Nestled in the heart of Orange County, California, East Side Costa Mesa stands out as a vibrant, sought-after neighborhood where urban convenience meets suburban charm. Known for its eclectic mix of homes, trendy boutiques, and proximity to the beach, this area has become a hotbed for real estate activity. In this comprehensive blog post, we dive deep into what makes East Side Costa Mesa real estate an attractive option for buyers, investors, and those looking to settle in this unique community. At the end of this post, you will find ALL ACTIVE listings in East Side Costa Mesa Real Estate.
Historic Charm Meets Modern Living
East Side Costa Mesa is deeply rooted in history, originally part of the town of Harper from 1909, which evolved into Costa Mesa in 1920. The area retains much of its post-World War II architectural charm with homes that feature expansive backyards, a nod to its agricultural past. However, this historic charm is now interspersed with modern developments, where older homes are often refurbished or replaced with contemporary designs that cater to today’s lifestyle needs without losing the neighborhood’s unique character.
Diverse Housing Options
- Older Homes: Many of the older homes in East Side Costa Mesa are on generous lots, giving homeowners the opportunity to expand, add ADUs, or maintain large gardens. These properties often attract families looking for space or investors interested in renovation projects.
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New Developments: Newer constructions and remodels offer sleek, modern aesthetics with open floor plans, high-end finishes, and energy-efficient features, appealing to younger professionals and tech-savvy buyers.
The Community Vibe
A Hub for Arts and Culture
This part of Costa Mesa is known for its artistic flair. The neighborhood hosts several local galleries, music venues like The Lab, and events such as the monthly Art Walk. The presence of Orange Coast College also adds a youthful, dynamic vibe, with students contributing to the cultural scene.
Family-Friendly Atmosphere
Despite its artsy reputation, East Side Costa Mesa has a strong family presence, supported by parks like Lions Park and quality schools within the Newport-Mesa Unified School District. Neighborhoods here are generally quiet, with residents taking an active role in community events and local governance, fostering a sense of belonging and safety.
Local Amenities and Lifestyle
Shopping and Dining
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17th Street: Known for its eclectic mix of shops, from vintage clothing stores to local boutiques, 17th Street is a local favorite. Dining options range from cozy cafes to upscale restaurants, providing a taste of both local and international cuisine.
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South Coast Plaza: While not directly in East Side, it’s just a short drive away, offering one of the largest shopping experiences in the U.S. with luxury brands, eateries, and entertainment.
Outdoor Activities
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Back Bay Nature Preserve: A gem for nature lovers, this area provides trails for hiking, biking, and bird watching, offering a serene escape from urban life.
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Beach Access: With Newport Beach in close proximity, residents can easily enjoy surfing, sunbathing, or just a casual stroll along the coast.
Real Estate Nuances
Property Sizes and Lot Values
The lots here are notably larger compared to many other parts of Orange County, sometimes exceeding 10,000 square feet. This size not only adds to the property value but also allows for various uses, from gardening to building additional structures.
Investment Opportunities
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Rental Yield: The rental market is robust, thanks to the area’s appeal to a wide demographic, from students to professionals working in nearby tech hubs.
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Development Potential: The city’s policies aim to balance growth with community integrity, providing opportunities for property enhancements or new builds while maintaining the neighborhood’s essence.
Local Challenges
Traffic and Growth
With ongoing development, especially near commercial hubs, traffic can be a concern at peak hours. However, local efforts focus on improving infrastructure to mitigate these issues.
Market Fluctuations
While the market is strong, potential buyers should be aware of broader economic influences on real estate prices. The area has seen fluctuations, but the long-term trend shows appreciation.
Community Involvement
East Side Costa Mesa residents are known for their community engagement. From neighborhood watch programs to local clean-up events, there’s a strong sense of community stewardship. This engagement can influence local politics, particularly regarding zoning and development decisions, ensuring that new constructions align with community values.
The Allure of East Side Costa Mesa
Location and Lifestyle
One of the primary draws of East Side Costa Mesa is its strategic location. Situated close to the 55 and 73 freeways, residents enjoy easy access to major employment centers, including Irvine, Newport Beach, and the broader Los Angeles area. But it’s not just about connectivity; it’s about quality of life. The neighborhood boasts a lifestyle that’s both laid-back and dynamic, with a rainbow of activities ranging from dining at upscale eateries to enjoying nature at the Upper Newport Bay Ecological Reserve.
Community and Culture
East Side Costa Mesa is celebrated for its unique blend of culture. Here, you’ll find a mix of vintage charm and modern flair. The neighborhood is home to some of the best craft breweries, art galleries, and music venues in the region, fostering a community that values art, music, and gastronomy. Events like the Costa Mesa Art Walk not only bring neighbors together but also attract visitors, contributing to the area’s growing popularity.
