$442,684Average Value$308Average Price per Sq Ft17Homes For Sale
Quaint college town near downtown Chico
"People here prefer less traffic and a slower pace of life, where you can bike to the farmers market downtown or hike hundreds of trails in Bidwell Park," says Alisha Simpkins, Team Leader and Realtor with Keller Williams Realty Chico Area, who's been selling in the area since 2006. "And we're a university town, so it's a little more eclectic." Chico's founder, John Bidwell, sold the neighborhood's former farmland terrain in the late 1800s, launching the Chico Vecino development. Since then, it's grown into an urban forest with charming Victorians, classic Craftsmans and a dozen numbered avenues — blocks from California State University, Chico. Today, Chico Vecino is called "The Avenues" or "The Aves." First through 12th avenues parallel northward between Big Chico Creek and East Avenue. The community's footprint surrounds Chico's most well-known tree-lined promenade, The Esplanade. On warm summer evenings, neighbors relax on comfy front porches and year-round, an established foliage canopy adds seasonal beauty. "There's a uniqueness here," says Simpkins, "that has a college draw, a retiree draw, an entrepreneur draw. It's not Austin, but it has a similar vibe. Very artsy, no judgement and full of ideas."
Chico State University sits right in the heart of Chico.
Visitors to 1 Mile in Bidwell Park can cool off in the pool
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Big fun at Bidwell Park
"Bidwell Park is one of the best things about living here," adds Simpkins. "It travels throughout Chico from Lower Bidwell Park with a pool, playground and tons of hiking trails to Upper Bidwell Park where there's swimming holes and disc golf." The park's 2,500 acres were gifted to the city for recreation by Annie Bidwell in 1905 and is a shared Chico treasure. The Bidwells' 26-room Italianate Victorian mansion is now the Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park and is undergoing extensive renovation in 2024. This historic landmark will reopen to the public for tours in early 2025. Whether in parks or on the avenues, bikes are everywhere. "You'll see people biking to breakfast, to markets, to school. It's so bike-friendly that four of our shops downtown are bike shops."
Stay safe in the pool at Bidwell Park.
Chico Vecino is a short bike ride to the heart of the city.
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Local eateries, close to downtown bars and historic venues
In the neighborhood, Bidwell Perk is the spot for pick-me-up beverages and pastries, and Monstros is popular for takeout pizza. Along the Esplanade, dining choices range from all-day classic American fare at Nash's to The Italian Cottage trattoria, a mainstay since 1965. It's also an easy stroll into downtown Chico for an array of eateries, tea bars and taphouses. "We're really big on supporting our mom-and-pops," adds Simpkins. "So many businesses got their start here: Reusable ChicoBags, Klean Kanteen and husband-and-wife-owned All the Bitters, that's now gone nationwide. Downtown, we still have Shubert's, one of the most nationally recognized ice cream and candy shops." Groceries are super-convenient at Safeway, right next to Walgreens, less than a mile west of The Esplanade."We used to have a big music and performing arts industry here," Simpkins says. "I'm listing one of the nation's oldest movie theaters in downtown Chico, the El Ray. There's a vision here to bring back the cool artsy vibe of this phenom venue in a place that still feels like a small town." Right on the Esplanade, art lovers can peruse a quirky collection at the Museum of Northern California Art.
Bidwell Perk is a coffee stop on 1dst Avenue in Chico Venino.
Nash's has a large dining room.
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Vintage, classic midcentury and early-2000s
"Our streets in Chico are very popular, but our Avenues are even more popular," adds Simpkins. "There's a pride of ownership here. Seven out of 10 times, we have local builders, not tract-style developers. You can walk into Safeway and see your builder. DR Horton just came into Chico, but for the most part, Chico is local." Older homes in The Avenues show their age and character; many are nicely maintained or updated. Rare condos in the center of The Avenues ask between $180,000 and $190,000. Single-family options vary from earthtone stucco ranch styles built around the early 2000s on the west side from $380,000 to $500,000, depending on age and renovation condition. Some beautifully remodeled turn-of-the-century and midcentury homes on the east side of Esplanade can ask between $480,000 and $650,000. The lower-numbered residential avenues are often sidewalked on both sides, and mature trees flourish.
You'll find a few turn of the century remodels in Chico Vecino.
Midcentury homes in the Chico Vecino area are well priced.
