A quaint community in the San Fernando Valley in the shadow of Santa Susana Mountain Range, Northridge has gone through several transformations. It's gone from a Hollywood horse haven to an up-and-coming suburb, earthquake epicenter to now a central hub for higher education opportunities.
The area was previously known as "The Horse Capital of the West" in the 1940s due to its popularity as a place where Hollywood film stars like Clark Gable and Barbara Stanwyck built their ranches. A center for thoroughbred breeding, Northridge equestrian economy, filled with Sunday horse shows, the annual Stampede parade stampedes and country fairs, lasted until the 1980s. Following the Second World War, the area saw one of the longest continuous real-estate booms in L.A.'s history, resulting in the construction of more residential and commercial buildings in what is now known as Northridge. Now, the Los Angeles County community is home to 71,000 residents with big-city amenities, historic pride and abundant outdoor recreation.
California State University. Northridge (CSUN)’s sprawling campus is at the heart of the community and is vital to its economy. It’s the largest employer in the region, with 5,800 people directly employed and another 5,700 to 6,000 jobs in the services and retail sectors because of its economic activity. According to a 2022 impact study done by CSUN, Beacon Economics, the university generates approximately $1.9 billion in economic output annually. It’s also a major cultural and recreational hub for the Northridge community. Besides education, service, manufacturing and health are the largest employment sectors that make up Northridge’s 3,000 businesses.
The Northridge neighborhood is filled with trees and surrounded by mountains.
Dearborn Park in Northridge has something for everyone to enjoy.
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Horsin’ around
Outdoor enthusiasts will love Moonshine Canyon Park in the northwest part of Northridge. Hike its rugged canyons and thick, forested trails or camp at Castaic Lake. The park’s towering sandstone cliffs and rock formations, known as hoodoos, are unique geological wonders and offer scenic views of the valley. Northridge’s Wilbur Tampa Park and Limekiln Canyon Park also boast some of the best views of the mountains and the entire region with their rugged trails. The Porter Ranch Palisades Trail is a favorite at Wilbur, and the Bridle Trail is the main one running through Limekiln.
In addition to boosting Northridge’s economy, CSUN provides several outdoor recreation opportunities that are open to the public. The university has an urban forest home to 400 Valencia orange trees on five acres, and besides being a tranquil spot for residents, Orange Grove is used for research and solar observatories. The community can also visit CSUN’s student recreation center, duck pond, and botanic garden. Home to over 1,200 plant species, four greenhouses, a living library and an outdoor classroom, it treats residents to a natural oasis to escape to right in the heart of the community.
Keeping its horse heritage alive, Northridge also has the historic Oakridge Estate. Originally known as the Devonshire House, the estate was owned by Hollywood stars Clark Gable and Carole Lombard and now offers tours, a park with a playground, an outdoor amphitheater with log benches, a walking trail and a mare sculpture.
Moonshine Canyon Park is a great place for a hike in Northridge.
The CSUN pond in Northridge is a great place to take a study break.
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Cuisine to match its rich culture
The Younes and Soraya Nazarian Center for the Performing Arts, formerly known as Valley Performing Arts Center, on CSUN’s campus, is considered a cultural institution for the entire San Fernando Valley region. The theater includes a 1,700-seat performance hall, 175-seat black box theater and classrooms and hosts student performances, visiting musicians and dance troupes.
When it comes to cuisine, Northridge has its share of chains and fast-food joints, but locals who know where to look are hip to some hidden culinary gems in this community. Brent’s Deli is a beloved Jewish deli that’s been a staple since 1967, offering a whopping 650-dish menu with everything from Reubens to stuffed cabbage rolls. While King’s Burgers/Got Sushi? may sound like an odd pairing, this sushi bar inside a fast-food burger joint serves up some of the best sashimi plates and pastrami burgers in the region. Birrieria San Marcos is the go-to taco truck for giant queso-tacos and taco dippin’ and for late night cravings, head to the sidewalk food stand Hawaiian Hot Chicken for a spicy chicken sandwich with volcano sauce. And to satisfy that sweet tooth, hit up Waffle Love for gigantic, loaded waffles or Furn Saj Bakery, a family-run Lebanese bakery that sits in a strip mall. Northridge Fashion Center is the area’s biggest shopping mall with retailers, chains and a movie theater, but the community provides a variety of strip malls and other specialty markets.
