Let the numbers do the talking.
Highland Park, CA vs Pasadena, CA
Highland Park, CA vs Pasadena, CA: What the data shows
Highland Park, CA is in Highland Park, CA while Pasadena, CA is in Pasadena, CA — both in the same state. On home prices, Highland Park, CA is the more affordable option at $850,700 median — $202,300 less than Pasadena, CA's $1,053,000. WYLT rates Highland Park, CA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Pasadena, CA as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots.
Pasadena, CA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Highland Park, CA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Pasadena, CA has Low violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, Highland Park, CA has Low flood risk and Pasadena, CA has Low flood risk.
Highland Park, CA is the more walkable neighborhood. Highland Park, CA scores 57/100 (somewhat walkable) versus Pasadena, CA's 10/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, both neighborhoods have the same school rating — Highland Park, CA rates 5/10 and Pasadena, CA rates 5/10.
| Category | Highland Park, CA | Pasadena, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Settle here |
| Median Price | $851K ✓ Lower price | $1.05M |
| Median Rent | $2K ✓ Lower rent | $4K |
| Median Income | $89K | $123K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | High | Moderate ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 57/100 ✓ More walkable | 10/100 |
| Transit Score | 42/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 48/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 12 min ✓ Shorter commute | 15 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | A ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 5/10 | 5/10 |
| Best for | Young ProfessionalsCommutersFamilies with children | FamiliesProfessionalsYoung adults |
Bottom line
If you're a high-earning young professional who values walkability and a vibrant downtown scene, Pasadena might be the better fit for you. On the other hand, Highland Park offers a more affordable option for those with a shorter commute to downtown LA, but families or lower-income buyers may face significant challenges affording housing. Ultimately, both areas have their drawbacks, so it's essential to carefully weigh your priorities and budget before making a decision.
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