10 Century-Old California Homes With Lasting Beauty Still Listed for Buyers Today

Written By

Mathew Abraham

Updated on

Mathew Abraham

Mathew Abraham, editor of Century Homes America, brings his passion for architectural history to explore the stories behind America’s most iconic homes.

10 Century-Old California Homes With Lasting Beauty Still Listed for Buyers Today
Teresa Valle, Five Star Realty via Zillow

California’s historic homes capture the spirit of a state shaped by sunshine, culture, and constant reinvention. These ten properties, each over a hundred years old, reflect early design influences — from Craftsman bungalows and Spanish Revivals to Victorian gems tucked into tree-lined streets. Despite their age, these homes remain beautifully intact, with original features that continue to charm modern buyers. Whether near the coast, the foothills, or city centers, they offer history without sacrificing livability. Even now, they remain listed in hopes of finding new owners who will stay for a while.

1. Craftsman Bungalow in Roseville, California (1920)

1. Craftsman Bungalow in Roseville, California (1920)
Douglas Pankey DRE, Red Lime Real Estate via Zillow

Built in 1920, check out this Roaring 20’s Roseville beauty. This oversized 3-bedroom, 1-full-bath home features a modern updated kitchen with newer shaker cabinets, modern stainless steel appliances, and granite countertops. The home also features newer tile floors, fresh paint inside and out, new carpet, an updated bathroom, dual-pane windows, central heat, a convenient inside laundry room, a resurfaced roof, and more.

2. Tudor Revival Home in Carmel, California (1925)

2. Tudor Revival Home in Carmel, California (1925)
Ashley Wayland, Wayland Properties, Inc. via Zillow

Built in 1925, this Tudor Revival gem is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to own a piece of Carmel Highlands history. Designed and built by M.J. Murphy, this architectural treasure stands as one of the most authentic and enduring examples of his work. Set on a private knoll above Tickle Pink Inn, surrounded by English-style gardens, the residence features hallmark Tudor details including pitched gables, hand-hewn beams, 2 masonry wood-burning fireplaces, and custom restored casement windows true to a 1920s design. With four bedrooms, all with ensuite bathrooms, rich wood-clad walls, most windows facing the Pacific Ocean, and multiple French doors that open to the private, protected courtyard in the back of the home.

3. English Revival Home in Pasadena, California (1922)

3. English Revival Home in Pasadena, California (1922)
Brent Chang DRE, COMPASS via Zillow

Built in 1922, this impressive English Revival home rests behind two wrought iron driveway gates and privacy hedges. Fully gated, the quiet rear courtyard, pool, and gardens possess the same sense of privacy and security as the front. The thoughtfully updated interior preserves Farquhar’s balanced flow, with both main and secondary staircases, from larger common rooms to the private areas of the home. Oversized double-shuttered pane windows allow for natural light throughout.

4. California Craftsman Bungalow in San Jose, California (1910)

4. California Craftsman Bungalow in San Jose, California (1910)
Erfan Modir, Intero Real Estate Services via Zillow

Built in 1910, this sun-filled 3-bedroom, 2-bath home features dual pane windows, central heat and AC, and beautiful wood floors. The spacious eat-in kitchen with granite countertops is perfect for daily meals or entertaining. Two detached ADUs and a finished 2-bedroom, 1-bath basement, each with mini splits, offer comfortable guest space or great rental income. Enjoy a low-maintenance yard with persimmon and lemon trees, grapevines, and a calamondin tree. The one-car garage includes laundry hookups, a utility sink, and ample storage.

5. California Craftsman Bungalow in Los Angeles, California (1907)

5. California Craftsman Bungalow in Los Angeles, California (1907)
Nancy Marfisi DRE, Sotheby’s International Realty via Zillow

Built in 1907, this magnificent craftsman-style California bungalow is a 5-bedroom, 2-bathroom two-story home with a rich 100+ year history. Many of its elegant original windows, built-ins, and ceiling beams have been carefully preserved. Situated midway between Los Feliz Village on Vermont and the trendy Hillhurst restaurant row, 4534 Russell is a deep-rooted classic home featuring original oak floors, a cozy sunroom, ample storage space, a rear laundry/mudroom, and 9-foot ceilings throughout the lower level, including the kitchen which features a classic O’Keefe and Merrit stove.

