Tehachapi, CA Homes for Rent

Tehachapi, California, is a small mountain town in Kern County with a population of just over 12,000. Nestled at an elevation of 4,000 feet, Tehachapi enjoys desirable weather conditions, including rare snowfall in Southern California. The town features a mix of older ranch-style homes in the city center and newer subdivisions, with custom-built Spanish Revivals, cabins, and farmhouses on larger acreages in the surrounding countryside. Tehachapi's slower pace and scenic views attract residents seeking rural living between Bakersfield and Los Angeles. The town's economy includes local companies like Airstreams and national employers such as SoCalGas and Lehigh Hanson. The Tehachapi Unified School District serves over 4,000 students and is highly rated. Tehachapi offers various attractions, including the Depot Museum, which explores the history of the railroad, and several annual events like the Mountain Festival and Apple Festival. Parks such as Tehachapi Mountain Park and Philip Marx Central Park showcase the area's rugged terrain and provide recreational opportunities. Downtown Tehachapi features modest storefronts, historical displays, and diverse eateries, although traffic has shifted to more mainstream shopping centers like the Tehachapi Town Center. The town experiences a Mediterranean climate with all four seasons and does not face the intense heat waves common in other parts of California. Commuting options include state Route 58 to Bakersfield, state Route 14 to Lancaster, and bus routes to the Lancaster Amtrak Station. The nearest regional airport is Meadows Field Airport in Bakersfield, with Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) being the closest international airport.