PACIFIC PALISADES REAL ESTATE
Pacific Palisades real estate the ultimate location for families looking for reclusive, luxurious homes close to all of the best amenities Southern California has to offer.
Beverly Hills luxury real estate | Erik Brown
Beverly Hills luxury real estate | Erik Brown
Beverly Hills luxury real estate | Erik Brown
HOMES FOR SALE IN PACIFIC PALISADES
PACIFIC PALISADES
There’s nothing like a little neighborhood rivalry to get the blood boiling. The Southern California coast is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the United States, but it can also be one of the most competitive. Living on top of each other in such close proximity means there’s always someone around with something to say about your property value, your car, or even your cooking skills! But no matter how much we may dislike our neighbors at times, they’re still family and it would be hard not to love them; especially if you live in Pacific Palisades.
The Pacific Palisades is a neighborhood in the City of Los Angeles, California. Located within the Santa Monica Mountains, this serene enclave consists of winding roads and beaches overlooking the Pacific Ocean. This pristine beachfront community is home to some of Hollywood’s most notable residents including Steven Spielberg, Tom Hanks, Jeff Bridges, Pierce Brosnan, and many more.
The Palisades is located in the west region of Los Angeles County, between the Santa Monica Mountains and Topanga to the north and the San Gabriel Valley to the south. To its east are Brentwood and Malibu; to its west, Santa Monica; southeast, Santa Monica Bay; southwest, Topanga; and north, the Santa Monica Mountains
HISTORY
The community of Pacific Palisades, California, was formed in 1921 by a Methodist organization and became a haven for Jewish artists and intellectuals fleeing the Holocaust. The Palisades, which are widely recognized for their seclusion and small-town feel as well as their Mediterranean climate, hilly topography, natural environment, and abundance of parkland and hiking trails, 3-mile (4.8 km) strip of coastline, and the number of architecturally significant homes within its boundaries.
The three-mile length of the Palisades coast from Santa Monica to Sunset Point Beach with Malibu is informally known as “the Palisades” and “Pali” by surfers and locals.
PACIFIC PALISADES NEIGHBORHOOD
With its ocean views, spectacular sunsets, and close proximity to Los Angeles, the Pacific Palisades has it all. “It offers you just enough of a break from Los Angeles while still being close enough to fully participate in everything it has to offer,” Dan Urbach, an agent with Compass Real Estate who works and resides there, said.
Despite the fact that it is rather costly, Pacific Palisades is a “low-key bedroom community” where neighbors gather for the Fourth of July Parade and talk about news in the farmer’s market every Sunday, according to Mr. Urbach. “There’s a lot of money in this area,” he said. Most purchasers have children.
The region is primarily residential, with shopping, eating, and grocery stores clustered around the Palisades Village area.
Pacific Palisades is not known for its hotels, unlike its neighbors Malibu and Santa Monica, which are both popular tourist destinations. Pacific Palisades is a largely residential neighborhood that does not attract many tourists other than day visitors to Gladstones Malibu, the local beaches, the Getty Villa, or the Self-Realization Fellowship Lake Shrine.
LIFESTYLE
The lifestyle in Pacific Palisades can be described as relaxing and secluded. Most people enjoy the peace and quiet that comes with living away from a busy city.
There is a lot to do here, however, if you know where to look. Because of the isolation, some people who live here have hobbies such as biking or hiking near their homes.
Even though the weather is beautiful year-round, it’s rare to see people with their windows open due to the typically cool breeze that rolls in from the ocean. Because of this, some research shows that constant exposure to fresh air can actually help cure diseases such as asthma and depression.
When asked about their favorite part of living in Pacific Palisades, most people answered that it’s the seclusion. Being only 30 minutes away from Hollywood, many residents are able to leave their houses whenever they want in order to enjoy a night on the town.
