$331,569Average Value$263Average Price per Sq Ft23Homes For Sale
Restored historic hotels and a recovering Main Street
On Main Street, El Capitan Hotel and the Tioga stand proudly — emblematic of the city of Merced. The two statuesque, white landmarks have both seen about a century’s worth of change. Many of the rooms in El Capitan Hotel were remodeled in 2021 but keep the antique style that people experienced in 1912. The Tioga is currently an apartment building after operating as a hotel for many years. Downtown’s ups and downs — now mostly ups — are reflected in these iconic buildings. “The revitalized Main Street is the main attraction. Going through the past ten years, it’s amazing. There are two historic hotels that were run down and now are beautiful, refurbished buildings. There are all kinds of restaurants, art stores, thrift stores and antique stores. There’s a quirky local vibe,” says Library Resource Tech Teresa Bomersbach, who works at Merced County Library.
The Tioga is a historic hotel in Downtown Merced that has been restored.
Check out a new movie with friends at the Regal Hollywood Cinema in Downtown Merced.
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Eclectic small businesses, shopping and restaurants in downtown Merced
Merced’s population has reached approximately 90,000 people, making it a small city with a small-town vibe to match. “Main Street has little mom-and-pop shops and a lot of small businesses that are really cute. Some stores carry vinyl,” says Emerson Chavez, bartender at Native Son. One of these is Tigers & Daggers Records, a treasure trove of audio items, including CDs and DVDs. Neighborhood bookstore Second Time Around has new and used books. A Latina-owned small business, Luna Luna 209 is a collective for local artists and vendors. “They have thrifted clothes that they flip, crochet charms and original art. It’s awesome,” says University of California Merced student employee Kayla McCoy. Supermarket Grocery Outlet is a few blocks away from the retail hub. Going out to eat is also at the forefront of Merced’s Main Street, with restaurants like Rainbird, an upscale restaurant in El Capitan Hotel. It features a diverse menu, including duck confit and mushroom risotto prepared from locally sourced ingredients. A favorite hangout spot is Mainzer, a restored Art Deco theater, complete with a vintage marquee that advertises the restaurant’s upcoming events, including live bands and drag shows. As patrons watch the entertainment, they can order from a menu built around beer pairings and a self-serve beer wall. Five Ten Bistro also offers ambiance, featuring a patio lit by string lights that sits next to a courtyard garden landscaped with a fountain and palm trees. “It’s more for brunch and on the pricey side, but it’s really good,” McCoy says.
Merced Antique Mall has some of everything in Downtown Merced.
Downtown Merced's Mainzer offers burgers and craft beer for any taste.
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Merced’s cultural cornerstones: the Merced County Courthouse Museum and a flourishing arts scene
Central to downtown, the Merced County Courthouse Museum is as historic as it is eye-catching. Designed to look like a palazzo, the Italian Renaissance building was completed in 1875. The local history museum has permanent and changing exhibits, some covering topics like the California gold rush and photography of Yosemite National Park from the early 1900s. Some locals have notable family heritage in the museum. “My grandfather’s name is Bruce Huddleston, and he was the first African American deputy sheriff in Merced County and worked during Jim Crow times. If you check the museum, there’s pictures of him there and pictures of our family store,” says Anthony Anderson, resident of Merced for over 40 years. Downtown Merced’s creative scene continues to blossom, with a variety of visual and performing arts venues. Merced Multicultural Arts Center, the community gallery, showcases pieces by national and local artists. It also hosts events, including plays and live music like ukelele jam sessions. At the gallery, locals can take painting, drawing and dancing classes, some taught by the Merced Civic Ballet. One of the grandest buildings in the city, the Merced Theatre is a recently renovated Mediterranean structure that seats about 1,600. Performances include musicals, standup comedy and concerts for famous musicians like the Drifters and Josh Turner.
Downtown Merced's County Courthouse Museum is dedicated to preserving area history.
The Merced Multicultural Arts Center is a great place to see local art in Downtown Merced.
