$920,711Average Value$625Average Price per Sq Ft8Homes For Sale
California Heights has historic architecture and a strong community
California Heights, or Cal Heights as locals call it, is Long Beach's largest historic district, developed mainly in the early to mid-1900s. Tree-lined streets are home to Spanish Colonial Revival, Craftsman and Tudor Revival architecture, giving the neighborhood a charm that stands out from the postwar development common across much of Long Beach. It's a very walkable area, with shops and restaurants along Atlantic Avenue just steps from many homes, and there's an active neighborhood association that keeps the community tight-knit. But buying in a historic district means restrictions on renovations, and high prices reflect this neighborhood’s desirability.
What to know about owning a home in a historic district
Primarily developed from the 1920s to the 1950s, Cal Heights is known for its historic homes. You’ll see examples of Spanish Colonial Revival, Minimal Traditional, Craftsman and Tudor Revival architecture, all preserved to maintain their original look. According to Angie Rebennack, a Realtor with Keller Williams Pacific Estates who has sold several homes here, buyers should be aware they are buying in a historic district. “There are limitations on what you can do to the exterior of the homes,” she explains. “Which most people really like, because that sense of preservation is what drew them to the neighborhood.” Here are a few things to know when considering a home in California Heights:
Most exterior features cannot be altered, especially in the front of the home.
Some rear additions and accessory dwelling units may be permitted, but they must match the historic character of the home.
Historic materials must be used for maintenance, like replacing a broken wood window with another wood window.
If you buy a home where unpermitted work was done by the previous owners, you are required to fix it.
Neighborhood homes often showcase historic architecture and thoughtful landscaping.
A restored Spanish Colonial Revival home in California Heights.
1/2
The cost of homes in California Heights
California Heights is significantly more expensive than Signal Hill to the south. Still, it’s on par with Bixby Knolls, and lower priced than the massive historic homes in Los Cerritos. Single-family homes typically list between $800,000 and $1.3 million. Condos from the 1960s and 1970s can be found on the west side of the neighborhood, priced from the mid-$300,000s to the upper $500,000s. Homes tend to be in high demand. “We’re getting a lot of buyers from the west side of Los Angeles who are looking for a high quality of life in a walkable neighborhood,” says Alan Fasnacht of Team Fasnacht Realty, who grew up in the area. “That has made Cal Heights really quite desirable.”
Community events planned by a local neighborhood association
The California Heights Neighborhood Association focuses on preserving the community’s historic charm and character. In fact, one of the CHNA’s proudest projects was a 16-year campaign to restore the original lamppost tops to the streets of Cal Heights, which they successfully completed. They also plan neighborhood events, including an annual home tour and a block party. According to Fasnacht, the active association helps make this area desirable. “People want to buy these homes, and their value has been cemented by the efforts of the neighborhood association,” he says.
Highly walkable to shopping and dining
Depending on how close you are to the bustling Atlantic Avenue, California Heights has plenty of restaurants within walking distance. “It’s almost the same area as Bixby Knolls, but California Heights might be even more walkable,” Rebennack says. Head over to dining options like:
Jongewaard’s Bake n’ Broil, a local favorite since 1965 for hearty breakfasts, homemade pies and fresh baked goods
SteelCraft Long Beach, a trendy, open-air food hall built from shipping containers with rotating vendor options and craft beer
Nonna Mercato, an artisan bakery and cafe serving handmade pastries and seasonal French-Italian dishes
Phil Trani’s, an old-school Continental-style restaurant with live music on the weekends
Just north of the neighborhood, a section of Atlantic Avenue comes to life for Bixby Knolls First Fridays. These monthly events attract thousands for late-night shopping accompanied by art and music.
Steelhead Coffee is one of the vendors at SteelCraft.
Jongewaard's Bake 'n Broil has been an institution in the neighborhood since 1965.
1/2
Attend the highly rated Polytechnic High School
The neighborhood is part of the Long Beach Unified School District, which offers school choice. But the default options for the neighborhood — Birney Elementary School, Hughes Middle School and Polytechnic High School — are all highly rated. Locally referred to as Poly, the high school is one of the district's highest-rated options and is known for its roster of famous alumni, including Snoop Dogg, Billie Jean King and Cameron Diaz.
Local kids are zoned to attend Birney Elementary School.
Polytechnic High School's athletic fields in Long Beach.
1/2
Quick commutes and occasional plane noise from Long Beach Airport
Interstate 405 passes right by the neighborhood, connecting to Interstate 710 on the way into Los Angeles. The commute to Downtown LA can be about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. There’s also the Wardlow Metro A Line station just over a mile away. Plus, the Long Beach Airport is directly east of the neighborhood. While you might hear some highway or aircraft noise in Cal Heights, the airport's runway orientation means planes typically pass well north of the neighborhood during takeoff and landing. “For a lot of people, the noise doesn’t bother them,” Rebennack says.
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
Are you familiar with the California Heights neighborhood?
to let others know what life in this neighborhood is like.
