The High Desert area of southern California is made up of Hesperia, Apple Valley, Victorville, Barstow, Phelan, Wrightwood, and a few small places within the Mojave Desert. This particular area of California is around 90 miles outside of Los Angeles. With so many freeways in the state, many people chose to live in the High Desert region and commute to nearby metropolitan areas.
Many of these country dwellers are actually metro people who have chosen the High Desert area simply because of the lower property values. For many, it is very appealing to work in a major city but have the luxury of retreating to the quietness of the desert air and night sky. Since property costs are outrageous in Los Angeles, San Bernardino, and Riverside, the High Desert area may look like a mirage in the desert to those who are not used to the lower prices.
A Variety of High Desert Cities
The largest city in the High Desert area is Victorville. This city boasts 178,000 residents and is growing daily. One of the reasons this area is seeing tremendous growth, especially in new homes, is a result of low property costs. According to recent statistics, the average home is only in the $150,000 to $200,000 range. Many of the more modestly priced homes are typically prefabricated, manufactured homes. With this style of home, families can customize the look and feel on the inside but not as much on the outside.
Another major city within the High Desert area is the Hesperia area. Hesperia is also known for its lower home prices with the average being $110,000. Hesperia is only minutes from Victorville, which makes it a prime location for commuting workers from the major metropolitan areas. Hesperia is known for its area pride and the community spirit that is often lacking in some of the large cities within California.
Phelan, California is one of the smallest areas in the High Desert locale, but is only 15 minutes outside of Victorville. Most of the activity that takes place in the Phelan area is that of construction crews working year round to meet the needs of new homeowners. A quick search of the local real estate market will show you how much land is selling for in this small but growing area. Phelan is small, but it does offer homeowners access to many necessities and conveniences.
Wrightwood–A Place for Relaxation
Wrightwood is also a very small section of the High Desert area. Local sources report a population of only 3,300. Although this area is only 15 minutes off of Interstate 15, the entire area remains very rural and secluded. It is home to some of the most beautiful mountains in the country. Many travelers drive through this area to take in the spectacular views. This area is mainly made up of adventure seekers who enjoy camping, skiing, fishing, and hiking. Different activities take place here year round. Wrightwood may not offer many homes for sale, but it does offer a chance to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life for a weekend.
The Adelanto area is another a great place to consider for someone who is budget conscious, or who is buying a home for the first time. This area of High Desert is close to major metropolitan areas, but far enough away that the property values are low. The average home price in Adelanto is only $81,000.
In closing, the High Desert area has many different communities filled with a diverse population and culture. These towns all vary in community spirit, community pride, property value, property taxes, and governmental authority. However, they all offer something of value to the area.