The jagged peaks of the Sierra Nevada Mountains surround Ridgecrest, a military city in the Mojave Desert centered around the China Lake Naval Air Warfare Center. With 28,000 residents, the population comprises engineers, military personnel and civilians. Off base, the California desert provides natural scenery and outdoor recreation on the outskirts of town. "We're between the Mojave Desert and Death Valley," says Eloy Rodriguez, resident and Broker Owner at Ridgecrest Realty. "We have unique geographical and geological formations. There's a lot of dirt bikes and off-road action here."
The jagged peaks of the Sierra Nevada Mountains surround Ridgecrest.
The China Lake Museum is a military museum in Ridgecrest, California focused on the history of Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake.
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Spanish Revival architecture with low home prices
The city primarily has single-level architecture with Spanish Revival and ranch-style homes both common. Houses built around 1950 sit closer to the city center, while houses on the edge of town may be brand-new, costing slightly more. The median single-family price is about $280,000, significantly lower than the nationwide median. "It's very good for raising a family," Rodriguez says. "Property values are relatively inexpensive for California. People in Los Angeles can buy here and have a lot of money left over."
Ridgecrest primarily has single-level architecture with Spanish Revival as a common one.
Ranch-style homes is typically what you would find in the neighborhoods in Ridgecrest.
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Driving off-road vehicles over the dunes
The Trona Pinnacles is a collection of more than 500 tufa spires with a screensaver-worthy setting to stargaze as the glowing Milky Way rises above the desert. The Wagon Wheel OHV area has trails for off-road vehicles. Leroy Jackson Park has soccer fields, a baseball diamond and tennis courts. A paved walking path in Petroglyph Park leads to rock carvings and informational displays. Death Valley National Park offers hiking trails with scenic vistas about 68 miles north.
The Trona Pinnacles in Ridgecrest is a collection of more than 500 tufa spires.
A paved walking path in Petroglyph Park leads to rock carvings and informational displays about Ridgecrest's ancient history.
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Petroglyph exhibits and touring the Navy's aircraft
Petroglyphs are an ancient rock art that carried spiritual meaning for the native Coso people who once inhabited the region. Residents can explore its history at the Maturango Museum, which has artifacts, wildlife exhibits and geology. Additionally, the China Lake Museum features various aircraft and the history of the naval base. "We have one of the largest Navy bases in the country, which is interesting because there's no water, and it's in the middle of the desert," Rodriguez says.
Ridgecrest residents can explore its history at the Maturango Museum, which has artifacts, wildlife exhibits and geology.
China Lake Museum features various aircraft and the history of the naval base.
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Mexican restaurants, old-fashioned diners and a Walmart Supercenter
The sunny California streets are lined with palm trees, leading to a charming local culinary scene with Mexican restaurants, old-fashioned diners and Asian eateries. While Ridgecrest does not have a traditional downtown, the city does have supermarkets like Albertsons and Walmart Supercenter. "It's a small town. Aside from outdoor things, our claim to fame is the super Walmart."
Olvera's in Ridgecrest is a casual spot for Mexican staples such as enchiladas and tamales, plus margaritas.
Walmart Supercenter in Ridgecrest is has it all from electronics, clothes and groceries.
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Burroughs High School - among the best in Kern County
The Sierra Sands Unified School District earns a B grade from Niche and serves about 5,000 students. Cerro Coso Community College is also in Ridgecrest and has around 6,500 students.
Students can take advantage of numerous sports opportunities at Burroughs High School in Ridgecrest.
Cerro Coso Community College in Ridgecrest was was established in 1973 as a separate college within the Kern Community College District.
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Taking Ridgecrest Transit and flying out of Bakersfield
While many residents drive, Ridgecrest Transit offers some options for public transportation, including dial-a-ride service and a daily fixed route to neighboring Inyokern. The Ridgecrest Regional Hospital provides medical service to the city with an emergency room on China Lake Boulevard. Las Vegas is also less than 4 hours away. Los Angeles is about 150 miles south, while Bakersfield is around 110 miles west. The Bakersfield Airport (BFL) provides flights to major U.S. cities and international destinations, like Mexico City.
Crime rates and a desert climate with heat waves
Ridgecrest authorities have reported an increase in violent crime in recent years, with rates spiking above both the state and national averages. Property crime is less common, however.
The area also has a desert climate with hot summers. Heat waves can cause discomfort during summer, with temperatures above 100°F. However, temperatures drop significantly when the sun sets. The area also typically has clear skies, with views of the stars.
Written By
Jackson Hardy
Photography Contributed By
Michael Ng
Video By
Jahlil Harris
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Clint Freeman,
an experienced agent in this area.
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On average, homes in Ridgecrest, CA sell after 95 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Ridgecrest, CA over the last 12 months is $250,000, down 4% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to 1221 Mayo St! This updated Ridgecrest home offers a warm, inviting interior with thoughtful details throughout. Charming architectural arches add character and create a beautiful flow between the living spaces, while the updated finishes give the home a fresh, move-in-ready feel. Central A/C provides year-round comfort, and leased solar offers the benefit of solar energy. Step outside
Welcome to this unique Ridgecrest property offering and ADU, space, versatility, and stunning views on 5.14 fully fenced acres. The main home features 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, an updated kitchen, indoor laundry with gas and electric hook ups, and a cozy fireplace in the family room. Enjoy breathtaking sunsets and beautiful mountain views from your own front yard, along with dual cooling for
Well loved and maintained home on in a Cul-de-sac. 3 bedroom 2 bathroom. Updated and durable flooring; tile in kitchen and bathrooms and vinyl plank in all other rooms. New dualpac installed a couple years ago. Use the swamp cooler for efficiency or stay cool with the A/C. The kitchen is just the right size, not too big not too small, but just right. All appliances and TVs stay, adding to the
5 ACRES WITH ELECTRIC JUST ON THE WEST SIDE OF RIDGECREST! Parcel has access to electric with pedestal located on the south east corner. The views are spectacular out here! Clear shot of the Southern Sierra Nevadas to the west and B Mountain to the northeast. Other established homes in the area. This plot was previously homesteaded. Join the peace and quiet on this acreage parcel located just off
18+ ACRES ADJACENT TO RIDGECREST SUPER WALMART! Designed for multi apartments, a high density high traffic shopping center, retail, or service stores. Sits on a main arterial road. High visibility and signaled intersection just one block away. Streetlights, curb, and paved access road on west side. Newly developing retail shopping center with Panda Express, Starbucks, Chipotle, Habit Burger, and
PERFECT FOR AN ACREAGE ESTATE HOME! 2.54 on the south east side of town. Other established acreage homes in the area but with open land to the north and northwest. Privacy to spare here! Spectacular views of Owens Peak and the Southern Sierras. Edison states a one-line pole extension is needed to bring electric to the parcel at an approx. cost of $5000. IWV Water District states city water is
Conveniently located in the center of town, close to shopping, dining, schools, and everyday amenities! This brand-new 2025 construction offers 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a bright open-concept floor plan, and PAID-OFF SOLAR—an incredible added value for the new owner. Situated on two lots, the property is fully fenced along the property line and offers plenty of usable outdoor space. Bring your RV,
2.5 ACRES WITH ACCESS TO WATER! Located in NW Inyokern this parcel is the perfect place to get a home or barndominium started!! Water is on a shared well agreement. Electric pedestal is located on the corner of Leliter Ave and Tumbleweed St. Running electric to parcel is estimated at $20/linear foot per a local contractor. Other established homes to the north and northwest. Neighbors are friendly
TWO PARCELS ZONED COMMERICAL GENERAL JUST OFF COLLEGE HEIGHTS BLVD! Great location for apartments, a restaurant, or mini-mall to serve a growing population in this pocket of town!! City utilities are available in the street. Desert Christian Center Church is to the direct north, the Super Walmart to the direct north east, and the College Heights Apartments to the direct south. Electric pedestal
PRIME PO-ZONED PARCEL IN A HIGH-GROWTH BUSINESS HUB! RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT ALSO WELCOME WITH A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT. The City of Ridgecrest is open to allowing R1, R2, R3, or R4 projects, provided setbacks match the applicable district. This parcel will accommodate 18 units as an R4 multi-family project. Requirements will include a 10' setback along Norma Street, and all vehicular access from
RARE OFFERING - COLLEGE HEIGHTS SPANISH COLONIAL RANCH HOME WITH SPECTACULAR VIEWS & DUAL PRIMARY SUITES. This lovingly maintained home features hand-crafted details, arched entryways, barrel tile roof, and terracotta accents. Located in Ridgecrest's desirable College Heights neighborhood, scenic walking and biking trails begin just outside your door, while the Sierra Nevada and Mammoth Mountain
