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Harvard Heights, Los Angeles,CA

Neighborhood Data
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Harvard Heights offers a charming blend of historic beauty and urban convenience that makes it a fantastic choice for anyone looking to settle in southeast Los Angeles. This neighborhood is known for its stunning Craftsman-style homes and tree-lined streets, which provide a peaceful, almost small-town vibe amidst the bustling city. Residents here enjoy a strong sense of community, with local events and neighborhood gatherings that make it easy to meet neighbors and feel at home quickly. Plus, the area’s diverse population adds a rich cultural texture to daily life, making it an inviting and vibrant place to live.

One of the standout attractions in Harvard Heights is its proximity to the iconic Million Dollar Theater, a historic movie palace that’s been a cultural hub since the early 1900s. Art lovers and history buffs appreciate the neighborhood’s architectural gems, including beautifully preserved early 20th-century buildings and vintage storefronts that tell the story of Los Angeles’ past. For those who enjoy exploring local eateries and shops, Harvard Heights offers a growing selection of trendy cafes, boutique shops, and casual dining spots that cater to a variety of tastes. The nearby Broadway Theater District adds even more entertainment options, with live performances and classic cinema experiences just minutes away.

Getting to Downtown Los Angeles from Harvard Heights is a breeze, as it’s conveniently located just a short drive or quick transit ride to the city center. This close proximity means residents can easily access major job centers, entertainment venues, and cultural institutions without sacrificing the charm and quiet of their own neighborhood. Whether you’re commuting for work or heading downtown for a Lakers game or a night out, Harvard Heights offers a perfect balance of accessibility and tranquility. For anyone moving or relocating to southeast LA, this neighborhood combines the best of historic charm, community spirit, and urban convenience in one welcoming package.

Community Snapshot

Population 26,412
Density (People/sqml.) 22,850
Median Age 36.8
Married Couples
36%
36% of the population of Harvard Heights aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
25%
25% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

About 36% of the Harvard Heights population aged 16 and older are married, which is notably lower than average. This could suggest a community with a younger, more transient population—perhaps made up of students, professionals, or renters. It may also reflect a neighborhood that attracts singles or couples without children, contributing to a more independent, urban lifestyle.

With only 25% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Age Breakdown

Harvard Heights neighborhood age breakdown chart

Exploring Harvard Heights demographics can reveal a lot about its character, pace, and overall lifestyle. Harvard Heights has a population of 26,412, which is larger than many other Los Angeles neighborhoods, creating a lively and dynamic atmosphere. Its size brings an abundance of amenities, entertainment options, and community activities, while still offering spaces to unwind and enjoy the neighborhood’s unique character.

Boasting a population density of 22,850, Harvard Heights is more densely populated than many other Los Angeles neighborhoods, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. The higher concentration of residents contributes to a lively street scene, a strong sense of community, and convenient access to shops, restaurants, and urban amenities just steps from home.

With an average age of 37, you're likely to find a well-balanced community where multiple generations live side by side. This mix of age groups contributes to a neighborhood atmosphere that’s both active and welcoming, offering a blend of fresh perspectives and long-standing community values.

Crime in Harvard Heights

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Total Crime Incidents
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Types of Crime

Harvard Heights neighborhood age breakdown chart

Harvard Heights Crime Map

The Harvard Heights crime map offers a clear, data-driven look at how crime is distributed throughout the neighborhood, using block group data to highlight both safer areas and potential hot spots. The color-coded map makes it easy to see where crime is more concentrated and where it occurs less frequently, helping residents and prospective buyers better understand local safety patterns. It’s important to note that darker or red zones on the map don’t necessarily mean those areas are unsafe — locations near busy transit hubs, shopping districts, or popular attractions often show higher activity simply due to larger crowds and increased foot traffic.

Housing

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Home Price $871,705
Median Rent $1,318
People/Household 3.1

Home Price Breakdown

Harvard Heights neighborhood home price breakdown chart

Rent vs Own

Rent 88% Own 12%

Year Moved In

Before 2010 66% After 2010 34%

Types of Homes in the Area

Market Trends

Year-over-Year YoY data

 

Housing costs often reflect the desirability and overall character of a neighborhood. In Harvard Heights, home prices come in around $871,705, which is higher than many other areas. This elevated pricing points to a sought-after location with strong demand, well-maintained properties, and access to premium amenities that contribute to a higher quality of life. Historical home price trends and appreciation rates in Harvard Heights can serve as a window into the neighborhood’s economic strength and future potential. By understanding how the market has performed in the past, buyers and investors can better evaluate whether the area offers promising opportunities for growth and long-term value.

