An agricultural city in the Central Valley with a small-town feel
Madera, named after the Spanish word for lumber, built the world’s longest log flume in 1900 for its booming timber industry. Since then, the city’s main industry has shifted to agriculture, with almond orchards and grapevines surrounding the community. Although it looks like a small rural town, Madera has a population of approximately 70,000, and it continues to grow thanks to attractive home prices. “I feel like people are deciding to move here because it’s one of the more affordable areas, but it still has appreciation for the value of homes,” says Realtor Marisela Ramos, who works with The Real Brokerage, Inc. and has a few years of experience in the area. Madera’s Central Valley location also lends itself to easy commutes to Fresno, about 25 miles away.
Madera, CA has very attractive home prices.
Madera is known for growing almond orchards and grapevines.
The Zero Gravity Skatepark is located at Madera Rotary Park.
Golfers can practice on the driving range at Madera Municipal Golf Course.
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Bungalows downtown and farmhouses on the outskirts
The center of Madera is composed of grid-style streets of historic houses, which include Craftsman bungalows from the early 1900s. The town expands into subdivisions of midcentury ranch-style homes, and then sprawls even farther with new cul-de-sacs of contemporary houses. On the rural outskirts of the city, farmhouses occupy multiacre lots. The city's median housing price is around $425,000, but large farmhouses with land can reach $1.25 million. Homes stay on the market for an average of 45 days, higher than the national average of 44 days. Interested buyers may have to wait for their ideal home to pop up on the market. “I think we still need more homes, although this is a nationwide thing," Ramos says.
Larger craftsman style homes are available on the outskirts of Madera.
Bungalow style homes are common in areas surrounding Downtown Madera.
Farmhouses on big properties can be found on the perimeter of Madera.
Newer contemporary homes provides more housing for the growing city of Madera.
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Yosemite Avenue and more shopping hubs
In the middle of Madera, East Yosemite Avenue is the city’s Main Street-style downtown. The walkable district has a few blocks of clothing shops, restaurants and more local businesses. Madera Marketplace, which serves the northern part of town, is one of the biggest strip malls in the area. It has two grocery stores as well as more local restaurants. About a mile south of downtown, Bethard Square Shopping Center has more retail, plus a Madera mainstay dinner spot. Since 1977, The Vineyard Restaurant & Bar has served house-made Italian food with local wines. Because grapes are one of the city’s top crops, Madera has multiple wineries on its western side, including Quady Winery and the San Joaquin Winery.
Ortiz Western Wear in Madera, CA has a great selection of boots, hats, and clothes.
Yosemite Avenue is the main street in Madera, CA.
The Vineyard Restaurant & Bar is a highly rated Italian restaurant in Madera, CA.
Madera is home to a few wineries like Toca Madera Winery.
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Madera's biggest events and attractions
At the annual Madera District Fair in September, there are three days of carnival rides, concerts and food vendors. In December, the Downtown Madera Christmas Light Parade brings elaborate floats and decorations to Yosemite Avenue. For a more frequent event, the Madera Flea Market happens every Wednesday and Sunday. Visitors can browse 400 to 500 vendor stalls, selling items ranging from fresh produce to furniture.
One of the city’s main attractions is the Madera 2 Drive-In on the north side of town. From spring through autumn, it offers double features and a snack bar. In the heart of the city, Madera County Historical Society is a museum within a former courthouse from 1900. It displays local artifacts, including the preserved original courtroom and gold-mining equipment. Soon the North Fork Casino will be another of the city’s attractions, projected to open in early 2026. “We are getting a casino, and a lot of people are looking forward to that. It will draw more value to the area,” Ramos says.
The Madera County Historical Society is a museum located at Madera County Courthouse Park.
This 9/11 Memorial is located at Madera County Courthouse Park in Downtown Madera.
Enjoy a new movie on a summer night at the Madera 2 Drive-In.
Downtown Madera is filled with great parks, shops, and restaurants.
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Recreation options and environmental factors in Madera
The city provides many recreation options with over two dozen parks, trails and indoor facilities. The most popular is Lions Town & Country Park, about 50 acres of land on the western side of Madera. The park’s tree-lined walking trails are a highlight, especially in the autumn as the leaves change. It also has a disc golf course, ballfields and a picnic pavilion. Centennial Park, located on the eastern part of the city, offers a swimming pool, a playground and a youth center. The center's activities include cooking classes, dancing and more. On the northwestern outskirts of Madera, there’s the Madera Municipal Golf Course, a public 18-hole course with a clubhouse. The city is considered a gateway to Yosemite National Park, located about 60 miles away. Madera has a severe heat factor, especially during the summertime; winters are mild, while summer temperatures regularly hit the upper 90s. This contributes to the city’s extreme air quality risk, caused by the city's highways and farming.
The playground at Lions Town & Country Park in Madera is fun for the entire family.
Play a melody on the xylophone at Madera County Courthouse Park in Madera, CA.
