La Habra vs La Habra Heights: Where Should You Live?
Wendy Rawley | Realtor | The Wendy Rawley Team
Trying to decide between La Habra and La Habra Heights? You’re not alone. These two Southern California cities sit right next to each other, but they couldn’t be more different. One’s a bustling suburban city. The other feels like you’ve escaped to the countryside while staying minutes from everything.
Let’s break down what makes each place special and help you determine which one suits your life better.
The Bottom Line Up Front
La Habra Heights is for you if you want luxury, space, and a rural feel with million-dollar homes on large lots. La Habra is a great option if you need affordability, walkability, and typical suburban conveniences without breaking the bank.
Location and Setting
Both cities share the exact basic location in Southern California, situated on the border between Los Angeles and Orange counties. But that’s where the similarities end.
La Habra is primarily located in Orange County and feels like a typical suburban city. You’ll find shopping centers, restaurants, and the usual suburban infrastructure. The landscape is relatively flat with standard neighborhood layouts.
La Habra Heights perches in the hills above its neighbor. This small city was designed to feel rural while staying close to urban conveniences. Picture winding roads, rolling hills, and properties that make you forget you’re near major metropolitan areas. [1] Many lots are an acre or larger, and you’ll see horses, hiking trails, and expansive views.
Housing: The Big Difference
Here’s where these cities really diverge.
La Habra Housing
La Habra’s median home price was $873K in May 2025, up 1.5% since last year, according to Redfin. [2] Other sources show slight variations – Rocket Homes reported a median of $870K in June 2025, up 6.4% year-over-year. [3] You’ll find typical suburban homes, condos, and townhouses. Homes sell in around 30 days and receive an average of 4 offers. [2]
La Habra Heights Housing
This is where things get expensive. The median sale price of a home in La Habra Heights was $1.9M in May 2025, up 37.1% since last year, according to Redfin. [4] Most homes sell for between $1.5 and $5 million and feature spacious interiors, ultra-modern appliances and amenities, and lovely views. [5]
Point2Homes reports housing costs reach $2,571 per month in La Habra Heights, with a median home value of $1,058,600 for mortgaged properties. [6] Many properties are custom estates situated on large lots, featuring equestrian facilities, swimming pools, and stunning mountain or ocean views.
Population and Demographics
La Habra has about 62,200 people with a median age of 38.1, according to 2023 Census data. [7] The largest ethnic groups are White (Non-Hispanic) at 23.8%, Other (Hispanic) at 21.6%, and Two or More Races (including Hispanic) at 19.3%. It’s a working-class to middle-class community.
La Habra Heights is much smaller with about 5,546 residents and a median age of 47.9. [8] The largest racial/ethnic groups are White at 54.5%, followed by Asian at 17.4% and Hispanic at 15.4%. This is clearly a wealthier, more established community.
Income and Economics
The income gap between these cities is substantial and well-documented.
La Habra’s median household income is $98,158 according to 2023 Census data. [7] That’s solid middle class for Southern California.
La Habra Heights boasts a median household income of $186,837 according to 2023 Census data. [8] The per capita income is $95,723. [9] Approximately 54.35% of adults in this area hold a 4-year degree or higher, compared to a national average of 21.84% for all cities and towns. [10]
Safety and Crime
Both cities are relatively safe, but La Habra Heights has a significant safety advantage.
La Habra has a crime rate higher than 74% of California’s cities and towns, according to NeighborhoodScout. [11] Your chance of becoming a victim of crime is 1 in 42. While not particularly dangerous, it’s also not among the safest communities.
La Habra Heights has a violent crime rate of only 11.1, compared to the US average of 22.7, according to BestPlaces. [12] AreaVibes reports the city had a murder rate of 0 and notes it as one of the safest cities in the United States. [13] Your chance of becoming a victim of crime here is 1 in 98.
Lifestyle and Community Feel
La Habra offers typical suburban living. You’ll find chain restaurants, shopping centers, and standard suburban amenities. About 12.07% of people work from home, which is higher than the national average. [11] It’s a practical choice for families who want suburban convenience.
La Habra Heights offers a distinctly different experience. Residents describe it as “a rural oasis in the middle of LA/Orange County,” with “acre lots & horse properties,” and “hiking trails all around.” [14] The crime rate is negligible, and there are no commercial establishments or multi-family dwellings.
