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
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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 104 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 $410,550, down 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Tucked on a fenced-in corner lot with sweeping wraparound grounds, this 2-bedroom, 1-bath mountain home offers the kind of space and privacy that’s tough to find in Big Bear. The single-car garage opens directly into the house for easy, weather-free access year round. The convenient location right off Highway 38 makes trips down the mountain quick and easy.Inside, you’ll find a cozy
Welcome to this completely renovated mountain cottage, where timeless charm meets modern comfort in the heart of Big Bear City. This adorable one-bedroom,one-bathroom home offers approximately 682 square feet of thoughtfully updated living space, with every detail carefully considered to preserve its originalcharacter while providing today's conveniences. Extensively remodeled from top to
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
This is the PERFECT get-a-way home for a large FAMILY. Welcome to this spacious Big Bear mountain home offering 5 bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms and 2,513 sq. ft. of living space, with a versatile floor plan designed to accommodate family, friends and guests. Built in 1995, this two-story home combines the warmth of a mountain retreat with plenty of room to spread out. The main level features three
Warning: You may come for the mountains... and never want to leave. Tucked away in the peaceful Big Bear area just moments from the National Forest and a neighborhood park, this beautifully updated single-story cabin is ready for everything from weekend escapes to everyday mountain living. Remodeled in 2022, this inviting home offers 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a spacious floor plan, and a generous
Welcome to 929 West Fairway Boulevard, a beautifully maintained mountain home in Big Bear offering 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 1,181 square feet of living space, and a 5,000 square foot lot. This immaculate property has been perfectly cared for and is move-in ready.Enjoy wide-open sky views, beautiful mountain views, and unique airport views from this charming Big Bear property. Inside, the home
Beautifully upgraded mountain home in Big Bear featuring modern finishes and a cozy cabin feel. This unique property offers a rare backyard that opens directly to the Big Bear Airport, providing unobstructed views and a one-of-a-kind setting. Currently generating income as a successful Airbnb, this property is ideal as a primary residence, vacation home, or investment opportunity, with convenient
REDUCED $20000 for QUICK SALE!! 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
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
Discover this charming Big Bear City retreat featuring 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, approximately 1,350 square feet of living space, and a massive 12,000-square-foot lot. The property offers exceptional parking and storage with a two-car garage plus an additional bonus garage ideal for recreational equipment, a workshop, or extra storage.Inside, you’ll find warm mountain character and a spacious
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
THE SKIES THE LIMIT! UNMATCHED VIEWS WITH TURNKEY CONVENIENCE! Experience mountain livingat its finest in this custom 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom sanctuary nestled on a serene, wooded homesite.Designed to impress, this home offers breathtaking, panoramic vistas of Bear Mountain Ski Area, theLake, and the shimmering night lights of Snow Summit and Snow Valley. Step into the open-conceptmain floor, where
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
Welcome to this charming Big Bear City retreat! This two-story 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home offers approximately 1,000 sq. ft. of living space and features a cozy fireplace, balcony, and one-car garage. Situated in the desirable Big Bear area, this property offers a great opportunity to enjoy the mountain lifestyle, whether as a full-time residence, weekend getaway, or investment property.
Welcome to your future home in the charming district of Big Bear, CA! This inviting property offers a comfortable living space perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat in the mountains. Unwind in a small cabin that lives large. Nestled in the heart of Big Bear, this unique 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom sanctuary features a spectacular, oversized loft that elevates the entire living experience.
Lease the perfect Big Bear getaway with this charming 2-bedroom, 2-bath mountain home offering comfort, convenience, and year-round enjoyment. The inviting interior features a cozy fireplace, creating the ideal setting to unwind after a day of exploring everything the mountains have to offer. Fresh interior paint and newer carpet provide a clean, refreshed feel throughout.The thoughtfully
Welcome to Big Bear Tranquil Sky Cabin! our sweet charming cabin is nestled inside the quite town of Sugarloaf. House with 2 bedroom/2 bathroom cabin,perfect for a serene getaway for writers, creatives and families looking for some peaceful time in the mountain and nature . FURNISHING available. Pet friendly contact Management for pet policy .(Applicable charges may apply ). Just
Escape to the tranquility of Big Bear with this inviting mountain retreat in Big Bear City. This 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom home offers approximately 1,548 sq. ft. of comfortable living space surrounded by a peaceful woodland setting. Cozy up by the fireplace after a day of mountain adventures, or step outside onto the balcony and enjoy the fresh mountain air. With a one-car garage, central heating,
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: 796989 Welcome to your cozy 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom single family home in Big Bear City, CA. This charming property features a fenced yard, fireplace, and security cameras for peace of mind. An old school cabin with modern amenities like a washer/dryer, full kitchen with fridge/freezer, microwave, Keurig, Nespresso, an upgraded bathroom with quick-hot water, and smart garage
Property Id: 2058174 The primary bedroom comes with a queen sized bed, bedside tables, lamp, ceiling fan and a large closet. The secondary bedroom is similar to the primary except the stackable wash and dryer are in the closet. There is a loft above the bedrooms which is great storage or extra sleeping space. The kitchen has a coffee maker, stove/oven, microwave, full sized fridge, and comes
Property Id: 2848727 Enjoy the serenity of nature and the comforts of home at this beautiful 2-bedroom, 1-bath rental in Big Bear City - Can be rented fully furnished for $2000 or unfurnished for $1750/month. Large fenced yard and area in front for a table and chairs to sit and watch the sunset or sip coffee in the mornings. Quiet and peaceful.
Property Id: 2848728 Enjoy the serenity of nature and the comforts of home at this beautiful 2-bedroom, 1-bath rental in Big Bear City - Can be rented fully furnished for $2000 or unfurnished for $1750/month. New stainless steel appliances, stacked stainless steel washer/dryer combo and large patio on the balcony to sit and watch the sunset or sip coffee in the mornings. Quiet and
Welcome to your new haven in Big Bear City, CA! This inviting property offers the perfect blend of comfort and convenience, making it an ideal choice for your next home. Located near a variety of great restaurants and department stores, you'll always have something exciting to explore just moments away. Plus, Bear Valley Community Hospital is just an 8-minute drive, ensuring peace of mind for
2-bedroom, 2-bath single-story home in Whispering Pines with a bonus room suitable for a mudroom, office, or similar use. New Luxury vinyl in the bathroom and bonus room. This well-maintained corner-lot unit is larger than others in the complex and features multiple decks, a carport, storage sheds, and a beautifully treed lot. Community amenities include a clubhouse, swimming pool, playground,
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