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Historic home architecture and the crime rate in downtown Merced
Centered around the Main Street business district, downtown Merced is composed of walkable, grid-style streets of single-family homes. The lots usually have enough space for fenced backyards, and the front yards are often landscaped with palm trees and boxwood shrubs. The area has plenty of street and alley parking. Some of the architecture includes bungalows, ranch-style homes, Victorians and Cape Cods. Downtown Merced features some standout historic homes with their own names, including the Kaehler-Rector House and the Historic Mansion House. Smaller homes range from $300,000 to $550,000, while larger homes range from $650,000 to $800,000. “It’s still one of the most affordable places in California,” says resident Tracy Anderson. Downtown Merced's CAP Index crime score is a 7 out of 10, significantly higher than the national average of 4 out of 10. The neighborhood has especially high rates of motor vehicle theft and burglary, which are property crimes reflecting the city’s economic issues. In the last few years, rent and property values have skyrocketed due to a demand brought on by the University of Merced California, which opened in 2005. “As the university continues to grow, people won’t be able to live here, and there could be an increase of homeless people. The lack of jobs in Merced isn’t keeping up with rising cost of living,” says Anthony Anderson. Unhoused residents have become a priority for the city, which has outlined the Regionally Coordinated Homelessness Action Plan. Merced aims to create emergency shelters, transitional housing and affordable housing.
There are a wide variety of vintage home styles in the Downtown Merced area.
Homes in Downtown Merced feature a wide range of landscaping.
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Popular events in downtown Merced
The annual Original Merced Criterium Velo Promo bicycle race follows a route that goes past the Merced County Courthouse Museum and the Merced County Library. The event celebrated 37 years in March of 2024. More of the city’s downtown events include 5ks and fundraisers like the 2024 Walk to End Alzheimer's in October. “If you look, there’s always something to do every weekend: taco festivals and beer festivals downtown,” says Realtor Norma Lopez, who works with Keller Williams Property Team and has over a decade of experience in the area. One of her favorites is the Santa Stumble — where attendees walk to bars dressed as Santa and receive specials on food and drinks. The city has similar events for Halloween and St. Patrick’s Day.
Merced public schools, Merced College and the University of California Merced
John Muir and Fremont elementary schools both have C-plus grades on Niche. Herbert Hoover Middle School also has a C-plus, while Merced High School has a B. At the high school, there’s a diverse course catalog, with welding, accounting and sports medicine classes. For higher education, Merced College is a public community college that has an Agricultural and Industrial Technology Complex. This new building houses classrooms and lab space for horticulture, agribusiness and more. The University of California Merced has 60 undergraduate programs, including majors in biology, mechanical engineering and public health.
Welcome to Merced High School in Merced.
Welcome to Herbert Hoover Middle School in Merced.
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Applegate Park and Yosemite National Park
Applegate Park, on the northern edge of downtown, is best known for the Applegate Park Zoo. It has about 75 rescued animals native to California, including an albino boa constrictor named Lemon. Next to the zoo lies an amusement park section, where children can ride a rollercoaster and a train. The park also has a skatepark and a playground. One of the city’s nicknames is the “Gateway to Yosemite,” since it’s about 70 miles away from the world-famous national park. El Capitan Hotel is named after one of the park’s well-known rock formations.
Kids love the playground at Applegate Park in Merced.
Merced serves as a hub for travelers on their way to Yosemite National Park.
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Walkability, transit stations and a convenient Central Valley location
Downtown Merced is a walkable neighborhood, with plenty of public transportation, including an Amtrak train station on West 24th Street and a Greyhound bus station on West 16th Street. The neighborhood’s also next to U.S. Route 99, known as the Golden State Highway, which goes to Modesto, Fresno and links many other California highways. “One thing I love about this place is that I can go a few hours away to the South Bay, Monterey and Yosemite. It’s the elbow of California, so it’s a couple hours away from everything,” Tracy Anderson says. Only 3 miles north of downtown, the Dignity Health Hospital - Mercy Medical Center serves the community. Fresno International Airport, the closest major airport, is located 60 miles away.