Many residents keep horses, grow their own food, or enjoy the equestrian lifestyle. Yet you’re still only 30 minutes from major employment centers, beaches, and attractions.
Schools and Education
Well-regarded school districts serve both areas, though the specifics vary by address.
La Habra students attend schools in the La Habra City School District and Fullerton Joint Union High School District. The schools serve a diverse population and generally receive good ratings.
La Habra Heights doesn’t have schools within its city limits. According to Wikipedia, “Students are served by Lowell Joint School District, La Habra City School District, and the Fullerton Joint Union High School District.” [15] Macy Elementary School is rated 7 out of 10 on GreatSchools. [5]
The key difference is that La Habra Heights families often have more resources to supplement public education or choose private options.
Transportation and Commuting
Both cities rely heavily on cars for daily life, but the commuting experience differs significantly.
According to Census data, people in La Habra have an average commute time of 29.9 minutes. [7] The city has better access to public transit options, though most residents still drive.
In La Habra Heights, the mean travel time to work is 35.4 minutes, according to Census Reporter. [16] Due to the limited public transportation options, residents will need to have a car to live here. The winding roads and rural layout mean everything takes a bit longer.
Environmental Factors
Both cities face similar environmental challenges in California.
According to Redfin’s environmental risk data, La Habra Heights has a significant risk of wildfire, with 100% of properties at risk over the next 30 years. [4] La Habra has a moderate risk of wildfire, with 35% of properties at risk. [2]
Both cities face increasing heat risks due to climate change, with temperatures expected to rise significantly over the next 30 years.
Cost of Living Beyond Housing
La Habra offers more budget-friendly daily expenses. You’ll find chain restaurants, discount stores, and typical suburban pricing on goods and services.
La Habra Heights residents often travel to neighboring communities for shopping and dining, as there are no commercial establishments within the city. This can result in higher costs for everyday items and services, as well as the time investment of driving elsewhere.
Pros and Cons Summary
La Habra Pros
- More affordable housing (~$870K median vs $1.9M)
- Walking distance to shops, restaurants, and services
- Typical suburban amenities and infrastructure
- Diverse community with good schools
- Shorter commutes on average (29.9 vs 35.4 minutes)
La Habra Cons
- Higher crime rates than La Habra Heights
- More traffic and urban congestion
- Less privacy and space
- Standard suburban environment
La Habra Heights Pros
- Extremely low crime rates and high safety
- Luxury homes on large lots with stunning views
- Rural lifestyle while staying near urban areas
- High-income community (median $186,837 vs $98,158)
- Horse properties and hiking trails
- Very high property values for investment
La Habra Heights Cons
- Costly housing market
- No commercial establishments in the city
- Longer commutes and car dependency
- Limited diversity in housing options
- High wildfire risk (100% of properties)
Making Your Decision
Choose La Habra if you:
- Need affordable housing under $900K
- Want walkable suburban conveniences
- Prefer diverse community options
- Work locally or need shorter commutes
- Want a standard suburban lifestyle
Choose La Habra Heights if you:
- Can afford $1.5M+ for housing
- Value privacy, space, and luxury
- Want a rural lifestyle near cities
- Prioritize safety above all else
- Enjoy equestrian activities or large properties
- Don’t mind driving for all shopping and dining
The Reality Check
La Habra is well-suited for middle-class families seeking practical suburban living. It’s not flashy, but it delivers good schools, reasonable commutes, and typical suburban amenities without breaking the bank.
La Habra Heights caters to wealthy professionals who can afford luxury while wanting to escape typical urban density. You’ll pay premium prices for a premium lifestyle, but you get a genuine rural ambiance just minutes from major metropolitan areas.
Both cities offer access to Southern California’s job markets, beaches, and attractions. The question isn’t which is “better” – it’s which fits your budget, lifestyle preferences, and long-term goals.
Visit both areas at different times of day and week to get a genuine sense of daily life. Drive the commute routes you’d actually use. Check out the local schools if you have kids. And be honest about your budget – not just for housing, but for the overall lifestyle each city requires.
