Mountain Center Homes under $1.25 million

Welcome to Mountain Center, California – a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Riverside County. Surrounded by the breathtaking San Jacinto Mountains, this charming community offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and serene living. With its picturesque landscapes, diverse wildlife, and clear blue skies, Mountain Center is an ideal destination for those seeking tranquility and adventure alike.

Mountain Center is renowned for its outdoor recreational opportunities, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts. From hiking trails that wind through lush forests to scenic picnic spots overlooking stunning vistas, the area invites you to explore its enchanting surroundings. The nearby Mount San Jacinto State Park is perfect for hiking, camping, and enjoying the great outdoors, while the community’s peaceful atmosphere provides a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

For those considering a move, Mountain Center features a variety of homes under $1.25 million, making it accessible for families and individuals alike. Whether you’re looking for a cozy cabin, a modern ranch-style home, or a charming cottage, the real estate options here are as diverse as the landscape itself. Many properties boast stunning views, spacious yards, and easy access to nature, allowing you to fully embrace the mountain lifestyle.

With its friendly community, beautiful surroundings, and affordable housing options, Mountain Center is not just a place to live; it’s a lifestyle choice. Discover your dream home in this enchanting mountain retreat and experience the best of California living!

Newest Mountain Center Homes under $1.25 million

$874,900

2 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ SW26188334 MLS ⋅ Active Status

Wake up and fall asleep to your very own slice of heaven in Pinyon Crest! Claiming a commanding mountaintop setting on a very generous 2.8+ acre lot, this impressive home overlooks the beautiful Santa Rosa Mountains & the Coachella Valley w/ top-of-the-world views that’ll take your breath away. This is one of, if not, the highest lot in the community. Once owned by Denny Miller from Wagon Train & Tarzan, 60475 Scenic Dr is a hidden gem where nature & serenity take center stage. The unique appeal of the home is at once grand & cozy w/ its rustic stucco façade & array of oversized windows that frame out the beauty of landscape. For entertainment, there are plenty of spaces to gather: the dining rm w/ fireplace, spacious library w/ fireplace & charming hearth rm tucked off the kitchen, also w/ fireplace. As you meander, you will note the generous storage & counter space throughout, where high ceilings, exposed beams & voluminous rooms invite a relaxed old world aesthetic. The sleek kitchen is adorned w/ white shaker cabinets, clean-lined countertops & stainless steel appliances. From here, it’s easy to head out to the deck / patios to enjoy alfresco meals to the splendorous panoramas of the mountains & Valley. Perched at ~ 4300 ft, this secluded Shangri-La offers a welcome respite w/ temps up to 20 degrees cooler than the desert, inviting you to spend your evenings dining beneath a canopy of stars. To ensure further peace-of-mind living, the home’s updated w/ a newly installed septic system, 2-car garage, newer HVAC & Anderson doors/windows (worth ~$40k). Only about ½ mi away from Frank Sinatra's past private hideaway, "Villa Maggio", sources say that his team built the water well systems for this community. HOA maintains roads & water well system helping preserve the tranquility & functionality of this special mountain community. The University of CA system owns 400 acres immediately next to/west of the property, most likely for research & preservation so possibly a build-free zone next door! This property offers a valuable place to truly disconnect w/out giving up accessibility if you are running a business in the Valley. Palm Desert & Palm Springs are only a short drive away, while the mountain setting provides the privacy, cooler climate & tranquility that can be difficult to find in the Valley. Come up, slow down and enjoy the view. Your mountain retreat is waiting - Priced below recent appraisal - Ultimate natural privacy is reality with this location!

60475 Scenic Drive, Mountain Center

$690,000

2 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 219154271DA MLS ⋅ Active Status

