What’s the difference between Beverly Hills and Beverly Hills Post Office (BHPO)?

What’s the difference between Beverly Hills and Beverly Hills Post Office (BHPO)?

April 18, 20254 min read

What’s the Difference Between Beverly Hills and Beverly Hills Post Office (BHPO)?

If you're looking to invest in luxury real estate in Los Angeles, you’ve probably come across two terms that seem interchangeable: Beverly Hills and Beverly Hills Post Office (BHPO). While both carry the prestigious 90210 zip code, there are some key differences that matter—especially when it comes to property values, city services, and lifestyle.

So, what exactly is the difference between Beverly Hills and Beverly Hills Post Office? And which one is right for you? Let’s break it down.


📍 Location: Where Are They?

Beverly Hills (City of Beverly Hills)

The City of Beverly Hills is a self-governing municipality located in the heart of Los Angeles County. It includes world-famous neighborhoods like:

  • The Flats

  • Trousdale Estates

  • Beverly Hills Gateway

  • Benedict Canyon (within city limits)

It’s bordered by West Hollywood, Century City, and Bel-Air, and covers approximately 5.7 square miles.

Beverly Hills Post Office (BHPO)

BHPO refers to an unincorporated area in the Santa Monica Mountains just north of Beverly Hills proper. While these homes have a 90210 zip code and a Beverly Hills mailing address, they are technically part of the City of Los Angeles—not the City of Beverly Hills.

Neighborhoods in BHPO include:

  • Mulholland Estates

  • Beverly Ridge Estates

  • Benedict Canyon (outside city limits)

  • Coldwater Canyon

  • Franklin Canyon


🏛️ Government and Services

Beverly Hills (City)

  • Governed by Beverly Hills City Council

  • Offers exclusive city services: police, fire, water, sanitation, and schools

  • Zoning laws are more regulated

  • City has its own building codes and permits

BHPO (Los Angeles City)

  • Governed by the City of Los Angeles

  • Uses LAPD and LAFD for services

  • Trash, water, and utilities are handled by Los Angeles departments

  • Access to Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD), unless zoned for private schools

🔑 Key takeaway: If having access to Beverly Hills city services and schools is a priority, make sure you're buying within the actual City of Beverly Hills—not just a 90210 address.


💰 Property Prices and Value

Beverly Hills (City)

  • Tends to have higher property values per square foot

  • Greater prestige due to location, services, and proximity to Rodeo Drive

  • Typically more walkable and central

🏡 Average Home Price: $5M – $30M+, with ultra-luxury estates exceeding $100M

BHPO

  • Offers more square footage and land for the price

  • Often features larger lots and hillside homes with canyon or city views

  • More secluded and private

🏡 Average Home Price: $2.5M – $15M+, with some trophy homes over $40M

🔑 Key takeaway: BHPO is generally more affordable for luxury buyers who want space, privacy, and the Beverly Hills brand without the full city price tag.


🌿 Lifestyle & Vibe

Beverly Hills (City)

  • More urban and walkable

  • Close to world-class shopping, fine dining, and The Beverly Hills Hotel

  • Ideal for those who want a central location and vibrant social life

BHPO

  • Quiet, rural, and tucked into the hills

  • Offers privacy, panoramic views, and celebrity-level seclusion

  • Perfect for those seeking a retreat from the city with luxury amenities


✉️ What Does a “90210” Address Really Mean?

Both Beverly Hills and BHPO share the iconic 90210 zip code, but:

  • Only City of Beverly Hills residents pay taxes to and receive services from the city

  • BHPO residents live in Los Angeles, but benefit from the prestige of a Beverly Hills mailing address

💡 Pro Tip: Always check property records or confirm with a real estate professional to know if you're buying inside the City of Beverly Hills or BHPO.


Final Thoughts: Beverly Hills vs. Beverly Hills Post Office

While they may share a zip code and prestige, the difference between Beverly Hills and Beverly Hills Post Office comes down to city services, location, lifestyle, and value.

✅ Choose Beverly Hills (City) if you value proximity to the action, top-tier schools, and full city services.

✅ Choose BHPO if you want privacy, more land, and a better price-per-square-foot while still owning a home with a world-famous 90210 address.


Need Help Navigating Beverly Hills vs. BHPO?

Whether you’re shopping for a luxury estate or a private hillside retreat, I’ll help you make the right move—literally. With insider knowledge and access to off-market properties, I’ll guide you to the best-fit home for your lifestyle and goals.

📲 Contact me today for a personalized consultation and take the first step toward owning a piece of iconic Beverly Hills real estate.

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