Anaheim Hills Community Guide December 2025: Real Estate Market Updates, Holiday Events, New Businesses & Local Living
Anaheim Hills Community Guide: December 2025
Your Comprehensive Local Resource from The Wendy Rawley Team
Welcome to your December guide for Anaheim Hills
As we approach the end of another remarkable year, I am thrilled to share this comprehensive community guide with you. Anaheim Hills continues to shine as one of North Orange County’s most desirable neighborhoods, offering an exceptional blend of natural beauty, top-rated schools, and vibrant community spirit. December brings a special energy to our hillside community, with festive events, seasonal celebrations, and wonderful opportunities for families to connect. Whether you are considering a move to Anaheim Hills, preparing to sell your home, or simply want to stay informed about what is happening in our neighborhood, this guide covers everything you need to know. From the latest real estate market trends to exciting new businesses and holiday happenings, I have gathered all the essential information to help you make the most of this beautiful season. Let me walk you through what makes Anaheim Hills such a special place to call home.
December 2025 brings festive events to the Hills
The holiday season transforms Anaheim Hills into a wonderland of community celebrations and seasonal festivities. One of the highlights this month is the Anaheim Hills Festival Holiday Spectacular on Saturday, December 13, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the Anaheim Hills Festival Shopping Center, located at 8020 East Santa Ana Canyon Road near Hobby Lobby.1 This free family event features festive crafts, photos with Santa Claus, face painting, balloon art, and train rides for children of all ages. Speaking of Santa, the beloved Santa in the Hills tradition continues through December 23 at Anaheim Hills Festival, where families can capture holiday memories with photos offered for a donation to the Anaheim Firefighters Association, and pets are welcome to join the fun.1
For those who appreciate the performing arts, the Chance Theater at the Bette Aitken Theater Arts Center, located at 5522 E. La Palma Avenue, presents two wonderful holiday productions this season.2 Scrooge! The Musical runs through December 21, offering a heartwarming adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic tale with performances Wednesday through Sunday. Families with young children will delight in Fancy Nancy Splendiferous Christmas, running December 5 through December 21, which includes photos and autographs with cast members after each performance. Tickets range from $10 to $54, with pay-what-you-can preview performances available.
The Anaheim Hills Women’s Club hosts their annual Winter Holiday Luncheon on Wednesday, December 17, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the Anaheim Hills Golf Course, 6501 E. Nohl Ranch Road.2 All women are invited to this elegant celebration featuring a choice of three entrees and seasonal entertainment for forty dollars per person, with RSVPs required by December 7. Just a short drive away, the 37th Annual East Lake Village Holiday of Lights Boat Parade illuminates the waters on December 13 and 14 in Yorba Linda, with decorated boats cruising the lake beginning at 6:30 PM.1 Food trucks arrive at 5:00 PM, and the parade is free to view from public streets surrounding the lake.
Exciting new businesses are reshaping the local scene.
The Anaheim Hills business landscape has seen remarkable growth in 2024 and 2025, with several exciting additions that enhance our community’s dining and shopping options. The standout newcomer is STORY Kitchen + Bar, which opened in October 2024 at 8150 E. Santa Ana Canyon Road in the Anaheim Hills Festival shopping center.3 Created by restaurateurs Cynthia Vigil and Chad Reinhardt, this whimsical upscale-casual restaurant features Executive Chef Christy Gray, formerly of Providence and Puesto, who brings Asian-influenced dishes, including braised short rib, pork belly bao, and yuzu lobster pasta, to the neighborhood. With 497 Yelp reviews and a 4.6-star rating on OpenTable, STORY has quickly become a local favorite for weekend brunch, happy hour, and craft cocktails.