Most people who live here have regular jobs but are able to enjoy themselves after work by going out or catching up with friends. This is because they can drive to Hollywood or downtown Los Angeles in under half an hour. When asked who their neighbors are, many residents responded with “nobody.”
Pacific Palisades is the epitome of small-town living. Many people choose to live here after raising children because it’s quiet and safe. If you want a laid-back lifestyle, this is the place to be.
PEOPLE
Many celebrities have called the Hollywood Hills home, notably including James Dean and Elvis Presley. Because of its isolated situation in contrast to other wealthy areas such as Beverly Hills, prominent individuals are granted more privacy and paparazzi are uncommon. People in the entertainment business and other well-to-do residents also reside in Palisades, although some inhabitants are middle class. As of 2018, there were 28,881 people living in the community. As of 2018, the median household income was $142,770. The per capita income for the community was $67,975 as of 2018. In addition, 7.9% of residents were living below the poverty line as of 2018.
Most people in Pacific Palisades are white. As of 2018, the racial makeup of the community was 70.8% White (48.1% Non-Hispanic White), 1.5% Black or African American, 0.2% Native American, 14.7% Asian, 0.0% Pacific Islander, 2.2% from other races, and 4.4% from two or more races. 7.9% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.
More than half the residents in Pacific Palisades are married, and many have children. The median age was 40 years as of 2018. In addition, 3 out of 5 adults have a college degree, and 25% have a graduate or professional degree.
SCHOOLS
All public schools in Pacific Palisades are charter schools operated by the Los Angeles Unified School District. Elementary-age students attend either Marquez Charter Elementary or Palisades Charter Elementary, which provide a brighter future for all their children through innovative teaching methods and an emphasis on innovation itself. During the same year, 78 percent of third-graders at both Marquez and Palisades met benchmarks in math. This is compared with 44% districtwide or 50% statewide. It’s clear that our local schools are doing something right–way better than those other pansies who only manage about half as well on average (according to the California Department of Education).
Middle-schoolers attend Paul Revere Charter Middle School (where the percentage of students meeting benchmarks for English was 88%) and high schoolers can go to Palisades Charter High, where during that same 2017-18 year, only 56 percent met districtwide or statewide standards. 70 percent of our students met benchmarks for math, compared with 31% districtwide and 51% statewide! The College Board defines a student as “college ready” when their test scores reach 480 out on English and 530 in the measurable subject matter.
ENTERTAINMENT
The Palisades is home to the National Tennis Center, where the US Open of tennis takes place every September. The conservative political organization Accuracy In Media established its headquarters in one of the multifamily structures overlooking scenic Sunset Boulevard (pictured to right) near Will Rogers State Beach.
Will Rogers State Beach, Sunset Point Beach, and one of the city’s only gay beaches, Ginger Rogers Beach are all located along the Pacific Palisades coast. The many parks in the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area are located on the ridges above the community, as well as Will Rogers State Historic Park and other local parks.
One of the most popular forms of entertainment in Pacific Palisades is nightlife. There are several very good bars that people come to after work or on weekends to relax and wind down, but no clubs. Oddly enough, the lack of clubs doesn’t seem to be much of a problem for most people out there. There is a pretty good mix of ages in this community so it really doesn’t matter what age range you belong to when looking for entertainment here – you will find something that you’ll enjoy.
Polo fields are located in Pacific Palisades, and there is a polo club called the Will Rogers Polo Club that plays at these fields on Sundays. The club also often hosts fundraisers to benefit many local organizations such as Surfers Healing, which works with autistic children to help them learn how to surf.
There are a lot of public beaches in the Pacific Palisades, and they are really nice. The boardwalk along the PCH looks wonderful at sunset with all the lights up and people enjoying themselves while taking a romantic stroll down the boardwalk. There is also a pier where you can go fishing or just enjoy the view.
The shopping in Pacific Palisades is great too. While there aren’t a whole lot of big-name brand stores, the small shops often have some pretty good deals and carry their own designers’ clothing. Pacific Palisades also has many restaurants with delicious food from all kinds of backgrounds.
