Pasadena is a city located 11 miles northeast of Downtown Los Angeles. The estimated 2020 population was 139,015, making it the ninth-largest city in Los Angeles County and the 44th-largest in the state of California.
Pasadena is known for its history, culture, art, and science, with a wide range of neighborhoods, each with its own unique character.
So we’ve got you covered if you’re looking for an urban chic neighborhood like Old Town or a more suburban feel in San Rafael. In no particular order, we’ve put together a list of the top 22 Pasadena neighborhoods.
22 Top Neighborhoods in Pasadena
Old Pasadena
Old Pasadena is one of the most historic Pasadena neighborhoods. Originally settled by the Tongva people, the area later became home to Spanish missionaries. In the late 19th century, the area began to attract a more affluent population, and many Victorian-style homes were built.
Today, Old Pasadena is a vibrant community with a thriving shopping and dining scene. The streets are lined with trendy boutiques, independent businesses, and upscale restaurants. Thanks to its central location and charming atmosphere, Old Pasadena is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.
South Lake Avenue
South Lake Avenue is known for its lively mix of shops, restaurants, and businesses. The area is also home to the reputable California Institute of Technology. Residents are proud of their community spirit and love to show off their Pasadena pride.
The current average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in South Lake Avenue is $2,465, and it’s only going up from there. If you’re looking for a more affordable option, you might be out of luck. However, you can do a few things to help offset the cost of the rent. For example, many apartment complexes offer discounts for signing a longer lease.
You can also look into subletting an apartment or room from someone already living in the area. Whatever you do, be prepared to spend a good amount of money on rent if you’re looking to live in South Lake Avenue, Pasadena, CA.
Playhouse Village
The Playhouse Village is one of the most charming neighborhoods in Pasadena. This pedestrian-friendly area is home to various shops, restaurants, art galleries, and the historic Pasadena Playhouse.
The village got its name from the playhouse, which was built in 1917 and is one of the most iconic buildings in the area. While the playhouse is no longer used for performances, it remains an important part of the community, serving as a venue for various events and cultural programs.
In the Playhouse Village, the average rent is a whopping $3,067 per month. That makes it one of the most expensive neighborhoods in Pasadena — but it’s also one of the most vibrant and exciting.
Thanks to its pedestrian-friendly design, it’s also a great place to walk or ride your bike.
East Washington Village
This charming neighborhood is located just east of downtown, and it’s filled with historic homes, tree-lined streets, and a sense of community that you won’t find anywhere else. The residents of East Washington Village are proud of their neighborhood and work hard to keep it clean and safe.
You’ll find that the people here are friendly and welcoming, and there’s always something going on. Whether it’s a block party or a neighborhood cleanup, East Washington Village is a great place to live.
According to recent data, the average price of leasing an apartment in East Washington Village is $1,079 per month. Of course, these prices can vary depending on the size and location of the apartment and the amenities offered. If you’re looking for a Pasadena neighborhood that feels like home, East Washington Village is the place for you.
Victory Park
Nestled against the foothills, Victory Park offers stunning views of the mountains while still being close to all the amenities of the city.
The area is also home to many excellent schools, making it a great place to raise a family. In addition, Victory Park is within easy driving distance of downtown Los Angeles and the beaches of Orange County.
The average rent for an apartment in Victory Park, Pasadena is $2,678 per month. That’s pricey, but it’s still cheaper than other places in the area. As a result, it’s no wonder that Pasadena residents have been flocking to Victory Park in recent years.
Hastings Ranch
Located just minutes from downtown, Hastings Ranch offers residents a chance to live in a quiet, suburban community while still being close to all the city has to offer.
The homes in Hastings Ranch are spacious and well-maintained, and the streets are lined with mature trees. Plenty of parks and green spaces make it a great place to raise a family. In addition, Hastings Ranch is known for its excellent schools, which makes it a very popular choice for families with school-aged children.
The average rent in the area is a whopping $2,678 per month. But don’t despair — there are ways to find cheaper rent in Hastings Ranch. Keep your eyes peeled for discounts and special offers, and don’t be afraid to ask around. Chances are, someone you know knows someone who is looking for a roommate. And if all else fails, there’s always Craigslist.
