The Complete Calabasas Relocation Guide | Schools, Neighborhoods and Costs

Relocating to Calabasas, California means stepping into one of LA County’s most desirable communities known for its privacy, excellent schools, upscale gated neighborhoods, and close proximity to both the city and the coast. Whether you’re moving for more space, a better quality of life, or a quieter luxury lifestyle, this guide covers what newcomers need to know before calling Calabasas home.

1) Where is Calabasas, and What’s it Like Living Here?

Calabasas sits at the western edge of the San Fernando Valley, where Los Angeles begins transitioning into the Santa Monica Mountains. It’s about:

• 10–15 minutes to Malibu (depending on where you live)

• 25–40 minutes to Santa Monica

• 35–60 minutes to Beverly Hills / West Hollywood

• A convenient hub for both LA professionals and families who want suburban space without leaving the city entirely

The vibe: upscale, calm, green, and private—with a strong community feel and tons of outdoor access.

2) Neighborhoods in Calabasas 

Calabasas is famous for its gated living, and many of the most sought-after neighborhoods offer 24-hour security, private amenities, and a true “retreat” feeling.

Highly sought-after gated communities

• The Oaks of Calabasas
  The best-known gated community in the area. Celebrity-adjacent, ultra-private, and full of estate homes. This is often the first stop for buyers relocating for luxury and security.

• Calabasas Park Estates
  Exclusive gated enclave near Calabasas Country Club; features elegant homes and a tucked-away atmosphere.

• Mountain View Estates
  Beautiful gated neighborhood with larger homes and great access to schools and shopping. Known for a neighborhood feel and hillside views.

• Vista Pointe
  A smaller gated community popular for its scenic surroundings and quiet residential vibe.

• Bellagio
  A centrally located gated neighborhood with a refined luxury feel and strong resale appeal.

Other popular neighborhoods (non-gated but excellent)

• Calabasas Highlands
  More natural, artsy, and rustic—often with unique homes, great views, and more privacy between properties.

• Old Town Calabasas
  Historic charm with walkability to The Commons and a true community feel.

• Mulwood / Saratoga Hills area
  Great for families prioritizing public schools. Usually more attainable than the high-end gated tracts.
  
  

3) Schools in Calabasas: What Families Should Know

Calabasas is a top-tier destination for education, primarily within the Las Virgenes Unified School District (LVUSD)—widely considered one of the strongest public districts in the region. Families relocating here often cite the district as a main reason for moving. 

Public school options:

• Calabasas High School

• Alice C. Stallings Elementary

• Bay Laurel Elementary

• Chaparral Elementary

• A.E. Wright Middle School (nearby)

Tip: school boundaries can affect home values significantly. If schools are a priority, confirm zoning before making an offer.

Private school options:

• Viewpoint School (nearby, highly regarded)

• Community School (older students)

• Oakwood / Harvard-Westlake / Sierra Canyon (commute-dependent)
  
  

4) Commutes: What to Expect from Calabasas

Calabasas can be surprisingly convenient—or frustrating—depending on your schedule and destination. The city is close to key routes:

• US-101 Freeway (main artery)

• Las Virgenes Rd / Malibu Canyon Rd (toward Malibu)

• Topanga Canyon Blvd (another route to the coast)

Common commute scenarios:

• Woodland Hills / Warner Center: ~10–20 min

• Malibu: ~15–30 min

• Santa Monica: ~25–50 min

• Beverly Hills / Century City: ~40–75 min

• Downtown LA: ~60–90+ min

Local insight: If you work westside, commute time is often the make-or-break factor. Many residents work remotely, work in nearby business centers (Woodland Hills), or choose flexible hours to avoid peak traffic.

5) Cost of Living: What Relocation Budgets Should Include

Calabasas is a luxury market, and relocation budgets should account for more than just the home price.

Home values vary widely based on:

• gated vs non-gated neighborhoods

• security/amenities

• view lots (mountain/canyon)

• proximity to the Commons / school zones

 *Gated communities like The Oaks command major premiums, especially for larger homes with upgraded finishes and privacy.

