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South Pasadena, CA

Frequently asked questions

South Pasadena, CA

South Pasadena is a city in Los Angeles County, California, United States. As of the 2010 census, it had a population of 25,619, up from 24,292 in the 2000 census. It is located in the West San Gabriel Valley. It is 3.42 square miles (8.9 km2) in area and lies between the much larger city of Pasadena, of which it was once a part, and the metropolis of Los Angeles. South Pasadena is the oldest self-builder of floats in the historic Tournament of Roses Parade.

The original inhabitants of South Pasadena and surrounding areas were members of the Native American Hahamog-na tribe, a branch of the Tongva Nation (part of the Shoshone language group) that occupied the Los Angeles Basin. Akuvranga was the Tongva name for the area that covers modern-day South Pasadena and part of Pasadena. Tongva dwellings lined the Arroyo Seco (Los Angeles County) in South Pasadena and south to where it joins the Los Angeles River and along other natural waterways in the city. They lived in thatched, dome-shaped lodges characteristic of their use of carved wood decorations. For food, they lived on a diet of corn meal, acorns, seeds and herbs, fish, venison, berries, fruits, and other small animals. They traded for ocean fish with the coastal Tongva daily. They made cooking vessels from steatite soapstone from Catalina Island. South Pasadena also has a strong claim to having the oldest and most historic sites in the San Gabriel Valley. For many centuries, its adjacency to a natural fording place along the Arroyo Seco had served as a gateway to travel and commerce for aboriginal peoples here and along the coast. It was here that Hahamognas greeted Portola and the missionaries who later established the San Gabriel Mission a few miles to the east.

The initial buildings on the Rancho San Pascual were built on the land which eventually became the cities of Pasadena, South Pasadena, and Altadena. The first of these adobe structures became headquarters for General Flores and his staff in 1847 when they agreed to surrender to American forces, ending Mexican Colonial rule in California. In 1875, the landowners of the area voted to rename their association Pasadena.

South Pasadena is located at the western end of the San Gabriel Valley, north of the San Rafael Hills, east of the Arroyo Seco seasonal river, and south of the separate city of Pasadena, California. Adjacent cities are Los Angeles to the west and south, Pasadena to the north, San Marino to the east, and Alhambra to the southeast. According to the United States Census Bureau, the city's total area of 3.42 square miles (8.9 km2), is virtually all land.

South Pasadena gives importance to health and wellness. Explore the parks, facilities, and programs offered by the South Pasadena Recreation and Community Services Department. These spaces provide opportunities for outdoor activities such as walking, jogging, sports, and picnicking. Join local fitness centers and gyms to participate in exercise programs, fitness classes, and strength training. Healing Corner incorporates the healing properties of plants, herbs, cremes, oils, and minerals from around the world into a variety of unmatched spa services designed to reduce stress and enhance balance. Some popular options include the YMCA and South Pas Fitness. Discover the walking and biking trails in and around South Pasadena, such as the Nature Park and the Eaton Canyon Natural Area and Nature Center. These trails offer opportunities for outdoor exercise and enjoyment of nature.

Top sites in South Pasadena, CA are Arlington Garden in Pasadena, Storrier Stearns Japanese Garden, and Arroyo Seco Parkway.

Population: 25,656 (2024). ZIP codes: 91030/91031 (PO box). Area codes: 323, 626. Elevation: 659 ft (201 m). Area: 3.42 sq mi (8.85 km2).

FAQs

Is South Pasadena, CA a good place to live?

South Pasadena is in Los Angeles County and is one of California's best places to live. Living in South Pasadena offers residents an urban suburban mix feel and most residents rent their homes. In South Pasadena, there are a lot of restaurants, coffee shops, and parks. Many families and young professionals live in South Pasadena and residents tend to be liberal. 

What is South Pasadena, CA famous for?

The City of South Pasadena is a charming community, situated only six miles from downtown Los Angeles. Called the City of Trees, the area is known for its stunning homes, unique small businesses, and top-quality schools. South Pasadena’s diverse population of about 25,000 occupies a mere 3.44 square miles of flatlands and hillsides on the west side of the San Gabriel Valley. This small-town atmosphere makes South Pasadena one of California's most desirable locations.

What is the average household income in South Pasadena, CA?

In 2021, the median household income of South Pasadena households was $115,088. South Pasadena households made slightly more than Linden households ($115,016) and Aspen Springs households ($114,671). However, 4.0% of South Pasadena families live in poverty.

Sources

Wikipedia

City of South Pasadena

Los Angeles County

South Pasadena Recreation and Community Services Department

YMCA

Healing Corner 

South Pas Fitness

Nature Park

Eaton Canyon Natural Area and Nature Center

Arlington Garden in Pasadena

Storrier Stearns Japanese Garden

Arroyo Seco Parkway

City of South Pasadena

Niche

California Demographics

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