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
Nikko Estrada,
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On average, homes in Ridgecrest, CA sell after 90 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.
Investor opportunity with basement, detached garage/shop, and clear value-add potential. This 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers a workable layout, tile flooring through much of the interior, spacious living areas, exposed beam ceilings in several rooms, a functional kitchen footprint with solid cabinet storage, and bath updates already underway. The basement adds useful storage or work space, while
A must see gorgeous home waiting for the right buyer to make it home! This four bedroom, two bath beauty has an untouched remodel. Be the first to enjoy these new updates. The kitchen features granite countertops and new lighting making it a highlight of the home. Large and set nicely for entertaining with a layout that accommodates many different options including hosting outdoor parties. The
Amazingly clean and inviting 3 bedroom 2 bathroom home on a quiet cul-de-sac which cuts down on the traffic through the neighborhood. The family room is well lit, has vaulted ceilings, engineered wood floors, and a beautiful fireplace. The kitchen has been freshened up and features tile floors and epoxy countertops which provide durable beauty. The dining room is also tile and leads to the
Welcome to this charming home in the desirable Ridgecrest Heights! Rich vinyl plank flooring and a bright, inviting living room highlighted by a large picture window that fills the space with natural light. The open flow from the living room into the dining area and kitchen creates an easy, comfortable layout perfect for everyday living or hosting friends. Impressive updated kitchen with butcher
Welcome to this beautifully refreshed Ferguson-built Green Acres floor plan in the heart of Ridgecrest! Ideally located near main shopping and everyday conveniences, this move-in ready home blends classic character with thoughtful updates. Step inside to brand new VP flooring and fresh interior paint throughout. The smart layout offers a spacious living room at the front of the home and a
Two Bedroom 2-1/2 bathroom. Newer carpet and lifeproof vinyl plank flooring. Both bedrooms are upstair, larger and each has it's our full bath with tub. There is a half bath downstairs for convenience. Laundry hookups are inside, no inconvenient garage laundry. Just outside the front door, enjoy the amenities - sparkling swimming pool & spa, common area including, gazebo, BBQ space and
9.27 ACRES JUST AT THE EDGE OF THE RIDGECREST CITY LIMITS! Parcel is located west of Ridgecrest Heights on West Bowman Rd at Brady St. City water is available but needs to be connected from water line running on the south side of Bowman Rd. According to IWV Water Dist water meter set up fee is only $5068 as this parcel is part of the Ridgecrest Heights Assessment District. Power can be accessed
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
Prime location to develop and start building. On the corner of two paved roads, this location is primed and ready to get started. On the South end of town down the street from Walmart and nice subdivisions. Invest in your future, build now or hold on to this land for future dreams! This area has man hole covers for sewer and stakes indicating sewer laterals. (Buyer to verify all utilities).
Prime location to develop and start building. On the corner of two paved roads, this location is primed and ready to get started. On the South end of town down the street from Walmart and nice subdivisions. Invest in your future, build now or hold on to this land for future dreams! This area has man hole covers for sewer and stakes indicating sewer laterals. (Buyer to verify all utilities).
Build your dream home here! Quiet living and still close to town. Right off of a paved road. County living with close proximity to all the cities amenities. Don't let this opportunity pass you by!
Prime location to develop and start building. On the corner of two paved roads, this location is primed and ready to get started. On the South end of town across from a church and nice subdivisions. Invest in your future, build now or hold on to this land for future dreams! This area has man hole covers for sewer and stakes indicating sewer laterals. (Buyer to verify all utilities).
Experience Ridgecrest living at Desert Oasis. Located at 238 N Gold Canyon St in Ridgecrest, this community is a terrific place to live. The professional leasing team will assist you in finding your dream apartment. Compare 1 to 3 bedroom apartments, then call for current pricing. Experience a new standard at Desert Oasis.WaterLoads Of Storage SpaceAir ConditoningFriendly &
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
This property consists of 46 high-end, fully furnished, luxury units amongst beautiful resort type amenities. All units are accessed from an indoor common hallway. The units average 650 square feet in size for one bedroom and one bath, with four studio units around 450 sq ft. Premium units are equipped with private patios/balconies and an additional room that can be used as an additional bedroom
Property Id: 2413986Welcome to your next home! This beautifully updated 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom apartment offers the perfect blend of comfort and contemporary style located just 1 mile from the NAWS front gate, making your commute a breeze.The thoughtfully renovated kitchen features stunning quartz countertops, offering both durability and a clean, modern aesthetic ideal for home cooks
Apartment is located in Ridgecrest CA. While it is small, it may be just what you are looking for. Apartment is one room that is both a living area and sleeping area, plus a kitchen that comes with a range and refrigerator, bathroom, private off street parking, small yard, evaporative cooler and gas heater. When replying, please provide the following information: Where you obtain your income
Spacious home located in Ridgecrest CA. 4 bedroom, 2 bath, 2 car garage, fireplace, evaporative cooling , gas heater, range, refrigerator, bedrooms and living room are carpeted, tile floors in baths, laminate in hall, family/kitchen area. Please reply with information about you: Where you receive your income and monthly amount, number of occupants, pets, how soon you need to relocate.
10 minutes to the front gate of the base, this unit is the C unit of a triplex. This is an upstairs unit. The unit has large rooms, garage with washer/dryer. This unit has granite counter tops in kitchen and bath, evaporative cooler, all appliances (dishwasher, refrigerator, oven, washer and dryer). No pets will be considered. Potential tenant(s) must be capable of safely
Conveniently located to China Lake main gate of the Naval Air Weapons Station . Ridgecrest is an isolated desert community located 100 miles east of Bakersfield and 3 hours north of Los Angeles and San Bernardino. off street parking, AC cooling and wall gas heat, laundromat within walking distance. Energy efficient vinyl windows. Apartment is in Ridgecrest. Please reply to this ad with
A newly listed 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom fully applianced home with laundry unit sitting on 2.25 acres lot where you can experience peaceful and wonderful Ranch life at Ridgecrest. This is the perfect space to rent with your buddies or for the family.Soundproof bonus room previously used as a music studio. Generous back patio to enjoy. The property also comes equipped ready for famr animals -
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