Welcome to Westside Costa Mesa, a vibrant neighborhood in the heart of Orange County, California, where industrial roots meet modern coastal living. Nestled between the bustling vibes of Newport Beach and the artistic flair of greater Costa Mesa, this area has transformed from its agricultural and military past into a sought-after spot for homebuyers and renters alike. If you’re eyeing townhouses with garages, you’re in luck—Westside Costa Mesa offers a blend of affordability, convenience, and style that stands out in the competitive Southern California real estate scene. These multi-story homes, often featuring attached garages, provide the perfect mix of urban accessibility and suburban comfort, making them ideal for young professionals, families, and even investors. In this in-depth blog post, we’ll explore the history, market trends, features, lifestyle perks, and more, all while diving into why these properties are gaining traction in 2026.
A Brief History of Westside Costa Mesa
To truly appreciate the townhouses dotting Westside Costa Mesa today, it’s essential to understand the neighborhood’s rich history. The area traces its origins back to indigenous peoples like the Tongva and Acjachemen, who inhabited the land long before European settlement. By the early 19th century, it became part of the vast Rancho Santiago de Santa Ana, a Spanish land grant awarded in 1810 to José Antonio Yorba II and Juan Pablo Peralta. This sprawling 63,000-acre ranch set the stage for agricultural development, with the region evolving into farmlands and small communities.
In the early 1900s, the area was known as Fairview Farms and Newport-Mesa Tract, focusing on five-acre farms and rural life. The town of Harper, named after settler James Harper, emerged around 1920 and rebranded to Costa Mesa—meaning “coastal mesa” in Spanish—to highlight its elevated plateau overlooking Newport Bay. Westside became the practical hub, home to lumber yards, creameries, and garages that supported a growing population.
World War II brought significant change with the establishment of the Santa Ana Army Air Base nearby, leading to a post-war residential boom. From 1947 to 1953, the population surged from 400 to 3,700 families, prompting annexations like Freedom Homes in 1954 and Sunshine Homes in 1956. By 1953, Costa Mesa was incorporated as a city, encompassing about 3.5 square miles initially. The Westside retained its industrial edge, with warehouses and garages repurposed over time into trendy spaces.
Today, remnants of this history are visible in places like Fairview Park, a 208-acre preserve that honors the ancient village of Lukup. The neighborhood’s evolution from goat ranches and military housing to a creative enclave mirrors broader Southern California trends, where old structures now house art studios, eateries, and modern townhomes. This historical depth adds character to the townhouses, many of which blend mid-century influences with contemporary updates.
The Real Estate Market in Westside Costa Mesa: 2026 Trends
As of early 2026, the Westside Costa Mesa housing market is stabilizing after the post-pandemic volatility of previous years. Home prices have shown modest growth, with the median sale price reaching $1.31 million in January 2026, up 2.7% from the previous year. Homes spend an average of 42 days on the market, and sales volume has increased by 55%, with 31 homes sold in January alone. This indicates renewed buyer interest amid stabilizing mortgage rates around 5.9–6.3%.
Townhouses with garages are particularly popular, offering a median listing price around $1.55 million for sales, though rentals range from $2,250 to $3,274 monthly for 1-2 bedroom units. Currently, there are about 2-5 townhouses for sale in the neighborhood, with some labeled as “Hot Homes” due to quick turnover. The market is very competitive, with desirable properties often receiving multiple offers, especially those that are turnkey and priced realistically.
Looking ahead, forecasts predict 2-5% annual appreciation through 2027, driven by the area’s coastal proximity and job hubs in Irvine and Los Angeles. Inventory is slowly improving, which could benefit buyers, but Westside remains more affordable than Eastside Costa Mesa or Newport Beach. For townhouses specifically, expect prices to hover between $1.2-1.8 million, reflecting demand for garage-equipped homes in a region where parking is premium.
Features of Westside Costa Mesa Townhouses with Garages
What makes these townhouses stand out? Most are multi-story designs, typically 2-3 bedrooms with 2-2.5 bathrooms, spanning 1,200-1,800 square feet. Attached two-car garages are a staple, providing secure parking and storage—essential in a neighborhood blending residential and industrial vibes. Developments like Westside Walk offer three-story townhomes with plans like Residence 1 (1,289 sq. ft., 2 beds) or Residence 3 (1,714 sq. ft., 3 beds), all including garages and sometimes carports.
