Thinking about moving to Redding, California, or maybe you're already here and trying to figure out the best neighborhoods? You've probably heard about Mary Lake, one of the most popular and sought-after spots on the west side of Redding. But what's it really like to live there? Let's dive in and explore everything Mary Lake has to offer, from traffic and local amenities to housing options and potential drawbacks. By the end, you'll have a clear picture of whether Mary Lake is the right fit for you!
Is Getting Around Redding Really That Bad?
One of the first questions people ask about moving to a new city is: what's the traffic like? In Redding, you'll be happy to know it's pretty minimal compared to bigger cities. You won't find yourself stuck in bumper-to-bumper traffic all day long. The busiest times are usually around 8 AM, when people are heading to work, and 5 PM, during the evening rush hour. Even then, if you're driving from one side of Redding to the other – east to west – the commute is usually no more than 15 minutes. If you're coming from a larger city, you'll find driving around Redding to be a breeze!
What's Close By? The Convenience of Mary Lake
A huge perk of living in Mary Lake is its location. You're only about 3 minutes away from a fantastic shopping center. And one of the highlights of this shopping center is Holiday Market. It's a local grocery store that has just about everything you could need.
What makes Holiday Market so great? They have a wide selection of organic produce, and they're committed to supporting local vendors. Plus, if you love a good sandwich, you've got to try theirs – many say they're some of the best around!
But the shopping center offers way more than just groceries. You'll also find:
- Starbucks
- CVS
- A gym
- Burrito Bandido (Mexican)
- Lalot's Testimonial (Organic Bistro)
- Moonstone Bistro (Date Night Spot)
Moonstone Bistro is an excellent choice if you're looking for a nice spot for a date night. All these amenities make Mary Lake a super convenient place to live!
What Kind of Homes Are in Mary Lake?
Mary Lake is a well-established neighborhood with around 400 homes, primarily built between the early 1980s and early 2000s. It's known as a great place to find a starter home. The average list price is around $375,000. You can find charming homes with three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and nearly 1,800 square feet for under $400,000. Many have backyards perfect for summer barbecues.
If you're looking for something a bit more upscale with views of the lake or nearby trails, expect to pay upwards of $600,000.
Adjacent to Mary Lake, you'll find neighborhoods like Sare Ridge, Placer Pines, and Rolling Hills. These areas have homes that range in age from the early 1960s to the early 2000s.
The Lake and the Trails: What Makes Mary Lake Special?
One of the most unique features of Mary Lake is the man-made lake itself. It was originally built during the Gold Rush to provide water for gold panning. Today, it's the heart of the neighborhood, offering a serene walking trail and easy access to fishing.
If you're into mountain biking, you're in luck! At the end of Karen Drive, you'll find some of the best trails Redding has to offer.
Are There Any Downsides to Living in Mary Lake?
Like any neighborhood, Mary Lake has a potential drawback. On the back side of the subdivision is the firearm academy. It's an active gun range where they hold training courses, including CCW classes. Because of this, you might occasionally hear gunfire.
HOA or No HOA? The Freedom of Mary Lake
A significant advantage of living in Mary Lake is that there's no HOA (Homeowners Association). This means no HOA fees and fewer restrictions, making for easy living!
What's Available Right Now?
If Mary Lake sounds interesting, you're probably wondering about the current market. As of May, there are typically around six houses available, ranging in price from about $375,000 to $550,000. This gives you a good range of options to choose from, but keep in mind that market conditions can change.
Ready to Explore Mary Lake Further?
So, is Mary Lake the right neighborhood for you? With its convenient location, affordable homes, and access to outdoor activities, it's easy to see why it's such a popular choice in West Redding.
If you're interested in learning more about Mary Lake or any other neighborhoods in the Redding area, The Barrett Team is here to help.
Reach out to The Barrett Team:
- Phone: (530) 339-1788, (530) 945-0113
- Email: [email protected]
For exclusive updates and to explore current listings, visit their website at BarrettTeamCA.com. Don't miss the chance to find not just a house, but a community where you can thrive.
