Hanford: Kings County's Crown Jewel

Hanford is one of those rare Central Valley cities that makes you slow down and look twice. The Kings County seat, with a population of approximately 59,000, possesses a historic downtown that could hold its own against any small city in California — from the magnificent 1929 Fox Theatre to the Taoist Temple tucked in China Alley, from the legendary sundaes at Superior Dairy to the stately courthouse presiding over Courthouse Square. This is a city with layers of history, genuine architectural beauty, and a housing market that delivers remarkable value. Alex Daredia has worked with buyers throughout Kings County and consistently finds that Hanford exceeds every expectation.

Real Estate Market Overview

Hanford's housing market balances affordability with the kind of charm and livability that other affordable markets lack. The median home price of approximately $350,000 buys significantly more home than any coastal California city, and the average days on market of around 34 indicates active buyer interest without frenzied competition. The market is supported by a diverse demand base: NAS Lemoore military families (the Navy's largest West Coast jet base is 15 minutes away), Kings County government employees, agricultural professionals, and families who choose Hanford for its schools, safety, and community feel.

The housing spectrum is wide. Established neighborhoods near downtown offer character-rich homes from the $250K–$340K range. Newer construction on the northeast side of town provides modern four-bedroom homes in the $360K–$450K bracket. Custom and estate properties on larger lots or acreage range from $500K into the $700s. Military buyers using VA loans find Hanford extremely accessible, and the turnover created by PCS (permanent change of station) cycles keeps the market liquid.

Neighborhood Breakdown

• Downtown Hanford: The crown jewel. Victorian-era and early 20th-century homes surround the commercial core, with properties ranging from $280K craftsman bungalows to $450K+ restored historics. Walkability to the Fox Theatre, restaurants, and Superior Dairy makes this the most character-rich address in the city.
• Chinatown / China Alley: While primarily a historic commercial district, the surrounding residential streets offer unique older properties with proximity to this cultural landmark. An emerging area for buyers interested in preservation and history.
• Northeast Hanford: The growth area with new construction subdivisions, modern parks, and proximity to new retail development. This is where most families with school-age children look first, with prices from $360K–$470K.
• Lakeside: A popular established community in the north part of the city featuring man-made lakes, walking paths, and family-friendly homes in the $340K–$420K range. This neighborhood is particularly attractive to NAS Lemoore families.
• Wilson Park Area: A centrally located neighborhood near Hanford's main park, offering mid-range homes with mature trees and a settled, family-oriented atmosphere.
• Grangeville: An unincorporated community adjacent to Hanford's south side, offering more affordable properties and a rural feel while remaining close to city amenities.
• Lacey Boulevard Corridor: Hanford's primary commercial strip with residential neighborhoods on both sides. Convenient to shopping and services, homes here are mid-range and practical.

Economy & NAS Lemoore

Hanford's economy benefits from a uniquely diversified base. Naval Air Station Lemoore, located 15 minutes west, is the largest and newest master jet base on the Navy's West Coast. It is home to all Pacific Fleet F/A-18 strike fighter squadrons and generates an estimated $1.5 billion in annual economic impact to the region. Thousands of military and civilian personnel and their families live in Hanford, creating consistent housing demand and supporting retail, restaurants, and services throughout the city.

Beyond the military, Kings County government provides stable public-sector employment centered at the Hanford courthouse and administrative offices. Agriculture — including dairy, cotton, tomatoes, and grain — remains the county's largest industry by acreage and revenue. Healthcare, education, and retail complete the employment picture.

Schools & Education

Hanford Joint Union High School District operates Hanford High School and Hanford West High School, both offering comprehensive academic and athletic programs. The elementary districts serve multiple campuses across the city, and families in newer northeast neighborhoods benefit from recently built school facilities. College of the Sequoias has a Hanford campus, and West Hills College in nearby Lemoore provides additional community college options. Military families appreciate the schools' experience in welcoming and supporting students in transition.

Historic Character & Culture

Hanford's cultural assets are genuinely special. The Fox Theatre, restored to its 1929 atmospheric glory, hosts live performances ranging from concerts to ballet to community theater. China Alley — a National Register Historic District — preserves the story of Chinese immigrants who helped build the Central Pacific Railroad and then settled to farm and operate businesses. The Taoist Temple, dating to 1893, and the Imperial Dynasty restaurant (a fine-dining institution since the 1880s) are unlike anything found in any other Central Valley city. Superior Dairy, serving enormous ice cream sundaes since 1929, is a pilgrimage destination for dessert lovers from across the state. The annual Kings District Fair and holiday downtown events round out a cultural calendar that keeps the community connected.

Lifestyle & Recreation

Hanford's tree-lined residential streets, particularly in the older neighborhoods, create a visual charm that is increasingly rare. Parks including Hidden Valley Park, Lacey Park, and Pioneer Park provide sports fields, playgrounds, aquatic facilities, and gathering spaces. The Kings Art Center offers rotating exhibitions and classes. Daily life in Hanford has a pace that feels intentional — morning coffee at a downtown cafe, evening walks on tree-canopied streets, weekend farmers markets, and a community where people genuinely greet each other.

Commute & Location

Hanford is located along Highway 198 between Visalia (20 minutes east) and Interstate 5 (25 minutes west). Highway 43 connects south toward Bakersfield. NAS Lemoore is a 15-minute commute via Highway 198. The Amtrak San Joaquin line stops in Hanford, providing rail service to Fresno, Sacramento, and the Bay Area via connecting bus. This connectivity, combined with the city's self-contained amenities, means most daily needs are met without leaving town.

Why Buy in Hanford

Alex Daredia tells buyers that Hanford is the Central Valley's hidden gem — but it won't stay hidden for long. The combination of historic character, military-driven demand, strong schools, and genuine affordability creates a market with both immediate livability and long-term appreciation potential. Military families find a welcoming community and easy access to NAS Lemoore. History enthusiasts find China Alley and the Fox Theatre irresistible. Families find safe streets, good schools, and homes with real yards. And investors find a market supported by the one thing that never goes away: a $1.5 billion military installation right next door. Hanford is the rare California city where charm, value, and economic fundamentals all align beautifully.

Hanford Fox Theatre

A magnificently restored 1929 atmospheric theater that hosts live performances, classic films, and community events. Its Spanish Colonial Revival architecture makes it one of the most beautiful venues in the Central Valley.

China Alley & Taoist Temple

A National Register Historic District preserving one of California's last remaining Central Valley Chinatowns, featuring the 1893 Taoist Temple and the legendary Imperial Dynasty restaurant.

Superior Dairy

A beloved Hanford institution since 1929, famous for its massive ice cream sundaes and old-fashioned soda fountain that draws visitors from across the region.

Kings Art Center

A community art museum housed in a historic building, offering rotating exhibitions, art classes, and cultural programming that enriches Hanford's downtown vitality.

Hanford Carnegie Museum

Located in a beautiful 1905 Carnegie library building, this museum preserves Kings County history through exhibits on agriculture, railroad heritage, and pioneer life.

Hidden Valley Park & Lacey Park

Hanford's premier parks offering sports fields, aquatic facilities, playgrounds, and shaded picnic areas that serve as community gathering places year-round.

Naval Air Station Lemoore

Located 15 minutes west of Hanford, NAS Lemoore is the Navy's newest and largest West Coast master jet base, generating significant economic impact and housing demand.