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
Justin Yim,
an experienced agent in this area.
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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
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 1229 Jeffrey Street. A unique Bakersfield property featuring two homes on one lot, offering exceptional flexibility and value. The second home creates an incredible opportunity for rental income, multi-generational living, a private guest house, or a dedicated home office. Both residences provide comfortable, updated living spaces, all situated on a generous lot with room to enjoy.
Welcome to this charming home located at 925 Jeffrey St in the heart of Bakersfield! This inviting property offers comfort, character, and endless potential for first-time buyers, growing families, or savvy investors. Step inside to find a warm and welcoming atmosphere with spacious living areas, natural light, and a layout designed for everyday living and entertaining. The generous yard provides
Calling all investors, flippers, and visionaries! This older home is full of potential and ready for a complete transformation. Featuring solid bones and endless possibilities, this property is the perfect opportunity to bring your creativity and vision to life. Property is being sold as-is and will require repairs and updates. Need some TLC!
Investor Opportunity! Located in a quiet Northeast Bakersfield neighborhood. This 1939 fixer-upper is full of potential and ready for your vision. Situated on a desirable corner lot with approximately 7,840 sq. ft.This property offers endless possibilities for investors, flippers, or buyers looking for their next rehab project. Restore the charm of this classic home or renovate it into something
FIXER UPPER!!! Here is an opportunity to flip a property for rental or for personal use. Please drive by and submit your offer subject to interior inspection, either CASH or Hard Money. There is a back structure next to the swimming pool, both in need of repairs also. Zoning R2
Motivated to Sell, Send in your offers!. Renovated five-unit investment property in turnkey condition, located at 2207 River Blvd in Bakersfield. The property consists of four updated 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom units, along with a spacious 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom unit situated at the rear of the property. Extensive renovations and modern upgrades throughout. This well-maintained asset offers an
PRICE REDUCTION - DUPLEX. 2 buildings in 1 lot. Front house 2 beds, 1 bath. Back house, 1 bed, 1 bath. Excellent opportunity for adding this duplex to your portfolio. Sale is "as-is" sale. Separate gas and electricity meter. Property is centrally located just minutes away from shopping, downtown and Bakersfield College. Back unit is vacant, front unit will be vacant soon. A lot of potential.
Charming single-family home. This cozy 2-bedroom, 1-bath residence offer 912 sq.ft on a single level with a bonus room. Built in 1952 it appears to have a raised foundation, and includes a detached structure. The spacious lot measures 8,668, sq.ft., providing ample driveway parking and generous backyard, perfect for outdoor activities or future expansions. Highly convenient location in the West
Charming College Heights home in Northeast Bakersfield! This 3-bedroom, 2-bath property offers a functional floor plan with plenty of natural light throughout. The inviting step-down living room adds character and provides a cozy space for relaxing or entertaining. The kitchen and dining area flow seamlessly, creating a comfortable setting for everyday living. Enjoy a spacious backyard with room
Don't miss this Charmer move in ready! Beautiful modern 3 bedroom, 1 bath home. Renovated kitchen which includes a generous size island, LED lighting, granite countertop and stainless-steel appliances. Bathroom is also beautifully updated with a new vanity, tile shower, and mirror. The home has fresh paint and hardwood floor throughout. Key features include solar panels, central air conditioning,
Very clean 3 bedroom, 2 bath apartment in East Bakersfield. This apartment sits on the 2nd floor, and comes equipped with all the necessary amenities to ensure a comfortable and convenient lifestyle. Water included.
Julie RamosBetter Homes and Gardens RE
$1,050 per month
1 bedroom/ 1 bathroom apartment near Bernard St/ Alta Vista Dr
This 1-bedroom, 1-bath apartment in Bakersfield, CA offers practical comfort with linoleum flooring throughout and ceiling fans for added airflow. The kitchen is equipped with a gas range/oven and refrigerator, and a washer hookup is provided for convenience. Climate control includes a wall heater and window AC, and security doors add an extra layer of protection. The layout maximizes usable
Welcome to 2711 Hufft St. Unit A in Bakersfield, CA! This charming 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom apartment offers a spacious and freshly painted interior, perfect for creating your own cozy oasis. The open floor plan seamlessly connects the living room to the kitchen, making it ideal for entertaining guests or simply relaxing after a long day. Step outside to your fenced backyard, providing a private
$1,100 per month
WoW 1 Bd 1 Ba House with a Yard and Laundry Hookups
What are you waiting for? Come and rent me. 1 Bd 1 Ba House with Big Back Yard. New 2 tone paint and flooring throughout. Bathroom has been remodeled with new bathtub, sink and toilet. Washer and Dryer Hookups. Cover Patio in the back yard. Walking distance to schools, parks and shopping. Perfect for student attending Bakersfield College or someone looking for an affordable small house. Apply
For Rent: 210 Irene St, 93305 - NE - 3+1.5 - $1850 Rent + $1850 DepositCute home for rent in Northeast Bakersfield, near Alta Vista Dr and Bernard St. Home features 1224 sq ft, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, large kitchen with island and stainless steel appliances, LVP flooring in all main living areas with carpet in bedrooms, fireplace, large covered patio, and a 2 car garage with laundry
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