Whittier, located in Los Angeles County, California, is a vibrant city known for its historic charm, family-friendly atmosphere, and strong sense of community. The city offers a mix of suburban serenity and urban convenience, making it an ideal place for families, young professionals, and retirees alike. Whittier features a variety of residential neighborhoods, each with unique characteristics and amenities. This article explores the best residential areas in Whittier, providing insights into their culture, transportation options, services, ambiance, housing options, and average prices.
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Old Town Whittier

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Old Town Whittier is the historic heart of the city, featuring charming brick buildings, boutiques, and local restaurants. Residents enjoy a lively atmosphere with frequent community events.
Characteristics of the Old Town Whittier
* Culture: Rich history with locally owned shops and art galleries.
* Transportation: Well-connected to public transport, walking-friendly.
* Services: Restaurants, cafes, antique shops, and a local library.
* Environment: Historic, vibrant, and community-oriented.
Housing Options in the Old Town Whittier
Historic homes, condos, and townhomes.
Average Home Prices in the Old Town Whittier
* Buying: $600,000 – $800,000
* Renting: $2,500 – $3,500/month
Whittier Hills

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Nestled in the foothills, Whittier Hills offers scenic views and a quiet lifestyle. It's popular among families and retirees due to its peaceful environment and proximity to parks.
Characteristics of the Whittier Hills
* Culture: Outdoor-oriented with nature trails and parks.
* Transportation: Car is recommended, with some public transport options.
* Services: Nearby grocery stores, schools, and parks.
* Environment: Tranquil and scenic.
Housing Options in the Whittier Hills
Single-family homes on larger lots, some newer developments.
Average Home Prices in the Whittier Hills
* Buying: $700,000 – $1,000,000
* Renting: $3,000 – $4,000/month
East Whittier

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East Whittier is a well-established residential area known for its good schools and family-friendly environment. The neighborhood features tree-lined streets and a strong sense of community.
Characteristics of the East Whittier
* Culture: Family-oriented with community events and activities.
* Transportation: Accessible via public transport; good walkability.
* Services: Schools, parks, shopping centers, and community facilities.
* Environment: Friendly and welcoming.
Housing Options in the East Whittier
Single-family homes, duplexes.
Average Home Prices in the East Whittier
* Buying: $500,000 – $700,000
* Renting: $2,200 – $3,000/month
La Serna

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The La Serna neighborhood is perfect for those seeking a close-knit community with easy access to schools and shopping. This area is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and well-maintained parks.
Characteristics of the La Serna
* Culture: Community events; active neighborhood association.
* Transportation: Public transport available; convenient access to major roads.
* Services: Schools, parks, grocery stores, and fitness centers.
* Environment: Family-oriented and active.
Housing Options in the La Serna
Single-family homes, townhomes.
Average Home Prices in the La Serna
* Buying: $550,000 – $750,000
* Renting: $2,400 – $3,200/month
College Heights

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College Heights offers a mix of residential and academic ambiance, featuring homes close to Whittier College. This neighborhood attracts students and professionals alike.
Characteristics of the College Heights
* Culture: Young, vibrant community with diverse residents.
* Transportation: Good access to public transport and bike lanes.
* Services: College amenities, cafes, and local eateries.
* Environment: Dynamic and youthful.
Housing Options in the College Heights
Apartments, single-family homes, and shared housing.
Average Home Prices in the College Heights
* Buying: $500,000 – $700,000
* Renting: $1,800 – $2,500/month
South Whittier

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This area is known for its affordability and proximity to major highways. South Whittier offers a diverse community with access to schools and shopping.
Characteristics of the South Whittier
* Culture: Culturally diverse with vibrant local markets.
* Transportation: Public transport and easy access to freeways.
* Services: Shopping centers, schools, parks, and restaurants.
* Environment: Active and diverse.
Housing Options in the South Whittier
Single-family homes, apartments.
Average Home Prices in the South Whittier
* Buying: $400,000 – $600,000
* Renting: $1,800 – $2,400/month
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Residential Areas in Whittier:
Top residential areas include Old Town Whittier, Whittier Hills, East Whittier, La Serna, College Heights, and South Whittier, each offering unique amenities and vibe.
East Whittier and La Serna are known for their family-friendly environments, with good schools and parks.
East Whittier and La Serna neighborhoods are particularly known for their access to quality schools.
Average home prices in Whittier range from $400,000 to over $1,000,000 depending on the neighborhood.
Yes, Whittier offers public transportation options, especially in central areas like Old Town and East Whittier.
Whittier offers a variety of housing options including single-family homes, condos, townhomes, and apartments.
Old Town Whittier has the highest concentration of amenities, including shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
Yes, Whittier features numerous parks throughout the city, providing recreational opportunities for residents.
Most neighborhoods in Whittier have a friendly, community-oriented ambiance with a mix of suburban and urban characteristics.
Whittier Hills offers a peaceful and scenic environment that many retirees find appealing.
Conclusion on the Best Residential Areas in Whittier:
Whittier, California, presents a diverse selection of residential neighborhoods, each catering to different lifestyles and preferences. From the historic charm of Old Town Whittier to the serene views in Whittier Hills, and the vibrant community in East Whittier, the city offers something for everyone. When choosing the right area to live, it's essential to consider your lifestyle needs, whether it's access to schools, amenities, or a tranquil environment. With its rich history, strong community ties, and varying housing options, Whittier is a wonderful place to call home.
About the Author

Published by:Eribert De Oliveira
Mechatronics Engineer and founder of Mi Inmueble Online, with a background in real estate. I combine technology and analysis to help you find the best areas to live.