Daisy-Villa
Daisy-Villa is known for its tree-lined streets and quaint bungalows. This neighborhood is also home to some of the best schools in Pasadena, making it a great place to raise a family. In addition to its many attractive features, Daisy-Villa is conveniently located near shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
Daisy-Villa offers an average rent of $1,700 for a 1-bedroom apartment. The apartments are also pet-friendly, and some feature on-site laundry facilities. If you’re looking for a comfortable place to call home in Pasadena, Daisy-Villa is worth considering.
Oak Knoll
Full of beautiful Spanish-style architecture and lush landscapes, Oak Knoll is one of Pasadena’s most sought-after neighborhoods. Located just north of downtown, the neighborhood is home to a mix of families, young professionals, and retirees.
With its central location and convenient access to both the 210 and 605 freeways, Oak Knoll is an ideal place to call home. The area is also known for its excellent schools, including Polytechnic School, Mayfield Senior School, and Westridge School for Girls.
In addition to its many amenities, Oak Knoll is also a great place to take a stroll or go for a run. With its winding streets lined with mature trees, the neighborhood feels like a hidden oasis amid a bustling city. Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to raise a family or an eclectic community to call home, Oak Knoll is sure to fit the bill.
Madison Heights
Madison Heights is a residential area of Pasadena, CA. It is located in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The community is mostly made up of single-family homes, but there are also some apartments and condominiums.
The neighborhood is known for its tree-lined streets and large, well-kept yards. Residents of Madison Heights enjoy various amenities, including various shops and restaurants, as well as parks and recreation facilities. The community is also close to several major freeways, making it an easy commute to downtown Los Angeles.
Eagle Rock
Eagle Rock is centrally located, has great views, and is within walking distance of many of the city’s best shops and restaurants. The homes in Eagle Rock are also some of the most expensive in the city, making it a popular choice for wealthy buyers.
Eagle Rock is not just a place for the rich and famous. It’s also home to a vibrant community of artists, musicians, and small business owners. Many of the city’s best-known landmarks are in Eagle Rock, including the historic Eagle Rock Observatory.
There’s good news for renters and prospective renters in Eagle Rock, Los Angeles: the average cost of a one-bedroom apartment dropped by 5% from the previous year. Currently, the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Eagle Rock is around $2,100.
This decrease in rent prices is welcome news for renters struggling to keep up with rising costs in recent years.
Linda Vista
Linda Vista is known for its tree-lined streets, charming bungalows, and close-knit community feels. Linda Vista is also centrally located, making it easy to get around town.
The neighborhood has a variety of shops and restaurants, as well as parks and schools. The area is close to many of Pasadena’s major attractions, such as the Rose Bowl and Huntington Library. Whether you’re looking for a place to call home or a place to visit, Linda Vista is worth checking out.
La Pintoresca Park
La Pintoresca Park is one of the many unique and interesting Pasadena neighborhoods. La Pintoresca, or “The Picturesque,” is home to a diverse population and a wide variety of shops and businesses.
The neighborhood is also home to the Pasadena Art Museum and the University of Southern California.
La Pintoresca Park, Pasadena, is a great place to live for many reasons, but one of the best is the cost of living. The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in La Pintoresca Park is $1,600, making it one of the most affordable neighborhoods in Pasadena.
And, since La Pintoresca Park is centrally located, you can save even more on transportation costs. Plus, there are plenty of great restaurants and shops nearby so you won’t have to go far to find what you need.
Casa Grande
Casa Grande is located in the northwest part of the city, near the border with Altadena. Casa Grande has a long history, dating back to the early days of Pasadena. The name comes from a Spanish land grant given to the area in 1874.
Since then, it has been settled by German immigrants, Japanese Americans, and middle-class families. Today, it is one of Pasadena’s most desirable neighborhoods. Casa Grande’s residents enjoy various amenities, including excellent schools, parks, and recreation facilities.
Annandale
Annandale is located in a triangle formed by Colorado Boulevard and Avenue 64, with San Rafael Park being located centrally in the triangle. Most houses were built in the 1920s and 1930s for upper-middle-class families.
Even though it’s remote from the rest of Pasadena, it still has its own unique personality — including a canyon with an actual stream running through it. In the district’s center, there’s also a tiny lake that was established for irrigation during the time of the now-defunct San Raphael Winery.
The only school in Annandale is San Rafael Elementary School, but Blair High School in Oak Knoll serves middle and high school students. All in all, it’s a great place to live if you’re looking for a neighborhood with a lot of character.
