Johnny Cash’s Former Southern California Home Lists for $1.8 Million

Set on six acres near the Ojai Valley, the five-bedroom residence includes a wood-paneled studio where the legendary musician wrote his songs

Aerial view of a house with a terracotta roof, surrounded by lush greenery and hills, featuring a swimming pool and driveway.
Johnny Cash’s former California estate has listed for $1.8 million. Photo: Douglas Elliman

The Southern California refuge once belonging to iconic musician Johnny Cash has hit the market for $1.8 million. Set between Ventura and the scenic Ojai Valley, about 80 miles north of Los Angeles, the double-gated residence features an array of preserved details, among them Cash’s wall-mounted turntable, his intercom system, and a wood-paneled studio where he wrote his early songs.

Indeed, the legendary “Man in Black,” who died in 2003, designed and built the hillside home with his first wife, Vivian, in 1961, overseeing nearly every detail of the layout and orientation. He reportedly even used the rustic retreat to host impromptu concerts for the local townspeople below. The marriage, however, ended just five years after the property was built—and the superstar went on to marry fellow musician June Carter and relocate to Tennessee.

wood-paneled office with a wooden desk, black chair, round mirror, and a window with a view of greenery
The wood-paneled studio. Photo: Douglas Elliman

Equipped with five bedrooms and four full baths, the 4,500-square-foot dwelling sits on just under six acres in the tiny community of Casitas Springs and still evokes the spirit of its original occupants. There are a bevy of unique elements, such as his-and-hers primary suites, an array of built-in furnishings, ceilings imbued with glitter, and a curving brick fireplace in the living room. (Notably, Johnny’s bath still features his original black commode.)

Dotted with towering live oaks and flowering desert flora, the serene grounds come with a pool court, guest house, barbecue area, and corrals for horses, goats, or other livestock. Even if the retreat wasn’t a bone fide piece of music history, it would certainly still be worth the price.

8736 Nye Road is listed with Adam McKaig and Melissa Borders of Douglas Elliman. See more photos below. 

Aerial view of a hillside home with a red-tiled roof, surrounded by lush greenery and tall cypress trees.
Cash had a heavy hand in designing the home. Photo: Douglas Elliman
Interior view with a fur-covered bench on red tiles beside a room featuring wooden beams and large windows with greenery outside.
The ranch-style home was built in 1961. Photo: Douglas Elliman
Rustic living room with wooden beams, brick fireplace, leather chairs, and wagon wheel chandeliers. Cozy and inviting space.
The curved brick fireplace in the living room. Photo: Douglas Elliman
Built-in vintage record player in a wooden enclosure on a white wall, with sunlight streaming through nearby windows.
The original turn table. Photo: Douglas Elliman
Cozy living room with wooden walls, beamed ceiling, modern furniture, and large windows showing outdoor greenery.
The living room. Photo: Douglas Elliman
modern bedroom with large windows, view of pool, ceiling fan, neutral tones, cozy armchair, and minimalist furnishings
One of the bedrooms opens to the pool. Photo: Douglas Elliman