Architecturally significant Desert Minimalist residence set within the dramatic high desert landscape of Pinyon Crest, approximately 20 minutes from El Paseo in Palm Desert. Situated on 2.3 acres and surrounded by National Forest, the property offers exceptional privacy and permanently protected mountain and desert views. At approximately 4,250 feet elevation, temperatures are typically 15 to 20 degrees cooler than the valley floor. The home is approached by a meandering driveway through native pinyon pine and juniper, arriving at a sheltered courtyard framed by two structures. The corten steel exterior requires no paint and was selected for longevity and fire resistance. Fire safety features include a full sprinkler system, 5,000 gallon water tank, and a highly insulated airtight building envelope. The main living space features a spacious great room combining kitchen, living, and sitting areas beneath a soaring roofline. A soapstone masonry wood burning heater provides radiant warmth, while expansive glazing and French doors connect the interior to a covered porch and private courtyard for seamless indoor outdoor living. The private wing includes a primary suite, a secondary bedroom, and a third flexible room currently used as a library or office that could easily serve as an additional bedroom. Each room opens to a secluded courtyard featuring a traditional wood fired ofuro soaking tub, creating a peaceful retreat within the home. Interior finishes include polished concrete floors, level five plaster walls, vertical grain Douglas fir trim, solid wood doors, and clerestory windows with floor to ceiling glazing framing desert and mountain views. Energy efficient construction includes R-30 insulated walls with 10 inch insulated reinforced concrete mass walls, R-50 ceiling insulation, a sealed low air exchange envelope, and a 5 inch insulated concrete slab for thermal mass. Passive solar heating, passive cooling, hydronic floor heating in bedrooms, and built in air portals for optional portable air conditioning enhance comfort. Additional features include a detached two car garage with workshop space and a 10 by 12 greenhouse with off grid water and cooling systems for year round growing. A rare opportunity to own a thoughtfully designed modern desert residence that blends architectural minimalism with the beauty and serenity of the high desert.

70089 Sonora Road, Mountain Center

36350 Butterfly Peak Road, Mountain Center

$898,000

3 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ 219154235DA MLS ⋅ Active Status

Tucked away in the scenic beauty of Mountain Center, this private retreat offers the kind of peace, space, and mountain lifestyle that s getting harder and harder to find. Set on usable land with beautiful natural surroundings, this property feels private and serene while still being within reach of the Coachella Valley. Sitting up on top of the hill, the home takes full advantage of the views looking out over the landscape below. One of the best parts of the property is the large front porch, made for rocking chairs, morning coffee, quiet conversations, and taking in the fresh mountain air at sunset. Built by the current owner and thoughtfully designed for comfortable everyday living, this rare single-story home sits atop the hill and takes full advantage of the breathtaking views overlooking the beautiful Garner Valley landscape below. A walk-up accessible porch, and extra-wide doorways that can accommodate wheelchair access. Inside, the home feels light, warm, and inviting with large windows, abundant natural light, and an open layout that makes everyday living easy and comfortable. The kitchen offers plenty of cabinetry and workspace while flowing naturally into the main living areas, creating a welcoming space for gathering with family and friends. The bedrooms are generously sized and provide flexibility for guests, a home office, or full-time mountain living. Outside is where the property really shines. The usable land offers endless possibilities with a flat area below that would be perfect for a future barn, workshop, additional garage, or expanded outdoor setup. Whether you have horses, animals, toys, or simply want room to breathe, this property gives you the flexibility to create the lifestyle you want. Located within the Garner Valley community, known as an equestrian haven, residents enjoy approximately 26 miles of private horse riding trails, a community arena, round pen, and a community building that brings neighbors together throughout the year. Garner Valley is loved for its wide-open spaces, four-season climate, riding lifestyle, and strong sense of community. Quiet mornings, star-filled skies, and incredible views make this property feel like a true escape from the busy pace of everyday life. A rare opportunity to own a thoughtfully built home in one of Southern California s most unique mountain communities.

36350 Butterfly Peak Road, Mountain Center

$640,000

4 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ SW26220506 MLS ⋅ Active Status

Tucked away in the highly sought-after Indian Hills community of Mountain Center, this picturesque 1.6-acre equestrian retreat offers sweeping mountain vistas, peaceful privacy, and four-season beauty. The beautifully refreshed multi-level main home features warm wood accents and pristine modern updates. Gather in the spacious living room by the cozy wood stove, or step through French doors onto the massive wrap-around deck to enjoy sunset views. The lower-level primary suite is a private haven with knotty pine ceilings, a second wood stove, and a spa-like bath with a built-in Cal Spa tub. Adding incredible flexibility is a fully detached guest house with its own bedroom, full kitchen, living area, and bath—perfect for multi-generational living or rental income! Out back, enjoy your private, fully fenced oasis complete with a heated in-ground pool, spa, and a dedicated pool house. Includes a 2-car garage with an attached workshop and direct access to local horse trails. Ideally located between Idyllwild, desert cities, and Temecula wine country!

