FAQs: Your Burning Questions About Calabasas Living
Q. What’s the average home price in Calabasas?
A. As of October 2024, the median home value in Calabasas is approximately $1.764 million. However, prices can range significantly depending on the neighborhood and property type. In exclusive areas like Hidden Hills or The Oaks, you might see prices soaring well above $10 million for luxury estates.
Redfin’s market analysis shows that the average sale price of a home in Calabasas was $1.775M last month, up 12.8% since last year. The average price per square foot in Calabasas is $671, up 5.4% since last year.
Q. How do I choose the right neighborhood in Calabasas?
A. Choosing the right neighborhood in Calabasas depends on your lifestyle and priorities. If privacy and space are your top concerns, consider gated communities like Hidden Hills or The Oaks. For a more community-oriented feel with excellent schools, look into Calabasas Park Estates. If you want to be close to shopping and dining, areas near The Commons might be your best bet. It’s always a good idea to spend time in different neighborhoods and talk to local residents before making a decision.
The City of Calabasas website provides detailed information about each neighborhood, including amenities, schools, and local attractions.
Q. What are the benefits of living in a gated community in Calabasas?
A. Gated communities in Calabasas offer several benefits:
- Enhanced security and privacy
- Exclusive amenities like private parks, tennis courts, and community centers
- Often larger lot sizes and more spacious homes
- A strong sense of community among residents
- Potential for higher property values and appreciation
However, keep in mind that these communities often come with higher HOA fees and more stringent rules about property modifications and usage.
According to Frontgate Real Estate, gated communities in Calabasas like The Oaks and Mountain View Estates offer some of the most luxurious and secure living environments in Southern California.
Q. How’s the commute from Calabasas to Los Angeles?
A. The commute from Calabasas to Los Angeles can vary greatly depending on traffic and your specific destination in LA. On average, you’re looking at about 30-45 minutes to downtown LA without heavy traffic. However, during peak hours, this can easily double. Many residents find the trade-off worth it for the quality of life Calabasas offers. Plus, with the rise of remote work, many Calabasas residents are finding they need to make the commute less frequently.
Google Maps estimates that the drive from Calabasas to downtown Los Angeles is approximately 30 miles and can take anywhere from 40 minutes to over an hour, depending on traffic conditions.
Q. What makes Calabasas schools so special?
A. Calabasas is served by the Las Virgenes Unified School District, known for its excellent academic programs. Key factors include:
- High graduation rates (97% at Calabasas High School)
- Strong AP and honors programs
- Robust arts and music education
- Well-funded extracurricular activities
- Small class sizes and high parent involvement
Additionally, the district benefits from strong community support and funding, allowing for state-of-the-art facilities and resources.
The California Department of Education reports that Las Virgenes Unified School District consistently ranks among the top districts in the state for academic performance and college readiness.
Q. Is Calabasas only for celebrities and the ultra-wealthy?
A. While Calabasas is known for its celebrity residents and luxury homes, it’s not exclusively for the ultra-wealthy. The community includes a range of housing options and price points, especially in areas like Old Calabasas or some of the condo developments. However, it’s fair to say that Calabasas is generally an affluent area, with a higher cost of living compared to many other Los Angeles suburbs.
The U.S. Census Bureau reports that while the median household income in Calabasas is significantly higher than the national average, there is still a range of income levels represented in the community.
Q. What’s the weather like in Calabasas?
A. Calabasas enjoys a Mediterranean climate, characterized by warm, dry summers and mild winters. Temperatures typically range from the mid-60s to mid-80s Fahrenheit (18-30°C) for much of the year. Winters are mild, with temperatures rarely dropping below 50°F (10°C). The area receives most of its rainfall between November and April, but enjoys abundant sunshine year-round.
According to Weather.com, Calabasas averages 287 sunny days per year, well above the U.S. average of 205 sunny days.
Remember, when it comes to Calabasas real estate, knowledge is power. Don’t hesitate to reach out to local experts for more specific information tailored to your needs. Your dream home in Calabasas is out there – it’s just a matter of finding it.