Brent's Deli in Northridge has an excellent deli selection.
The Northridge Porto's is a great place to get a variety of baked goods.
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The higher-ed heart of the community
Northridge is served by the Los Angeles Unified School District, which earned a B-plus on Niche and has 11 public schools. Most students attend Andasol Avenue Elementary, Northridge Middle School and Northridge Academy High School. College-bound students who wish to stay close to home can attend California State University, Northridge, right in the heart of the community. Earning a B-plus on Niche, the public university is one of the largest universities in the country in terms of enrollment, catering to over 40,000 students annually. It’s also known for its top-notch research facilities, teaching and science programs and is classified as a Master’s College and a University I by the Carnegie Institute of Higher Education.
Northridge students begin their educational journey at Andasol Avenue Elementary School.
Northridge Middle School serves sixth through eighth grade.
High school students can attend Northridge Academy.
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Top place to live in Los Angeles
Ranked by Niche as the 48th best place to live in LA, the Northridge area offers a wide range of housing options, from custom-built estates with ornate historical styles, large Mediterranean and Spanish-influences homes to more traditional suburban single-family houses set along winding avenues and street blocks, fringed by towering palms. The median sale price for a home in Northridge was $1.2 million in February 2024, up 23% from the year prior, and homes stay on the market for 21 days on average. Sherwood Forest is a popular community in the south part of Northridge with a median sale price of $1.2 million. Surrounded by evergreens providing ultimate privacy and serenity, these contemporary homes offer large lots and are close to shopping, restaurants and the CSUN.
The guard-gated community of Monteria Estates is the most lavish enclave in Northridge, where homes can go for up to $7 million. Residents are treated to custom-built French chateaus, English Tudors and other custom-built properties with multi-acre lots and other lavish amenities on a long private road with mountain views in this luxury enclave. Mason Park, shopping and highways are nearby. Mosaic is a newer community in the southern part of Northridge featuring contemporary, single-family homes with energy-efficient designs starting at $700,000. Mosaic has a mixed-use commercial building and is close to freeways and restaurants.
There are custom-built ornate homes tucked away in the Northridge neighborhood.
Residents may live in beautifully landscaped ranch-style homes in Northridge.
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Navigating Northridge
Interstate 405 and State Routes Los 101, 27 and 118 border Northridge and conveniently get residents around the region, including Downtown LA, a 28-mile drive, and Santa Clarita, 14 miles away. Van Nuys Airport is the closest regional airport, 5 miles from the city center, and the closest international airport is in LA, 27 miles away. Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority operates Metro Bus on several local lines as well as free bus rides via DASH Northridge.
Community approach to crime
According to recent crime data from the CAP Index, Northridge has an overall score of four, on par with the national average. Earning a B-plus from Crimegrade, Northridge has a crime rate that’s 47% lower than the national average. Northridge’s three neighborhood councils work in collaboration with the Los Angeles Police Department to keep the community safe and keep residents engaged via digital communications, neighborhood watch organizations and regular meetings hosted by their public safety committees.
A bright future
CSUN currently has $200 million in active construction projects, most of which are to accommodate its ever-growing student body. The largest is the construction of Maple Hall, a 165,000-square-foot building to be completed sometime in 2024. The $50 million building will house 37 new classrooms. Construction was also started in the fall of 2023 on a $56 million student housing complex. The two four-story buildings will have 30,000 square feet of housing space, along with community rooms, study spaces and other multi-purpose rooms.
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Joseph Choo
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On average, homes in Northridge, CA sell after 39 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Northridge, CA over the last 12 months is $990,000, up 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
A rare opportunity to own a beautifully maintained and thoughtfully upgraded single-story residence in Sorrento, one of Porter Ranch’s most sought-after 24-hour guard-gated communities. Single-story homes in Sorrento seldom come to market, making this an exceptional opportunity. Welcome to this beautifully maintained and thoughtfully upgraded home in the highly desirable Sorrento community of
Sitting mid-block on a quiet cul-de-sac in Northridge's beloved Peppertree community, this home has a bonus ADU in the backyard (approx 400 sf), that is perfect for an office, gym, or creative space. The next buyer will love the simple floor plan and the spacious sunken living room. Primary bedroom is big with his and hers. There is a small grass area in the back for your pets. Many of the
NEW PRICE IMPROVEMENT - NOW OFFERED AT $2,995,000!. Set on a high-elevation cul-de-sac lot inside the prestigious guard-gated Westcliffe community of Porter Ranch, this stunning Cascades Collection Castor Model offers luxury living with breathtaking views of the Santa Susana Mountains, San Fernando Valley, and sparkling city lights. Featuring 5 bedrooms, 5.5 bathrooms, approximately 4,991 sq. ft.
