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
Miguel A. Hernandez,
an experienced agent in this area.
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Welcome to this beautifully updated home offering comfort, style, and flexibility. This move-in ready property features 3 generously sized bedrooms and 2 well-appointed bathrooms, with recent upgrades that give the home a fresh, modern feel. New paint, updated doors, and brand-new cabinetry enhance the interior, creating a clean and inviting space throughout. Adding to the home's versatility, the
Excellent investment opportunity. This duplex offers two spacious units, each featuring 3 bedrooms and 1.75 bathrooms, along with dedicated parking and separate private yards. Unit B has been recently refreshed with new flooring, window coverings, and interior paint, providing a clean and updated living space. Unit A is occupied by a long-term tenant with below-market rent, offering immediate
Homes like this rarely hit the market!! Upper La Cresta home on nearly 1/2 acre! This one family home custom built in 1960 with all the vintage charm! This home offers 2,336 sq ft of comfortable living with 5 bedrooms/ 2 bathrooms/ Family Room / separate Dining area / separate Den area with an upper level and a huge functional basement! Functional layout can easily large or growing family! Keep
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
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ROOM FOR RENT--FULLY FURNISHED SHARED HOUSE, share bathroom. One room is now available for $700 per month. Must have good credit and a stable job.Utilities are separate—month-to-month rent. Newly refurnished with shared kitchen, bath, and cozy living space. One sweet resident dog is on-site. Just a 15-minute walk to The Bluffs for scenic views and fresh air. Perfect for those seeking comfort,
Lily FongREALTY SOURCE INC
$1,600 per month
Charming 2 Bed / 1 Bath in 93305 – Pet-Friendly with Pest Control Included!
Welcome to this inviting 2-bedroom, 1-bath home located in the desirable 93305 area of Bakersfield. This cozy and functional property offers a comfortable layout perfect for everyday living.The home features a well-equipped kitchen with essential space for cooking and dining, Comes with Stove and Refrigerator along with a bright living area that creates a welcoming atmosphere. Both
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