Retail enthusiasts have welcomed the arrival of Nordstrom Rack at Anaheim Hills Festival, bringing a 24,000 square-foot store offering designer brands at discounted prices to 8140 East Santa Ana Canyon Road.4 The store joins other recent additions to the shopping center, including ULTA Beauty, America’s largest beauty retailer offering cosmetics, fragrance, skincare, and salon services across more than 500 brands, and Bath and Body Works, specializing in body care, hand soaps, candles, and home fragrances.4
For authentic Korean cuisine, Masito Korean Restaurant has opened at 8257 E. Santa Ana Canyon Road, offering family-style Korean soul food including bulgogi, bibimbap, tofu soup, and galbi.5 This intimate, family-owned establishment has earned a stellar 4.8 rating from 243 reviews, with diners praising generous portions and complimentary banchan. Meanwhile, the beloved Rodrigo’s Mexican Grill, voted best Mexican restaurant in Orange County by OC Register readers, is undergoing a complete renovation and is expected to reopen in Fall 2025 with an expanded dining area, new interiors, and an updated cocktail menu.3
The real estate market remains strong heading into year-end.
Anaheim Hills continues to command premium prices as one of North Orange County’s most sought-after communities. The current median home price stands at approximately $1.1 million to $1.2 million, reflecting the area’s desirability and limited inventory.6 According to recent data, homes in Anaheim Hills have appreciated approximately 3.4 percent year-over-year, with the 92808 zip code showing even more substantial gains of 18.1 percent compared to the previous year. The average price per square foot currently sits at $580, though premium neighborhoods like The Summit and The Highlands command prices of $600 to $615 per square foot.6
wpDataTable with provided ID not found!| Market Metric | Current Value | Year-Over-Year Change |
|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $1,100,000 – $1,215,000 | +3.4% |
| Price Per Square Foot | $580 | -4.8% |
| Average Days on Market | 31-44 days | +12 days |
| Active Inventory | 57-89 homes | +79% |
| Homes Sold (Monthly) | 124 homes | -23.9% |
The market remains characterized as somewhat competitive, with average homes selling within 31 to 44 days and hot properties moving in as few as 23 days.7 Inventory has increased 79 percent compared to last year, providing buyers with more options, though levels remain below pre-pandemic norms. Multiple offers continue on desirable properties, with homes typically receiving four to seven offers. Looking ahead, the California Association of Realtors projects 4.6 percent median price increases for Orange County in 2025, with premium areas like Anaheim Hills potentially seeing 7 to 9 percent appreciation by 2026.8. With mortgage rates expected to ease to the 6.2 to 6.4 percent range, conditions should improve for buyers entering the market.
The Summit offers exclusive hillside living at its finest
Among the many distinguished neighborhoods in Anaheim Hills, The Summit stands as the crown jewel of luxury living. Perched on the highest ridge of the community, this exclusive enclave features approximately 80 homes with stunning panoramic views stretching from Mount Baldy to the Pacific Ocean.9 The guard-gated entrance with 24-hour security and regular patrols provides residents with peace of mind. At the same time, the carefully curated Mediterranean and contemporary architecture creates a cohesive, upscale aesthetic throughout the neighborhood.
Homes in The Summit typically feature four to six bedrooms with multi-car garages, premium finishes, and spacious floor plans designed for comfortable living and entertaining. The community amenities rival those of luxury resorts, including a stunning pool and spa area, a fully equipped fitness center, picnic areas with fire pits, and beautifully maintained greenbelts. What truly sets The Summit apart is its direct trail access to Oak Canyon Nature Center and Deer Canyon Park Preserve, allowing residents to step from their doorsteps onto miles of scenic hiking paths. The wealth index of The Summit exceeds 97 percent, reflecting the caliber of residents who call this exceptional neighborhood home. Social events and block parties foster a strong sense of community among neighbors who appreciate both privacy and connection.
Natural beauty abounds in local parks and trails.
One of the greatest treasures of Anaheim Hills is the abundance of natural open space and outdoor recreation opportunities. Oak Canyon Nature Center, located at 6700 E. Walnut Canyon Road, encompasses 58 acres of pristine natural parkland featuring three adjoining canyons with oak woodland and coastal sage scrub ecosystems.10 A year-round flowing stream meanders through four miles of hiking trails, while the John J. Collier Interpretive Center offers educational exhibits and live animal displays. The trails are open from sunrise to sunset with free admission, and a two-dollar donation is appreciated.