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A-grade Chico Unified School District
Public schools are within the Chico Unified School District, which gets an A on Niche. Kids start at Citrus Avenue Elementary, given a B-minus and move on to Chico Junior High, which earns an A-minus. Older students head to A-grade Chico High, whose field hockey team won the CIF Northern Section State Championship title in 2023. The charter Inspire School of Arts and Sciences high school also gets an A and is one of only 19 schools statewide to receive the California Exemplary Arts Education Award in 2023 for standout arts education funding, resources and instruction. The Avenues is an ideal location for students or employees of the California State University Chico, known for its hip, downtown proximity, beautiful 132-acre campus and expansive ecological reserve. Chico State is No. 7 on U.S. News and World Report's ranking of Top Public Universities in the West.
The enrollment at Citrus Avenue Elementary School is about 340 students.
Chico Junior High School is a public school.
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Easy Interstate access statewide
"We're California living without the traffic," Simpkins says. "And you're only an hour and a half from the Sacramento International Airport and 30 minutes from I-5, which takes you the whole length of California. You're close to big cities, but secluded without that big city feel." Throughout Chico Vecino, bikes are welcomed and encouraged, and there are dozens of bike lanes, bike paths and bike racks provided by the city.
Eclectic races and holiday events
Living on The Avenues puts locals close to a roster of downtown events. "Our downtown community," says Simpkins, "has themed races all the time. Fleet Feet hosts the Downtown Mile in the Spring, and there's also this trike-racing thing at Madison Bear Garden where you go bar hopping and ride a trike around. It's such a college town thing." About 2 miles north, the Amber Grove Community puts on a fabulous Christmas lights tour every year.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
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to let others know what life in this neighborhood is like.
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Chico Vecino
US
Homicide
4
4
Sexual Assault
4
4
Assault with Weapon
4
4
Robbery
4
4
Burglary
4
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
4
4
Larceny
4
4
Crime Score
4
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Chico Vecino Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Chico Vecino, Chico sell after 39 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Chico Vecino, Chico over the last 12 months is $410,000, down 7% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
This one is the definition of move-in ready! No expense has been spared in preparing this home for market. Brand new roof, brand new interior paint, new appliances, new LVP flooring, the repairs have been made and all that is left to do is move in! Located in the desirable “Avenues” this affordable property is the perfect opportunity for someone to get their foot in the door of the strong Chico
Avenues Multiplex consisting of 1 home and 2-4 apartments (Quadplex: 2 units + 2 additional non-conforming basement units + 1 single Family Home) Three blocks from Chico State and Enloe Hospital, This two-building, one-lot property offers a rare combination of immediate income and significant upside. The rear property (133) features a detached 3BD/2BA house with an one-car garage currently
An unusual opportunity to own a home in one of Chico’s most desirable older neighborhoods. Comfortable post-World War II home awaits you on a tree-lined street just a few blocks from downtown, university and Bidwell Park. Original hardwood floor adorns living room. Kitchen pantry features enormous storage space, including massive pull-out cabinet. Master bathroom has large shower, while bedroom
Investor Opportunity in the East Avenues! Being sold strictly As-Is as a major fixer-upper/development project. This expansive property features a massive 0.7-acre single parcel (APN ending in 19000) boasting highly desirable alley access. Recent professional tree work and complete lot debris removal have already been completed, leaving a clean, level canvas for development or substantial
OPPORTUNITY KNOCKS! First time on the market in over 25 years! This 2 story, 24 unit apartment complex is a classic charmer, centrally located in the Heart of Chico. As you enter the central courtyard, it is like walking into an oasis, with its' sparkling swimming pool, wrap around balconies, and lush mature landscaping. Situated within walking distance to Chico State University, Downtown, and
Tucked into Chico’s desirable Avenues neighborhood, this inviting condominium offers comfort, convenience, and an ideal location just moments from California State University, Chico, downtown dining and shopping, Bidwell Park, and the historic Bidwell Mansion. Featuring 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, the home showcases an open-concept layout filled with natural light, updated flooring and
Centrally located, close to downtown and Chico State University, this well maintained 6 plex with off street parking and onsite laundry, makes an ideal investment opportunity, with solid rental history, stabilized rents, and low maintenance grounds.
