Canyon homes and that famous ZIP Code

Although not officially part of Beverly Hills, the area known as Beverly Hills Post Office, or BHPO, shares some things with its well-known neighbor: among them, the Beverly Hills name and the 90210 ZIP Code. Residents of the hillside community generally do not, however, receive services provided by the city of Beverly Hills, such as police, fire or schools.

Early days

When Beverly Hills was incorporated in 1914, the northern border was roughly a mile north of Sunset Boulevard, with the exception of Trousdale Estates. The remaining section stretching north to Mulholland Drive was left as part of the hills of Los Angeles, where it remained anonymous for decades.

The quiet canyon homes came into the spotlight in 1963 when ZIP Codes were established nationwide and the area became associated with Beverly Hills. Based on geographic and transportation areas, the 90210 ZIP Code was created for delivery convenience.

Drawing card

Television shows such as “The Beverly Hillbillies” and “90210” have contributed to the popularity of Beverly Hills. Home buyers seeking extra space for large-scale homes, hilltop views and greater privacy than afforded by city living fanned out to BHPO. The use of the Beverly Hills name in the address has boosted prestige and home values.

Good news, bad news

As the neighborhood continues to grow in popularity, new homes are being built at a rapid pace, increasing traffic and disrupting the peace and quiet. While the newly constructed homes are pushing up property values, original homes are being torn down, dismaying those who prefer the older canyon atmosphere.

Report card

Beverly Hills Post Office residents are primarily part of the Los Angeles Unified School District. Children in the western portion of the community attend Warner Elementary, which scored 940 out of 1,000 on the 2003 Academic Performance Index. West Hollywood Elementary, which scored 680, serves residents on the eastern side. Emerson Middle School scored 738 on the index. University High School scores are not available for 2003.

Stock report

The BHPO area had 5,482 housing units as of the 2000 U.S. census, with all but a few being single-family residences. The bulk of the original homes were built from 1960 to 1971. New homes are being built throughout the area. An exclusive section in the east features many residences exceeding 18,000 square feet. One such home recently sold for $17.5 million.

On the market

There are 87 homes for sale in BHPO, with 83 listed for more than $1 million. Topping the market at $19.5 million is a 20,000-square-foot European-style villa. The least expensive, at $798,000, is a remodeled 1,660-square-foot canyon home.

1995...$812,500

2000...$1,317,500

2002...$1,468,700

2004*...$1,880,000