Lower Arroyo Seco
The Lower Arroyo Seco is a canyon located in Pasadena, California. The canyon is home to many plant and animal species, as well as a variety of recreational activities. The canyon has been a popular recreation spot for centuries, and today it is home to many hiking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds.
The Lower Arroyo Seco is also a popular spot for bird watching, as it is home to various bird species. The current average rent for a two-bedroom apartment in Lower Arroyo Seco, Pasadena, CA, is $4,855.
Banbury Oaks
Pasadena residents appreciate Banbury Oaks’s close proximity to downtown and its quiet, suburban feel. The neighborhood is also home to several parks and recreation areas, making it a great place to raise a family.
Banbury Oaks is a charming neighborhood in Pasadena, CA, known for its affordability and central location. One-bedroom apartments in Banbury Oaks rent for an average of $1,895 a month, making it one of the most affordable neighborhoods in Pasadena, CA.
Poppy Peak Historic District
Poppy Peak is a historic neighborhood in Pasadena, California. The district is characterized by its tree-lined streets and stately homes. Many of the residences in Poppy Peak were built in the early 20th century, and the area retains its old-fashioned charm.
The neighborhood is home to various businesses, including restaurants, shops, and services. There is also a park and a school.
Lexington Heights
Lexington Heights is situated on a hilltop just east of downtown. This neighborhood offers stunning views of the cityscape, and the homes are a mix of Victorian and Craftsman-style architecture, with many dating back to the early 1900s.
Despite its prime location, Lexington Heights has a surprisingly low crime rate. If you’re looking for breathtaking views and a sense of history, Lexington Heights is the place for you.
Chapman Woods
Chapman Woods is bounded to the south by Huntington Drive, east by Highway 19 (Rosemead Boulevard), north by Del Mar Boulevard, and west by the Eaton Wash.
Chapman Woods is home to a large park, perfect for taking a leisurely stroll or enjoying a picnic lunch. With its convenient location and lovely setting, Chapman Woods is a great place to call home.
Bungalow Heaven
If you’re looking for a slice of heaven, you’ll find it in Pasadena’s Bungalow Heaven neighborhood. This historic district is home to nearly 1,200 bungalows built between 1900 and 1930, making it one of the largest collections of bungalows in the country.
Many of these homes are well-preserved examples of the Craftsman style and are set among tree-lined streets and lush gardens. In addition to its architectural merits, Bungalow Heaven is also a great place to live, with a sense of community that is hard to find in other parts of Los Angeles.
The current average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Bungalow Heaven, Pasadena, CA is $1,529, which is very affordable compared to other neighborhoods in Pasadena.
North Lake
Located just north of downtown, North Lake is a vibrant community with a strong sense of identity. The neighborhood is home to a diverse mix of people, and its residents are proud of their community.
North Lake is also a great place to live if you’re looking for an active lifestyle. The neighborhood has several parks and recreation areas, and its residents frequently take advantage of the nearby walking and biking trails.
Olive Heights
Olive Heights is a neighborhood in Pasadena, California, located northeast of downtown. The area was developed as a streetcar suburb in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Many of the homes in Olive Heights are large Victorian-style houses that were built during this period.
Today, Olive Heights is a vibrant community with a diverse population. The area is well-known for its annual Fourth of July parade, held since the early 1940s. Residents of Olive Heights are also active in the Pasadena Unified School District, and many of the community’s schools are ranked among the best in the state.
The current average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Olive Heights, Pasadena, CA is $1,825. Olive Heights is a highly sought-after neighborhood for those looking to live in the city’s heart and is one of the most affordable neighborhoods.
The Benefits of Living in One of Pasadena’s 22 Top Neighborhoods.
When deciding which of Pasadena’s top neighborhoods is right for you, it is important to consider what each has to offer. Here are a few of the benefits that you can enjoy by living in one of Pasadena’s top neighborhoods:
- One of the great things about living in Pasadena is the close-knit community feels that many of these top neighborhoods offer. This is the perfect place to raise a family or enjoy a quiet, peaceful life. You’ll get to know your neighbors and feel like you’re part of a community when you live in one of Pasadena’s top neighborhoods.
- Another benefit of living in Pasadena is the convenience factor. Many of the top neighborhoods are located near major highways and interstates, making it easy to get around. You’ll also find plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options nearby when you live in Pasadena’s top neighborhoods.