Property taxes & insurance:

• CA property taxes (~1% + assessments)

• Higher homeowners insurance in hillside/canyon zones

• Potential additional costs for fire coverage depending on location

HOA fees from gated communities:

• guarded gates / roving patrol

• community landscaping

• amenities (parks, recreation)

• road maintenance (in some enclaves)
  
  

6) Lifestyle: Things to do in Calabasas

Calabasas is known for a relaxed, elevated everyday lifestyle—more about quality than nightlife.

Outdoors and Recreation:

• Santa Monica Mountains trails

• Malibu Creek State Park

• Upper Las Virgenes Canyon Open Space Preserve

• Hiking, cycling, and horseback riding nearby

Shopping and Essentials

• The Commons at Calabasas
  The community’s social hub—shopping, dining, coffee, and weekend strolling.

Also nearby:

• Warner Center shopping and dining

• Topanga Social / Westfield Topanga (short drive)
  
  

7) New Spots to Try (food, coffee, and local favorites)

One of the best surprises for newcomers is that Calabasas isn’t just quiet and residential—it’s packed with strong food options, especially around The Commons at Calabasas, plus easy access to Malibu favorites.

Coffee and Casual Mornings

• Calabasas Coffee House – A true neighborhood coffee spot with cozy “local regulars” energy. 

• 10 Speed Coffee – Great espresso drinks and a trendy café atmosphere.

• Philz Coffee  – Custom blends, pour-overs, and a reliable go-to for remote work coffee runs. 

Lunch and Healthy California Casual

• Marmalade Cafe (The Commons) – A Calabasas staple for salads, sandwiches, brunch, and casual meetups. 

• Malibu Canyon Bar & Grill – A great all-around option (breakfast through dinner) with a polished but relaxed feel. 

 Date night and upscale dining

• Porta Via (The Commons) – The most iconic “nice night out” spot in Calabasas with California bistro vibes. 

• Toscanova (The Commons) – Consistently popular Italian option.

Seafood and Special Occasions

• King’s Fish House – Big menu, fresh seafood, and an easy crowd-pleaser when friends or family visit. 

• KazuNori – Hand rolls and premium sushi in a quick, modern format.

Local Classic 

• Lovi’s Delicatessen – An old-school deli that’s beloved locally (perfect for lunch, takeout, and “I need comfort food today”). 

New Additions 

• BLVD Steak (The Commons) – A newer steakhouse addition to the Commons that’s been getting buzz. 

• Cheesesteaks by Matu (coming to The Commons) – Announced expansion bringing wagyu cheesesteaks to Calabasas. 
  
  

8) What Newcomers Should Know Before Choosing a Home

Here are relocation factors that matter a lot in Calabasas:

1) Fire zone considerations

• Some hillside and canyon areas may fall under higher fire risk. This can affect:

• insurance availability/cost

• property maintenance requirements

• long-term ownership costs

2) Privacy vs convenience

Gated communities maximize privacy—but you may be farther from walkable areas. If walkability matters, look closer to:

• Old Town Calabasas

• The Commons area

3) Lot shape and access

Some properties have steep driveways, narrow roads, or hillside lots. If you prefer flat lots or easy access, tell your agent up front.

4) Noise and freeway proximity

Homes closer to the 101 may be more convenient but can have freeway sound. Many buyers request sound mitigation or choose deeper interior streets.

9) Who is Calabasas Best For?

Calabasas tends to be an ideal fit for:

• Families prioritizing schools and safety

• Relocating professionals wanting high-end housing with more space

• Remote workers who want peace and privacy

• Buyers seeking gated living and security

• Anyone wanting Malibu access without Malibu’s coastal pricing volatility
  
  

10) Moving tips: How to Relocate Smoothly

A few smart steps that make relocation easier:

• Spend a weekend exploring different pockets of Calabasas—they feel very different

• Drive commute routes during the actual commute window (weekday mornings matter most)

• Compare HOA rules if choosing gated living (parking, renovations, rentals, etc.)

• Confirm school zoning in writing before finalizing a purchase

• Ask your agent about micro-market pricing, because home values can shift dramatically even within a mile

Welcome to Calabasas

Calabasas offers a rare Southern California combination: luxury + community + nature + privacy, with quick access to Malibu and major parts of LA. For many relocations, it becomes not just a move, but a lifestyle upgrade.

If you’re planning your relocation to Calabasas and want help narrowing down the best-fit neighborhood (gated or non-gated), we’d be happy to put together a custom shortlist based on your commute, schools, and lifestyle goals.