Step into a piece of Chico’s vibrant history at 256 E. 1st Avenue, an iconic Victorian residence perched on a prominent corner lot of E. 1st Ave and Oleander, just one block from the Esplanade and minutes from Downtown Chico, Chico State, and Enloe Medical Center. Built in 1949, this distinguished 3-story, 8-bedroom, 4-bathroom home spans 2,993 sq. ft. and was once featured as the Decorator’s Dream House in 1982. Each room was transformed by local designers with flair and creativity, a legacy the current owners have preserved and thoughtfully updated with curated touches from Chico artisans, blending historic charm with modern living. As you arrive, the welcoming covered front porch and classic double-entry doors offer just a hint of the character inside. Inside, you’re greeted by a breathtaking grand staircase, 10.5-foot ceilings, transom windows, handcrafted wainscoting, and wood flooring throughout. The heart of the home, a large light-filled entry, is a true showstopper and sets the tone for the rest of the tour. The main floor hosts one of two private suites, complete with a full bathroom, kitchenette, and cozy living space. Upstairs, you’ll find five additional bedrooms and two full bathrooms at the end of the hall. The top floor features a penthouse suite, an incredible private retreat with its own bathroom, living room, and kitchenette. One of the original bedrooms has been converted into a spacious laundry and lounge area for added comfort. The home also includes a large unfinished basement, offering ample storage or the potential for creative future use. Outside, the fenced backyard and side yard offer quiet retreat spaces, perfect for entertaining under the shaded pergola or relaxing around the fire pit. A gated off-street parking area easily fits three cars, with additional RV/Boat parking for added convenience. With strong income potential (the home is currently being used as an Airbnb), the benefit of the Mills Act tax reduction, and a location steeped in Chico’s history, this rare Victorian gem is perfect for investors, multigenerational living, or those dreaming of a legacy home near the heart of it all. Opportunities to own a property list iconic and versatile don’t come around often. Come experience the character, charm, and possibilities of 256 E. 1st Ave for yourself. Your next chapter starts here!
Property Details
Price:
$649,000
MLS #:
SN25122758
Status:
Active
Beds:
8
Baths:
4
Type:
Single Family
Subtype:
Single Family Residence
Listed Date:
Dec 1, 2025
Finished Sq Ft:
2,994
Lot Size:
8,276 sqft / 0.19 acres (approx)
Year Built:
1949
See this Listing
Schools
School District:
Chico Unified
Interior
Appliances
DW, GD, MW, RF, GO, GR, FSR, HOD, VEF, WHU
Bathrooms
4 Full Bathrooms
Cooling
CA, WW
Flooring
TILE, WOOD
Heating
FA, CF, FIR
Laundry Features
GAS, GE, IR, IN, STK, UL, WINC
Exterior
Architectural Style
VIC
Community Features
SDW, STM, SL, CRB, CW
Construction Materials
WOD
Exterior Features
LIT
Other Structures
GZ
Parking Spots
3
Roof
CMP
Security Features
SD, COD
Financial
Map
Community
- Address256 E 1st AV Chico CA
- CityChico
- CountyButte
- Zip Code95926
Market Summary
Current real estate data for Single Family in Chico as of Jan 21, 2026
194
Single Family Listed
52
Avg DOM
278
Avg $ / SqFt
$388,285
Avg List Price
Property Summary
- 256 E 1st AV Chico CA is a Single Family for sale in Chico, CA, 95926. It is listed for $649,000 and features 8 beds, 4 baths, and has approximately 2,994 square feet of living space, and was originally constructed in 1949. The current price per square foot is $217. The average price per square foot for Single Family listings in Chico is $278. The average listing price for Single Family in Chico is $388,285.
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256 E 1st AV
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