Arcadia
Real Estate Analysis
Incorporated into a city in 1903, the small city had around 500 residents, and it’s economy was based entirely on entertainment, sporting, and gambling opportunities. The said gambling opportunities would turn out to be an early version of the Santa Anita racing track.
Home to the Westfield Santa Anita Mall, Arcadia has driven it’s economy from wholesale trade, retail trading, and much more. In fact, the race track has funded for much of Arcadia’s development, that the city has very little bonded indebtedness.
Located further east of Los Angeles, Arcadia remains a highly desirable luxury city in the San Gabriel Valley. In 2016, a quick Arcadia real estate analysis by Business Insider ranked the city as the 5th most expensive city in the United States. Yet, the city still maintains outrageously high levels of demand due to it’s school district, location, and safety of it’s neighborhoods.
The Arcadia Real Estate Market: Trends You Need to Know
As of 2025, the Arcadia real estate market especially stands out in the SGV. The city is considered to be a luxury market, with the average home price currently around $1,406,000. It’s a common dream for many residents of the SGV to eventually own a home in Arcadia. Known for it’s lavish lifestyle, homes in this city tend to be placed on bigger lots, with more square footage, and tucked away in quiet tree lined streets
Current July 2025 trends show:
High Increase in demand for Single Family Homes
Increase in Investor Demand for Single Family Homes (Cash investors buying property to rent out long term)
Lots of New Construction Townhomes being Built (More affordable housing options when compared to Single Family Homes)
Homes selling well above market value
Slight increase for days on market for the average listings (Implying slightly better conditions for buyers)
Working With Experienced Arcadia Real Estate Agents
Arcadia is without a doubt one of the most competitive markets to be in, not just in the San Gabriel Valley, but in the entire Los Angeles County. You are likely navigating between multiple all cash offers, and motivated buyers with tons of cash on hand. This rings even more true when you realize 10% of homes are sold off market. That’s through connections, or purely just investors making offers to homeowners.
If you want even a sliver of a chance to find and secure a highly desirable home in a desirable neighborhood in Arcadia, you need somebody who not only knows the market inside out, but also has the connections with other agents/homeowners to secure your offer from getting accepted. Getting a local agent in Arcadia is almost not even an option, it’s a must. Find the most qualified experienced agent you can get, and ensure you are in good hands.
Pro Tip : That doesn’t mean you don’t need a local agent when it comes to selling. Having a local agent makes all the difference when selling in Arcadia, because they are more likely to be aware of grants/programs that encourage more buyers to offer on your property. Any agent can sell your home, but the best agent can ensure you sell for the most possible amount.
What is There To Do in Arcadia
Arcadia has tons in store for you to do. Whether you are with family, or looking for a romantic night out with your partner, Arcadia has it and so much more!
Local Highlights:
Westfield Santa Anita Mall – A must for anyone visiting the San Gabriel Valley, this mall has everything for everyone. Some of the best food you’ll find in the city, all tucked away with a Dave n Busters and an AMC Theatre.
Santa Anita Race Track – Spend some time in the park, get some drinks and test your luck making bets the old school way. One of the few places that still does horse race betting. Multiple events are held at this location throughout the year.
LA County Arboretum – 127 acres of pure nature getaway, in the middle of the city. Explore botanical gardens, mini waterfalls, and so much more!
Dining & Food Scene
Don’t be surprised if all of the food spots listed here are from Santa Anita Mall. It truly does offer some of the best restaurants Arcadia has to offer. Don’t forget that there are hidden local classics littered all over the city!
Must-try spots include:
Marugame Udon – A newer chain that just recently opened it’s doors, Marugame has quickly earned it’s spot as a go-to for all visitors of the Mall. Cheap, but tasty udon that is perfect on a chilly night out.
Din Tai Fung – A classic that probably sounds familiar. Needs no introduction, juicy filled soup dumplings that are enjoyed international by all.
Ramen Nagi – Another chain that just recently opened it’s doors. Expect a long line but well worth it, stepping through it’s doors is like stepping into a time capsule that’ll transport you straight to Japan. Oh yeah, and their Ramen is great 🙂
FAQs
What neighborhood is most affordable in Arcadia?
There isn’t an official name, but the southern most part of Arcadia is the most affordable in the entire city. This is because the school district of these homes is El Monte, and not Arcadia unified.
Is the School District Good?
The real reason why Arcadia is so expensive to live in is it’s school district. Arcadia Unified is recognized as the #1 school district in the Los Angeles County, and has been consistently ranked as a top 1% of school districts in the entire United States.
Is Arcadia expensive to live in?
Arcadia is one of the most expensive areas to live in, although almost on par with other areas like S Pasadena. However, it’s not just randomly expensive, the school district and many other amenities such as the mall make up for the prices.
How walkable is Arcadia?
Arcadia is generally not the most walkable city, most errands probably require a car, however certain areas of the city may receive a walkability score of 80+.
Thinking About Making a Move?
If you’re considering buying or selling in Arcadia, now may be the right time for you (what else did you expect me to say, I am a realtor lol). Connect with a local real estate agent who understands the market, the community, and how to help you reach your real estate goals.
I mean afterall, I was born and raised in Monterey Park and half of my friends in Highschool come from Arcadia Unified, I know this area like the back of my hand.
