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With its picturesque coastal location, world-class attractions, exceptional real estate options, and outstanding quality of life, it’s easy to see why Santa Monica is one of the most desirable places to call home.
Nestled along the coast of the Pacific Ocean between Los Angeles and Malibu, Santa Monica provides the quintessential Southern California beach town lifestyle, with its perfect blend of laidback and upscale. It’s a seaside haven that offers something for everyone, from family-friendly destinations to vibrant nightlife venues, amazing eateries to pristine sun-kissed beaches, and much, much more.
Interested in relocating to Santa Monica? On this page, you’ll get an overview of the Santa Monica real estate market including current trends, the types of homes available, and other relevant information to help you make the best, well-informed decisions during your search for the perfect property.
SANTA MONICA AT A GLANCE
The weather
Santa Monica gets an average of about 310 days of sunshine annually, making it a fantastic choice for those looking forward to spending a lot of time outdoors.
The location
Santa Monica is part of Los Angeles County and is bordered by other well-known LA neighborhoods including Brentwood, Mar Vista, Pacific Palisades, West Los Angeles, and Venice. The city is bisected by two major thoroughfares – the Santa Monica Freeway and Wilshire Boulevard, with Lincoln Boulevard running north to south through the city.
One of the highlights of living in Santa Monica is enjoying easy access to a wealth of amenities and attractions. The city’s convenient central location puts residents within 15 minutes away to Beverly Hills, 20 minutes to downtown LA, and 30 minutes to Hollywood, putting the region’s best schools, top financial services, employment opportunities, and the very best shopping and dining destinations easily within reach.
The economy
Santa Monica is a part of Los Angeles’ dynamic Silicon Beach, which features over 500 startups and top tech companies. The city’s proximity to LA and its diverse industries have made Santa Monica and Silicon Beach one of the hottest destinations for cutting-edge companies and promising startups looking to establish headquarters outside of San Francisco.
Over the past decade, Santa Monica’s flourishing reputation as a top tech city has enhanced both its residential and commercial real estate markets, which have already enjoyed success thanks to the city’s prime location along the coast.
However, it’s not only the tech sector that has largely contributed to Santa Monica’s economy. Other top industries include retail, scientific services, and tourism, all of which generate a wealth of high-paying employment opportunities for residents.
The lifestyle
No other city along the PCH has that perfectly balanced mix of idyllic beach town and cosmopolitan charm quite like Santa Monica.
Beyond its stellar reputation as a top-rated tourist destination, this scenic coastal city has all of the elements that make it an exceptional place to live, including a thriving economy, top-performing schools, proximity to major freeways, and a multitude of shopping, dining, and recreational venues. When you live in Santa Monica, every day can be extraordinary.
The schools
Santa Monica is home to many reputable public schools, making it a great choice for families. Schools in Santa Monica have an average student-teacher ratio of 22:1 and have an overall grade of A+ from Niche.com
Among its most reputable schools include Santa Monica High School, Dr. Michelle King School for STEM, Franklin Elementary School, Larchmont Charter School, and New West Charter School, which all rank in the state’s best public schools.
SANTA MONICA’S REAL ESTATE MARKET
Those searching for Santa Monica real estate options will be able to find a varied selection of properties that can suit any type of lifestyle. Whether you’re in the market for a permanent residence, a vacation home, or an investment property, you’ll be able to choose from a diverse variety of elegant single-family homes, luxurious condos, and sprawling oceanfront estates that can accommodate any type of need or preference.
Single-family homes
Single-family homes in Santa Monica are available in a wide range of stunning architectural styles including Victorian, Craftsman, Art Deco, Classic Revival, Spanish Colonial Revival, Tudor, and Minimalist Traditional. Prospective buyers can find a multitude of single-family homes along serene tree-lined avenues or nestled right on the beachfront, steps away from the bustling boardwalk.
