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
Rainer Pedraz,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Big Bear City, CA sell after 100 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Big Bear City, CA over the last 12 months is $410,000, down 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
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
Buyers Bonus!!! $5000.00 to buyer at close of escrow. A Rare opportunity indeed. Impressive mountain home with spectacular views and picture windows throughout. This stunning property enjoys sweeping views of the valley and surrounding mountains. Located on a spacious lot that is fully fenced. Nestled on a quiet hilltop in the well kept secret area called Poets Corner. An added bonus: it is
Experience the best of mountain living in this beautifully maintained Big Bear retreat, where panoramic mountain views, abundant natural light, and peaceful surroundings come together just minutes from the lake and ski resorts. Built in 2006, this turnkey home blends the warmth and character of a classic mountain escape with the comfort and efficiency of newer construction. Vaulted
FOREST SPRINGS ESTATES Wait until you see the quiet location and tranquil setting on this light and airy 3-bedroom, 2 1/2 bathroom two-story with an open floor plan. Features include high vaulted ceilings in the living room, a beautiful rock fireplace w/ gas log lighter, a full floor bay window with Palladian glass, a huge sunken game/ bunk room, a spacious kitchen with matching appliances, a
REDUCED $26000 FOR QUICK SALE! 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
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
LOOK AT THE VIDEO WALK THROUGH!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
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.
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
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
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
Property Id: 2469351 2 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 apply Fully furnished. Stackable washer and dryer. No smoking or vaping allowed. Tenant is responsible for all utilities.
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
2 BR / 2 BA quiet retreat ideally located near the National Forest and everything Big Bear has to offer. This newly renovated mid-century modern cabin features a private primary suite, an open-concept kitchen, and a cozy, fully functioning fireplace. Enjoy a large, fully fenced backyard with room to run and play, plus a covered patio perfect for outdoor relaxation. The home includes a
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 Bedroom, 2 Bath, Single story manufactured home. Large Decks, Laundry hookups. Fenced backyard. Natural gas, Holding tank. Unfurnished. Pets negotiable. Available for viewing now. Utilities paid by tenant. Rent 2000/mo, Security Deposit 2300, SqFt 1457, Lot SqFt 6008. Directions: East Big Bear Blvd, Straight on Shay, Shay turns into Baldwin Lake Rd, Left on South St.
FURNISHED Rare Historic Big Bear Mountain Retreat 1930s Maltby-Style Charm Meets Modern Living!Set on a spacious double lot ~ 4 miles from the the Village and Snow Summit! 3 miles to Bear Mountain! Snow Play (Inner Tubing, Go-Karts/rope course) and Convention Center just a few walking blocks.FR: vintage 1930's rock fireplace, flat screen TV. Kitchen: double oven, stove top/micro,
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
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
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 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
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
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.
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