Encino Hills is the elevated, south-of-Ventura portion of Encino that climbs into the Santa Monica Mountains toward Mulholland Drive. It’s known for winding hillside streets, a quieter, more private feel, and dramatic Valley views that distinguish it from the flatter residential areas below. For buyers who want a “tucked away” lifestyle without leaving the convenience of Ventura Boulevard, Encino Hills hits a sweet spot.

The housing here is primarily single-family, with many properties offering larger lots, multi-level floor plans that follow the slope, and strong indoor-outdoor living. Architectural styles often include classic mid-century and ranch-era homes, many thoughtfully remodeled, alongside contemporary rebuilds that lean into glass, clean lines, and panorama-focused designs. Terraced yards, view decks, and resort-style pools are common features that fit the topography.

While Encino Hills itself is largely a single-family hillside market, the broader Encino area nearby can include select condominium options and more traditional neighborhood patterns closer to Ventura Boulevard. This creates a helpful ecosystem for buyers at different stages, those wanting a low-maintenance lifestyle now, and those aiming for a future move into the hills for 더 space, privacy, and views.

Encino’s identity is also tied to its historic and natural roots, from the legacy of the region’s oak woodlands to the enduring presence of Los Encinos heritage in the neighborhood story. That blend of old California context with modern hillside living gives Encino Hills a distinct character, quietly prestigious, design-forward in pockets, and consistently sought after by buyers who value privacy, scenery, and proximity to the heart of the Valley.

Encino is a place of unique origins. In 1769 Gasper de Portola landed in the Monterey region of California. During his expedition he was greeted by several hundred Grabielino Indians near Encino Springs under the mighty oak trees that would give Encino its name, which is Spanish for “oak tree.” Within a generation, Encino Springs was known throughout California. He returned to Spain after claiming the territory for the King and Queen of Spain.

In 1810, as a result of the Mexican Revolution, Rancho Los Encinos was granted to the favored Grabielino Indians. At that time the rancho covered about seven square miles. However, with the coming of U.S. laws and taxes in the 1840s, the heirs of the original land grant lost ownership of the land and it eventually ended up in the hands of Vincent De La Ossa. De La Ossa built a sizeable adobe (which still stands), grazed 500 cattle, and employed 20 ranch hands until he died in the 1860s.

Eugene and Phillipe Garnier bought the property and built the Encino Roadhouse which became a twice-a-day stop for both the Butterfield and the Overland Mail Stage between Los Angeles and San Francisco. They also diversified the ranch and raised sheep, wheat, and barley. In the early 20th Century the community of Encino began to be developed.

The Encino Chamber of Commerce began in 1927, but was temporarily disbanded during the great depression. The Chamber, which was revived in 1936, worked closely with the community to assist in the development of Encino. Just off Ventura and Balboa Boulevards is the Los Encinos State Park which still includes some of the original buildings constructed by the Garniers.