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 Downtown Merced neighborhood?
to let others know what life in this neighborhood is like.
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Downtown Merced
US
Homicide
5
4
Sexual Assault
8
4
Assault with Weapon
7
4
Robbery
7
4
Burglary
6
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
7
4
Larceny
7
4
Crime Score
7
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Downtown Merced Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Downtown Merced, Merced sell after 56 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Downtown Merced, Merced over the last 12 months is $335,000, up 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Originally built in 1952 and creatively redesigned with repurposed treasures from throughout California, this one-of-a-kind Bear Creek property is unlike anything else in Merced. Set along the creek on a 15,762 sq. ft. lot, this 2,609 sq. ft. home offers 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, spacious living areas, and breathtaking views from both inside and out. Designed for the buyer who wants something
Excellent investment opportunity with strong cash flow potential! This updated duplex features two income-producing units currently rented at $1,400 and $1,600 per month, providing immediate rental income for the new owner. Property improvements help minimize future maintenance concerns, while owned solar offers valuable energy savings and increased efficiency. Each unit offers comfortable living
Size+/-23 Assessed AcresPlantingsProperty is planted to Supareil and Nonpareil Almonds, planted 2016.ImprovementsThere is a fenced equipment yard and barn on the property.WaterProperty is located within the Merced Irrigation District (MID) and has one (1) ag well.SoilSee ‘Soil Map’ for details.LegalMerced County APNs: 215-100-015-000
Beautifully renovated 3 bed 2 bath home in a charming neighborhood. The home features new flooring, new roof, renovated bathrooms, and custom finishes throughout the home. It sits on a 7,500 sqft lot which gives you the opportunity to add your own landscaping, garden, or even a possible ADU. The home is just minutes away from grocery stores, gyms, car washes, restaurants, schools, and the
Adorable and well-maintained 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom home offering comfort, charm, and plenty of potential! Step inside to a spacious and inviting living room filled with natural light that flows seamlessly into the dining area, creating a warm and welcoming space for everyday living and entertaining. The adorable kitchen offers both functionality and charm. A generously sized indoor laundry room
Spacious and full of potential. This 5 bedroom, 1.5 bathroom home offers 1765 sq. ft. of flexible living space on 6500 sq. ft lot. Featuring both a formal living room and a separate family room with a fireplace, there's plenty of room to spread out and make it hour own. The updated kitchen provides a great starting point, while the detached garage adds convenience and additional storage options.
Welcome to 15 E 22nd St! This updated three-bedroom, two-bath home offers a functional open floor plan and convenient alley access. Tile flooring flows throughout the main living areas, complemented by carpeted bedrooms. The kitchen features granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a breakfast bar. An indoor laundry room with built-in cabinets. Both bathrooms are appointed with modern
Prime Investment Opportunity with Incredible Upside! This rare R3-zoned property offers exceptional cash flow potential and endless possibilities. Featuring a large, beautiful church building and two single-family homes, all conveniently located near downtown and shopping. The church includes two separate restrooms with stalls and a spacious rec room, with potential for conversion to a rec center
INCREDIBLE INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY! Two adjacent parcels—308, 310, 312 W. 20th St. and 1927, 1935, 1943 Martin Luther King Jr. Way—are being offered together, featuring a total of six units. This multi-family asset is located in a rapidly developing area within walking distance of revitalized Downtown Merced. It also offers convenient access to Merced College and University of California, Merced,
Completely remodeled and move-in ready, this beautifully updated Merced home offers flexible living space with 2-3 bedrooms, including a large upstairs attic-style room that can easily serve as a spacious third bedroom, office or a playroom. Extensively upgraded throughout, the home features all-new plumbing, updated electrical, brand-new dual-pane windows, fresh interior and exterior paint, and
