Are you moving to Pasadena, CA? We’ll tell you the pros and cons of moving to Pasadena from other cities like Long Beach or Santa Monica.
Pasadena offers a rich cultural scene, top-tier higher education, diverse dining and shopping, and plenty of outdoor activities. However, Pasadena has a higher cost of living, traffic challenges, and high demand and limited supply of homes than some of the nearby cities.
Pros of Living in Pasadena, CA
Pasadena’s Mild Climate
Pasadena’s pleasant weather is a pro of living in Pasadena. The average weather temperature in Pasadena is about 69 degrees Fahrenheit (21 degrees Celsius). Pasadena summers are hotter, with temperatures averaging the high 90s (around 37 degrees Celsius). Pasadena winters are pleasant, with temperatures rarely dropping below 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius).
Pasadena’s climate is excellent for seniors
Pasadena’s consistent mild temperatures reduce the health risks associated with extreme weather, allowing seniors to maintain an active outdoor lifestyle year-round. Also, the absence of harsh winters and excessive humidity provides comfort and eases conditions like arthritis, which colder or overly damp environments can aggravate.
Low Humidity: Pasadena has relatively low humidity levels throughout the year, which can benefit seniors. High humidity can make it difficult for seniors to regulate body temperature, leading to discomfort and potential health issues. The drier climate in Pasadena can be more comfortable for seniors, especially those with respiratory conditions.
Abundant Sunshine: Pasadena receives tons of sunshine throughout the year, with an average of around 280 sunny days annually. Sunlight provides numerous benefits for seniors, including mood improvement, increased vitamin D production, and enhanced overall well-being. The sunny weather in Pasadena allows seniors to participate in outdoor activities and encourages an active lifestyle.
Pasadena’s Rich Cultural Scene
Pasadena has a vibrant cultural scene offers a wide range of artistic and cultural experiences. Here are some of the highlights:
Pasadena Museums
Pasadena’s museums are world-renowned and offer diverse exhibits and collections. Pasadena museums include the Norton Simon Museum, which houses a world-renowned collection of art from Europe and Asia, the USC Pacific Asia Museum, which showcases the art and culture of Asia and the Pacific Islands, Kidspace Museum; and the Pasadena History Museum.
Pasadena Public Art Installations
Pasadena’s art installations are located throughout the city. Art installations include sculptures and murals.
Pasadena Theaters
Pasadena’s theaters, the Pasadena Playhouse, and the Boston Court Performing Arts Center are renowned for their world-class performances and commitment to artistic excellence.
The Pasadena Playhouse is one of the country’s oldest and most respected theaters and has hosted Broadway-quality performances since 1917.
The Boston Court Performing Arts Center is known for its cutting-edge productions, pushing traditional theater boundaries and showcasing emerging artists’ talents.
Pasadena Music Festivals
Pasadena’s music scene is vibrant and diverse, with various venues and events catering to all musical tastes. From the world-renowned Pasadena Symphony and POPS to the intimate music and the park performances at Pasadena parks, there is always something happening in Pasadena’s music scene.
Pasadena also hosts music festivals, such as the Pasadena Jazz Fest. Music festivals are often held at the Rose Bowl Stadium.
Pasadena’s One Colorado hosts concerts sponsored by KCRW during the summer. The Pasadena Symphony and POPS offer a variety of classical and popular music performances throughout the year at Pasadena City Hall.
Military Jet Flyovers during the Rose Bowl Parade and Rose Bowl game
At the start of the Rose Bowl Parade there is often a military flyover, which often features Stealth Bombers and historic aircraft like the World War II-era T-6 planes. The military flyover brings a sense of national pride and tribute, making it a memorable part of the overall Rose Parade experience.
Military planes that have flown over Pasadena
- B-2 Spirit Stealth Bomber: This stealth bomber has been a regular feature at the Rose Bowl’s Tournament of Roses since 2005, symbolizing the connection between the military and the community. The B-2 flyover is a highly anticipated part of the event.
- B-1 Bombers: In 2023, when the B-2 fleet was grounded, B-1 bombers performed the flyover duties for the Rose Bowl.
- World War II T-6 Planes: Operated by the Condor Squadron, these planes have been used for Veterans Day flyovers in Pasadena, as part of Pasadena’s tribute to veterans.
These flyovers, especially at high-profile events like the Rose Parade and Rose Bowl games, are significant displays of military heritage and capabilities, as well as a tribute to service members
Pasadena Festivals
Pasadena hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Pasadena Chalk Festival, which features detailed sidewalk chalk art, and the Pasadena International Film Festival, which showcases independent films from around the world.