With all these forms of entertainment, it shouldn’t be all too difficult to find things you like to do in Pacific Palisades.
If you like entertainment (bars, lounges, etc.), then Pacific Palisades has lots for you to do! Enjoy it! If not, stay home and watch TV or something. Everything’s pretty accessible around there.
RESTAURANTS
To many people’s surprise, Pacific Palisades is actually quite entertaining. There are many great restaurants, especially at the oceanfront cliff-side.
15 Best Restaurant in Pacific Palisades
1. Cafe Vida is a great taco stand on the beach. With a menu as long as my arm and with mouth-watering drinks to quench your thirst, it’s no surprise why so many people flock here after a day of tanning or surfing at the nearby beaches. It also has an amazing view overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
2. Golden Bull Restaurant is a great place for Asian food. Their menu features an array of traditional Chinese cuisine, from dumplings to spicy lo mein to the popular Taiwanese chicken wings. The restaurant has a very upbeat atmosphere and a ton of tongue-tickling options to choose from on their extensive menu!
3. The Pearl Dragon is a highly recommended Chinese restaurant in Pacific Palisades. It is located right on the PCH, just a few minutes drive from Will Rogers Beach and Sunset Boulevard. They have an amazing selection of seafood that will satisfy any craving you might have! Everything on the menu is absolutely delicious and ready to be served at your request within mere minutes.
4. Beech Street Cafe is one of the best restaurants in Pacific Palisades. It is located on Beech Street, so it offers a very quaint and cozy setting perfect for lunch or dinner. They have their own homemade lasagna that is incredibly scrumptious as well as chicken parmesan and spaghetti. The portions are large enough to satisfy any big appetite.
5. Casa Nostra is an Italian restaurant located on Sunset Boulevard. They also have yummy salads and pasta dishes for those with lighter appetites. The restaurant has a homey, family-oriented atmosphere with great waiters who will make excellent recommendations if you are unsure what to choose.
6. II Ristorante de Giorgio Baldi is a pricey Italian restaurant located on PCH in Pacific Palisades. It has an upscale yet intimate setting that is perfect for a romantic dinner or any special occasion with family or friends. Their garlic bread with mozzarella cheese is delicious, and the entrees are incredibly tasty–definitely worth the money!
7. Gladstones is a local landmark in Pacific Palisades known for its seafood. The restaurant is located next to the beach, so if you come at certain times of day, you will get an amazing ocean view while dining. Their food is delicious and their service is great–so, just sit back and enjoy!
8. Palisades Garden Cafe is a cozy and quaint restaurant that serves all your classic American breakfast foods. It is located just across the street from Palisade’s Beach, making it perfect for brunch or even just a light breakfast before hitting the beach!
HOMES
Many houses are hidden behind tall hedges, including those of Steven Spielberg, Billy Crystal, and Maroon 5 singer Adam Levine.
Houses in Pacific Palisades are most often large, older homes with dark wood shingles and dozens of rooms. A typical house has five or six bedrooms, multiple baths, a grand entryway, spacious rooms with high ceilings, hardwood floors throughout. Some of the larger houses have over 10 bedrooms. Many owners plant lush, exotic gardens and decorate their homes with traditional furnishings. Homes in the Palisades often have vaulted ceilings and large fireplaces. Many homes have expansive decks or patios where residents can eat outdoors. The more expensive homes are located on the hills of the Palisades, whereas more modest houses are at sea level.
Many of the residences were built in the mid-20th century and are notable landmarks, such as the Eames House, which was a part of the Case Study House Program that revolutionized architectural styles from the 1940s to 1960s. During this period, developers transformed large tracts of sand dunes into elegant homes for wealthy Los Angeles businessmen.
Today many of these mansions are still standing on wide lots shaded by mature trees. When Hollywood was booming, stars like Greta Garbo, Douglas Fairbanks Jr., John Barrymore, George Cukor, and Walter Matthau built homes in the Palisades.