Madera Municipal Golf Course is surrounded by farmland.
Mature trees provide shade along walk trails at Lions Town & Country Park in Madera, CA.
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Madera Unified public schools and nearby universities
The community is served by the Madera Unified School District, which has a B-minus rating on Niche. It earns B ratings in teachers, college prep and administration. With approximately 20,000 students, the district’s student-teacher ratio is 21-to-1. Nearby higher education includes California State University, Fresno, and the University of California Merced.
The staff and teachers at Alview Elementary School in Madera are caring.
Madera High School prepare students for their future.
Firebaugh Middle School in Madera, CA is a safe and nurturing environment.
Fairmead Elementary School in Madera is a highly rated school.
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25 miles to Fresno, 35 to Merced
Most Madera residents commute to work via state Route 99. Using this highway, the city is about 25 miles from Fresno and 35 miles from Merced. Some residents work at Madera's major employers, including Valley Children's Hospital and the Madera County government. For public transportation, there’s the Madera County Transportation Commission bus system. In the northern part of the city, Madera Amtrak Station offers the San Joaquins train to Bakersfield and Oakland. Fresno Yosemite International Airport is about 25 miles away.
Madera Police Department and crime rates
The violent crime rate in Madera is higher than the state and national rates, while the property crime rate is lower. In 2023, the city averaged a violent crime rate of about 150 incidents per 100,000 residents each month, compared to 104 in broader California and around 113 in the United States. Incidents of property crime happened at a rate of 104 each month, compared to 197 in broader California and around 163 nationally.
Written By
Anna Anderson
Photography Contributed By
Kiet Tat
Video By
Tyler Hall
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Jesus Alberto Ramirez Reyes,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Madera, CA sell after 41 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Madera, CA over the last 12 months is $452,000, up 3% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Newly built (2025) + Owned Solar + Gated RIVERSTONE LIVING! Welcome to 163 Reunion Way S, a beautiful newly built Wilson home offering the perfect blend of modern comfort, energy efficiency, and community amenities. This 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home features 1,612 sqft of thoughtfully designed living space, high ceilings, spacious bedrooms, generous closets, and an open-concept floor plan centered
Welcome to this luxurious newly remodeled 4 bed 2 bath home on 1.1 acres in Valley Lakes Ranchos, located in the vibrant city of Madera. This spacious property offers 2,089 square feet of living space and sits on a generous lot of 47,916 square feet. The kitchen is a culinary delight, featuring granite countertops, a built-in oven, microwave, electric cooktop, and a trash compactor. Additional
Discover the ease of modern living at 730 Arrowhead Dr, Madera, CA. This attractive residential property, spanning 1611 square feet, offers a great condition ranch-style home designed for comfort and everyday enjoyment. The heart of this home is undoubtedly the kitchen, thoughtfully designed with stainless steel appliances and a central island. Its open-plan layout seamlessly connects to the
A rare opportunity to own a beautifully designed Woodside Home in the highly sought-after Riverstone Community! This exceptional 4-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom home sits on a premium corner lot and offers a spacious, functional floor plan with two living areas, a large upstairs loft, and a welcoming front porch.One of the home's standout features is the private in-suite apartment with its own separate
Welcome to this beautiful 5-bedroom, 3 full-bath home located in the highly desirable Riverstone community! Perfect for a growing family, this spacious home features a convenient downstairs bedroom and full bathroom, along with a large upstairs loft offering additional living space for entertainment, an office, or a play area.Enjoy the prime location within walking distance to the elementary
Every once in a while, a property comes along that completely resets the standard. Set on 2.27 impeccably maintained and masterfully utilized acres, this extraordinary steel-built estate blends luxury, functionality, and resort-style living at a level rarely seen. From the moment you arrive, the breathtaking curb appeal, mature landscaping, and commanding presentation establish a sense of scale
Welcome to this spacious 6-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom home in Madera Acres, offering an exceptional combination of living space, flexibility, energy-efficient improvements, and room to grow on approximately .44 acres.Designed for a variety of living needs, the home features six bedrooms with generous spaces that can also accommodate a home office, gym, hobby room, or guest accommodations. An
Comfortable, spacious, and well maintained, this 2 bedroom, 2 bath double wide in The Meadows Senior Community offers exceptional value at $65,000. With approximately 1,440 square feet, the home provides more living space than many homes currently available in the community. Built in 1979 and thoughtfully cared for over the years, the home features central heating and air, a private yard, covered
Welcome to 404 Fall Avenue in Madera, a well-maintained 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom home offering approximately 1,804 square feet of living space in an established neighborhood with convenient access to shopping, dining, parks, and Highway 99. Designed for both everyday living and entertaining, the home features a functional floor plan with spacious living areas, a formal dining room, and an open