Welcome to this beautifully remodeled 2-bedroom, 3-bath townhouse, thoughtfully updated and move-in ready! Featuring smooth ceilings, recessed lighting, new flooring, fresh interior paint, and an updated kitchen, this home offers the perfect blend of style and comfort. Enjoy a spacious living and dining area designed for everyday living and entertaining. The oversized primary suite is a true
Gated and hedged for total privacy, this beautifully updated single-story home sits Sherwood Forest adjacent and offers move-in-ready living with major systems addressed throughout. Step through the striking pivot entry door into a light-filled interior finished with sleek marble-look porcelain tile flooring extending through the main living spaces. The open living room centers on a dramatic
Welcome to 8226 White Oak Ave, a charming and versatile home located ina prime Northridge neighborhood. This 3-bedroom 2 bathroom home features a bright open floor plan with a seamless flow between the living and dining areas, pefect for modern living and entertaining.A standout feature of the home is the expansive bonus room,offering endless possibilities for a family room, gameroom, home
Beautiful and Spacious Four Bedroom, 2.5 Bath, Upgraded Merridy Oaks Estates Home. Features include Living Room, Family Room w/Fireplace, Formal Dining, as well as eating area in the kitchen, granite counters in the kitchen and bathrooms, large primary suite and secondary bedrooms, plus 2 other good sized bedrooms, in addition to a small room for an office, crafts etc. Rear yard has a patio, spa,
Beautifully upgraded townhouse in the heart of North Hills featuring an open, light-filled floor plan with soaring ceilings and skylights throughout. Step into the inviting living room with rich wood vinyl flooring, a cozy corner fireplace, wet bar, and private balcony perfect for BBQs and entertaining. The main level also offers a convenient half bath and additional storage closet.The oversized
A rare opportunity to own a beautifully maintained and thoughtfully upgraded single-story residence in Sorrento, one of Porter Ranch’s most sought-after 24-hour guard-gated communities. Single-story homes in Sorrento seldom come to market, making this an exceptional opportunity. Welcome to this beautifully maintained and thoughtfully upgraded home in the highly desirable Sorrento community of
Beautifully updated Porter Ranch pool home on a peaceful corner lot with hills views and no HOA. Offering 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and approximately 2,378 square feet, this inviting home features light-filled living spaces, wood flooring, a fireplace, built-ins, and a well-appointed kitchen with Wolf appliances. A downstairs bedroom and full bath provide great flexibility for guests, an office,
Fully remodeled 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom two-story home in the Porter Valley Country Club area of Northridge, CA 91326, located within the Castlebay Lane Elementary and Frost Middle School boundaries. This 2,494-square-foot residence sits on a flat, usable 10,569-square-foot lot backing to open hillside, just down the street from the Porter Valley Country Club golf course.Double iron entry
Welcome to this beautifully remodeled home located in a quiet cul-de-sac in the heart of Northridge & within the highly sought-after Granada Hills Charter High School district. It has 4 bedrooms with built in closet storage, 3 bathrooms & a sparkling pool, this home blends modern design, thoughtful upgrades, and comfortable living. From the moment you arrive, the fresh exterior finishes, modern
****HOMES OF THE WEEK. Only One Townhome Remains - Your last chance to live at Valley Villas********By Appointment Only - Schedule Yours Today********Celebrate 30 Years with Us! Receive $10,000 in Incentives ****on this move-in ready home.Welcome to this BRAND-NEW TOWNHOME, upgraded, move-in-ready one-bedroom end-unit residence in the gated Valley Villas community of North Hills.
