Before Los Angeles had freeways or skyscrapers, there was Lincoln Heights — the city’s very first suburb. Originally known as East Los Angeles, this historic neighborhood sits just northeast of Downtown and has been part of L.A.’s story since the 1870s. It’s home to the second-oldest public library in Los Angeles, and many of its homes date back to the late 1800s, showcasing beautiful Victorian architecture and early Craftsman-style houses that tell the story of old L.A. Just above Griffin Avenue, you’ll find Montecito Heights — a hillside neighborhood known for its tranquil atmosphere and sweeping city views. Both neighborhoods offer an unbeatable location — just 10 minutes to Downtown Los Angeles and Chinatown, or a quick hop onto the 5 Freeway to reach Los Feliz in about 15 minutes.

My 90031 favorites:

• Moo’s Craft BBQ – hands down, some of the best barbecue in California.
• Mazel – a bright, Israeli-inspired vegetarian spot 
• Benny Boy Brewing – has with a giant outdoor patio and rotating food pop-ups.
• Audubon Center at Debs Park
  • It’s a nature and community center operated by the National Audubon Society that focuses on bird conservation, habitat restoration, environmental education, and connecting people to nature in an urban setting. 

The median home price in Lincoln Heights and Montecito Heights is around $850,000. Current data doesn’t fully separate the two neighborhoods, but Montecito Heights generally trends higher due to its hillside setting, architectural charm, and proximity to nature while still being minutes from the heart of Los Angeles.