Welcome to Tarzana
A Secluded Haven with Hollywood Ties
Nestled in the hills of the San Fernando Valley, Tarzana is a sought-after Los Angeles neighborhood with a rich history tied to the entertainment industry. Founded by Edgar Rice Burroughs, the creator of Tarzan, this community offers a blend of luxury, natural beauty, and a sense of seclusion. Burroughs purchased Tarzan Ranch in 1919 and began developing homes around it, and in 1930, the community was named Tarzana to honor its founder. Today, Tarzana boasts mature trees, lush gardens, and expansive state parks, all just 23 miles from downtown LA.
The Neighborhood Layout
Tarzana is divided into two main areas: the flats north of Ventura Boulevard and the hills to the south. The flats feature smaller 1960s ranch-style and mid-century modern homes, while the hills are home to large, spaced-out estates near country clubs and state parks. The neighborhood is primarily residential, but Ventura Boulevard offers pedestrian-friendly shops and restaurants. Residents enjoy hiking through mountain trails and playing golf on renowned courses, all while taking in the vistas of mature greenery.
Outdoor Recreation
Marvin Braude Mulholland Gateway Park borders the southern end of Tarzana and connects to Topanga State Park, the largest state park within a city's limits. Residents in the southern hills can walk to these parks, while those in the flats can drive a few miles to access 36 miles of hiking trails through the Santa Monica Mountains. The Pacific Ocean is just 20 miles away, making beach days in Santa Monica easily accessible.
Golf Courses
Golf enthusiasts can enjoy rounds at two of California's top-ranked courses: Braemar Country Club and El Caballero Country Club. These premier private clubs offer dramatic mountain views and lush Bermuda fairways. El Caballero, part of the original Tarzan Ranch, was designed by famed architect Robert Trent Jones Sr. and recently renovated by his son Rees Jones in 2021.
Real Estate in Tarzana
Tarzana is one of the higher-end markets in LA, with a median single-family home price of around $1.8 million. The flats offer a range of homes from 1960s ranch styles priced at $900,000 to new contemporary mansions nearing $6 million to 7.5 million. The southern hills feature large suburban homes with half-acre or larger lots, priced between $2 million and $4 million. As you move further south, prices climb from $5 million to $8 million for 1960s mid-century modern homes and gated estates with valley views. Some of these exclusive communities, like Mulholland Park, offer ultimate privacy with guard-gated entrances. The highest-priced home in Tarzana listed at $15 million is located at Braemar Country Club.
Dining and Shopping
While Tarzana has a quiet residential atmosphere with limited nightlife, Ventura Boulevard is a bustling hub of activity. Locals frequent Tarzana Village, a pedestrian-friendly area with shops, restaurants, and a jungle-themed fountain. The neighborhood's diverse culinary scene includes Armenian, Russian, and Greek restaurants. For more vibrant nightlife, residents can drive to Sherman Oaks, just 8 miles east.
Education
Tarzana is part of the LA Unified School District, which Niche rates B-plus overall. Schools in the north flats range from C to A-minus ratings. Many residents opt for private schools due to the inconsistent public school ratings. Popular private schools include Viewpoint School in Calabasas and the Buckley School in Sherman Oaks, both ranked among the top 30 private K-12 schools in California by Niche.
Commuting
Tarzana residents can easily access Route 101 for a 23-mile drive to downtown LA. The 45-minute drive can double during rush hour, but bus services along Ventura Boulevard offer an alternative. Walkers and cyclists can use the Orange Line, a protected path spanning the Valley from Chatsworth to Valley Glen.
Environmental Considerations
Tarzana's wooded hills are at high risk for wildfires, so most homes require fire insurance. Residents must regularly clear dry brush to prevent fires from spreading. The hills are also prone to flooding during heavy rains due to dry soil and limited vegetation. Homeowners often invest in structural support and drainage to protect their properties. Despite these challenges, Tarzana has a relatively low crime rate, with most incidents occurring around Ventura Boulevard and the 101, while the hills remain mostly crime-free.
