In the remote town of Trona, nestled within San Bernardino County, California, the housing market presents a unique contrast to the rampant price increases seen across much of the state. Despite average home prices soaring to nearly $789,000, there lies a hidden gem where the median home price is below $150,000. This community, along with several others, remains an affordable option for those willing to venture away from bustling urban centers.
Ann Epperly, an 80-year resident of Trona, reflects on the town’s past when it thrived due to borax mining. “It used to be lively, with people coming from all over to collect borax,” she recalls. These days, she appreciates the peaceful environment, saying, “It’s quiet, no noise, and you won’t get run over by cars.” Every Friday, she volunteers at the local historical center and contemplates the changes over the decades.
Zillow reports that while California is home to 210 towns with median home prices exceeding $1 million, there are still pockets of affordability. The lowest median price, at $114,000, can be found near the Oregon border in towns like Dorris, Macdoel, and Tulelake, where the population is under 1,000, primarily situated in farming areas.
Trona, once a booming hub due to the American Trona Corporation’s establishment in 1914, has faded in population and development over the years. Today, it boasts just 1,700 residents, down from a peak of 6,000, and has seen a 15% decline from 2010 to 2022. The median home price here is an astonishing $52,000, while nearby Johannesburg sits at $86,000, both reflecting a 17% drop over the past year.
Real estate agent Sonney Berri notes a notable shift post-pandemic, with city dwellers moving out to buy homes in these less populated areas. “People are investing in renovations to enhance the community’s appearance,” he explains. The nearby town of Ridgecrest, located 25 miles away, houses the closest hospital and Walmart, adding to the need for local development.
Epperly points out that while Trona was once a bustling shopping hub for neighboring towns, the tides have turned. “We need more shops,” she stresses, highlighting the lack of local amenities compared to the past. However, she also sees a silver lining in the increase of desert camping visitors, suggesting that Los Angeles residents are beginning to take notice of Trona.
As more Californians seek larger, more affordable homes away from urban congestion, the appeal of small towns like Trona continues to grow. Berri emphasizes this trend, noting that the downsides of cramped living spaces and high costs in cities could drive more people to explore the affordable lifestyle that these unique communities offer.