Older homes are left today since much of the newer development has been in the form of condominiums along ocean fronts. These large structures have only one to three units that typically sell for $1,000,000 or more. Homes in the Palisades range from $4,000, 000 to $25,000,000 and most have ocean and canyon views.
Some of the older homes remain at the top of bluffs overlooking Santa Monica Bay. They offer panoramic views but limited access because steep stairs lead down to public beaches below.
Many brand-new houses are also located throughout the neighborhood, particularly in the partially gated Palisades Highlands community at the end of Sunset and along the less expensive Alphabet Streets area, which is popular with young families.
Today’s Pacific Palisades homes are much larger than the older homes.
REAL ESTATE INSIGHTS
Looking at the larger picture, in 2009 home values in Pacific Palisades dropped 22%. The average home price fell from $1.9 million to a low of $1.59 million in 2009. If you’re looking to purchase a property this year, look no further than the Palisades by the sea. Since 2009, home prices have appreciated 20%. The average price currently rests near $1.8 million, with properties listed for sale at an average of $2.5 million dollars.
If you are looking to rent a property in Pacific Palisades, do not expect it to come cheap! Rent has increased 22% since 2009, with the average home price now sitting at $2,200. What you can expect for your money is a 2 or 3 bedroom rental property with 2.5 bathrooms and 1,500 square feet of air-conditioned living space.
If you are looking to buy in Pacific Palisades, the real estate market will present itself most favorably if you have $2.5 million or more to spend. With most homes listed at an average of $2,500 per square foot and homes selling above the asking price 89% of the time, buyers can expect to encounter stiff competition and be prepared to shell out for renovations if they wish the property to retain its value. Those not so eager to part with such a large sum of money can take heart, as there are still several high-end condos available that will run you up a tab upwards of $1 million.
If its luxury buyers are after, Pacific Palisades boasts some of the highest-priced homes in Los Angeles County. A buyer could make a killing on the market, as was demonstrated by one lucky individual who recently shelled out $1,275 per square foot for a custom-built home spread over two and a half acres. It’s certainly no real surprise to see such high prices paid given that Pacific Palisades ranked fifth out of more than 1,600 zip codes in the United States.
Pacific Palisades’ wealthy history coupled with its position as one of the safest neighborhoods in Los Angeles makes for quite a desirable package. Unfortunately, demand only seems to be increasing among buyers eager to get their hands on some prime real estate. And developers are more than happy to meet that demand with plans for new buildings.
To get a better idea of just how expensive homes in this enclave of Los Angeles are, we decided to take an in-depth look at just what potential buyers can expect to find on the market today. Here is our complete guide to buying real estate in Pacific Palisades.
Pacific Palisades is full of amazing attractions, but the cherry on top may be coming soon. There are plans for a luxury residential tower with an infinity pool overlooking the ocean and stunning views where you can enjoy your morning coffee or evening sunset cocktail. With so many unique amenities like this one in addition to world-class shopping and dining, it should come as no surprise that home prices have been steadily climbing over the last few years.
If you are interested, I’m here to help you find the perfect home for your needs in Pacific Palisades! I know this is a place that will make my heart soar, and if it sounds like something of interest or maybe even an opportunity then please feel free to contact me at any time. With our combined efforts together let’s get Pacific Palisades homes on sale so more people can have access to these amazing neighborhoods–and dreams come true.
All material presented herein is intended for information purposes only. While this information is believed to be correct, it is represented subject to errors, omissions, changes, or withdrawal without notice. All property information, including, but not limited to square footage, room count, the number of bedrooms, and the school district in property listings should be verified by your own attorney, architect, or zoning expert.
Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 01991628. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. No statement is made as to the accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footage are approximate.
Erik Brown, Realtor, Compass, DRE: 01958545. All Right Reserved