For more adventurous hikers, the Weir Canyon Trail system offers a 3.7-mile loop with approximately 350 feet of elevation gain and sweeping views of the San Gabriel Mountains.11 With a 4.7-star rating from over 4,400 reviews on AllTrails, this trail is particularly spectacular in spring when California poppies and wildflowers blanket the hillsides. The trail connects to the broader Mountains to Sea Trail, a 22-mile urban nature reserve stretching from Weir Canyon to Upper Newport Bay. Ronald Reagan Park on S. Weir Canyon Road provides sports facilities including baseball diamonds, soccer fields, basketball courts, and newer play structures with spinners and zip tracks for children.10 The City of Anaheim maintains nearly 800 acres of public green space across 60 parks, trails, and historic sites throughout the community.
Diverse dining and convenient shopping serve every need.
The culinary scene in Anaheim Hills offers something for every palate, from casual family dining to upscale experiences. Rosine’s Mediterranean Grill, established in 1995, has earned a remarkable 4.9 rating on OpenTable for its authentic Syrian and Lebanese cuisine, including their famous rotisserie chicken and family-style four-course meals.12 For barbecue enthusiasts, Wood Ranch BBQ and Grill at 8022 East Santa Ana Canyon Road serves top-notch American fare with a dog-friendly patio and popular happy hour specials. Local favorites like Keno’s Restaurant offer all-day breakfast, including chicken-fried steak and cinnamon roll pancakes, while Tempo Urban Kitchen brings a Latin twist with birria tacos and margarita flights.
Shopping options are equally diverse across multiple centers along Santa Ana Canyon Road. Anaheim Hills Festival anchors the eastern corridor with Target, TJ Maxx, Hobby Lobby, and 24-Hour Fitness alongside newer additions like Nordstrom Rack and ULTA Beauty.4 Canyon Plaza Shopping Center, at 5701 E. Santa Ana Canyon Road, features Mother’s Market for health-conscious shoppers, LA Fitness, and convenient services, including the UPS Store and several banks. Sycamore Canyon Plaza features Ralph’s Fresh Fare and CVS in an affluent, high-visibility location. For regional shopping, The Outlets at Orange and Brea Mall are just minutes away, while South Coast Plaza provides access to luxury retailers for special occasions.
Community development decisions shape the neighborhood’s future.
Recent months have brought significant developments regarding growth and infrastructure in Anaheim Hills. In October 2024, the Anaheim City Council voted 5-2 to deny the proposed Hills Preserve Project, a nearly 500 million dollar development that would have brought 498 luxury apartments to the Deer Canyon area.13 The decision was driven primarily by wildfire evacuation concerns, as the proposed site sits within a designated very high fire hazard severity zone. City staff and the Fire Chief did not support the project, noting that development would add approximately 24 minutes to evacuation times in worst-case scenarios. This decision reflects the community’s commitment to balancing growth with safety considerations.
Other infrastructure improvements are moving forward, including the SR-55/91 Connector Improvement Project, a $78 million initiative by Granite Construction to reduce congestion in the SR-55 and SR-91 corridor.14 Construction is expected to take place from April 2025 through October 2027. The City Council also approved a 36 percent increase in sewer impact fees for new developments, raising single-family home fees from $491 to $667 to fund necessary capital improvements.13 Meanwhile, Shea Properties continues planning for mixed-use redevelopment at Anaheim Hills Festival, proposing approximately 450 residential units on the former Regal Cinema site while preserving existing retail tenants.
December home buying brings unique opportunities.
As your local real estate expert, I want to share why December can be an excellent time to purchase a home in Anaheim Hills. While many buyers pause their search during the holidays, those who stay active often find reduced competition and more motivated sellers. Properties that remain on the market in December usually present negotiating opportunities that are less common during the competitive spring and summer seasons. Sellers listing during the holidays are typically serious about completing transactions, which can lead to smoother negotiations and faster closings.
