Costa Mesa is where coastal cool meets urban energy. Just a few miles from the beach and right next to Newport Beach, this thriving city has become one of Orange County’s most in-demand places to live.
Whether you're a first-time buyer, young professional, creative, or investor, Costa Mesa offers a unique mix of walkable neighborhoods, local culture, and access to both the surf and the city.
Vibe: Trendy, walkable, and highly desirable
Highlights: Walk to coffee shops, restaurants, and boutiques along 17th Street
Who it’s for: Young professionals, families, and anyone who wants Newport vibes without Newport prices
Real Estate: From renovated cottages to $3M+ custom homes on oversized lots
Vibe: Peaceful, suburban, and golf-course adjacent
Highlights: Costa Mesa Country Club, Fairview Park, great schools
Who it’s for: Families and move-up buyers wanting space and community
Real Estate: Spacious ranch homes, mid-century builds, and remodeled luxury homes
Vibe: Artistic, eclectic, and up-and-coming
Highlights: Access to Talbert Nature Preserve, walkability to bars, breweries, and creative workspaces
Who it’s for: Creatives, first-time buyers, and investors looking for long-term upside
Real Estate: Mix of condos, townhomes, and single-family homes under $1M
Vibe: Urban and modern
Highlights: South Coast Plaza, Segerstrom Center for the Arts, high-rise living
Who it’s for: Professionals and buyers who want access to the arts, fine dining, and freeway connectivity
Real Estate: Condos, newer developments, and gated communities
Costa Mesa is known as the "City of the Arts"—home to:
Segerstrom Center for the Arts
Orange County Museum of Art
Renegade food scene with spots like The Lab and The Camp
Craft breweries, vintage shops, yoga studios, and street markets
It’s also minutes from Newport Beach, Huntington Beach, and John Wayne Airport, making it a commuter-friendly, beach-adjacent location.
Costa Mesa is served by Newport-Mesa Unified School District, including sought-after schools like:
Mariners Elementary
Costa Mesa High School (6–12 academy)
Access to private schools like Waldorf, Carden Hall, and Montessori campuses
Condos & Townhomes: Start in the $700K–$900K range
Single-Family Homes: Typically $1.1M–$2M+ depending on location
Luxury Market: Eastside homes and Mesa Verde customs pushing past $3M
Investment Potential: Strong rental demand and high appreciation from Westside to South Coast Metro
Costa Mesa is still considered one of the best value coastal cities in Orange County, especially for buyers priced out of Newport Beach or looking for more character and creativity.
If you’re looking for a coastal lifestyle with edge, character, and long-term upside, Costa Mesa checks every box. From Eastside’s walkability to Westside’s opportunity zones, this city is one of Orange County’s best-kept secrets.
Let’s connect—I'll help you explore the right pocket of Costa Mesa based on your lifestyle, goals, and budget.
112,148 people live in Costa Mesa, where the median age is 36 and the average individual income is $47,636. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Total Population
Median Age
Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.
Average individual Income
There's plenty to do around Costa Mesa, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.
Explore popular things to do in the area, including Edge Personal Trainers, SoCal Boat Rentals, and Higher Tennis Lessons.
| Name | Category | Distance | Reviews |
Ratings by
Yelp
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|---|---|---|---|---|
| Active | 3.82 miles | 19 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 3.47 miles | 9 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 3.78 miles | 11 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 4.66 miles | 12 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 2.65 miles | 7 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 2.43 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 4.87 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 4.28 miles | 10 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 2.97 miles | 13 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 2.65 miles | 8 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 3.11 miles | 7 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 4.48 miles | 7 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
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Costa Mesa has 41,243 households, with an average household size of 2.68. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Costa Mesa do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 112,148 people call Costa Mesa home. The population density is 7,095.19 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Total Population
Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.
Median Age
Men vs Women
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Total Households
Average Household Size
Average individual Income
Households with Children
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Blue vs White Collar Workers
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Zach recognizes and values the trust his client's place in him and Zach strives every day to exceed their expectations. Contact him today to start your home searching journey!
