Bel Air, a Ritzy Residential Community Nestled Into the Santa Monica Mountains, Might Be Most Famously Known as the Setting for the Iconic 1990s Sitcom the Fresh Prince of Bel-air, but There Are Plenty of Other Fascinating Lesser-known Tidbits as Well. Here Are Five Things You Might Not Have Known About Bel Air
Bel Air Dates Back to 1923
In 1923, after getting rich by striking oil, real estate developer Alphonzo Bell used his newfound wealth to purchase a plot of land that would come to be known as Bel Air. His wife, who loved all things Italy, gave the streets Italian names that they still bear today.
Bel Air Is Part of the Platinum Triangle
Alongside Beverly Hills and Holmby Hills, Bel Air makes up a region known as the Platinum Triangle because of its multimillion-dollar mansions (many of which are tucked behind gates or shrubs for additional privacy and security). Median home prices in the area are around $2 million, although home sales have been known to top $50 million. It’s easy to see the appeal of living in Bel Air: it offers serenity and stellar views as well as quick access to LA’s hottest cultural and entertainment attractions.
Bel Air Is Highly Educated
Over 77% of residents hold a Bachelor’s degree or higher, which is nearly double the national average. Not surprisingly, the neighborhood is also home to several top-rated public schools.
Bel Air Is Regularly Named a Top Place to Live
Bel Air was ranked one of the 10 best neighborhoods to raise a family in Los Angeles, but it’s popular with everyone from up-and-coming movie industry professionals to recent retirees. Bel Air receives high marks for safety, infrastructure, and education, so it remains a top draw for those looking to relocate to a new neighborhood in LA.
Bel Air Hosts an Annual Film Festival
Los Angeles is synonymous with film festivals, so it’s no surprise that Bel Air has a stellar one of its own. Since 2008, the city has hosted the annual Bel Air Film Festival, which celebrates filmmaking by showcasing special screenings of high-quality movies and facilitating open discussions. This year’s festivities will take place from November 14th to 16th at the Bel Air Armory. Tickets ($5 per person per film) include soda and popcorn, but attendees are welcome to bring their own blankets or snacks as well.
If you’re looking for a piece of real estate in Bel Air, contact the Fridman Group today. With a variety of Bel Air homes for sale, our friendly and knowledgeable team can help you find something that meets your wants and needs.