The median rent is around $1,318, which is on par with many comparable neighborhoods. This balanced pricing offers a mix of affordability and value, making it a practical choice for a wide range of renters.

Walkability & Lifestyle

Coffee Shops

Coffee M.CO
Coffee Shop
min.
min.
H Cafe
Coffee Shop
min.
min.

Entertainment

Salon Lazaro's
Bowling Alley
min.
min.
North Star Auditorium
Theatre Arts
min.
min.

Food & Drink

L.A. Donuts
Fast Food
min.
min.
Ching Hai
Fast Food
min.
min.

Groceries

Huicho's Bakery
Bakery
min.
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Hannam Chain Supermarket
Grocery Store
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min.

Parks

Playground
Playground
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Normandie Park
Park
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Shops

Department Store
Department Store
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Rocket
Convenience Store
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Getting Around

Transit Stops

Pico & Kenmore
Bus Stop
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Pico & Catalina
Bus Stop
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Transit Stations

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Health & Safety

Medical Facilities

Santa Ana Women's Clinic
Clinic
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CVS Pharmacy
Pharmacy
min.
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Health Care

Western Dental
Dentist
min.
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Vermont Dental Group
Dentist
min.
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Safety

Olympic Community Police Station
Police
min.
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Los Angeles Fire Department Fire Station 13
Fire Station
min.
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Top Neighborhood Schools

Name Category Grades Rating
West Adams Preparatory High
1500 W. Washington Blvd., Los Angeles, CA
High School 9 - 12 School Score
New Open World Academy K-12
3201 W. Eighth St., Los Angeles, CA
High School KG - 12 School Score
Monsenor Oscar Romero Charter Middle
1157 S. Berendo St., Los Angeles, CA
Elementary School 6 - 8 School Score
Mariposa-Nabi Primary Center
987 S. Mariposa Ave., Los Angeles, CA
Elementary School KG - 2 School Score
Magnolia Avenue Elementary
1626 S. Orchard Ave., Los Angeles, CA
Elementary School KG - 6 School Score
University Preparatory Value High
1929 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA
High School 9 - 12 School Score
University Preparatory Value High
1929 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA
High School 9 - 12 School Score

Education Level Achieved

Education is a key factor in understanding the character and opportunities within a community like Harvard Heights. School ratings here reflect important indicators such as academic performance, graduation outcomes, and standardized testing, while NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores offer a valuable national comparison to gauge how local schools measure up. Looking at the overall education level of residents in Harvard Heights can also provide meaningful insight into the neighborhood’s focus on learning and long-term growth, helping families choose a community that aligns with their educational goals.

Economy

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Income Per Capita $23,029
Household Income $49,240
Unemployment 4.0%

Income Breakdown

Harvard Heights Income breakdown chart

Employment by Industry

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Local economic factors play a key role in shaping the character and accessibility of a neighborhood, influencing everything from lifestyle to opportunity. Household incomes in Harvard Heights average around $49,240, which is lower than average. This affordability contributes to a more accessible lifestyle, making it an appealing choice for first-time homeowners, young families, and those looking to enjoy the benefits of the area without a high price tag.

The employment landscape offers valuable insight into the stability and economic health of a neighborhood. In Harvard Heights, the unemployment rate sits at around 4%, which is about average compared to many other areas. This balanced rate reflects a steady local economy and a reliable foundation for residents and businesses alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of homes are common?

Harvard Heights is well-known for its beautiful collection of early 20th-century Craftsman and Victorian-style homes. Many residences date back to the 1900s and showcase intricate woodwork, stained glass windows, and charming front porches. The neighborhood has been a popular spot for historic preservation, so you’ll find many restored single-family homes as well as some duplexes and small apartment buildings, all reflecting the area's rich architectural heritage.

Are there any notable landmarks or historical sites?

Yes, Harvard Heights is home to several historic landmarks. One of the most notable is the Harvard Heights Historic District, which was designated a Los Angeles Historic Preservation Overlay Zone (HPOZ) to protect its architecture. The neighborhood also features the famous "The Magic Castle," a private clubhouse for magicians located nearby in Hollywood, and the nearby Wilshire Boulevard offers access to historic theaters and landmarks. Walking tours often highlight the neighborhood’s early 1900s homes and their significance in LA’s development.

Are there major highways or transit lines nearby?

Harvard Heights offers convenient access to several major transportation routes. The neighborhood is situated close to the 10 Freeway (Santa Monica Freeway), making it easy to reach Downtown Los Angeles in about 10-15 minutes by car. For public transit, the Metro Expo Line has stations nearby in the adjacent neighborhoods, providing a direct connection from Downtown LA to Santa Monica. Additionally, several bus lines run through and near Harvard Heights, facilitating easy travel throughout the city.

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