Let the numbers do the talking.
Pasadena, CA vs Pleasant Hill, CA
Pasadena, CA vs Pleasant Hill, CA: What the data shows
Pasadena, CA is in Pasadena, CA while Pleasant Hill, CA is in Pleasant Hill, CA — both in the same state. On home prices, Pasadena, CA is the more affordable option at $900,400 median — $19,600 less than Pleasant Hill, CA's $920,000. WYLT rates Pasadena, CA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Pleasant Hill, CA as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots.
Pleasant Hill, CA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Pasadena, CA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Pleasant Hill, CA has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Pasadena, CA has Low flood risk and Pleasant Hill, CA has Low flood risk.
Pleasant Hill, CA is the more walkable neighborhood. Pasadena, CA scores 2/100 (car-dependent) versus Pleasant Hill, CA's 30/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, both neighborhoods have the same school rating — Pasadena, CA rates 5/10 and Pleasant Hill, CA rates 5/10.
| Category | Pasadena, CA | Pleasant Hill, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Settle here |
| Median Price | $900K ✓ Lower price | $920K |
| Median Rent | $2K ✓ Lower rent | $3K |
| Median Income | $79K | $123K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 2/100 | 30/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 32/100 | 35/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 18/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 20 min ✓ Shorter commute | 42 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | B ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 5/10 | 5/10 |
| Best for | FamiliesStudentsYoung Professionals | Families with young childrenHomebuyers seeking quality schoolsSuburban residents seeking a quiet atmosphere |
Bottom line
Between these two options, families with young children and those seeking quality schools may prefer Pleasant Hill, given its excellent balance of quality education and suburban atmosphere. On the other hand, individuals looking for a shorter commute to a major city (e.g., downtown L.A.) and are willing to pay a premium for it may find Pasadena more to their liking. However, for those on a budget or seeking a more urban feel, Pasadena may not be the best value due to its high home prices.
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