The City of Palos Verdes Estates is a 4.75 square mile city of approximately 13,500 residents. Known for being a planned community with tranquil neighborhoods, it is the oldest of four cities on the Palos Verdes Peninsula. With two small commercial areas and a limited amount of multi-family housing, the City consists of predominantly single-family homes constructed in the 1950’s, 1960’s and 1970’s. The City consists of narrow, hilly and primarily two lane roads; no signals and one street light; and few sidewalks.
Residents enjoy the community for these qualities as well as the ocean and hillside views, parklands, pathways, and urban forest that exist throughout the City. With its magnificent views of the Los Angeles Basin and Pacific Ocean, low density, rural character, preserved open space, low crime, urban forest, and excellent schools, the City has continually been recognized as one of the most desirable places to live in southern California.
The City of Palos Verdes Estates, incorporated December 20, 1939, is the oldest of the four cities on the Palos Verdes Peninsula. Gently winding roadways, green hillsides, paths, stands of eucalyptus, pepper, and coral trees were established, and a full 28% of the land area was dedicated to be permanent open space. This early planning and dedication of parklands gives the City its unique rural character and has resulted in its international reputation for scenic beauty.