Pasadena Architecture
Pasadena’s architecture uniquely blends historic and modern styles that reflect the city’s rich cultural heritage and contemporary artistic vision.
Pasadena’s historic architecture features Victorian, Craftsman, Tudor, Bungalow, and Spanish Colonial Revival styles.
Architecture of Pasadena’s neighborhoods
Craftsman: The Craftsman-style home is one of Pasadena’s most iconic architectural styles. These homes are characterized by their low-pitched roofs, wide front porches, and exposed rafters.
Mediterranean Revival: Mediterranean Revival homes are typical in Pasadena’s older neighborhoods. These homes feature stucco exteriors, red tile roofs, and arched windows and doorways.
Colonial Revival: Colonial Revival homes are popular in many of Pasadena’s historic neighborhoods. These homes are characterized by their symmetrical designs, columns, and pediments.
Spanish Colonial: Spanish Colonial homes are similar to Mediterranean Revival homes but often feature ornate details, such as wrought-iron balconies and decorative tile work.
Victorian: Victorian homes are less common in Pasadena but in some of the city’s older neighborhoods. These homes are known for their ornate details, such as gingerbread trim, stained glass windows, and decorative shingles.
Pasadena Elite Universities
Pasadena is the home of Caltech, a globally recognized institution. Pasadena is also home to the esteemed ArtCenter College of Design. Many ArtCenter graduates work for Disney, Pixar, Netflix, and advertising agencies.
Pasadena Historic Brick Buildings
Pasadena’s brick buildings are important to the city’s history and architecture. The historic buildings were built during a time when Pasadena was growing quickly. Despite facing earthquakes and fires, these buildings have survived and are used today as homes for businesses, shops, and restaurants.
Proximity to NASA JPL
Pasadena’s west neighborhoods are a few miles from the NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), a space exploration and innovation hub. NASA PL offers free tours once a month and a weekend of free activities during the summer.
Business opportunities for entrepreneurs
Pasadena is a great place for entrepreneurs to start or grow their businesses.
Pasadena offers many business opportunities. Companies like KROQ, Trader Joes, Green Dot, and IdeaLab were launched in Pasadena. Pasadena has also been the headquarters of many companies, including eHarmony and Earthlink.
Family-friendly events during Halloween and Christmas
Halloween in Pasadena is fun! From haunted walking tours in Old Town and trick-or-treating to pumpkin carving, Pasadena has something for everyone.
Christmas in Pasadena is also fun! Experience the festive spirit of Christmas in Pasadena with various activities to enjoy. Take part in tree lighting ceremonies (Paseo Colorado, One Colorado, and Pasadena City Hall), snap pictures with Santa, listen to holiday carolers, go on carriage rides on South Lake Ave, look at the Christmas tree lights at Christmas Tree Lane (in Altadena), and attend performances at the Pasadena Playhouse and Pasadena Civic Center.
Diverse Dining and Shopping in Old Town Pasadena
Japanese restaurants in Pasadena
Japanese cuisine is known for its emphasis on fresh, high-quality ingredients, simple preparation techniques, and beautiful presentation. Some popular Japanese dishes that can be found in Pasadena include:
Sushi: A dish made with vinegared rice and various raw or cooked seafood, often served with soy sauce and wasabi.
Ramen: A hearty noodle soup made with wheat noodles, a savory broth, and various toppings such as sliced pork, bamboo shoots, and soft-boiled eggs.
Tempura: A dish made with battered and deep-fried seafood, vegetables, and other ingredients.
Bento Boxes: A boxed lunch consisting of rice, meat or fish, vegetables, and other sides.
Yakitori: Skewered and grilled chicken, often seasoned with soy sauce, salt, or other seasonings.
Mexican restaurants in Pasadena
Pasadena has several Mexican restaurants and street vendors that sell tacos, mulitas, papa rellenas, and horchata. The street vendors are transitory and frequently change locations.
Indian Restaurants in Pasadena
Pasadena offers many Indian food options for those seeking authentic cuisine. From classic dishes like butter chicken and biryani to vegetarian options like paneer tikka masala and samosas, there’s something for everyone in Pasadena’s Indian restaurants.
Butter chicken: A classic Indian dish made with marinated chicken cooked in a creamy tomato sauce, flavored with spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala.
Biryani: A fragrant rice dish made with basmati rice, meat (usually chicken or lamb), and a blend of aromatic spices like saffron, cardamom, and cinnamon.
Lamb vindaloo: A spicy curry made with lamb, vinegar, and aromatic spices, including cumin, coriander, and chili peppers.
Paneer tikka masala: A vegetarian dish made with grilled paneer (Indian cheese) cooked in a creamy tomato sauce, flavored with spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric.
Samosas: A popular Indian snack with a crispy pastry shell filled with spiced potatoes, peas, and sometimes meat.
Naan: A leavened flatbread made with flour, yeast, and milk, typically cooked in a tandoor oven and served hot with various Indian dishes. Our favorite is Garlic naan.
Classic American food in Pasadena
Pasadena is the birthplace of the cheeseburger. In 1924, a young chef named Lionel Sternberger worked at a local restaurant called The Rite Spot where he experimented with a new dish. He added a slice of cheese to a traditional hamburger and served it to a customer who loved it. The cheeseburger quickly became a popular menu item at The Rite Spot and other restaurants around Pasadena and eventually spread throughout the U.S.
Armenian food in Pasadena
Pasadena is home to a large Armenian community, and as a result, you can find various stores and restaurants that sell Armenian foods.
Some popular Armenian dishes that can be found in Pasadena include:
Lahmajoun: A thin, crispy flatbread topped with a flavorful mixture of minced meat, vegetables, and spices.
Kebabs: Grilled skewers of marinated meat, typically beef or lamb, served with rice, salad, and flatbread.
Dolma: Grape leaves stuffed with rice, herbs, and sometimes meat, served with a tangy yogurt sauce.
Khash: A hearty soup made from cow or sheep feet, traditionally served with garlic, vinegar, and flatbread.
Baklava: A sweet pastry made with layers of phyllo dough, chopped nuts, and honey syrup.
Chinese foods in Pasadena
Pasadena has a thriving Chinese food scene, and many restaurants in the city serve authentic Chinese cuisine. Chinese cuisine is known for its bold flavors, use of fresh ingredients, and emphasis on balance and harmony between different flavors and textures. Some popular Chinese dishes that can be found in Pasadena include:
Dim Sum: A variety of small, bite-sized dishes served in bamboo steamers, such as dumplings, buns, and rolls.
Hot Pot: A communal dish where diners cook raw ingredients, such as meat, seafood, and vegetables, in a boiling pot of broth.
Kung Pao Chicken: A spicy stir-fry dish made with diced chicken, peanuts, vegetables, and chili peppers.
Mapo Tofu: A spicy Sichuan dish with soft tofu, ground pork, and chili bean paste.
Xiao Long Bao: Steamed soup dumplings filled with savory meat and broth.
Thai restaurants in Pasadena
Thai cuisine is also a popular choice among foodies in Pasadena.
Pasadena is home to several authentic Thai restaurants. Pasadena’s Thai restaurants offer a variety of dishes ranging from the ever-popular Pad Thai and Crab Fried Rice to Som Tum (green papaya salad) and Laab (minced meat salad).
Thai cuisine is known for its bold flavors, fresh herbs and spices used, and emphasis on balance between sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors. Some popular Thai dishes that can be found in Pasadena include:
Pad Thai: A stir-fried noodle dish made with rice noodles, vegetables, eggs, and often shrimp or chicken.
Tom Yum: A spicy and sour soup made with shrimp, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and other herbs and spices.
Green Curry: A curry made with green chili peppers, coconut milk, and various meats or vegetables.
Papaya Salad: A refreshing salad with shredded green papaya, tomatoes, and a spicy dressing.
Mango Sticky Rice: A dessert made with sweet sticky rice, fresh mango slices, and coconut milk.
Crab Fried Rice is a flavorful Thai dish from stir-fried jasmine rice and fresh crab meat, vegetables, and seasoning.
Indonesian restaurants in Pasadena
Indonesian cuisine is not as widely available in Pasadena as other types of cuisine, but a few restaurants in the area serve authentic Indonesian dishes. Some popular Indonesian dishes that can be found in Pasadena include:
Nasi Goreng: A fried rice dish with shrimp paste, sweet soy sauce, and various meats and vegetables.
Satay: Skewered and grilled meat, often served with peanut sauce.
Gado-gado is a salad with boiled vegetables, tofu, and a peanut sauce dressing.
Rendang: A spicy meat dish made with beef or chicken and a rich, flavorful sauce.
Soto: A soup made with chicken or beef broth, vegetables, spices, and herbs.
Farmers’ Markets in Pasadena
Pasadena has 2 farmers’ markets, held on Saturday and Tuesday. Saturday’s Farmer’s Market is located at Victory Park and is one of the largest in the area. Tuesday’s Farmer’s market is much smaller, with about eight vendors.