With inventory currently 79 percent higher than this time last year and average days on market extending to 31 to 44 days, buyers have more time to make thoughtful decisions without the pressure of bidding wars. I recommend getting pre-approved now so you can act quickly when the right property appears. Pay attention to homes that have been on the market for 30 or more days, as sellers may be more flexible on price or terms. The holiday season also allows you to experience neighborhoods during a special time of year, observing how communities come together, how homes are maintained, and whether the area feels like the right fit for your family. If you are considering a move in the new year, starting your search now positions you to close before spring competition intensifies.
Strategic December selling can maximize your results
If you are considering selling your Anaheim Hills home, December offers distinct advantages that many homeowners overlook. The buyers actively searching during the holiday season are typically highly motivated, often facing job relocations, family changes, or year-end financial deadlines that make them serious about completing purchases. With fewer competing listings on the market, your home can capture more attention and stand out from the reduced inventory.
Presentation matters enormously during the holidays. Tasteful seasonal decorations can make your home feel warm and inviting, but be careful not to overwhelm spaces or obscure architectural features. Keep decorations elegant and neutral to appeal to the broadest range of buyers. Pricing strategy becomes even more critical in December, so I recommend reviewing comparable sales carefully and pricing competitively to attract motivated buyers before year-end. Ensure your home shows well in the shorter daylight hours by maximizing interior and exterior lighting. Consider scheduling open houses on weekends when buyers have greater flexibility. The homes selling fastest in Anaheim Hills right now are those priced accurately from day one, professionally photographed, and staged to showcase their best features. With median prices holding firm at $1.1 million and steady appreciation projected for 2025, positioning your home well this month sets the stage for a successful transaction.
Award-winning schools anchor family appeal.
The quality of schools in Anaheim Hills consistently ranks among the top reasons families choose this community. Orange Unified School District serves approximately 24,764 students across 41 schools, with several Anaheim Hills campuses earning exceptional recognition.15 Anaheim Hills Elementary School ranks in the top 5 percent of California schools, placing 185th out of 9,523 statewide, with 83 percent of students achieving math proficiency and 83 percent reaching reading proficiency. Crescent Elementary, which ranked in the top 5 percent at 234 in California, earned PLTW Distinguished School Recognition for 2023-24.
El Rancho Charter School for grades 7-8 has earned two California Distinguished School Awards and was ranked the number one middle school in Orange County by the OC Register in 2014.15. The school offers unique electives, including woodshop, instrumental music, and performing arts. For high school students, Canyon High School ranks 230th in California and 1,702nd nationally, featuring an International Baccalaureate Program, Orange County’s only Aviation Academy, and the innovative D.R.E.A.M. digital arts program. The school earned Gold Ribbon School and AP School Honor Roll recognition for 2024. Private school options include Fairmont Private Schools Anaheim Hills Campus, earning an A-plus rating from Niche. The district recently honored Dr. Rachel Monarrez as the new Superintendent, and OUSD received the 2024 Golden Bell Award for its Special Education Inclusive Strategic Plan.
Frequently asked questions about Anaheim Hills
What is the current median home price in Anaheim Hills?
The median home price in Anaheim Hills ranges from $1.1 million to $1.2 million, depending on the data source, with year-over-year appreciation of approximately 3.4 percent. Premium neighborhoods like The Summit and The Highlands command even higher prices.
How are the schools in Anaheim Hills rated?
Anaheim Hills schools consistently rank among the best in Orange County. Anaheim Hills Elementary and Crescent Elementary both rank in the top 5 percent of California schools, while Canyon High School offers IB programs, an Aviation Academy, and strong college preparation.
What outdoor activities are available in Anaheim Hills?
Residents enjoy Oak Canyon Nature Center with 58 acres and four miles of trails, the Weir Canyon Trail system, Ronald Reagan Park sports facilities, and access to the 22-mile Mountains to Sea Trail connecting to Upper Newport Bay.
Are there gated communities in Anaheim Hills?