Stunning Madera Ranchos hillside estate featuring two beautifully updated homes on 2.26 acres, just 15 minutes from Fresno and the City of Madera. Set among upscale properties, this scenic parcel offers rolling views, refreshing breezes, and a brand‑new extended driveway leading to both residences. The main home offers 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2,154 sq ft, updated windows and doors, remodeled
Welcome to 2632 Kimberly Drive in Madera, a well-maintained home offering 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and approximately 2,204 square feet of living space with a functional open-concept layout. The kitchen connects seamlessly to the main living area and features a peninsula, dedicated wine cooler, and practical workspace designed for everyday use and entertaining. The open layout creates a natural
Welcome to 1386 Shoreside Drive in Madera, a well-maintained home offering 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and approximately 1,694 square feet of living space in the desirable Riverwalk area. Designed with modern living in mind, the home features an open-concept floor plan that seamlessly connects the kitchen, dining, and living areas. The kitchen is equipped with stainless steel appliances, ample
Back on the market through no fault of the sellers, this unique property boasts overproducing owned solar and a fully permitted ADU. Situated on two acres with two separate addresses, it offers 2 septic systems and 2 power meters. Welcome to 37143 Avenue 16 and 37149 Avenue 16. The main home features 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, and 3,200 sq ft of living space on RRS-2 zoning, perfect for horses. Step
Exclusive Symphony sold out model hard to find. This two-story home showcases Lennar's signature Next Gen suite, a separate living space ideal for multigenerational living. The suite features a private entrance, living space, kitchenette, bedroom and bathroom. In the main home, an open floorplan is shared between the Great Room, kitchen and dining room on the first level all tile that looks like
Come experience peaceful living in our beautiful, spacious 2- and 3-bedroom units—each with its own enclosed garage. Our floorplans are uniquely large for Madera, offering 1,300 to 1,448 sq. ft. of living space with abundant closets and storage throughout.Enjoy community amenities including two swimming pools, a basketball court, a small gym, and open park-like grounds perfect for
Brand new and beautiful home, 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bath, 2116 sq feet, for rent in Riverstone Park Distt. in Madera. New Parks at the walking distance. Lodge Area and Club Center is full of modern amenities like swimming pool, Fitness Center and beautiful areas for indoor and outdoor gathering. Easy access to Hwy 41 and shopping. Solar panels already installed. New elementary school "Canyon Creek" is
$1,750 - $1,900 per month
Bridgeview Apartments
2 - 3 Beds
1-2 Baths
912+ Sq Ft
Your new home awaits at Bridgeview Apartments. Comfortable living is what you can expect in our thoughtfully designed two and three bedroom apartment homes. Fully equipped kitchens with large pantries, central air and heating and private balconies and patios are just a few of the standard features of our spacious floor plans. And we have thought beyond your apartment home with community amenities
At Riverwoods Apartments in Madera CA, experience fine living. You'll experience a unique selection of features and amenities at our community including convenient on-site parking options, high-speed internet access, and smoke-free options. From location to floorplan options, the team of leasing professionals is excited to help you find your perfect fit. Contact us or stop by today.
Brand-New 4 Bedroom, 3 Bathroom Home in Riverstone $2,895/MonthBe the first to live in this brand-new, never-occupied home located in the Riverstone community in Madera (93636). This spacious two-story home offers 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and approximately 1,969 square feet of living space.The home features an open kitchen with countertops, a large kitchen island, stainless-steel
The advertised rate of $2,293/month is the lowest available price, based on a 1 month(s) and 2 day(s) stay with a move-in date of February 23, 2027. Rates vary depending on the duration of stay, season, and other parameters. For exact pricing and additional pricing components, please visit our website and enter your desired move-in and move-out dates. The rate is applicable when billed
This RENOVATED single family home built in 2005 with approximately 1320 square a living room, dining area, laminate flooring throughout, blinds, gas range, dishwasher, garbage disposal, laundry room, central heat & air, 2-car garage with electric opener, front yard & backyard with automatic sprinklers with YARD SERVICE INCLUDED! wood deck in back yard. Take N. Lake Street to Ellis Street, then
Discover your dream rental in the highly sought-after Riverstone community! This beautiful newer-construction home offers modern living, stylish finishes, and access to incredible community amenities. Key Features: * 3 spacious bedrooms and 3 bathrooms * Solar included * Access to the Ranch House, community pool, and fully equipped gym * Beautifully landscaped backyard,
Ever wondered what it feels like to have comfort, style, and convenience all wrapped into one perfect home? This charming 2-bedroom, 1.5-bathroom unit offers an inviting, light-filled layout designed for easy daily living and effortless entertaining. Featuring thoughtful spaces to relax and unwind, you'll love coming home to modern convenience just minutes from the city's best parks, local
Experience the pinnacle of resort-style living in this stunning 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home located in the heart of the awardwinning Tesoro Viejo community. This modern residence features a light-filled, spacious kitchen and a convenient isolated downstairs bedroom and bathroom, perfect for guests or multigenerational living. To ensure a seamless move-in, this home includes solar, all appliances,
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