custom Cabinetry, Granite Counter Tops and New Backsplash. Stainless Steel Appliances. New Sink, Plumbing Fixtures, Lighting and Switches. Bathroom has New Shower Tile, Vanity, Toilet, Sink, Plumbing Fixtures, Lighting, Switches and Medicine Cabinet. All New Dual Pane Windows. New
VA Loan at 3.5% is assumable to qualified VA buyer! Welcome to this delightful 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom home with 1,310 sq ft of comfortable living space, on a spacious 13,675 sq ft lot. Featuring beautiful beamed ceilings throughout, this home creates a warm and inviting atmosphere from the moment you step inside. The cozy carpeted bedrooms provide a serene retreat, while the primary bedroom has a
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
Welcome to your storybook mountain retreat in the heart of Big Bear Lake. Nestled among towering pine trees and ideally located near the lake, village, ski resorts, dining, and year-round outdoor recreation, this charming two-story cabin perfectly captures the magic of mountain living. From the moment you arrive, the inviting A-frame exterior and serene setting create the ultimate getaway
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
Major PRICE IMPROVEMENT!A MUST see to appreciate!Mountain Comfort Meets Investment Potential in Big Bear! Welcome to your perfect Big Bear escape! This charming 3-bedroom, 2 1/2-bathroom home is ideally located minutes from the slopes, the lake, and the city, yet tucked far enough away to enjoy the peace and quiet that mountain living is all about. Set on a large, flat lot in a quiet
Exquisite Mountain Retreat in Whispering ForestExperience the pinnacle of mountain living in this charming chalet-style cabin, perfectly situated in the prestigious Whispering Forest neighborhood of Big Bear City. This beautifully maintained 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom residence spans 1,966 square feet of rustic elegance, offering a seamless blend of modern upgrades and classic alpine character.
Check out this wonderful Family Cabin nestled in the tranquility of a private lot in a quiet neighborhood-this cabin is your escape to the mountains. Plenty of room for Mamma, Papa, Baby Bears and friends to relax in this well arranged fully furnished 2 bedroom, plus large loft, 2 1/2 bath mountain getaway. The first floor boasts: a recently carpeted Master Bedroom with En-Suite full Bathroom; a
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
Great central Moonridge location on cul de sac. Minutes to new zoo, Bear Mountain parking to catch shuttle to resort. There are high ceilings rock wood burning fireplace, a WOW updated shower with custom feature's! The 2 bedrooms are a nice size This is ready to move into and enjoy. Stacked washer and dryer, appliances stay! There is a spa on the deck and the lot is street to street. There are no
Own a piece of the beautiful mountain community of Big Bear City with this 0.04 acre residential lot, APN 0314-124-38-0000, located on Baldwin Lake Road. Surrounded by established homes and nearby residential properties, this parcel offers an opportunity to invest in a location known for its year-round outdoor recreation and scenic alpine setting. Whether you're looking to acquire land for
Property Id: 839454Modern New Home; 1-bedroom, 1- Bath, and Kitchen. Includes stacked wash/dry, stove, refrigerator, microwave and dishwasher. Included 50 sf. storage shed.Quiet neighborhood, Fenced-in side yard. Applicant must have rental history, & income of 2x rent amnt. Snow Ski resort less than 5 miles. Shopping 3 miles, Boat Launch 3-miles.
Property Id: 1180074Modern New Home; 1-bedroom, 1- Bath, and large Kitchen. Quiet neighborhood, and fenced-in. Applicant must have rental history, earn 2x rent, and provide proof of Move-in fees required. Snow Ski resort less than 5 miles. Shoping 3 miles, Boat Launch 3-miles.
Property Id: 24693512 bedrooms, 1.5 baths.Peaceful cabin, walking distance from the local dog park, general market and Kallan's Bar & Grill. 10 minutes to the Big Bear Village and ski slopes.Pet friendly. Fees applyFully furnished.Stackable washer and dryer.No smoking or vaping allowed.Tenant is responsible for all utilities.
Welcome to your ultimate mountain retreat at 158 Leonard Lane in peaceful Sugarloaf, CA! This stunning property is now available for a long-term lease (minimum 1 year), offering a rare opportunity to live in a pristine, worry-free home. The residence has been newly remodeled from top to bottom, presenting a crisp, contemporary living experience where absolutely everything is brand new. Combining
Property Id: 2585094Nice easy to maintain single family home with three car garage on paved street. Upstairs two bed and one bath downstairs laundry room plus three car garage.
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 BR, 2.5 BA located in n a quiet area of Big Bear City backing to undeveloped acreage. Open kitchen, energy efficient wood burning stove, T&G wood ceilings and accents throughout. Large decks. Laundry area with washer & dryer. Property is lightly furnished with basics, bring your own additional furnishing items and furnishings to personalize. All utilities paid by renter unless otherwise
Single level unfurnished 2 bedroom with 1 bath. Kitchen has stove and refrigerator. No washer or dryer. Fenced yard. Pet on approval. Call the office at to schedule a showing.
Luxury 4-Bedroom Estate Cabin for Lease in Big Bear Set within one of Big Bear's estate communities, this luxury 4-bedroom mountain cabin delivers refined living with the warmth and charm of a high-end alpine retreat. Surrounded by towering pines and positioned on a spacious, private lot, the home offers an exceptional blend of comfort, elegance, and mountain serenity. Step inside to soaring
Welcome to 507 Elysian Blvd, a fully-furnished charming 2-bedroom, 1-bath single-story home offering 809 sq ft of cozy, efficient living space. The interior features a warm and inviting living room with a classic fireplace, a bright kitchen, and well-sized bedrooms that provide flexibility for everyday living.Step outside to a private backyard with a spacious deck perfect for relaxing or
This beautiful 2 bed 1 bath home features a fully updated kitchen with open-concept design, ideal for entertaining family and guests. Fresh exterior paint and provides peace of mind and curb appeal from the moment you arrive. Step outside to the brand-new front patio, perfect for morning coffee or evening relaxation under the pines. Situated on a large lot, this property offers rare RV parking
** $500 OFF! MOVE-IN SPECIAL **Welcome to a charming and cozy Black Bear Lodge, minutes away from Big Bear Lake, Bear Mountain, and Snow Summit ski resorts as well as major stores/restaurants!This home has 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom and has the option of coming furnished or unfurnished. Rent: $1550/monthSecurity Deposit: $1550Insurance package: $40.95/monthPet
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