38080 Ribbonwood Lane, Mountain Center

$380,000

4 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 219153974DA MLS ⋅ Active Status

Welcome to your private mountain retreat just minutes from Palm Desert -- a peaceful escape offering cooler temperatures, breathtaking scenery, and spacious living. This charming and well-maintained double-wide manufactured home features 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, and 1,536 sq. ft. of comfortable living space, surrounded by spectacular mountain views in every direction.Step inside to a bright open floor plan centered around a freestanding wood-burning fireplace, creating a warm and inviting focal point. The cozy dining area and updated kitchen lighting flow seamlessly into an expansive living room filled with natural light.The spacious primary bedroom offers wonderful privacy with its own en-suite bath and an attached deck/balcony showcasing amazing mountain views -- the perfect spot for morning coffee or evening relaxation. Two guest bedrooms are complemented by a versatile family room or optional fourth bedroom, providing flexibility for your lifestyle needs. An indoor laundry room adds everyday convenience.This home includes numerous upgrades;Tile and laminate flooring,Ceiling fans,Popcorn Ceiling removed, and freshly painted. New roof installed in 2022,Water connected to the property,Seminew stainless steel appliances.Outdoor and property features elevate this offering further: . RV hookups . Three wells on the property . Two additional parcels included in the sale . No HOA.Located just 20 minutes from El Paseo, fine dining, shopping, and surrounding desert cities, this retreat offers the ideal balance of tranquility and convenience.An affordable mountain gem, perfect as a full-time residence or a weekend escape from the desert heat and busy city life. Affordable opportunity awaits! Scheduled your showing now, this one won't last!

62100 Pinyon Drive, Mountain Center

$874,900

3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ SW26218380 MLS ⋅ Active Status

Dome, sweet dome! Perched high above the desert in the private mountain community of Pinyon Crest, this one-of-a-kind geodesic dome home sits on a full acre of natural mountain land, offering a rare combination of distinctive architecture, sweeping views, and peaceful mountain living. The dome's unique geometry isn't just visually striking—it also offers practical advantages. Its efficient form, open interior, and abundant natural light create a comfortable, airy living environment, while curved high ceilings complement natural air circulation. Extensive windows and triangular skylights bring the surrounding mountain landscape into nearly every living space. Thoughtfully remodeled while preserving its original character, new Navarra Maple luxury vinyl plank flooring runs throughout, while a sleek electric fireplace wrapped in geometric porcelain tile provides a dramatic focal point. The open living and dining area flows through sliding glass doors onto the surrounding deck—ideal for entertaining, morning coffee, or watching mountain sunsets. The remodeled kitchen features quartz countertops, shaker cabinetry, a butcher-block eat-at counter, new stainless GE appliances, and a walk-in pantry. The main level includes two bedrooms and an updated bath with quartz counters, shaker cabinetry, and a glass-enclosed shower. One bedroom features large picture windows framing mountain views, while the other opens through French doors to a private deck. An original spiral staircase leads to the lofted primary suite, where skylights offer views of the night sky. The private upper deck captures panoramic mountain vistas, while the remodeled primary bath features dual vanities, quartz counters, a glass shower, and a soaking tub positioned to enjoy the scenery. Recent updates: new HVAC system, water heater, kitchen and bath plumbing, roof shingles, skylights, Milgard windows and sliders, GE appliances, electric fireplace, and interior finishes. Set on 1 acre of native vegetation and wildlife, hiking is right at hand. Pinyon Crest offers DG roads, community wells, and a gated entrance. ~20 minutes from Palm Desert and El Paseo, ~40 minutes from Idyllwild. Enjoy cooler mountain temps, star-filled nights, and San Jacinto Mountain access. Perfect full-time home, weekend escape, or vacation getaway!

70075 Linda Vista, Mountain Center

$798,000

3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 219153496PS MLS ⋅ Active Status

