Pasadena

About Pasadena

Nestled at the foot of the picturesque San Gabriel Mountains in northeastern Los Angeles County, Pasadena is a culturally diverse city that's probably best known as the home of the Rose Bowl and the yearly Tournament of Roses parade. With its mild climate, charming Old Town district and vibrant performing arts scene, Pasadena is one of the most livable (albeit expensive) cities in Southern California.

Living in Pasadena Is Expensive

All that charm and beauty doesn't come cheap. Pasadena has a cost of living that's twice the national average—with housing being the biggest culprit. Fortunately, other expenses in the area are more moderate. Health care, utilities and transportation are just 11 percent higher than average for the United States, and groceries are only about 10 percent more expensive. If you're moving to Pasadena from a similarly affluent area, you'll find expenses in line with what you're used to. California's overall cost of living is above average as well, so long-time residents of nearby areas may find local expenses fairly standard.

Pasadena Neighborhoods

Here are just a few of the neighborhoods you'll want to check out when you're in Pasadena:

Bungalow Heaven

With its picturesque tree-lined streets and classic American Craftsman-style homes, the Bungalow Heaven neighborhood was designated a Landmark District in 1989. If you're a fan of architecture, be sure to check out this area.

Old Town Pasadena

Old Town Pasadena is the lively and diverse center of the city, with a variety of shopping, dining and entertainment options. From Huntington Gardens to the Norton Simon Museum, there's always something to do in Old Town.

Orange Heights

The first neighborhood in Pasadena to be added to the National Register of Historic Places, Orange Heights' terraced yards and tree-lined streets were home to some of Pasadena's most prominent citizens.

Oak Knoll

Developed as a corporate partnership in 1905, Oak Knoll is an upscale area that's one of the oldest neighborhoods in Pasadena.

Pasadena School Options

Pasadena Unified School District includes more than a dozen public schools and many more private schools. It also supports a couple of public alternative schools in a town that prefers options in education.

Pasadena Moving Tips

If you're relocating to Pasadena, you can streamline your move with these quick tips:

• Water and Power: City of Pasadena, Municipal Services provides electric and water services.
• Voting: There is no waiting period for voter registration, so take care of this task as soon as you can. To vote in an election, you must register at least 15 days before Election Day.
• Trash and Recycling: The City of Pasadena offers street pick-up for waste and recycling. Residents can enroll in the Pay-As-You-Throw program, which charges based on your refuse amounts and encourages recycling.
• Pet Licensing: All dog owners must renew pet licenses annually.
• Parking Permits: On-street parking permits are offered annually or temporarily to suit your needs.