Welcome to Beverly Hills
The ultimate enclave for the elite, the community of Beverly Hills is a paragon of living with elegance and lavish splendor
Beverly Hills, originally the fertile land within the El Rodeo de Las Aguas land grant (Ranch of the Gathering Waters), was bought by the Hammel and Denker Ranch which became a dairy and lima-bean farm. Then, a syndicate of wealthy investors purchased the ranch in 1906, hoping to find oil. The syndicate reorganizes as the Rodeo land and water company and began subdividing. On opening day, the new community of Beverly Hills was introduced as a "beautiful suburban residence between the city and the sea.” The first house was built in 1907.
Beverly Hills grew quickly. By September 1911, work began on the Beverly Hills Hotel, which the Los Angeles Times called a “monster," since construction cost some $300,000. At the time, lots sold for about $2,000. In 1914, the city was incorporated. By 1920 Douglas Fairbanks and Mary Pickford built “Pickfair.” In 1923, Will Rogers wrote: "Lots are selling so quickly, they go through escrow 12 at a time ... By 1924, Beverly Hills had 5,000 residents.
In 1925, Rogers was given the title "Honorary Mayor of Beverly Hills," becoming the first and only person to receive this honor. The same year, the citizens of Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, Santa Monica and Venice approve a $100,000 bond issue to buy the 385 acres that became UCLA. By 1930, residents prohibit horses within the city. The new electric fountain at the corner of Wilshire and Santa Monica, became “a constant symphony of form and color.” On top of the fountain, the sculpture “Tongva,” prays that Beverly Hills remain a wellspring of fertility and abundance.
Beverly Hills’ City Hall opened in 1931. By 1937, the city set records, with retail sales reaching more than $20,000,000 and bank deposits topping $25,000,000. That year property values grew by 30 percent. Today, shopping is prevalent along Beverly Drive and the world-famous Rodeo Drive. Most residents live in the "flats" of Beverly Hills, yet the hills generally have a higher value.
Beverly Hills, an opulent city so saturated in grandeur and prestige, it has become synonymous with luxury throughout the world. Its population, composed of the ultra-famous and prominent luminaires, has become a beacon for the powerful and those who have a penchant for the finer things in life.
Best embodied by its stunning residential real estate, the city’s large number of high-profile residents ensure that most properties come equipped with gated security and private entrances, as well as large, expansive lots and custom interiors. Multimillion-dollar mansions and estates can be expected, as are hillside palaces with phenomenal 360-degree views and visionary designs created by renowned architects.
What to Love
- Unparalleled home amenities, including indoor spas, theatres, infinity pools, wine cellars and more
- Famous and influential neighbors from CEOs to music magnates
- Exclusivity and status from living in one of the most enviable towns in the world
Local Lifestyle
Beverly Hills’ pristine streets are dotted with rare roadsters and high-profile residents, shopping for premiere designer brands or ducking into Michelin-starred restaurants for heavenly meals. The wealth of entertainment amenities available to homeowners means that much of the social activity in the city occurs in residents’ homes or at the famed pink Beverly Hills Hotel or the historic Beverly Wilshire.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
Just as the city itself has a global reputation for sophistication, its landmark hotels and shopping corridors have equally famous distinctions. Rodeo Drive is the unbeatable, iconic shopping destination for luxury lovers who gravitate toward the iridescent masterpieces of jewelers such as Tiffany & Co. and Cartier.
Rodeo Drive also houses nearly every premiere designer brand that one could imagine. The city also features fine dining, both indoors and al fresco much of the year due to Beverly Hills’ mild climate.
Things to Do
Apart from the must-try restaurants and bevy of designer shops, Beverly Hills lays claim to an impressive rotation of art shows and cultural events. The Beverly Hills Art Show, a city trademark for nearly half a century, showcases dozens of artists and artisan food trucks during its annual event.
Schools
Beverly Hills, and its neighbors, are home to many prestigious schools. Top educational opportunities include:
