Lake Mathews is a quiet mountain community located around Lake Mathews, a reservoir serving over a million people in Southern California. During the day here, residents can spend some time outside hiking and enjoying the sunny weather. While at night, they can observe the starry sky without light pollution clouding their views. To preserve the reservoir’s water quality and to ensure the preservation of wildlife, Lake Mathews and some of the surrounding land remain inaccessible, offering residents a remote lifestyle. Many are drawn to this neighborhood for its diverse home styles and picturesque views.
A secluded lifestyle and custom-built properties
Almost all the homes in Lake Mathews are custom-built and range from 2,000 to 4,000 square feet with a median sales price of $791,500. A custom, 2,000-square-foot ranch-style home can go for $800,000, while a custom, 4000-square-foot two-story home can sell for $1.8 million. Custom builds mean that the streets contour the landscape’s natural topography. Some houses cut into the hillside, offering panoramic lake and landscape views, while others sit on large 2-to-3-acre parcels. Styles range from contemporary properties with Tudor-inspired features to Spanish Revivals. Larry Robillard, an associate broker at Realty Masters and Associates with over thirty years of experience in the real estate market, says, “Homes here have a country feel to them. People can be in Southern California but feel like they’re out in the country.” Part of this feeling could be due to the fact that Lake Mathews doesn't have an abundance of streetlights, and many streets do not feature sidewalks. “It’s somewhat of an isolated community,” Robillard says. “To the north is Lake Mathews, and to the east is the Mathews Estelle Mountain Reserve. To the west is open space that will not be developed.” This secluded lifestyle offers locals private and expansive lots.
Spanish Revival properties are common in Lake Mathews.
Locals can embrace luxury living in Lake Mathews' contemporary homes.
Lake Mathews residents enjoy views of the Mathews Estelle Mountain Reserve.
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Swimming, birdwatching and picnicking among orange groves
Less than 18 miles from Lake Mathews sits Lake Perris State Recreation Area. Residents and visitors alike enjoy views of the distant rocky mountains while swimming in the lake’s cold water. Or they can enjoy other water-oriented activities like scuba diving and boating. Photographers love taking snapshots of the area’s blooming wildflowers, like the orange California poppies, while birdwatchers quietly wait to catch a glimpse of local wildlife. At Dos Lagos Park, visitors walk around a pond, spotting local wildlife as they enjoy the serene environment. California Citrus State Historic Park is another great outdoor spot. Only a 10-mile drive from Lake Mathews, this park is perfect for a picnic among the orange groves or for learning about the cultivation of citrus fruits in Southern California. Outdoor enthusiasts can even take a hike to explore the different citrus varieties.
Dos Lagos Park, a recreational space near Lake Mathews, offers paved pathways.
Lake Mathews locals get some fresh air at Dos Lagos Park, also popular among pigeons.
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Small markets and local eateries
Residents can pick up everyday essentials and grab a burrito at Lake Mathews General Store and Deli. Gavilan Hills Ranch Market also offers quick essentials, while Victoria Grove Produce Market is a hot spot for fresh fruits and vegetables. Or for breakfast-out, the family-owned Rodeo Café serves traditional American food with a Mexican twist every day of the week from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. Restaurants like the Club 80’s Bar and Grill are perfect for those who love retro music. Hosting events like '80s and '90s dance parties, this club offers patrons a place to eat, drink and dance to their heart’s content.
Gavilan Hills Ranch Market, a small store near Lake Mathews, is perfect for quick essentials.
Those in search of organic produce head to Lake Mathews' Victoria Grove Produce Market.
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Riverside Unified School District
Students here attend schools that are part of the Riverside Unified School District, like Lake Mathews Elementary School, a California Distinguished School; Frank Augustus Miller Middle, which has received multiple Models of Excellence awards; and Martin Luther King High School, recipient of The Golden Bell Award. With such notable accolades, it should come as no surprise that all three schools receive ratings of A-minus or higher from Niche.
Commutes and nearby major employers
Most Lake Mathews residents are car-dependent. Healthcare workers enjoy their proximity to the Riverside Community Hospital, which is around 20 miles away via Cajalco Road. Another major employer near Lake Mathews is Collins Aerospace, which is less than 20 miles away. Riverside is just 19 miles east via California 91. Those wanting to explore other cities head around 28 miles north via Interstate 15 to the Ontario International Airport.
Written By
Marianna Dionysiou
Photography Contributed By
Khiem Huynh
Video By
Khalil Chisholm
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Cheryl DeMarco,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Lake Mathews, CA sell after 32 days on the market compared to the national average of 49 days. The median sale price for homes in Lake Mathews, CA over the last 12 months is $925,000, up 9% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Stunning view, fully upgraded peaceful and mesmerizing ambiance in this secluded estate overlooking incredible mountains, hills, and Lakeview over a two-acre lot. This home is unlike any other home in the market with its grand entry, high ceiling, and open floor plan. There are views from almost every window in the home. Although this home offers a dramatic multi-level appearance, the master
Included a total of 4 parcels. Zoned Residential Agricultural 1/2. With over 1300 feet of frontage on Cajalco and Wood the possibilities are endless. Front corner parcel has a well with pump. MWD Aqueduct runs right under property so water is endless. Back half of the property is currently being leased. Seller has already started the process to rezone for gas station use. Could also
Modern, Fully Renovated Home with Paid Solar and Expansive Lot, a beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 2-bath manufactured home on a permanent foundation with 433A certification, located at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac in the Gavilan neighborhood. This move-in-ready home features a modern open floor plan with new stylish flooring, a completely remodeled kitchen, updated bathrooms, upgraded lighting,
Welcome to your new home in Perris, California! This charming 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom manufactured home offers 1,000 square feet of comfortable living space, perfect for relaxation and enjoyment.Key property features include a spacious open-concept living area filled with natural light and a modern kitchen equipped with a large island. The updated bathrooms feature contemporary fixtures,
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