Real Estate Market Overview
Market Dynamics
As of early 2025, the real estate market in East Side Costa Mesa is characterized by its competitiveness. The median home value hovers around $1.7 million, reflecting the area’s desirability. Homes in this neighborhood are often sought after for their charming architecture, which includes everything from postwar bungalows to modern remodels and new constructions.
Price Trends
Over the past year, home prices have seen a modest appreciation, with some fluctuations due to broader economic conditions. The median price per square foot stands at approximately $1,170, with properties staying on the market for about 37 days before going pending. This relatively quick turnover speaks to the demand for housing here.
Types of Properties
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Single-Family Homes: These are the backbone of the market, offering classic designs with roomy lots. Many homes here have been updated or expanded to meet modern living standards while retaining their original character.
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Townhomes and Condominiums: For those looking for less maintenance, there’s a selection of townhomes and condos, especially in newer developments that cater to professionals and small families.
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Investment Properties: With the potential for both rental income and property value appreciation, East Side Costa Mesa attracts investors. Properties like duplexes or homes with ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units) are particularly appealing.
Benefits of Buying in East Side Costa Mesa
School Districts
Families often choose this area for its educational offerings. While not part of Newport Beach’s acclaimed school district, Costa Mesa schools like Maude B. Davis Elementary and Monte Vista High School still offer quality education, with some schools receiving high ratings on platforms like GreatSchools.
Proximity to Amenities
From shopping at South Coast Plaza to enjoying the beaches of Newport, residents here have access to some of the best amenities in Orange County. The Back Bay Nature Preserve also provides a natural escape for outdoor enthusiasts.
Cultural and Recreational Activities
The neighborhood is rich in culture, with local theaters, art shows, and festivals that keep the community vibrant. For recreation, options abound from local parks to biking and hiking trails.
Challenges and Considerations
Cost of Living
While East Side Costa Mesa offers relative affordability compared to neighboring Newport Beach, the cost of living here is still high. Potential buyers must consider this when budgeting for homeownership.
Development and Change
The area is undergoing significant development, which can be both a pro and a con. On one hand, it brings new facilities and potentially increases property values; on the other, it might lead to traffic congestion or changes in neighborhood character.
Weather and Environmental Risks
With climate change, areas like Costa Mesa face increased risks from heatwaves, though currently, the neighborhood has minimal risk from severe weather like floods or wildfires.
Investment Insights
Rental Market
The rental market in East Side Costa Mesa is strong, driven by its appeal to young professionals, couples, and small families. The average rent for a single-family home can range from $3,500 to $5,000 per month, depending on size and amenities.
Long-term Value
Real estate here is seen as a solid long-term investment due to the ongoing demand, the neighborhood’s charm, and the continuous improvement of local amenities.
Conclusion of East Side Costa Mesa Real Estate
East Side Costa Mesa real estate encapsulates the essence of California living – blending the allure of beach proximity with a community that values art, culture, and innovation. Whether you’re looking to buy a family home, invest in property, or simply understand the market dynamics, this area offers a compelling case. With its vibrant lifestyle, promising market trends, and a community that’s both diverse and welcoming, East Side Costa Mesa continues to be a gem on the real estate map of Orange County.
For anyone considering moving to or investing in this area, thorough research into specific neighborhoods, property conditions, and future development plans is advisable. This will ensure that your investment not only fits your current needs but also promises growth and satisfaction in the years to come. Remember, in real estate, location is everything, and East Side Costa Mesa has that aspect down to a fine art.
ALL ACTIVE listings in East Side Costa Mesa Real Estate.
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15 Results
5
Beds
Beds
5 | 1
Baths
Baths
4,200
SqFt
SqFt
#PW24195118 | House
Open House: Jan 17, 2025 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
#NP25001139 | House
4
Beds
Beds
2 | 2
Baths
Baths
2,739
SqFt
SqFt
#OC24161697 | House
4
Beds
Beds
3
Baths
Baths
1,800
SqFt
SqFt
Open House: Jan 18, 2025 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
#NP25002208 | House
#OC24251335 | Condo
Based on information from CSMAR, CRMLS, and/or CLAW, and/or CRISNet MLS as of January 13, 2025 1:50 AM PT. The information being provided by CSMAR, CRMLS and/or CLAW and/or CRISNet MLS is for the visitor's personal, non-commercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties the visitor may be interested in purchasing. Any information relating to a property referenced on this website comes from the Internet Data Exchange ('IDX') program of CSMAR, CRMLS and/or CLAW, and/or CRISNet MLS. This website may reference real estate listing(s) held by a brokerage firm other than the broker and/or agent who owns this website. Any information relating to a property, regardless of source, including but not limited to square footage and lot sizes, is deemed reliable but not guaranteed and should be personally verified through personal inspection by and/or with the appropriate professionals. The data contained herein is copyrighted by CSMAR, CRMLS and/or CLAW, and/or CRISNet MLS and is protected by all applicable copyright laws. Any dissemination of this information is in violation of copyright laws and is strictly prohibited. IDX powered by iHomefinder, Inc.