Yes, Anaheim Hills features numerous gated communities, including The Summit, Viewpointe, Monaco, Firenza, Rocky Point, and Belsomet, offering a range of price points and amenities, from guard-gated entrances to resort-style pools.
How long do homes typically stay on the market in Anaheim Hills?
The current average days on market range from 31 to 44, with hot properties selling in as few as 23 days. The market remains somewhat competitive with multiple offers common on desirable homes.
Explore neighboring North Orange County communities
While Anaheim Hills offers exceptional hillside living, many families also consider nearby North Orange County communities when making their home buying decisions. Each area brings unique character, amenities, and lifestyle advantages. I have created comprehensive December 2025 community guides for all the cities I serve, providing detailed insights into local real estate markets, holiday events, schools, and neighborhood features.
Explore these neighboring communities:
- Anaheim Community Guide – Discover the vibrant heart of Orange County with diverse neighborhoods, entertainment options, and strong market fundamentals
- Brea Community Guide – Explore this charming city known for excellent schools, the Brea Mall, and beautiful tree-lined streets
- Fullerton Community Guide – Learn about this college town with historic downtown charm, cultural attractions, and diverse housing options
- La Habra Community Guide – Find value and community character in this family-friendly city with affordable options and strong appreciation potential
- Placentia Community Guide – Discover Old Town charm combined with modern conveniences in this walkable, tight-knit community
- Yorba Linda Community Guide – Explore the “Land of Gracious Living” with estate-sized lots, equestrian trails, and top-rated schools
Whether you are comparing communities or considering a move within North Orange County, these guides provide the local expertise and current market data you need to make informed decisions. Each guide is updated monthly with fresh information about events, new businesses, real estate trends, and community developments.
Ready to Make Anaheim Hills Your Home?
Whether you are buying, selling, or simply exploring your options, I am here to guide you through every step of your real estate journey. With deep knowledge of Anaheim Hills and North Orange County, I provide personalized service tailored to your unique needs.
Contact Wendy Rawley Today
Phone: (714) 746-6355
Email: wendy@go2wendy.com
Website: go2wendy.com
About Wendy Rawley
Wendy Rawley, REALTOR®
DRE# 01898824
The Wendy Rawley Team at Circa Properties
Serving North Orange County with dedication and expertise, Wendy Rawley has built her reputation on exceptional client service, deep local knowledge, and a genuine passion for helping families find their perfect homes. Based in Yorba Linda, California, Wendy specializes in Anaheim Hills, Yorba Linda, Placentia, and the surrounding communities. Her commitment to understanding each client’s unique needs, combined with her extensive market expertise, ensures a smooth and successful real estate experience. Whether you are a first-time buyer, seasoned investor, or looking to sell your current home, Wendy provides the personalized guidance you deserve.
Citations and Sources
- Orange County Register Holiday Events Guide, November 2025
- Chance Theater 2025 Season and OC Register Anaheim Hills Briefs, November 2025
- Orange County Register Restaurant News and WhatNow OC, October 2024
- Nordstrom Press Release and TheFutureOfFestival.com, 2023-2024
- Yelp Reviews and DoorDash, Masito Korean Restaurant, 2024
- Redfin Anaheim Hills Housing Market Data, August-October 2025
- Zillow Home Value Index, October 2025
- California Association of Realtors and Malakai Sparks Group Market Forecasts, 2025
- Active Realty and Malakai Sparks Group, Anaheim Hills Gated Communities
- City of Anaheim Official Website, Parks and Recreation
- AllTrails and HikingGuy.com, Weir Canyon Trail Information
- OpenTable and Visit Anaheim Restaurant Guides
- Voice of OC and OC Register, Community Development News, October-November 2024
- Granite Construction Press Release, SR-55/91 Connector Project
- Orange Unified School District, US News School Rankings, and Niche.com
Disclaimer: Information contained in this guide is believed to be accurate but is not guaranteed. Real estate market conditions change frequently. Statistics are current as of publication date. Readers should verify all information independently before making decisions. Event details are subject to change. Contact event organizers directly to confirm dates, times, and locations.
