Pasadena is known to locals as one of Los Angeles County’s most desirable neighborhoods due to its proximity to family-friendly amenities, notable historical background, and beautiful California sunshine. It’s located a bit further from Los Angeles, so residents can enjoy the tranquility of living in a suburb, while still being close to DTLA. However, for someone who isn’t familiar with Southern California, purchasing a home in this city may be daunting—especially when you don’t know the area too well. If you’re a homebuyer who’s curious about Pasadena or considering a move to the area, below are six reasons why you should call Pasadena home.

Endless Dining and Shopping Options

Downtown Pasadena offer plenty of dining and shopping options

The city of Pasadena has a large downtown split into different sections, including Main Street and Old Town Pasadena. There are over 21 blocks of upscale retailers, boutique shops, restaurants, and clubs in Old Town Pasadena alone, so residents get to enjoy an endless array of dining and shopping options at the intersection of Colorado Boulevard and Fair Oaks Avenue. 

Some popular restaurants include the famous Argentinean Restaurant 1810. For those who want a more traditional shopping mall experience, the city also has two shopping centers, The Shops on Lake Avenue and the ever-chic One Colorado.

Employment Opportunities

California Institute of Technology / Shutterstock

Even though entertainment opportunities in Los Angeles are highly competitive and limited, there are still a wealth of job prospects available in Pasadena. Many of the city’s top employers include California Institute of Technology, Kaiser Permanente, the City of Pasadena, Pasadena City College, Pasadena’s Unified School District, and many more.

All-Day Family-Friendly Entertainment

Tournament of Roses Parade / Shutterstock

From cultural amenities, museums, and art galleries, to recreational activities such as hiking, cycling, and exploring mineral deposits, Pasadena has so much entertainment available that there’s a little bit of something for the entire family. Although many people know the city best for hosting its annual Tournament of Roses Parade and the Rose Bowl Game, many people aren’t aware that the Rose Bowl Stadium also hosts a number of public tours, festivals, campouts, and monthly flea markets throughout the year.

Pasadena’s Eaton Canyon Nature Preserve offers family-friendly activities, such as educational classrooms to teach about wildlife. For families that prefer a more modern, indoor experience, the city is also home to some of the nation’s most respected children’s museums, including the Kidspace Children’s Museum and the Southern California Children’s Museum. 

Quality Education System

Pasadena City College / Shutterstock

As if quality entertainment, amenities, and employment opportunities weren’t enough, Pasadena is also home to elementary schools, middle schools, high schools, private schools, and higher education institutions. In fact, it’s quite normal to see students walking around the city, whether they go to Pasadena City College, the Art Center College of Design, or even Caltech. Pasadena is so big on education that it even started the first tuition-free online university, called the University of the People, which specializes in several accredited programs. 

Historic Architectural Homes

Historic bungalow in the Los Angeles suburb of pasadena / Shutterstock

Pasadena is also a city with deep historical roots. The bulk of the city’s Craftsman, California Cottage, and Bungalow-style homes were built in the early 1900s, which adds to the city’s value as a renowned architectural center. Many homebuyers find that the Craftsman-style residences in the city provide plenty of character and charm at a range of prices. Don’t be surprised to see elegant and rustic homes marked by exposed beams as well as stone and natural wood materials. Many of these homes have been restored and updated to reflect today’s modern culture and amenities, while retaining their historically enriching architecture. 

A Great Place to Settle Down

Quiet neighborhood in South Pasadena, CA

With plenty of walkable neighborhoods and a close-knit community, Pasadena is a great place to settle down. Also, with so many historical landmarks and convenient public transportation, Pasadena residents enjoy a balanced lifestyle between the city and suburb. Popular areas to live include Pasadena Heights, South Pasadena, East Central, and Orange Heights.