$495 First Month Move In Special. Request to Apply Now! Click on 3D Virtual Tour Link for a tour. Market rent for these units is $895. Marketing pictures are representation of the upcoming units.Clean 1-bedroom/1-bathroom unit with an excellent open floor plan located in a small apartment complex near central Merced. Great location, fresh paint, new solid flooring, and shared laundry
This property is available. Please inquire on this site to schedule a showing. STOP SCROLLING! Your bank account will thank you.We’re giving you $500 OFF your first month’s rent, Consider this your official invitation to upgrade your lifestyle without emptying your wallet.Welcome to your new home at 139 W 18th St, Merced, CA 95340 - 8, where comfort and convenience meet in
This property is available. Please inquire on this site to schedule a showing. Welcome to your new home at 132 W 18th St, Merced, CA 95340! This charming rental property offers a blend of comfort and convenience, perfect for those seeking a peaceful living environment. The exterior showcases a well-maintained courtyard with lush greenery, providing a serene setting for relaxation or
Welcome to your future home in the charming city of Merced, CA! This inviting property offers a comfortable living space, perfect for those seeking convenience and accessibility in a vibrant neighborhood.Key property features include central heating and cooling, ensuring year-round comfort. You’ll appreciate the added bonus of air conditioning and ceiling fans, enhancing your living
Property Id: 2520225Just renovated! Move in Ready 2 bed-1 bath 1st floor apartment Features: updated kitchen and bath, new appliances, newcounter tops, back splash, new stainless sink, faucets, and new cabinetryLocated with in walking distance to shopping centers and schools, with easy freeway accessOn-site laundry facilities available for residents
Property Id: 154508$1300 a month plus $1500 deposit. Water and garbage included. (tenant responsible for PG&E)1 bedroom 1 bath duplex.Gas stove, Window AC unit, wall heater, ceiling fan.Freshly painted, bathroom newly renovated, new laminate/vinyl flooring through out house. Private, Large low maintenance yard.Plenty of Street parking.No pets No
Renovated and ready for you! This spacious 1 bedroom has everything you are looking for from central airheat, an updated kitchen and a stove, fridge, microwave, washer and dryer included. Landscaping included. Tenant pays all utilities.
Apply on Engage with the charming allure of 1007 W. 18th Street, nestled in the heart of Merced, CA. This delightful one-bedroom, one-bathroom residence offers a cozy 650 sq ft of thoughtfully designed living space, perfect for those seeking comfort and convenience. Step inside to find a welcoming atmosphere where every corner invites relaxation and ease. The open layout seamlessly connects
Charming 1-bedroom, 1-bath upstairs apartment ideally located within walking distance to downtown Merced, offering convenient access to local shopping, dining, and entertainment. This cozy unit provides a comfortable living space in a highly desirable area.No Pets.Water/Sewer/Trash billed at a Flat Rate of $75/monthLiability insurance is required and is available for $16
Discover 1930 K St, Merced — a well-maintained 1-bedroom, 1-bath apartment offering practical features for comfortable living. The unit includes a full kitchen with a separate dining area and laminated wood flooring in the living room and kitchen, while the bedroom is carpeted. On-site coin-operated laundry provides convenience, and water, sewer, and garbage utilities are included. Conveniently
APPROX 500 SQFT 1BED/1BA UNIT IN THE HEART OF DOWNTOWN MERCED. CLOSE TO SHOPPING, PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION AND EASY FREEWAY ACCESS. OWNER SEEKING LONG TERM TENANT.UNIT COMES WITH WATER & GARBAGE; TENANT PAYS PG&EUNIT HAS DEDICATED PARKING AND STREET PARKING
Welcome to 244 W. 19th Street, Unit B! This centrally located two story 2 bedroom, 2.5 bath unit offers convenient access to downtown shopping, dining, and everyday amenities. Inside, you'll find new flooring, moderate updates throughout, and a functional floor plan designed for comfortable living. Private fenced back patio.No PetsFlat rate for water/sewer/trash
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.
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