The choice between La Habra and La Habra Heights ultimately comes down to money and priorities. One offers practical suburban living. The other provides a luxury rural escape. Both can work – if they match your reality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How far apart are La Habra and La Habra Heights?
A: La Habra Heights sits directly adjacent to La Habra in the hills above it. You can drive from one city to the other in just a few minutes. Despite being neighbors, they feel like entirely different worlds.
Q: Can I find homes under $1 million in La Habra Heights?
A: It’s infrequent. While you can occasionally find a mid-century ranch-style home for under $1 million, most homes sell for between $1.5 million and $5 million. The current median home price is $1.9 million according to May 2025 data.
Q: What’s the main difference in lifestyle between the two cities?
A: La Habra offers typical suburban living with shops, restaurants, and services within walking or short driving distance. La Habra Heights has no commercial establishments – it’s purely residential, with a rural, equestrian feel, where many properties feature horses and large lots.
Q: Which city has better schools?
A: Both areas are served by well-regarded school districts. La Habra Heights doesn’t have schools within city limits, so students attend schools in surrounding neighborhoods. The main difference is that La Habra Heights families typically have more resources for private education or tutoring.
Q: Is La Habra Heights really that much safer than La Habra?
A: Yes, the safety difference is significant and documented. La Habra Heights has a violent crime rate of 11.1 compared to the US average of 22.7, with a murder rate of 0. La Habra has crime rates higher than 74% of California cities. Your chance of being a victim of crime is 1 in 98 in La Habra Heights versus 1 in 42 in La Habra.
Q: Do I need a car to live in either city?
A: Yes, both cities require cars for daily life. La Habra has slightly better access to public transit options, but La Habra Heights has virtually no public transportation, and the rural layout makes a car essential.
Q: What about property taxes – are they different?
A: Both cities are subject to California property tax rates, but since La Habra Heights homes are worth much more (median $1.9M vs $873K), you’ll pay significantly higher property taxes there. However, many La Habra Heights residents view this as worthwhile given the lifestyle and property values.
Q: Can I have horses in both cities?
A: Horses are common and expected in La Habra Heights, with many properties designed for equestrian use and zoned for 1-acre lots. In La Habra, keeping horses is significantly more restricted and generally impractical due to the suburban layout and smaller lot sizes.
Q: Which city is better for commuting to Los Angeles or Orange County?
A: Both cities offer good access to major freeways, but La Habra typically has shorter commute times, averaging 29.9 minutes versus 35.4 minutes in La Habra Heights. The winding roads in La Habra Heights can add time to any trip.
Q: What about wildfire risk in both areas?
A: La Habra Heights has a significant wildfire risk, with 100% of properties at some risk over the next 30 years due to the hillside, rural location. La Habra has a moderate wildfire risk affecting 35% of properties. This is an essential consideration for insurance and safety planning.
Looking to explore homes in La Habra or La Habra Heights? Contact Wendy Rawley and The Wendy Rawley Team for expert guidance on finding the perfect property in either city. We are familiar with the local market and can help you navigate the unique characteristics of each community.
Professional email signature design for Wendy Rawley, REALTOR® – Serving Anaheim, Yorba Linda, Brea, and surrounding Orange County cities
Citations and Sources
[1] Niche.com – La Habra Heights Reviews and Rankings
[2] Redfin – La Habra Housing Market Report, May 2025
[3] Rocket Homes – La Habra Housing Market Report, June 2025
[4] Redfin – La Habra Heights Housing Market Report, May 2025
[5] Homes.com – La Habra Heights Neighborhood Guide
[6] Point2Homes – La Habra Heights Demographics and Housing Data
[7] DataUSA.io – La Habra, CA Profile (2023 Census Data)
[8] DataUSA.io – La Habra Heights, CA Profile (2023 Census Data)
[9] Wikipedia – La Habra Heights, California (2023 Census Bureau Data)
[10] NeighborhoodScout – La Habra Heights Real Estate Market Data
[11] NeighborhoodScout – La Habra Crime Rates and Statistics
[12] BestPlaces – La Habra Heights Crime Data
[13] AreaVibes – La Habra Heights Crime Rates and Stats
[14] Niche.com – La Habra Heights Resident Reviews
[15] Wikipedia – La Habra Heights, California (Schools Section)
