In California's diverse and competitive real estate market, the $1 million price point reveals a wide spectrum of housing options. From a newly built contemporary home in Berkeley to a classic 1940s bungalow in Los Angeles and a spacious midcentury modern residence in a Sacramento suburb, buyers are faced with distinct choices in size, style, and location.
An examination of three properties currently on the market—in Berkeley, the Tujunga neighborhood of Los Angeles, and Carmichael—highlights the trade-offs between urban density, architectural character, and suburban space. Each home offers a unique vision of California living for a similar budget, reflecting the varied priorities of today's homebuyers.
Key Takeaways
- Three California homes listed near the $1 million mark showcase significant differences in size, age, and amenities across different regions.
- The Berkeley property offers modern construction and urban convenience in a compact, 1,154-square-foot space.
- In Los Angeles, a 1,448-square-foot bungalow emphasizes unique character, natural materials, and a creative studio space.
- The Carmichael home provides the largest living area at 1,939 square feet on a half-acre lot, featuring classic midcentury design and extensive outdoor amenities.
Berkeley: Modern Living in an Urban Core
In the heart of the East Bay, a contemporary house in Berkeley listed for $995,000 presents a model of modern, efficient urban living. Built in 2025, this two-bedroom, two-bathroom home is designed for those who value proximity to city amenities and sustainable features. The property is a tenancy-in-common, a common ownership structure in dense urban areas.
The home's interior spans 1,154 square feet, resulting in a price per square foot of approximately $862. This reflects the high demand for housing in the Bay Area. The main level features a bright, open-concept living and dining area that flows directly into the kitchen, creating an airy, communal space. Large doors open to a private deck, extending the living area outdoors.
Sustainable and Efficient
This Berkeley home is equipped with modern, energy-efficient systems, including a mini-split heat pump for heating and air conditioning, as well as a set of owned solar panels. These features are increasingly important for California homeowners looking to reduce utility costs and environmental impact.
The kitchen is outfitted with stainless steel appliances, including an electric range. On the second floor, two bedrooms offer views of the neighborhood's mature trees. An additional bathroom on this level includes a double vanity. A flexible open nook serves as an office space but could potentially be enclosed to create a third bedroom, adding value and versatility.
Location and Lifestyle
The property's location is a major selling point. It is situated just a block from a vibrant stretch of Sacramento Street, with access to coffee shops and restaurants. Downtown Berkeley's BART station is a mile away, and the UC Berkeley campus is a 15-minute bus ride, making it an ideal location for commuters and academics.
Outdoor space, though compact, is private and functional. The deck is enclosed by wood privacy walls, and the property includes one off-street parking spot—a valuable asset in a city known for its parking challenges.
Los Angeles: A Character-Filled Bungalow Retreat
For those seeking historic charm and a connection to nature, a 1947 bungalow in the Tujunga neighborhood of Los Angeles offers a distinct alternative for $999,000. Located near the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains, this two-bedroom, one-bathroom home provides a serene escape while remaining connected to the wider Los Angeles area.
The house measures 1,448 square feet, making the price per square foot approximately $690. Inside, the design emphasizes organic warmth. The home features cork floors and wood beams across the ceilings, creating a cozy, rustic atmosphere. A stove set on a red brick hearth anchors the living room, providing both a heat source and a strong visual focus.
Creative Space in the City
A significant feature of the Tujunga property is a detached, soundproofed structure currently used as a recording studio. This type of flexible space is highly sought after by artists, musicians, and remote workers in Los Angeles, adding considerable appeal for those in creative industries.
The kitchen continues the natural aesthetic with butcher block countertops and a Bosch gas range. A window over the sink looks out onto lush greenery. The primary bedroom is spacious enough for a king-size bed and has direct access to the backyard. Original stained-glass windows have been preserved in the updated bathroom, blending old and new.
Embracing the Outdoors
The property's outdoor spaces are designed for California's climate. A steep front yard is landscaped with native, drought-tolerant plants. In the back, a teak deck provides an area for relaxation and entertainment. The backyard also features more drought-tolerant landscaping. Hiking and biking trails in the Angeles National Forest are just 15 minutes away, offering extensive recreational opportunities.
Despite its tranquil setting, the home is well-connected. Burbank and North Hollywood are 25 minutes away, and downtown Los Angeles can be reached in about 30 minutes. The property includes a two-car garage.
Carmichael: Spacious Midcentury Modern Family Home
In Carmichael, a suburb of Sacramento, $990,000 buys a significantly larger property that embodies the classic midcentury modern style. Built in 1961, this three-bedroom, two-bathroom house sits on a half-acre lot, offering a different scale of living compared to the Berkeley and Los Angeles homes.
With 1,939 square feet of interior space, the price per square foot is the lowest of the three at $515. This highlights the relative affordability and value proposition of the Sacramento area market. The home's design prioritizes indoor-outdoor flow, a hallmark of midcentury architecture.
The entrance features a distinctive breeze block screen and a courtyard with a stone fountain. Inside, the kitchen has been updated with a center island that includes a beverage refrigerator. The adjacent living room has hardwood floors and large windows overlooking the pool. A flexible layout connects the dining area and a sitting area with a fireplace, which can be separated by a wood folding door.
An Oasis for Outdoor Living
The property's half-acre lot is its defining feature, divided into several distinct outdoor zones. These include:
- A partially covered patio for shaded outdoor dining.
- An in-ground swimming pool surrounded by a safety fence.
- A grassy lawn framed by palm trees and colorful flowers.
- A dedicated playground area on one side of the house.
This extensive outdoor space makes the home ideal for families and those who enjoy entertaining. The primary bedroom has a glass door that opens directly to the rear patio. The home also includes an attached two-car garage.
Located 20 minutes from downtown Sacramento, the home offers convenient access to urban amenities while providing a suburban lifestyle. The William B. Pond Recreation Area, with trails along the American River, is just five minutes away. Lake Tahoe is a two-hour drive, offering year-round vacation opportunities.