Specialty Food Shops in Pasadena
Pasadena’s Armenian and Indian specialty stores provide unique ingredients like animal organs and hard-to-find spices.
Outdoor Activities in Pasadena
Pasadena is less than 10 minutes from the San Gabriel Mountains hiking trails. Some common hiking trails are Echo Mountain Trail and Eaton Canyon Trail. Most Pasadena parks also have outdoor exercise equipment for kids and adults.
Pasadena is home to one of California’s four fly-fishing pools. The fly-fishing pool is located at the Pasadena Casting Club. Pasadena also has an archery range in the Lower Arroyo Seco. The archery range is open every day of the week from sunrise to sunset, except for Saturdays and Sundays, when it is reserved until 2:30 PM for Pasadena Rover Association archery instruction and tournaments.
Community Safety and Spirit
Pasadena is one of the safest cities in the Los Angeles area. Some of Pasadena’s neighborhoods have a strong community feel and a friendly vibe.
Historical Buildings
Pasadena’s homes, buildings, and public structures are listed in the California Historical Record. If you love historical buildings, there are several in Pasadena.
Increasing Property Values for Homeowners
Pasadena real estate is a great investment option. The value of Pasadena’s real estate has skyrocketed in the last ten years.
Multi-zone Land Use
Pasadena’s multi-land promotes sustainable development and enhances the quality of life for residents.
Pasadena’s multi-land use fosters more walkable and bikeable neighborhoods, reduces traffic congestion and air pollution, and improves access to essential services and amenities. For example, by locating residential areas near commercial centers and public transportation, residents can easily access shopping, dining, and entertainment options without relying on cars.
Proximity to Los Angeles and Burbank
Pasadena is close to Los Angeles and is a quick drive away from Burbank’s entertainment studios Disney, Universal, and Warner Bros. Pasadena’s public transportation system connects you to Los Angeles, Glendale, LAX, Santa Monica, and other cities.
Movie Scout Rentals in Pasadena
Many movies and television shows are filmed in Pasadena. Given Pasadena’s proximity to Los Angeles, its unique architecture, and scenic beauty, many movie scouts and location managers frequently seek homes in the area for film and TV productions.
Prime Location: Pasadena’s proximity to Los Angeles makes it a sought-after city for film and TV productions.
Unique Architecture: Pasadena’s diverse architectural styles attract location managers scouting for the perfect setting.
Rental Income: Homeowners can earn significant income by renting out their properties for shoots.
Diverse Wildlife
Pasadena has a diversity of wildlife. Residents and visitors can occasionally spot various bird species, squirrels, bats, raccoons, possums, bobcats, bears, and coyotes.
Free Summer Activities in Pasadena
Music Under the Stars: Annual performances by local bands and artists in Pasadena’s public parks.
Pasadena Chalk Festival: Artists showcase their talents, turning sidewalks into vibrant canvases at this popular street art event.
Movies in the Park: Enjoy family-friendly movies outdoors in various Pasadena parks.
One Colorado Events: This historic block in Pasadena often hosts free events, from live music to KCRW-sponsored concerts and family activities.
Playhouse Block Party: A celebration of the arts with live music, food, and interactive booths in the iconic Playhouse District.
Pasadena Museum Days: Most of Pasadena’s museums in the city offer free admission days during the summer, perfect for both locals and tourists.
Good Public Transportation System
Pasadena has a Metro Rail, Bus, and Dash system. Pasadena residents can take the Metro Rail to Long Beach, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, LAX, and many tourist destinations.
Diverse Educational Options in Pasadena for K-12:
Public Schools in Pasadena
Pasadena Unified School District’s public schools offer a well-rounded education, multiple electives, various extracurricular activities, and specialized programs that cater to different student needs.
Charter Schools in Pasadena
Unique Curriculum: Pasadena charter schools often have specialized curricula tailored to specific themes or teaching methodologies.
Autonomy: Pasadena Charter schools operate more flexibly regarding curriculum choices, staffing, and budgeting.
Innovation: Pasadena charter schools are autonomous and often have innovative teaching methods and programs.
Private Schools in Pasadena
Faith-based Education: Pasadena’s religious schools offer values-based education alongside a standard curriculum.
Specialized Focus: Pasadena private schools offer specific programs like advanced academics, arts, or other specialized fields.
Small Class Sizes: Private schools in Pasadena often feature smaller class sizes, ensuring personalized attention for students.