Interiors often feature modern amenities: open floor plans, large private patios, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and in-unit laundry. Communities like Woodhaven Townhomes emphasize pet-friendly spaces with pools and picnic areas. For eco-conscious buyers, many include EV charging options and energy-efficient designs.
Exterior styles vary from Spanish-inspired stucco to contemporary minimalism, with brick accents and landscaped driveways. These features cater to a lifestyle that’s practical yet luxurious, with garages doubling as workshops or home gyms.
Lifestyle and Things to Do in Westside Costa Mesa
Living in a Westside townhouse means immersing yourself in a dynamic, creative community. Once an industrial center, the area now boasts repurposed warehouses turned into trendy spots like 2145 Pizza (housed in a former gas station) or Catalina Fish Kitchen for fresh seafood. Outpost Kitchen offers Aussie-inspired eats, perfect for brunch.
Outdoor enthusiasts love Fairview Park for hiking and picnics, while the nearby beaches of Newport and Huntington are just a short drive away. Cultural highlights include the Segerstrom Center for the Arts and Noguchi Garden, part of the Costa Mesa Art Walk. Shop at South Coast Plaza, the West Coast’s largest mall, or explore the LAB Anti-Mall for eclectic boutiques.
For families, top-rated schools and parks like TeWinkle Park add appeal. The neighborhood’s connectivity—via the 405 and 55 freeways—makes commuting to LA or Irvine seamless. Evening vibes include craft beer spots or events at the OC Fairgrounds.
Here’s a quick table of must-do activities:
| Activity | Description | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Art Walk | Self-guided tour of sculptures and gardens | Noguchi Garden & Segerstrom Center |
| Dining | Trendy eateries in repurposed spaces | 2145 Pizza, Outpost Kitchen |
| Outdoor Fun | Hiking and beach access | Fairview Park, Newport Beach |
| Shopping | Upscale and eclectic options | South Coast Plaza, LAB Anti-Mall |
| Events | Fairs and performances | OC Fairgrounds |
This mix keeps life exciting without the chaos of larger cities.
Pros and Cons of Living in Westside Costa Mesa Townhouses
Like any neighborhood, Westside has its upsides and downsides.
Pros:
- Affordability and Value: More budget-friendly than Eastside or Newport, with strong appreciation potential (3-5% projected).
- Convenience: Garages solve parking woes; proximity to beaches, jobs, and freeways.
- Community Vibe: Creative, walkable area with diverse dining and arts.
- Amenities: Pools, patios, and pet-friendly spaces enhance daily life.
Cons:
- High Costs Overall: Still pricey by national standards; median rents around $2,500+.
- Traffic and Density: Busy freeways and varying neighborhood vibes can feel urban.
- Limited Inventory: A competitive market means quick decisions are needed.
- Not Beachfront: A short drive to the coast, not walkable.
Weighing these can help determine if it’s the right fit.
Tips for Buying or Renting a Townhouse in Westside Costa Mesa
If you’re ready to dive in, start with sites like Redfin or Zillow for listings—currently, 2-6 townhouses are available. For rentals, check Apartments.com or RentCafe, where garage-equipped units start at $2,425. Work with a local agent familiar with the area’s historic overlays and HOA rules.
Budget for HOA fees (around $200-400/month) and consider inspections for older conversions. In 2026’s market, aim for pre-approvals to compete effectively.
Conclusion: Is Westside Costa Mesa Right for You?
Westside Costa Mesa townhouses with garages embody the best of Orange County’s evolution—blending history, modernity, and convenience into homes that feel both practical and inspiring. With stabilizing prices, a creative lifestyle, and easy access to beaches and culture, it’s no wonder this neighborhood is thriving in 2026. Whether you’re buying for the long haul or renting to test the waters, these properties offer value in a premium region. If the pros outweigh the cons for your needs, Westside could be your next home sweet home. Explore listings today and discover why so many are calling it home.
