La Cresta, which means 'the crest' in Spanish, sits atop the Kern River Bluffs, a cliffside with panoramic views. In the 1930s, Bakersfield Californian printed its first housing advertisement: "Homes bloom where cactus bloomed a month ago." With a population of 9,000, La Cresta has an eclectic mix of neighborhoods in the hills above the Kern River. "The biggest thing is the views," says Benny Villarreal, an area local and Realtor at Miramar International. "It's a little cooler on the east side, closer to the Kern River. You get a breeze near the mountains."
An aerial view above La Cresta looking toward the Temecula Valley.
A Family pulls over at Lookout Roadhouse in the La Cresta area to check out the view.
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Spacious suburban homes in College Heights
The city's housing stock features Craftsman, traditional and ranch-style homes built between 1940 and 1970. Here, the gridded streets of East Bakersfield converge with northern suburbs. East Bakersfield features an urban atmosphere with fenced-in properties near popular restaurants. North of Columbus Street, neighborhoods like College Heights have quarter-acre lots and in-ground pools. The median single-family price in La Cresta is about $300,000, nearly $100,000 lower than both the Bakersfield and national medians.
La Cresta home features Cacti that look great and keep the water bills down
Large home seen hillside in La Cresta.
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From logistics to ag and oil
Logistics is a growing industry in Kern County, with companies like Amazon employing about 5,000 people. Bakersfield is rooted in petroleum, with Chevron and Aera Energy operating in the local oil fields. Agriculture and food processing are also powerhouse sectors in the area.
Dual enrollment through Bakersfield College
The Bakersfield City School District serves elementary and middle schools, earning a C grade from Niche. The Kern High School District receives a B-plus grade, which Niche ranks as the second-best district in Bakersfield. High schools offer dual enrollment through Bakersfield College, a post-secondary option nearby with bachelor's degrees in industrial automation and sociology. Memorial Stadium is a community centerpiece for football games and Renegades sporting events about 2 miles east.
Bike trail with panoramic views
With facilities for pick-up basketball and soccer games, Jefferson Park also has a splash pad and an outdoor pool for the hot summers. It is also the venue for the East Bakersfield Festival, a community celebration in May. The Kern River Parkway Trail is a 30-mile paved bike path directly north of La Cresta. The trail goes through Panorama Park, for sunset views of the city, the river and the Tehachapi Mountains beyond. “It’s a well-known area where people can jog, hike and ride bikes up the hill,” Villarreal says.
Ride or hike along the Sylvan Meadows Trail in La Cresta.
Explore La Cresta's scenic routes on two wheels.
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Local retail, restaurants and Downtown Bakersfield
La Cresta is close to casual Mexican restaurants and burger joints. About 2 miles east, Mall View Road leads to a large retail area with familiar chains, supermarkets and a Walmart Supercenter. This city is only around 3 miles from Downtown Bakersfield, a city center with historic theaters and museums next to a wide-ranging culinary scene, with sushi, farm-to-table and Basque-style eateries.
Discover the ultimate spot for socializing in La Cresta's mall.
Check out the gift shop at the Hafey Farms Country Store near La Cresta.
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An aerial view above La Cresta looking toward the Temecula Valley.
Flying out of Meadows Field Airport
The Golden Empire Transit District (GET) provides bus services to the Bakersfield area. La Cresta borders California state Route 178, which connects to the local expressways. Los Angeles is roughly 115 miles south on state Route 99.
The Meadows Field Airport (BFL) provides passenger flights to U.S. cities such as Phoenix, Dallas and Denver.
Moderate crime and a hot desert climate
Crime rates in Kern County are slightly higher than the statewide average. In 2023, property crime decreased by about 16%, while violent crime increased by roughly 14%.
There is a hot desert climate, with summer heat waves reaching over 100°F in La Cresta. Residents living along SR-178 may experience noise from the road. Like much of Kern County, this city faces air quality issues due to the region's agriculture and petroleum production.
Written By
Jackson Hardy
Photography Contributed By
Kory Ross
Video By
Luke Basinger
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Brandi Kovach,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in La Cresta, CA sell after 31 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in La Cresta, CA over the last 12 months is $290,000, down 6% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
ADDRESS: La Naranja Ave, Bakersfield, CA 93305GPS: 35.391089,-118.974336SIZE: 0.11 AcresCOUNTY: BakersfieldPARCEL NUMBER (APN): 126-170-13LEGAL DESCRIPTION: S1/2 OF LOTS 23 & 24 BLOCK C LA NARANJA VISTA SUBD.GPS Corners:35.391089,-118.974336State: CAZip: 93305City: BakersfieldType: LandAnnual Property
Welcome to this charming 2-bedroom, 1-bath home, offering a fantastic opportunity for both first-time homebuyers or investors. Situated on an R-2 zoned lot, this property provides excellent potential for future expansion or added income, ideal for those looking to grow their real estate portfolio. The home features a functional layout with comfortable living spaces and great natural light.