A rare opportunity to own a lovingly restored piece of Palm Springs-area mid-century modern history. Designed and built in 1963 by renowned architectural designer John P. Moyer, this distinctive Pinyon Crest residence captures the spirit of classic desert modernism while offering thoughtful contemporary upgrades, exceptional privacy, and sweeping Santa Rosa Mountain views.The 1,994-square-foot property includes a 1,682-square-foot 2-bedroom, 2-bath main residence with a light-filled living room, clerestory windows, office and den, plus a separate 312-square-foot 1-bedroom, 1-bath casita/ADU. Extensive renovations have thoughtfully restored and modernized the property, including a new roof, windows, doors, interior and exterior paint, HVAC system, furnace, water heater, and well pump. Original fireplaces have been restored, including the iconic freestanding conical Fire Hood designed by architect Wendell Lovett. The updated kitchen features custom-selected BlueStar appliances, including a dual-fuel range with indoor grill and professional ventilation hood, creating a sophisticated focal point for cooking and entertaining. Warm wood interiors and expansive glass connect the home to its dramatic high-desert setting. The primary bath offers a steam sauna, while a separate dry infrared sauna with color-light therapy provides an additional wellness retreat.The private casita features a wall desk, dual-zone wine and beverage refrigerator, and its own patio overlooking the mountains--ideal for guests, a home office, studio, or creative retreat. A detached 2-car garage provides additional convenience.Situated at approximately 4,000 feet in the secluded private community of Pinyon Crest, the property enjoys more than three acres of privacy, protected open space, and remarkable mountain scenery. Owned solar, propane, a security system, and EV charging powered by the solar system add modern functionality.Pinyon Crest has long attracted notable residents: Frank Sinatra, Denny Miller, Tom Selleck, Richard Dreyfus, Katherine Hepburn and Johnny Weissmuller (Tarzan), adding to the area's rich desert history. With its architectural pedigree, restored mid-century character, guest casita, acreage, and breathtaking mountain views, this is an exceptional opportunity to experience privacy, nature, and timeless desert modernism just above the Coachella Valley.

70075 San Lorenzo Road, Mountain Center

$898,500

4 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ 219152136DA MLS ⋅ Active Status

Enjoy this spectacular mountain estate comprised of five parcels for a total of 8.57-acre equestrian-friendly land in the heart of Mountain Center, just 20 minutes from South Palm Desert. Why board your horses when you can wake up with them? With no HOA, your own private well, and 5 stall horse stables, this remarkable estate offers true independence, unmatched serenity, cooler desert air, and valley-wide views. The multi-level main residence captures the essence of mountain living, featuring expansive glass windows that frame endless vistas. A chef's kitchen appointed with granite countertops, double ovens, and dual sinks is ideal for gathering and entertaining. The home offers four bedrooms, including two ensuite retreats and a guest bedroom. The fourth bedroom/apartment is located on the lower level with its own private entrance and features to a fully equipped apartment, complete with a living room, kitchenette, one bedroom, one bathroom, a mini-split system, and washer and dryer. This flexible space is ideal for multigenerational living, caretaker's quarters, or potential rental income. An expansive outdoor deck off the dining area provides the perfect setting for stargazing evenings, peaceful mornings with coffee, or lively weekends hosting family and friends. Equestrian enthusiasts will appreciate the five-stall stable with paddock, tack room, feed room, lighting, and running water, ready to welcome your horses. Additional highlights include a large detached three-car garage/workshop, a 420-foot privately owned well, and a daylight basement flex space currently used as a gym. The upper lot features a flat, graded area with electrical and water hookups supporting 4-RV parking spaces. The southern boundary is owned by Friends of the Desert Mountains, a nonprofit dedicated to conservation, education, and research, helping preserve the property's privacy and natural beauty. Adding to its uniqueness, the property was once the mountain retreat of Hollywood entertainer Red Skelton, who enlisted renowned architect Albert Frey to remodel the home. Original plans remain on file at the Palm Springs Art Museum, underscoring the home's architectural legacy. Whether you envision a self-sustaining homestead, an equestrian lifestyle, or a peaceful private escape, this is a rare opportunity with historic significance, and endless possibilities.

67079 Ribbonwood Drive, Mountain Center

$339,000

3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ CV26191727 MLS ⋅ Active Status

Appointment only for now. Easy to show. Beautiful cabin with Casita for sale. 25 minutes from Palm Desert and 30 minutes from Idyllwild. Two cabins on one lot. Absolutely gorgeous views of the mountains. The main house has been expanded inside and now has 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, indoor laundry room with a lot of storage room. Gorgeous fireplace. On the side of the house is a second building called the "Casita" with bedroom,/living area, bathroom and storage/workshop. New windows throughout, well water treatment, fully fenced with a private well on property, septic tank, and propane tank. Central cooling and heating. The property sits on 11,761 square feet lot size. You can live in the main house and rent the Casita. Tons of possibilities and lots of opportunities to make life very enjoyable. This beautiful peaceful home has septic, propane and a well...