Plan 4A - This two-story townhome is 1,757 square feet and features 3 bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms. The first level includes a bedroom with its own bath. The second level is designed for dining and entertaining, with an open-concept layout that seamlessly connects the kitchen, dining, and living areas, creating an inviting space for gatherings. The third floor includes a luxurious primary suite
Welcome to this charming Northridge home offering a comfortable and functional layout with classic character throughout! The inviting entry opens to spacious living and dining areas with abundant natural light, large windows, and a bright connection to the outdoor space. The kitchen offers ample cabinetry and counter space, while the bedrooms provide comfortable accommodations for everyday
Welcome to 11217 Ravenna Lane, a spacious two-story residence located within a desirable gated community in Porter Ranch, offering beautiful mountain views, fresh interior paint, new flooring, a three-car garage, and exceptional indoor-outdoor living. Step inside to soaring ceilings, an impressive curved staircase with wrought-iron railings, oversized windows, and abundant natural light. The home
Life at Campus Crossing is where convenience, fulfillment, and vibrancy intersect with student life. We are named for the crosswalk that leads students to the most active locations on campus. This residential community features studio, one, and two bedroom apartments with incredible floor plans and all of the necessary amenities you need to feel comfortable. Located just steps away from CSUN
Welcome to this beautifully renovated single-story ranch home situated in an excellent Northridge neighborhood. The open floor plan features a remodeled kitchen equipped with stainless steel appliances, formal dining room and spacious living room with vaulted wood beamed ceilings and a cozy fireplace. Spread throughout the home are four generously sized bedrooms and three updated bathrooms. The
Welcome to Northridge Nexus, a brand new apartment community at 18900 Parthenia St in Northridge, CA. Offering spacious one and two bedroom homes, Northridge Nexus combines modern finishes with an unbeatable San Fernando Valley location, just minutes from CSUN and close to Northridge Hospital Medical Center, Providence Holy Cross, and Valley Presbyterian.Each home features contemporary
Experience luxury living in the prestigious 24-hour guard-gated Renaissance community of Porter Ranch. This impressive estate offers approximately 5,190 square feet of living space with 4 spacious bedrooms and 5 bathrooms, including private en-suite baths for each bedroom. All bedrooms are generously sized, providing comfort and privacy throughout. The thoughtfully designed floor plan features a
Northridge Apartments near CSUN! This apartment community is also within walking distance of a wide variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment attractions. Inside your apartment, you will find a contemporary European kitchen with stainless steel appliances and a chic tile backsplash, large walk-in closets keep your space organized, as smart thermostats ensure comfort no matter the
Welcome to this fully remodeled, light-filled tri-level townhouse featuring 2 generously sized bedroom suites with modern en-suite baths, 2.5 upgraded bathrooms, and a spacious open-concept living room with high ceilings, abundant natural light, a cozy gas fireplace, and a private balcony perfect for relaxing or entertaining; the chef-inspired kitchen boasts quartz countertops, stainless steel
This rent-controlled building is adjacent to CSUN Campus. This Community features a large sparking pool, new BBQ island, beautifully landscaped dog park, brand new laundry machines and two elevators. We have a controlled access entrance, surveillance cameras and gated parking. Our unit amenities include air conditioning and heating, garbage disposal, dishwasher, stove and vertical blinds. We are
Welcome to Citronia Landmark Apartments! A charming spanish-villa community centrally located in Northridge. With such a great walk score you can walk to most of the day-to-day necessities such as trendy boutique shops, shopping, and restaurants at the nearby Northridge Fashion Center and Topanga Plaza. For the commuters we are also very close to major freeways to get to and from work as well as
Looking for the perfect apartment near CSUN in Northridge, California? Welcome to The Rose Apartments, where comfort, style, and convenience come together for the ultimate off-campus living experience. Located just minutes from campus, The Rose offers spacious and upgraded studio, one, and two-bedroom apartments, available furnished or unfurnished to suit your lifestyle. Enjoy premium amenities
This beautiful building offers extra spacious apartments (perfect for roommates), with over-sized closets and securely gated and covered parking, all in this private, clean and comfortable living environment. Public transportation, restaurants and various stores and markets are all in walking distance of Windward Sea! Our apartments feature central air conditioning, dishwasher, stove, garbage
Spacious 2 Bedroom Apartments across from CSUN! Newly remodeled with all Stainless steel appliances and access to a beautiful Pool and Spa! Ask about our Rent-by-the-Bed options!-Shared or Private Bedspace in a large 2 bedroom remodeled apartment (Individual Leases)-ALL UTILITIES INCLUDED on Rent-by-the-Bed options.-Roommate Pairing(RLNE5713177)
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