La Cresta Cottage with white picket fence is ready for you! This freshly painted gem blends modern living with comfort and style. Offers 3bd/1.75ba, a spacious split-wing layout, it's the perfect spot for work, play, and relaxation. The large living room, formal dining area, and separate den/office provide plenty of room to personalize your space. The kitchen shines with sleek granite countertops
The subject property is located at the northwest corner of Columbus Street and River Blvd in Bakersfield, CA. This signalized intersection carries a traffic count of 32,568 cars per day that is primarily fed by its close proximity to Freeway 178 and the East Hills Mall. Nearby retailers in the area include Lowe's, Albertson's, CVS Pharmacy, 99 Cents Only, Home Depot, Smart & Final among many
This beautifully renovated 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home on an R-2 zoned lot with alley access, is move-in ready and full of charm. Enjoy stylish wood-like flooring throughout, fresh interior and exterior paint, and a brand-new roof. The kitchen shines with new cabinets, new stainless steel appliances and updated light fixtures, while the bathrooms feature new showers, modern vanities and mirrors.
Buyers will love this charming 3-bedroom, 1-bath home in the desirable Alta Vista area, offering character, functionality, and strong upside potential. With approximately 1,340 sq. ft. of living space on a 6,098 sq. ft. lot, the home features new windows that provide excellent natural light and energy efficiency.A detached two-car garage with alley access and gated entry adds privacy and
Move-In Ready! Property had some renovations done in 2022. New roof, plumbing, electrical, new granite in many areas, new stucco and new windows, too. As per seller, floor plans are available for a second unit. Good size backyard with matured fruit trees. Buyer and buyer's agent to do their own due diligence. Property is a must see! Call agent for more information. Send your offers to
This picturesque La Cresta Home features a Santa Barbara Style Elevation and is situated on a large, double sized lot. The home features hardwood floors, a newer kitchen that is large in size and has a double oven along with a gas cooktop. The home has a large living room and then a separate additional living area. This home features a split level style floor plan and large bedrooms. This home is
Property Description: This 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom single-family home offers 1,811 square feet of living space and sits on a 6,969 square foot lot in Bakersfield, CA. Originally built in 1980, the property includes an attached garage and features a traditional layout with ample potential for renovation or customization. Important Note: The home is currently occupied by squatters. Buyers should be
Looking To Add Rental Income To Your Portfolio? 626 Irene Street, A Spacious 4plex Offers 1/1 Units, Including Established Tenants In Place, Located Near Schools, Shopping, And Easy Freeway Access. These Are Just Some Of The Tenant Perks. To Be Sold With 624 Irene, Each On Its Own Lot And APN Number. Cameras On Site, Drive By And Make Your Offer Subject To Interior Inspection. You'll Be Glad You
Completely Revamped & Move-In Ready! This 3 bed, 1 bath charmer on Water St has been stripped down and rebuilt with today's buyer in mind. You'll love the brand-new kitchen with sleek cabinetry, modern countertops, and updated fixtures. The bathroom shines with fresh finishes, while new floors, recessed lighting, and stylish fixtures run throughout. Major $$$ improvements already done for you:
Charming single-family home, This cozy 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom residence offers 912 sq. ft. of living space on a single level. Built in 1952 on a raised foundation, it includes a detached storage. The spacious lot measures 8,668 sq. ft., providing ample driveway parking and generous backyard spaceperfect for outdoor activities or future expansions. Highly convenient location in the East Bakersfield
Modern 3-Bedroom Duplex Brand New in 2025!Be the first to call this newly built 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom duplex home. With 1,100 sq. ft. of living space, a bright open layout, and fresh modern finishes, it's designed for comfortable everyday living.What you'll love: Spacious 1,100 sq. ft. layout Three bedrooms with plenty of closet space A modern bathroom with updated
Welcome to your ideal living space at our charming studio for rent, conveniently located just 2 miles away from Bakersfield College. This recently renovated studio offers tile floors, kitchen have granite countertops. The entire studio has been thoughtfully painted. Don't miss the opportunity to make this studio your home at a prime location.
Charming Home for Rent in Bakersfield Welcome to this well-maintained home tucked in the heart of Bakersfield! The property features a spacious front house with 3 bedrooms and 1.5 bathrooms, offering bright living spaces, a clean and comfortable layout, and modern updates. Behind it, you’ll find a separate back unit — a 1-bedroom, 1-bath garage conversion — perfect for extended family or guests.
3 spacious bedrooms, 2 modern bathrooms, and a stunning separate mother-in-law unit 1 bedroom 1 bath, perfect for rental income or extended family. Open floor plan of this newly updated home, brand-new flooring, stylish countertops, and gorgeous cabinetry throughout. There's just too much to list you truly have to see it in person to appreciate all the thoughtful upgrades and beautiful details!
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