Pasadena is one of the most desirable locations in all of Southern California, with people continually moving here from the Bay Area to New York and everywhere in between. Others moved here decades ago or grew up in the city and can’t imagine leaving. If you’re thinking about relocating to Pasadena, here are 10 reasons that will reinforce your decision.

1. Reduced driving 

The walkability of Old Town Pasadena is a huge draw for those buying a home in the area. From new communities like Villas at The Ambassador Gardens, you can walk to an abundance of great restaurants, Pasadena’s best shopping, bars and cafes, the movies, museums—and that’s just the beginning.

2. Great dining and shopping

That means being able to enjoy Pasadena’s vibrant dining scene, with some of the most acclaimed restaurants in all of Greater Los Angeles, and then walk off dessert on your return home. Here in Old Town, you’ll find great brunch spots, local favorites, quick bites, charming alfresco options, and fine dining. Being able to step out your door and be at your favorite place within a matter of minutes is a pleasure; many of Old Town Pasadena’s favorite restaurants are within walking distance of communities like Villas at The Ambassador Gardens.

The same is true of shopping; Colorado Boulevard and One Colorado are just two of the shopping meccas right in the heart of Old Town and within walking distance of Villas.

Historic City Hall is just one of the many places those who live in and are relocating to Pasadena both appreciate.

Historic City Hall is just one of the many places those who live in and are relocating to Pasadena both appreciate.

3. So much culture you might never need to leave Pasadena

Spend a day at the Norton Simon Museum of Art, the Pasadena Museum of History, the Pacific Asia Museum, or the Pasadena Museum of California. Go see a play at the Pasadena Playhouse, or take a quick stroll to City Hall and study the architecture that helped put this amazing Mediterranean building on the National Register of Historic Places. The culture is rich here in Old Town Pasadena.

4. You’ll never lack for something great to do

Beyond dining, shopping, and trips to one of the area’s noted museums, activities and events in Pasadena keep residents engaged. Artists’ showcases, outdoor movie nights, live music, and talks from captains of business and industry are just a few of the events that take place in Pasadena through the year.

5. You’ll love the weather

If you’re moving from the Bay Area, you can say goodbye to those thick pockets of fog. Relocating to Pasadena from New York? Blistering cold and snow are in your rearview mirror. One of the most desirable locations in all of greater Southern California also has that quintessential California weather, so don’t forget to pack your sunglasses!

6. You might be surprised by the natural beauty

Already familiar with Descanso Gardens, The Huntington Library, and Eaton Canyon? These area hotspots are well-known for their natural beauty. Ambassador Gardens is a hidden treasure right in the middle of the city, and those who live at Villas get to enjoy it every day. The historic beauty of Ambassador Gardens envelopes owners in its exquisite, century-old grounds with acres of rolling lawns, meandering walkways, towering trees, lush gardens, and bubbling fountains and streams.

7. You’ll be surrounded by some of the smartest people in the world

Pasadena is a thriving employment hub populated by hi-tech companies like Caltech, Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), and Jacobs Engineering Group. Don’t be surprised to find professors and world-renowned scientists among your neighbors.

8. When you do use your car, you’ll love being so convenient to everything

Pasadena offers an ideal location that puts multiple area work centers within easy reach. From here, everything from downtown L.A. to the San Fernando Valley is easily accessible. Also, when relocating to Pasadena, be sure to pay attention to parking, as spots can be scarce. Villas at The Ambassador Gardens offers a four-car garage for each unit.

9. Elevators, elevators, elevators

One of the most popular trends in luxury real estate in Pasadena is luxury townhomes with private, in-unit elevators. Beloved by everyone from families to retirees who want to be able to live in high style in the heart of Old Town Pasadena, these townhomes offer everything today’s luxury homebuyers are looking for, and more, without the one thing they want to leave behind: stairs.

Elevators are just the start of the high-end features found in communities like Villas. These new townhomes offer three signature floorplan designs that live like luxurious single-family residences, with open-plan designs and three to four bedrooms in 2,904 to 3,717 square feet. Gourmet kitchens feature European cabinetry, Caesarstone countertops, and Wolf® and Subzero® appliances. Each unit also features a great room, formal dining room, and private outdoor or rooftop terrace. Prices are from $2 million.

10. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself buying one of these luxury condos

With so many reasons to enjoy the lock-and-leave luxury of new-home communities like Villas at The Ambassador Gardens, it’s no wonder this new-home trend is so popular in Southern California. It’s a trend real estate agents like Joe Reichling of the Bryant Reichling Team of Sotheby’s International Realty is seeing, “with an influx of buyers from San Francisco and New York,” largely comprised of “four groups— media, tech, fashion and entertainment,” said Reichling on Mansion Global.

For more information about relocating to Pasadena and buying a luxury townhome in Old Town, visit Villas at The Ambassador Gardens. Click here to be added to the VIP Interest List.