Welcome to this sweet 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home on a quiet cul-de-sac in one of Chico’s most desirable neighborhoods. A huge, beautiful tree graces the front yard, with the home surrounded by many mature trees throughout this neighborhood. Cozy, low-maintenance backyard features fruit trees such as 2 fig trees, 2 peach trees (different varieties), pomegranate, kumquat, cherry tree, and 4 grape
Colliers is pleased to present 810 W 1st Ave, an exceptionally maintained, 17-unit market rate apartment community in Chico, CA comprised of all 2 story Townhome units. The complex was originally built in 1960 and received a complete exterior remodel in late 2024/early 2025. This low-density property spans across 1 acre and features a new security gate. The Loft Apartments serve to workforce
Located in the heart of Chico, this well-positioned four-unit multifamily property presents an attractive investment opportunity with strong rental demand and a highly desirable unit mix. The property consists of four spacious two-bedroom, one-bathroom units, each approximately 765 square feet, offering residents comfortable living accommodations while providing investors with stable income
A Masterpiece of Craftsmanship, History & Modern Vision; Words hardly do justice to the extraordinary quality, rich history, and inspired vision behind this beautifully reimagined Classic Chico Craftsman. Thoughtfully remodeled with influences from the iconic Frank Lloyd Wright Prairie style, this one-of-a-kind home blends timeless architecture with sophisticated modern living. From the original
Cedar Flats is Chico’s first luxury housing community serving Chico State students. Located less than a mile from the edge of the CSU campus, a location that cannot be matched. We offer unique contemporary style living with a modern feel, superior 24-hour customer service, an excellent academic environment, state of an art fitness center, and expansive outdoor community areas. Individual leasing
Westpark Plaza is a community of apartment homes offering convenience and comfort. Acres of lush grounds are professionally landscaped and maintained, creating a unique, park-like setting for our studios, one and two bedroom apartment homes. Relax on your private patio, balcony, or around the sparkling swimming pool. 24-hour on-site maintenance makes choosing Westpark Plaza as your new home an
As a resident of Cedar Park Apartments, you get to enjoy the benefits of living in a comfortable home with a convenient location. Choose from our expansive floor plans and take advantage of all the exclusive amenities our apartments for rent in Chico offer. Pets are welcome!To see our communities firsthand, visit our staff at 995 Nord Ave., Suite 105, or contact our team to schedule your tour
MOVE IN SPECIAL! 1st MONTH RENT FREE or $100 off MONTHLY RENT OVER THE LEASE TERM! Step into premium living with our stunning 3 & 4 Bedroom/2 Bathroom apartments! Enjoy the epitome of comfort and space at this beautiful property, perfect for families or roommates seeking room to thrive. Located just two blocks from Chico State University campus, Downtown Chico, and restaurant &
Acacia Apartments is tucked away in a cozy quite neighborhood conveniently located just one block from Chico State University. We have 1 bedroom and 2 bedroom apartment homes with laminate wood grain flooring, upgraded appliances, ceiling fans and an extra vanity area! Selected apartment homes include Washer/Dryer. We have plenty of open parking, a large pool area, gym and dog park!
APPLY BY JUNE 30TH AND GET THE FIRST MONTH FREE AND ENTERED TO WIN A $500 GIFT CARD!! Some exclusions apply. Gift card will be issued at move-in. If you and your cosigner both apply by the deadline you get double entry!______________________Welcome to Regency Townhomes — spacious 4 & 5 bedroom townhomes in one of Chico’s most convenient student-friendly locations.Located just
Situated just a short stroll from the vibrant downtown Chico area, Walnut Tree Manor offers the perfect blend of convenience and tranquility. Located in a quiet, picturesque neighborhood, this property is ideal for those who want to enjoy the charm of the city while living in a peaceful setting.Walnut Tree Manor is also conveniently located near CSU Chico, making it a fantastic option for
Welcome to Warner Street Apartments, a charming 50-unit community in Chico, CA. Enjoy on-site laundry facilities, high-speed internet, and ample parking in a serene environment. Warner Street Apartments combines comfort and convenience in a prime location. Schedule a tour today and discover your new home!
Four newly built detached 2-bedroom, 2-bath ADU for rent in a desirable Chico neighborhood! This thoughtfully designed 704 sq. ft. home offers a bright, open floor plan with modern finishes, creating a comfortable and efficient living space. The home features a full kitchen, two bathrooms, spacious bedrooms, and the privacy of a detached residence. Enjoy your own private fenced yard, off-street
Welcome to Bidwell Manor- Come experience the charm and comfort of Bidwell Manor! Enjoy spacious apartment homes in a peaceful, tree-lined community conveniently located near shopping, dining, parks, and downtown Chico. Contact us today for current availability and leasing information.
**Reserve NOW for Summer 2025**La Vista Apartments offer open floor plans featuring bamboo flooring, carpeted bedrooms, recessed lighting, ceiling fans, central heat & A/C, patios and on-site laundry. Conveniently located near Downtown Chico.Move in dates range from June - August based on unit and availability.Water, Sewer, Trash and Landscaping services included.$50
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