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
California Heights
US
Homicide
4
4
Sexual Assault
5
4
Assault with Weapon
5
4
Robbery
4
4
Burglary
5
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
6
4
Larceny
5
4
Crime Score
4
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
California Heights Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in California Heights, Long Beach sell after 41 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in California Heights, Long Beach over the last 12 months is $1,022,500, up 8% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Turnkey 2-bedroom Wrigley townhome with an ATTACHED private garage and a low $435 HOA — a rare combination in Long Beach, CA. This light-filled two-story end-style residence at 3342 Elm Ave #26 pairs low-maintenance condo living with the privacy and convenience buyers actually want. The remodeled kitchen showcases white shaker cabinetry, quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, a gas
Newer Construction built in 2024 this 3 bedroom, 2.5 Bath Spanish inspired townhouse in the community of Bixby Walk. Features open spacious Myrtle floor plan with entry offering a work at home space/work out area, 2 car-garage w/EV hookup. Mid-level has powder bath, Light and bright spacious living room area opening to large open kitchen with oversized island and walk-in pantry and dining area.
Welcome home to the Lindenwood condos! This beautifully maintained condo is located in the heart of highly desirable Bixby Knolls, one of Long Beach’s most vibrant communities. This interior second-floor residence offers a perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and lifestyle. Step inside to discover an inviting open-concept living and dining area, creating a warm and airy atmosphere with a
Set in one of Long Beach’s most beloved neighborhoods, this beautifully refreshed 2-bedroom, 2-bath condo offers the perfect balance of comfort, convenience, and community. Located just moments from Atlantic Avenue’s boutique shops, popular dining spots, and the vibrant First Fridays scene filled with live music and local flavor, this home places you right in the center of it all. Inside, the
RARE 500 Sq Ft PRIMARY SUITE! Price Improvement!! Refreshed and Reimagined Luxury! "Award-Winning California Heights" On one of California Heights' most coveted tree-lined streets, this meticulously transformed single-story residence delivers a level of finish rarely seen at this price point. From custom Venetian plaster walls to solid oak hardwood floors, every detail reflects an uncompromising
Coming Soon! Exceptional duplex opportunity in Long Beach! Whether you're looking to expand your investment portfolio or live in one unit while generating rental income from the other, this versatile property offers endless possibilities. Additional details, professional photos, and showing information coming soon.
Discover a rare real estate gem in the heart of the historic California Heights neighborhood. This expansive residential property spans three parcels totaling nearly 10,000 square feet, offering an unparalleled combination of privacy, versatility, and investment potential. Unlike traditional multi-family layouts, this property is uniquely comprised of three distinct, standalone-style residences,
Located in the desirable California Heights neighborhood, this duplex offers a great opportunity for owner-users or investors. Each unit features 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom with a unique floor plan that includes connected rooms, where one room is accessed through another. Additional features include a two-car garage and separate utility rooms for each unit, both equipped with a washer and dryer.
Welcome to this charming and highly desirable first-floor condominium located in the private, gated Lindenwood community in Bixby Knolls. This beautifully maintained residence features a spacious layout with all bedrooms conveniently located on the main level. The bright and functional kitchen seamlessly flows into the main living areas, with all appliances thoughtfully included. Enjoy the ease
Welcome to an extraordinary Spanish Mediterranean residence where timeless architecture meets modern luxury. Situated on a prominent corner lot along one of California Heights' picturesque tree-lined streets, this beautifully updated home offers a thoughtfully designed living space with 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and an exceptional indoor-outdoor lifestyle. From the moment you step through the
SPECIAL * $1200 deposit and free app fees on approved application* Discover your perfect home where comfort meets convenience. Our premier property offers a blend of modern amenities and a welcoming atmosphere, ensuring an ideal living environment for everyone. From spacious interiors to beautifully maintained outdoor spaces, each detail is designed to enhance your everyday living
Welcome to Wardlow Apartments in Long Beach, CA! Our community offers a refreshing swimming pool for residents to enjoy on sunny days. With an onsite manager available to assist with any needs, residents can rest easy knowing help is just a phone call away. Laundry facilities are conveniently located onsite, making chores a breeze. Residents can also take advantage of garage parking for added
$1,450 - $2,349 per month
Bay Towers at Bixby Knolls - 55+ Active Adult Apartments
Bay Towers at Bixby Knolls - Senior Apartments for Active Adults Ages 55 and up. Step into a world of refined living with spacious senior apartments that combine style and functionality. Each residence is designed with your unique needs in mind, featuring open floor plans, ample natural light, and thoughtful accessibility features. From cozy studios to one or two-bedroom layouts, the apartments
Charming and cozy 1 bed/1 bath duplex unit available in historic California Heights area of Long Beach. Home is located on a quiet residential street. Features: -1 car garage with additional parking spot behind.-Living room (freshly painted)-Dining room -Kitchen -Private laundry room (washer/dryer not included)-Private backyard -Large multi-purpose storage shed
Newer Construction built in 2024 this 3 bedroom, 2.5 Bath Spanish inspired townhouse in the community of Bixby Walk. Features open spacious Myrtle floor plan with entry offering a work at home space/work out area, 2 car-garage w/EV hookup. Mid-level has powder bath, Light and bright spacious living room area opening to large open kitchen with oversized island and walk-in pantry and dining area.
100% Application before tour. Available: Sep 5th Pet Allowed. Discover sophisticated living at the Lindenwood Building. Step inside and feel the day fade away in the spacious living room, featuring expansive glass doors opening to your private balcony. The well-appointed kitchen offers ample cabinets, granite counters, and includes a refrigerator and dishwasher. Relax in the large bedroom,
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