69777 Sugarloaf, Mountain Center

$910,000

3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 219151722DA MLS ⋅ Active Status

Escape to peaceful mountain living on this exceptional 6.2-acre horse property in Mountain Center. Surrounded by towering pines, this unique property features a charming single level 3 bedroom, 2 bath home with an open floor plan, warm wood accents, a cozy wood burning fireplace, spacious dining area, and a kitchen with a walk-in pantry. The generous primary suite opens to a rear deck with a built-in above ground spa overlooking a tranquil greenbelt. A wraparound wood deck provides the perfect space to relax and enjoy the serene surroundings. Equestrian amenities include a large barn, covered RV/trailer parking, and a spacious corral. Adding to the property's charm is a whimsical Old West style ghost town and saloon along with cherry, nectarine, apple, and pear trees. Ideally located at the junction of Highways 243 and 74, you're within walking distance of a market, cafe, post office, feed store, and gym. The property comes mostly furnished including the John Deere tractor. Just minutes from Idyllwild and Lake Hemet. A rare opportunity to own a truly one-of-a-kind mountain retreat!

29130 Highway 243, Mountain Center

$435,000

2 Beds ⋅ 1 Baths ⋅ TR26101917 MLS ⋅ Active Status

Private Mountain Retreat Near Lake Hemet – Escape the Desert Heat and Busy City Life! Enjoy peaceful mountain living in this charming 2-bedroom, 1-bath single-story home at Thomas Mountain Village in beautiful Garner Valley. Situated at 4,500 ft elevation on a ¼-acre lot, this 1,367 sq ft home offers cooler summers, mild winters, and easy access to outdoor recreation while remaining within driving distance of desert amenities. The open floor plan includes a welcoming great room with wood-burning stove, back annex area, cozy dining area, and kitchen. The home features wood floors, spacious bedrooms with ceiling fans, and a dedicated laundry room with washer, dryer, sink, and storage. The spa-style bathroom includes tile floors, a tiled shower and granite countertops. Updates include: • Bosch dishwasher, induction stove, range hood, garbage disposal (2020) • New roof (2022) • Bathroom and all plumbing updated in 2008 Outside, the park-like backyard offers privacy, mature trees, and space to relax, garden or store your RV. The property also includes two storage sheds, one large enough for single-car garage storage. Additional features include: • RV sewer hookup near driveway • Exterior electrical outlets front and back • No Homeowners Association - you will be part owner of a water company • Furnishings available at no extra cost if desired Location Highlights: • 5 minutes to Lake Hemet for fishing, kayaking, and picnicking • 20 minutes to Idyllwild shops and restaurants • Miles of quiet, paved residential roads ideal for biking and strolling the neighborhoods • Nearby hiking trails and access to the Pacific Crest Trail Enjoy a peaceful mountain retreat while still being within reach of desert cities. Approximate Drive Times: • Palm Desert – 40 minutes • Idyllwild – 20 minutes • Temecula – about 1 hour • San Diego – about 2 hours Perfect as a full-time home or weekend escape from the desert heat and the hustle/bustle of city life. Why buy an expensive Garner Valley Estates home when you can get an affordable option in the same location with no HOA.

59307 Courtesy Drive, Mountain Center

$369,000

2 Beds ⋅ 1 Baths ⋅ 26697111PS MLS ⋅ Active Status

Charming 1953, 2 bed, 1 bath mountain cabin featuring a spacious living room with central AC and heating, brick fireplace, bright bedrooms with custom shelving, and an updated kitchen with granite counters and stainless appliances.Enjoy a window-lined sunroom spanning the width of the home perfect for a home office, guest space, or additional living/dining area plus high-speed fiber internet for easy remote work. Laminate wood-style flooring, dual-pane windows, HVAC, and new fencing. Ideally located just minutes from Lake Hemet, 15 minutes to Idyllwild, and under an hour to Temecula and Palm Desert.

59302 Donna Mae Place, Mountain Center

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Based on information from California Regional Multiple Listing Service, Inc. as of . This information is for your personal, non-commercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties you may be interested in purchasing. Display of MLS data is usually deemed reliable but is NOT guaranteed accurate by the MLS. Buyers are responsible for verifying the accuracy of all information and should investigate the data themselves or retain appropriate professionals. Information from sources other than the Listing Agent may have been included in the MLS data. Unless otherwise specified in writing, Broker/Agent has not and will not verify any information obtained from other sources. The Broker/Agent providing the information contained herein may or may not have been the Listing and/or Selling Agent.

Mountain Center Homes under $1.25 million

Newest Mountain Center Homes under $1.25 million

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