Alternative Education in Pasadena
Pasadena has alternate education institutions that cater to students who thrive in non-traditional educational settings, such as Montessori or Waldorf schools.
Cons of living in Pasadena, CA
Pasadena’s Cost of Living
Pasadena’s cost of living is higher than most neighboring cities (Burbank, Glendale, East Los Angeles).
Traffic Challenges
Pasadena’s 210 and 110 freeways become very congested when people drive to and from work.
Rose Bowl Congestion
Pasadena streets become congested when the Rose Bowl hosts UCLA football home games, the Rose Bowl Game, and major music concerts. These events cause significant traffic congestion in Pasadena streets and neighborhoods.
Residents of District 1 are given a resident pass that allows them to bypass Rose Bowl traffic. Occasionally, they’ll also receive free tickets to events at the Rose Bowl.
Air Quality Concerns
Pasadena air becomes extremely smoggy, especially during the fire season. Consider investing in an air purifier to improve air quality in your home.
Risks of Nearby Wildfires
Pasadena’s closeness to the San Gabriel Mountains heightens the risk of fire and smokey air. Wildfire season is year-long.
Occasional Earthquakes
Pasadena is located near many of California’s earthquake fault lines. Pasadena residents will be alerted of an earthquake via a text message to their phones. Getting a NOOA weather radio and earthquake alerts directly from California Earthquake Alerts is also a good idea.
Pasadena schools have earthquake drills to prepare students and staff for earthquakes. During an earthquake drill, students and staff practice what to do, including dropping to the ground, taking cover under a desk or table, and holding on until the shaking stops.
FAQ Pros and Cons of Living in Pasadena
Q: What are the pros of living in Pasadena, CA?
A: Pasadena offers a high quality of life, great weather, and easy access to a big city’s amenities. Its location close to Los Angeles and many great schools makes it an ideal place for families with children.
Q: What are the cons of living in Pasadena, CA?
A: The high cost of living and traffic issues can be a downside for some. Pasadena is an expensive city with high housing costs and living costs. Additionally, traffic can be a problem in Pasadena, especially during rush hour.
Q: Is Pasadena a safe place to live?
A: Yes, Pasadena is generally a safe place to live. However, like any city, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure your safety.
Q: What is the weather like in Pasadena?
A: Pasadena has a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and warm summers. Pasadena’s mild climate makes it a great place to live for those who enjoy spending time outdoors.
Q: Are there cultural attractions in Pasadena?
A: Yes, Pasadena has many cultural attractions, including museums, public art installations, and historic architecture. It is also home to the famous Rose Bowl and the annual Rose Parade.
Q: Is Pasadena a good place to raise a family?
A: Yes, Pasadena is a great place to raise a family. It offers many great schools, parks, and family-friendly activities. However, the high cost of living may be a barrier for some families.
Q: What is the transportation like in Pasadena?
A: Pasadena has a good public transportation system, including buses and light rail. However, traffic can be a problem, especially during rush hour. It is also a car-dependent city, so owning a car is necessary for most residents.
Q: Why move to Pasadena?
A: Move to Pasadena because it has low crime rates, increasing home values, a strong economy, safe family activities, and a rich culture and arts scene.
Q: What is the population of Pasadena
A: As of 2020, the population of Pasadena is approximately 141,371.
Q: What is the racial makeup of Pasadena?
A: Pasadena has a diverse population, with a mix of ethnic and racial groups. As of the latest census, the racial makeup of Pasadena was 45.8% White, 33.2% Hispanic or Latino, 11.8% African American, 16.3% Asian, and 0.3% Native American. Additionally, the city has a significant multiracial population, with 5.1% of residents identifying as two or more races.
Q: What is the median age of Pasadena residents?
A: The median age of Pasadena residents is 38.3 years old.
Q: What percentage of Pasadena residents are 65 years or older?
A: Pasadena has a relatively high percentage of residents who are 65 years or older, at 14.5%.
Q: What percentage of Pasadena residents are between 18 and 34?
A: Pasadena has many young adults, with 29.3% of residents between 18 and 34.
Q: Is Pasadena a diverse city?
A: Yes, Pasadena is a diverse and vibrant city with a mix of ethnic and age groups. Pasadena’s diverse population contributes to the city’s rich cultural heritage, making it an exciting and dynamic place to live and visit.
Pros and Cons of Living in Pasadena
Considering a move to Pasadena, CA? Pasadena offers increasing property values for homeowners, beautiful architecture, a vibrant cultural scene, diverse educational settings, and diverse wildlife. However, you must also consider wildfires, earthquakes, and freeway traffic.