- Pasadena is known for its beautiful weather, and its top neighborhoods are no exception. With an average of 300 days of sunshine per year, you’ll be able to enjoy your outdoor space all year round. From hiking and biking in the San Gabriel Mountains to picnicking in one of the city’s many parks, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the great outdoors here.
- Pasadena is also home to some of the best schools in the state, including Caltech, Harvey Mudd College, and Occidental College. If you’re looking for a city that offers top-notch education for your children, Pasadena is the ideal place to settle.
- Pasadena is just a short drive from some of California’s most popular attractions. From the beaches of Santa Monica to the excitement of Disneyland, there’s always something new to explore when you live in Pasadena.
The Cheapest Neighborhoods Around Pasadena
South Pasadena
The average monthly rent in South Pasadena is $2,330. Rent prices vary according to numerous criteria, including location, size, and quality. The closer an apartment is to Old Town, the pricier it will be.
A larger unit will cost more than a smaller one. An updated kitchen or a private balcony might come with a higher price tag. But there are ways to save on rent. For example, many landlords offer discounts for signing a long-term lease. And some apartments come with utilities included in the monthly rent price.
San Marino
The current market rate for a one-bedroom apartment in San Marino, California, is $1,995 per month on average, making it one of the cheapest neighborhoods close to Pasadena.
Altadena
Right now, in Altadena, CA, a one-bedroom apartment will set you back around $1,892. The lower cost of living in Altadena makes it an attractive option for people who want to live close to Pasadena but don’t want to pay the higher prices.
San Gabriel
The average rent in San Gabriel is $1,857 per month as of 2022. This is a good and affordable deal compared to other neighborhoods around Pasadena. In addition, San Gabriel is located close to all the best shopping, dining, and entertainment that Pasadena offers. So, if you’re looking for an affordable place to live that’s still close to all the action, then San Gabriel is the place for you.
Wrap Up
Pasadena is worth considering if you’re looking for a great place to live. With its mix of historic neighborhoods and modern developments, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city.
If you need help finding the perfect home in Pasadena, don’t hesitate to contact Cristal Cellar – we’d be happy to assist you!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any neighborhoods that you would recommend for families in Pasadena?
Yes, these are: Olive Heights, Bungalow Heaven, East Washington Village, and Old Pasadena.
What are the benefits of living in a historic district?
Historic districts are designated areas that possess a high concentration of historic buildings. Living in a historic district has several benefits. First, it helps to preserve the unique character of the area. Historic districts typically have distinctive architecture and style, and by living in one, you can help keep this tradition alive.
Second, living in a historic district can give you a sense of belonging and community. These neighborhoods often have a strong sense of pride and camaraderie, and residents are typically quick to help one another out.
Finally, living in a historic district can be great for your property value. Homes in these areas tend to appreciate faster than those in other parts of town.
How about being close to the mountains or the ocean?
There’s something special about living close to the mountains or the ocean. Maybe it’s the way the air smells different or the way the light filters through the trees. Maybe it’s the sound of the waves crashing against the shore or the way the snow sparkles in the sun.
Whatever it is, there’s no denying that living close to nature has benefits. Studies have shown that spending time in nature can reduce stress, improve moods, and boost overall health. And what could be more relaxing than taking a morning walk along a quiet beach or an afternoon hike through a fragrant forest?
What are the most important factors when choosing a neighborhood?
One of the most important factors to consider in choosing a neighborhood is the location. You’ll want to consider things like proximity to your job, public transportation options, and schools in the area.
Another important factor is the crime rate. You can research this online or speak to people who live in the area to get a sense of how safe it is. It’s also important to consider the quality of the housing. Are the homes well-maintained? Is there a homeowner’s association? Is there potential for future growth? These are all important factors to weigh when choosing a neighborhood that is right for you.
How do you think the climate in Pasadena has affected its neighborhoods?
Pasadena’s semi-arid Mediterranean climate has profoundly impacted the city’s history and development. The region’s hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters provide ideal conditions for a wide variety of fruit and nut trees and field crops such as wheat, barley, and oats.
Pasadena’s agricultural heritage is reflected in the many neighborhoods built around former farmsteads. However, the city’s climate has also brought challenges. The risk of wildfires is a constant concern, and the summer heat can be oppressive. Nevertheless, Pasadena’s moderate climate is one of its defining features, and it continues to shape the city in many ways.
Are there any neighborhoods that you would recommend avoiding in Pasadena?
None, because all the neighborhoods in Pasadena have low crime rates.