Atascadero

Atascadero: Laid-Back Living Under the Oaks

Atascadero is the kind of place where your neighbor might have goats, the barista knows your dog’s name, and you can still get across town in 10 minutes flat. It’s relaxed, a little rustic, and surrounded by rolling hills dotted with heritage oaks and vineyards.

This inland Central Coast town is a favorite for people who want more space—more yard, more elbow room, and more breathing room. Real estate in Atascadero ranges from starter homes and ranch-style properties to multi-acre estates tucked into the hills, all just 20–30 minutes from the coast or Paso Robles wine country. If you’re looking for land, views, or a backyard big enough for a chicken coop or a bocce court, this is your town.

The historic downtown has been quietly evolving, with local breweries, bakeries, and coffee shops popping up next to longtime institutions. The Sunken Gardens at the center of town offer a perfect spot for festivals, food trucks, or just an easy picnic under the palm trees. There’s also a growing food and drink scene, an emerging arts culture, and access to outdoor adventures in every direction—from hiking Cerro Alto to kayaking on nearby Santa Margarita Lake.

Families love Atascadero for its strong schools and sense of community, and those looking for value appreciate the affordability compared to nearby coastal towns.

At BH Realty, we know which neighborhoods are up-and-coming, which backroads are worth the drive, and where to find the best hidden homes in the hills. If you’re looking for a Central Coast lifestyle with a little more land and a lot less pretense, Atascadero might just be your sweet spot.