The selection of single-family homes in Santa Monica can accommodate nearly any type of requirement and preference and are sure to impress even the most discerning buyers. Many homes are equipped with a range of top-quality features such as meticulously maintained landscaping, stylish indoor/outdoor living spaces, gourmet kitchens with chef-grade stainless steel appliances, elegant living rooms, and luxurious primary suites with spa-like baths.
Those in the market for single-family homes can also choose from an array of exceptional neighborhoods offering easy access to shopping, dining, entertainment, and the beach.
Townhomes
A diverse selection of elegant townhomes is available for those seeking privacy and a low-maintenance lifestyle in Santa Monica. Many townhomes boast the perfect combination of form and function, with top-quality features like pristine landscaping, privacy hedges, controlled access gates, and minimalist open-concept living spaces bathed in natural light.
Many of the best Santa Monica townhome developments offer unparalleled convenience, with locations a short walk away from the beach, Downtown Santa Monica, farmers markets, and the city’s best shopping venues.
Condos
For those thinking about downsizing and enjoying a low-maintenance lifestyle, a wide selection of luxurious condominiums can be found in Santa Monica.
Condos in Santa Monica have a seamless blend of convenience, sophistication, and comfort, and are designed to provide a relaxing, laidback lifestyle. Many condo developments in the area are equipped with a range of high-end amenities including state-of-the-art fitness centers, pet spas, attended lobbies with concierge services, lush courtyards, and rooftop lounges surrounded with stunning views of the ocean and the world-famous Santa Monica Pier.
Luxury homes
Looking forward to an unparalleled lifestyle in one of Southern California’s most desirable cities? The high-end real estate options in Santa Monica are guaranteed to satisfy.
Santa Monica’s luxury homes are designed to offer the ultimate in luxury. Many boast the latest smart home amenities, impeccable craftsmanship, sleek custom finishes, and expansive living spaces. The finest and most sought-after luxury homes in Santa Monica are often highlighted by breathtaking views of the coastline or located within Montana Avenue, just steps away from a vibrant mix of distinctive boutiques and cafes.
Choose from the finest selection of Santa Monica homes today. Take a look at our exclusive listings
Current trends in the Santa Monica real estate market
In the second quarter of 2022, active home listings in Santa Monica increased by about 18%. There was a slight drop in the number of sales compared to 2021, but the decrease is in line with the overall drop in home sales across the country. In April 2022, more than 50% of homes sold for above asking price and were typically sold within weeks.
Is it a competitive market?
Like most major cities within the Greater Los Angeles area, Santa Monica has largely been a seller’s market for the past couple of years. The Santa Monica real estate market has been very ideal for sellers, with many homes receiving multiple offers and 46% of homes selling above list price, an increase of 4.4% year-over-year, according to data from Realtor.com
On average, homes for sale in Santa Monica are bought for around the list price, and stay on the market for about 40 days. The most sought-after properties meanwhile often sell around 5% above list price and stay on the market for approximately 25 days.
Prospective buyers will need to move fast if they want to find an ideal Santa Monica home that matches their needs and preferences. Keep in mind that you’ll likely be competing with other homebuyers for a limited selection of homes. Before you start your search, be sure you have proper pre-approvals and all of the required paperwork to have an advantage over other prospective buyers.
Investing in Santa Monica real estate
Home to world-class beaches, an iconic pier, a vibrant culinary scene, and an eclectic mix of recreational destinations, Santa Monica is a city that attracts countless visitors and new residents year after year.
Beyond its identity as a top tourist destination, however, is a terrific place to call home. Santa Monica offers an exceptional quality of life thanks to its pleasant coastal climate, convenient and highly accessible public transit options, renowned education and healthcare facilities, and thriving economy.
All of these contribute to making Santa Monica’s real estate options highly valued, which is why the city is such a desirable choice for real estate investors.
