California, also referred to as the Golden State, is not golden for nothing. Aside from its golden poppies growing on the hills, it is also the golden home to America’s top-earning families. Since the 1949 Gold Rush, California has become a status symbol of success and wealth. And it makes perfect sense.
With California’s unbeatable weather, diverse culture, and strong economy, if you can afford to be part of these neighborhoods, why wouldn’t you? If you, too, are looking to set down roots in this thriving city, here’s a list of the richest neighborhoods in California that you should consider.
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The 10 Richest Neighborhoods in California
#1. Bel Air
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Housing the villas of California’s VIPs, Bel Air is a residential neighborhood located on the westside of LA. Located in the foothills of the breathtaking Santa Monica Mountains, the area was founded by Alphonzo Bell in 1923 from the money he made from oil.
With a population of about 8,000, this neighborhood with its million-dollar properties has been, and continues to be, home to some of the world’s rich and famous, including Elizabeth Taylor, Ronald Raegan, and Nicolas Cage.
With sprawling mansions surrounded by lush green lawns, the neighborhood itself even has its parks and schools exclusive to its residents. Its architectural diversity is one of the most unique features of Bel Air, featuring both Romanesque style houses complete with colonnades as well as modern contemporary architecture.
#2. Pacific Palisades
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Your home should be a place where you can relax and unwind, and Pacific Palisades is just right for that. Home to prosperous families, this wealthy neighborhood enjoys the natural background of beaches, bluffs, and canyons north of Santa Monica. The natural treasures surrounding this community are worth the hefty price tag since you get to enjoy the beach and mountains around the year.
Pacific Palisades has around 24,000 residents, with most homes set behind high hedges and most providing a magnificent view of the Potrero Canyon Park or the canyon roads.
Given its proximity to Hollywood, it is also expected to have some of Hollywood’s stars set up residence in this area. Steven Spielberg, Adam Levin, Whoopi Goldberg, Dennis Quaid, and Billy Crystal are just a few of the celebs with homes in Pacific Palisades.
#3. Brentwood
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This suburban neighborhood is nestled in the Westside area of LA. It is a charming neighborhood for both residential and commercial properties.
Brentwood has a long history of farming and agriculture, and fortunately, that legacy has continued till today despite the residential spurt in the city.
During the spring and summer seasons, the area sees a steady flow of agri-tourists interested in fresh produce including corn, cherries, peaches, plums, apricots, and stone fruits while enjoying the natural backdrop of Mt. Diablo.
Brentwood is home to more than 47,000 residents who can enjoy its parks, local establishments, and recreational centers. There are just some reasons why Gwyneth Paltrow, LeBron James, Tom Brady, and Gisele Bundchen have set down roots in Brentwood.
#4. Porter Ranch
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The tranquil infinite mountain ranges and the exhilarating buzz of the cityscape — Porter Ranch offers you the best of both worlds.
Located in northwest San Francisco Valley, LA, the neighborhood’s residents enjoy a setting where they can relax, engage with neighbors, and have a solid connection with the natural elements of the community. It is also rated as the “wealthiest neighborhood in the San Fernando Valley.”
If elevated living is something you aspire to have, Porter Ranch should be at the top of your list. The homes here are built exquisitely with huge backyards and a window with a stunning view. You can enjoy mornings of calm reflections, afternoons of outdoor adventures, and evenings of family fun.
And with a diverse population of residents, you can also find different kinds of housing in Porter Ranch as per your needs.
#5. Beverly Glen
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Beverly Glen is located north of Sunset Boulevard, south of Mulholland Drive, and around Beverly Glen Boulevard. With planned developments including pools and tennis courts that were constructed in the 1970s and 1980s, this neighborhood has residential properties and real estate that is quite well maintained.
Stone canyon reservoir is nestled in this wealthy community in the country. Most of the residents of Beverly Glen are managers, executives, and professionals, and as such, the character of this community is shaped by its residents. You also can’t help but admire the diversity when it comes to the residents of this neighborhood, a true melting pot of cultures.
#6. Century City
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Century City has come a long way from what it was 50 years ago. Today, the area is one of the most vibrant metropolises that is home to innovative businesses while retaining a rich, old culture, including an old Hollywood vibe popular with the movie industry.
With its 71.2 hectares of land, this “city within the city” boasts clusters and stretches of high-rise buildings that are making their presence known across the infamous LA skyline.
In fact, the neighborhood owes its existence to 20th Century Fox as it is built on one of the movie studio’s backlots when Fox’s president repurposed the area for real estate in 1956.
#7. West Los Angeles
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Westside Los Angeles breathes LA glamor. It is the place for the influential and wealthy. You have not been in California if you have not lived, even for just a day (and night), that unique West Los Angeles experience.
This is the part of Los Angeles where movie moguls and movie stars invest in residential properties, with luxurious sports cars and manicured lawns with swimming pools a standard affair. On top of that, you have your fill of globally prominent cultural institutions, 5-star hotels, and shopping areas.
It is the one area of California where you are expected to pull out all stops and splurge on shopping and fine dining.
#8. West Hills
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Home to 42,000 people, West Hills is located in LA County in San Fernando Valley. This neighborhood is known for its expansive green spaces and parks that are easily accessible even to non-residents as the area is only 30 minutes away from downtown LA.
This community park has everything you need for outdoor activities, including a basketball court, tennis courts, softball diamonds, playgrounds, and picnic areas, as well as the Knapp Ranch. Another sight to experience in this neighborhood is the Gardens of the World, a massive botanical garden with mini gardens inside.
This neighborhood is perfect for nature lovers. West Hills encourages you to go out and reconnect with everything that is good about nature.
#9. Hollywood Hills
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Hollywood Hills, or “The Hills,” is synonymous with celebrities and money. It’s a top choice for those who are part of showbiz, given its level of privacy and breathtaking views.
This picturesque hillside town is located in central LA and is one of the most prominent areas in Southern California. It is home to the infamous Hollywood sign, Hollywood Bowl, and Hollywood Reservoir.
What sets this apart from the other affluent neighborhoods in LA is its high regard for privacy and superb luxury real estate. The architectural designs vary from funky bungalows to trophy mansions — you just have to see it to believe it.
#10. Studio City
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Once called Laurelwood, Studio City is a chosen headquarters for some of the biggest production hubs in the entire entertainment industry, like CBS Radford.
This community is primarily sustained by the entertainment industry and is referred to as the “Jewel of the Valley.” It has attracted plenty of musicians, writers, and celebrities and has become the gateway to Hollywood and Westside.
Studio City is also home to George Clooney, Bruno Mars, and Marti Noxon. Trendy dining with classic sushi houses and stylish gastropubs, you will love the gastronomical experience that Studio City has to offer. And, you can work off those calories by hitting Wilacre Park for a hike and outdoor fun, with the motivation of the panoramic Valley sceneries spurring you on.
It is a quaint but upscale neighborhood that is as luxurious as it is charming.
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