The City of Altadena is situated at the base of the majestic San Gabriel Mountains, just north of Pasadena and west of La Cañada Flintridge. The city is right along the foothills of the mountain and has a rich community history.

Where City Meets Nature

Altadena offers a unique blend of wilderness and suburban sprawl, with pockets of homes and businesses surrounded by untouched natural land. You find gorgeous views in every direction, from the mountains behind the city to the views of Los Angeles and the rest of the San Gabriel Valley below.

Altadena has an independent spirit and a tight-knit community feel that sets it apart from it’s neighbor to the south. The name “Altadena” derives from the Spanish word “alta” meaning “high” and the “dena” referring to it’s northern bearing from Pasadena. The word “dena” also means welcome in Spanish, which is also very fitting for this city.

The other three sides of Altadena are bounded by beautiful wilderness areas, including the Arroyo Seco, the Angeles National Forest and Eaton Canyon. These protected natural surroundings keep Altadena from ever growing too big and maintaining its independent community spirit.

Altadena Land History

Starting in the 1890s and through the 1920s, Altadena land was bought by by ranchers. They grew grapes, oranges and walnuts. Over time, Midwestern business magnates began to flock to this area. They built grand retirement homes along Mariposa Street and helped make this one of Southern California’s most desirable locations.

Altadena’s land continued to fill up fast, especially after World War II. The population reached over 40,000 by the 1940s. Based on the 2010 census, the current population sits at just over 42,000. The city grew fast in its early days, but hasn’t expanded much since because of the natural boundaries.

A Great Place to Call Home

Residents enjoy Altadena’s incredible hiking trails, quaint feel and seclusion above the hustle and bustle of Pasadena, Los Angeles and surrounding Southern California cities.

Check out my “Get to Know Altadena, California” video below:

Also, be sure and watch my other videos about all the great things found in and around Altadena.

Altadena Schools & Education:

Altadena Shopping & Entertainment:

Altadena Lifestyle:

To learn more about Altadena, search for current listings in this community or to sell your Altadena home, contact The Durkovic Group today for a no-obligation real estate consultation.