THE NEIGHBORHOODS OF SANTA MONICA
No matter where you choose to live in Santa Monica, you’ll be able to enjoy a perfect blend of relaxed beach town vibe and upscale cosmopolitan lifestyle, along with the finest activities and attractions the city has to offer. Some neighborhoods, however, stand out above the rest, which is why they’re highly popular choices for new residents.
Here’s a quick overview of Santa Monica’s most desirable neighborhoods.
Wilshire-Montana
Wilshire-Montana is an affluent neighborhood easily accessible to top-ranked schools, upscale shopping, and a variety of fine-dining restaurants. The neighborhood is located north of Wilshire Boulevard, one of the major roads connecting Downtown Los Angeles to the Pacific Ocean.
Wilshire-Montana is an ideal choice for those looking to live an active lifestyle – it’s home to an array of fitness centers, yoga studios, and outdoor recreation venues. The refreshing ocean breeze adds to the neighborhood’s relaxed yet lively SoCal charm, with locals enjoying regular art events and performances, browsing the latest titles at bookshops, and savoring delicious brunches at cafes.
Ocean Park
Ocean Park is a historic oceanfront neighborhood nestled south of the world-famous Santa Monica Pier. Considered one of the most-coveted neighborhoods in Santa Monica, Ocean Park offers direct access to the beach, along with many of the city’s top destinations.
Ocean Park features a wide selection of enticing real estate options including condos and single-family homes in various elegant architectural styles such as Craftsman and Victorian.
Downtown Santa Monica
Downtown Santa Monica is one of the city’s most diverse neighborhoods, conveniently located close to top-quality urban amenities while still being minutes away from the beach. A home in Downtown Santa Monica places you in the heart of the action, where many of the best shopping, dining, and entertainment venues together with top destinations like the Santa Monica Pier and the beach are all a short walk away.
An incredible selection of luxury condos can be found in Downtown Santa Monica. Many of these condos offer panoramic ocean views, designer finishes, and first-class amenities that include 24-hour security, rooftop lounges, swimming pools, fitness and yoga studios, and more.
Mid-City
Mid-City is Santa Monica’s furthest inland neighborhood, nestled between 20th Street and Centinela Boulevard and stretching towards the Pacific Ocean. Although it may seem low-key compared to other well-known Santa Monica neighborhoods, Mid-City has its fair share of art galleries, restaurants, and family-friendly venues.
Real estate options in Mid-City consist of a mix of single-family homes, condos, and apartment complexes, providing a wide range of choices for prospective homebuyers.
Palisades Beach Road
Located along the picturesque Santa Monica beachfront, Palisades Beach Road is a prestigious community home to many CEOs, entertainment executives, and other high-net-worth individuals.
This luxurious neighborhood features an impressive selection of gated beach homes, many offering the ultimate Californian indoor/outdoor lifestyle with sprawling al fresco dining areas, abundant natural light, and picture-perfect views of the Pacific from every room. Palisades Beach Road residents enjoy unparalleled convenience, with the neighborhood’s prime location just a few minutes away from top destinations including Ocean Avenue, Third Street Promenade, and the famed Santa Monica Pier.
FIND THE PERFECT HOME IN SANTA MONICA WITH CLUTCH / ABODE
If you’re looking to fulfill your real estate goals in Santa Monica, Clinton Wade and the Clutch / Abode R.E. Brokerage team are ready to assist. We are a Los Angeles-based boutique luxury real estate brokerage known for representing a discerning clientele that appreciates their privacy and discretion.
We believe a home is more than just a simple piece of property – it represents a certain standard of living and serves as a personal retreat tailor-made for one’s lifestyle. We’re prepared to go above and beyond to help you find a home that matches all of your unique goals and preferences.
Our team is known for providing unparalleled service for clients looking to navigate the Santa Monica real estate market, together with other highly sought-after neighborhoods such as Beverly Hills, West Hollywood, Hollywood Hills West, and Studio City.
Start your search for your dream home in Santa Monica today. Get in touch with us at 310.403.9497, or send an email