Perfect opportunity for a site-built home, manufactured home, or a barndominium! Start with a parcel located just off Highway 178 between Ridgecrest and Inyokern. Breathtaking mountain views, desert sunsets, and amazing starry nights. Peace and quiet awaits. If you desire to build or just establish a retreat getaway this is the ideal location. Electric is available at the north corners of parcels
APARTMENT COMPLEX POTENTIAL! 8 ACRES-ZONED R2! Next to other established multi-family apartments and a skip away from Super Walmart. Ridgecrest is home to the China Lake Naval Weapons Center (NAWS), a mainstay U.S. Navy weapons top development and test center. NAWS was awarded $4B to rebuild after the July 2019 earthquakes and rebuilding continues. Ridgecrest hosts major retail, a large regional
Perfect opportunity for a site-built home, manufactured home, or a barndominium! Start with a parcel located just off Highway 178 between Ridgecrest and Inyokern. Breathtaking mountain views, desert sunsets, and amazing starry nights. Peace and quiet awaits. If you desire to build or just establish a retreat getaway this is the ideal location. Electric is available at the north corners of parcels
Welcome home to Larkspur Village Apartments located at 340 S. Downs St., Ridgecrest, CA! We offer spacious two- and three-bedroom units at affordable prices. Our 2-story property features a private pool, playground, computer lab and laundry facilities. Every unit features a combination of carpet and luxury vinyl flooring, a private patio or balcony, washer and gas dryer hook-ups, a refrigerator
Welcome Home! If you're looking for more than just a rental, you've found it. This beautifully maintained home is located in a quiet, established Ridgecrest neighborhood where residents enjoy evening walks, bike rides, and walking their dogs. Conveniently located near shopping, restaurants, schools, parks, and other everyday amenities, you'll enjoy both comfort and convenience. One of
Cozy beautiful three bedroom one bath house with a nice living room with the fireplace nice kitchen and big beautiful bathroom. It’s three separate bedroom the big yard on the back and front with the storage please remodeled ready to move in. Ask for Robert
Step into this beautifully furnished/updated 2-bedroom, 1-bath apartment offering modern finishes and a fresh, comfortable living space. The entire unit has been newly remodeled, featuring updated flooring, fresh paint, and stylish fixtures throughout.-Comfortable living room with great natural light-New kitchen updates-Two comfortable bedrooms with ample closet space-Fully
NEWLY REMODELED DUPLEX FOR RENTCOME AND SEE THIS 2 BEDROOM 1 BATH IN PEACEFUL NEIGHBORHOOD IN CITY OF RIDGECREST, IN PROCESS OF TOTAL REMODELING WITH NEW VINYL FLOORING, FRESH PAINT, NEW KITCHEN COUNTERTOPS, NEW CEILING FANS WITH FRONT AND BACK YARD AND LAUNDRY HOOK UP IN THE UNIT AND TWO CAR PARKING SPACE.UNIT WILL BE AVAILABLE SOON AND SHOWING IS ONLY BY
Welcome to this newly renovated 2-bedroom apartment for rent located at 238 S Warner Street in Ridgecrest, CA. As you step through the front door, you'll find yourself in a spacious living room, perfect for relaxing or entertaining guests. The freshly painted exterior enhances the curb appeal, while the medium-sized backyard provides a private outdoor space for enjoyment. The apartment has been
Property Id: 907659 REACH OUT NOW for our Move In Special! Our 3 Bedroom, 2.5 bath units are all two story and have an attached garage. The unit has laundry hookup for your own washer and dryer in the Garage. There is also a full service laundry facility located onsite with coin operated washers and dryers. Units come with Refrigerator, Oven/Stove, Microwave, Garbage Disposal
2 Bedroom 1 Bath apartment centrally located. 1-year lease. No pets. $800 per month + $800 Deposit. Call or Text Elite Property Management to schedule a showing . Email
Welcome to the Cozy 3 bed 3 bath apartment, a newly remodeled gem nestled in the heart of Ridgecrest, CA. This spacious residence boasts three generous bedrooms and three full bathrooms, offering ample space for comfort and convenience. The apartment is freshly painted and features new carpeting throughout, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The kitchen is equipped with new appliances, sink
Newly Renovated Apartment that is great apartment for NAVY BASE EMPLOYEES, MEDICAL WORKERS, CONTRACTORS or a SMALL FAMILY. Only $1350 per monthUnfurnished 2 bedroom and 1.5 bath apartment - Water included. Includes back patio, open concept living room, dining and kitchen area, etc. Newly updated apartment. Central air conditioning for those hot summers. Covered parking space available. Water
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