6. Georgian Revival Home in Tulare, California (1911)

6. Georgian Revival Home in Tulare, California (1911)
Austin G Molezzo, Downtown Realty Luxury via Zillow

Built in 1911 by the esteemed Linder family and cherished by five generations, this timeless estate seamlessly blends historic craftsmanship with enduring elegance. From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted by a stately main floor featuring a formal dining room, elegant living room, cozy family room, and a well-appointed kitchen that opens to a charming breakfast nook—perfect for gatherings large or small. The basement adds further functionality and potential. Upstairs, the private primary suite offers a tranquil escape with its own bath and sitting area. A handsome library, sun-filled loft, and an office that can serve as a fifth bedroom provide space for both work and relaxation.

7. Mission Revival Home in Riverside, California (1909)

7. Mission Revival Home in Riverside, California (1909)
BRAD ALEWINE DRE, COMPASS via Zillow

Originally built in 1909 and thoughtfully reimagined in 1937 by G. Stanley Wilson—arguably Riverside’s most prolific architect—this remarkable home is a one-of-a-kind treasure in the city’s historic core. This is the only home of its kind in this part of Riverside, and its architectural pedigree is matched by a surprisingly functional floor plan—a rarity among historic residences. Inside, you’ll find beautifully preserved details: stenciled beams, a richly tiled fireplace, stained and plate glass windows, and a cast iron radiator with intricate relief—all just in the living room! The details continue throughout the property. The main level features a spacious kitchen, dining room, sunroom, living room, laundry room, and a bedroom with an adjacent three-quarter bath.

8. Storybook English Cottage in South Pasadena, California (1923)

8. Storybook English Cottage in South Pasadena, California (1923)
JUDY WOO DRE, MASTERS REALTY via Zillow

Built in 1923, this storybook English Cottage is located in desirable South Pasadena, featuring an expansive backyard with a swimming pool/spa on a 12,015 sq ft lot. This 3-bedroom, 1.5-bathroom home has a welcoming living room with a vaulted ceiling, built-in cabinets, and a decorative fireplace, along with a formal dining area and sunny breakfast room. The kitchen has a walk-in pantry with new vinyl wood-styled floors throughout, and a utility room with laundry and a half bathroom. The den/patio leads to the swimming pool/spa and a relaxing oasis backyard with fruit trees, a rock garden, a garage, plus potential to build an ADU.

9. Tudor Revival Cottage in Hemet, California (1915)

9. Tudor Revival Cottage in Hemet, California (1915)
Tristan Gacuya DRE, AVM Real Estate Services via Zillow

Built in 1915, this vintage 2-story home is perfectly situated on a sprawling 0.60-acre lot in the East Hemet neighborhood. This captivating residence harmonizes classic elegance with contemporary comforts, making it a perfect retreat for families and entertainers alike. This property is a perfect fixer-upper to upgrade to your liking with endless opportunities. Boasting 6 spacious bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms, plus a convenient partial bath off the detached garage, this generous 3,211 square foot home is designed for both relaxation and celebration.

10. Colonial Revival Cottage in Corte Madera, California (1915)

10. Colonial Revival Cottage in Corte Madera, California (1915)
Madeline Schaider DRE, Madeline Schaider Real Estate via Zillow

Built in 1915, this property has been beautifully restored with no expense spared. Every room and the amazing grounds blend old-world charm with today’s modern aesthetic. The expansive fenced 8,000 sq ft lot includes a level, landscaped front yard with a gated entrance. The private backyard features a level lawn, manicured gardens, mature fruit trees, Ipe wood deck, side deck, bluestone patio, walkways, and space for a veggie garden, all meticulously maintained. A private gate at the rear fence provides easy access via Hart Lane and the path to Larkspur.

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