Huntington Landmark Community Huntington Beach, CA

Nestled in the vibrant coastal city of Huntington Beach, California, the Huntington Landmark Community stands as a beacon of resort-style living for those aged 55 and older. This gated enclave, built between 1972 and 1986, spans over 1,200 homes and offers a blend of low-maintenance condos and townhomes, luxurious amenities, and a prime location just over a mile from the Pacific Ocean. Located in the southeast quadrant of Huntington Beach, near the intersection of Atlanta Avenue and Magnolia Street, Huntington Landmark has become a sought-after destination for active adults seeking a fulfilling retirement lifestyle in Orange County. As of March 3, 2025, this community reflects Huntington Beach’s broader real estate trends—high demand, limited supply, and a premium on coastal proximity—while offering a unique value proposition for its residents. In this blog post, we’ll explore the history of Huntington Landmark, its current real estate landscape, housing options, community amenities, lifestyle appeal, and why it stands out as a premier 55+ retreat in Southern California.

A Legacy of Active Adult Living

Huntington Landmark’s story began in 1972, during a period when Huntington Beach—incorporated in 1909—was transitioning from its oil-driven origins into a thriving coastal hub known as “Surf City USA.” Developer Signal Landmark envisioned a community tailored to active adults, capitalizing on the area’s mild climate, beach access, and growing popularity. Construction unfolded over 14 years, concluding in 1986 with 1,238 homes, making it one of the largest 55+ communities in Orange County at the time. Designed with a contemporary aesthetic, the community offered a pioneering model for senior living—combining low-maintenance homes with an array of amenities to foster an active, social lifestyle.

Strategically located in South Huntington Beach, Huntington Landmark sits less than 2 miles from the iconic Huntington Beach Pier and downtown’s surf-centric scene. Its gated design, complete with 24-hour guard service, provided a sense of security and exclusivity uncommon in the area’s older neighborhoods. Over the decades, the community has evolved, with many homes updated to meet modern standards, yet it retains its original ethos as a haven for retirees seeking both relaxation and engagement. Its proximity to the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve and major freeways like the 405 has only enhanced its appeal, cementing Huntington Landmark as a cornerstone of Huntington Beach’s 55+ landscape.

The Huntington Landmark Real Estate Market in 2025

As of March 3, 2025, the real estate market within Huntington Landmark mirrors Huntington Beach’s broader trends—high demand, premium pricing, and limited inventory—while offering a more affordable entry into this coastal city. The median sale price for Huntington Landmark homes typically ranges from $550,000 to $850,000, depending on size, upgrades, and market conditions. This contrasts with Huntington Beach’s citywide median of $1.3 million, driven by single-family homes, making Huntington Landmark a compelling option for those seeking coastal living without the multimillion-dollar price tag of oceanfront properties.

Inventory within Huntington Landmark is exceptionally tight, with its 1,238 units rarely yielding more than 5-10 active listings at a time. In February 2025, Huntington Beach reported 350 active listings citywide, meaning Huntington Landmark’s share is a small fraction—often selling out quickly when available. Recent sales data shows units moving in 20-42 days, faster than the city’s 41-day average, with prices ranging from $563 to $643 per square foot. Appreciation tracks Huntington Beach’s 7-9% annual rate, bolstered by its gated security, amenities, and proximity to the beach (approximately 1.5 miles).

Buyers include retirees downsizing from larger homes, active adults relocating for the coastal lifestyle, and investors eyeing rental potential in a high-demand area. Cash transactions dominate, especially for upgraded units or those near the clubhouse, reflecting the community’s appeal to financially secure seniors. Financing is common for entry-level purchases, often VA or FHA-approved, broadening accessibility. The scarcity of listings keeps Huntington Landmark a seller’s market, with well-priced units—particularly move-in-ready homes—often sparking multiple offers, sometimes 1-3% above asking.

Housing Options in Huntington Landmark

Huntington Landmark’s 1,238 homes offer a variety of floor plans, ranging from cozy one-bedroom, one-bath condos (around 800 square feet) to spacious three-bedroom, two-bath townhomes (up to 1,300 square feet). Built in a contemporary style, these single-level and two-story residences feature elements like open living areas, private patios or balconies, and fireplaces—hallmarks of 1970s-1980s design updated for modern living. The community offers eight distinct floor plans, including popular models like the Marina and Pacifica, available on a resale-only basis.

Key features include:

• • Spacious Living Areas: Open-concept designs with vaulted ceilings in some units, ideal for entertaining.

• • Private Patios/Balconies: Perfect for morning coffee or relaxing, often with greenbelt views.

• • In-Home Laundry: Most units include washer/dryer hookups, a rare perk for condos of this era.

• • Detached Garages: One-car garages plus additional parking spaces for guests or second vehicles.

Many homes have been renovated, boasting upgrades like stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops, luxury vinyl flooring, and dual-pane windows. Original units needing work start around $500,000, while fully updated homes fetch $750,000-$850,000, offering flexibility for buyers or investors looking to customize.

Community Amenities and Lifestyle

Huntington Landmark’s resort-style amenities are a cornerstone of its appeal, fostering a vibrant, active adult lifestyle. Residents enjoy:

• • Two Heated Pools and Spas: Perfect for swimming or unwinding, with sun-drenched patios.

• • Lighted Tennis and Pickleball Courts: Catering to sports enthusiasts, rare for 55+ communities.

• • Clubhouse: A social hub with a multipurpose room for events, classes, or gatherings.

• • Fitness Center: Updated gym and weight room for staying active.

• • Recreational Facilities: Putting green, shuffleboard, billiards, ceramics room, and woodshop for hobbies.

• • Greenbelts: Scenic walking paths winding through mature trees and landscaping.

• • RV/Boat Parking: A practical perk for adventure-seekers.

Monthly HOA dues, around $460-$500, cover these amenities, plus water, trash, exterior maintenance, and 24-hour guard-gated security, offering value for the price. A full-time activities coordinator curates an action-packed calendar—over 25 clubs include bridge, yoga, golf, ceramics, and chorale—ensuring there’s something for everyone. Residents receive a monthly newsletter highlighting events, from pool parties to group trips, fostering a strong sense of community.

Living in Huntington Landmark means embracing Huntington Beach’s coastal lifestyle with a suburban twist. Mornings might start with a walk along the community’s paths or a bike ride to the beach via the Santa Ana River Trail (4 miles to the pier). Afternoons could mean a tennis match, a woodworking session, or shopping at nearby Five Points Plaza (1 mile away). Evenings often end with a spa soak or dinner at Duke’s Huntington Beach (2 miles south), soaking in the coastal vibe. The 70°F climate keeps outdoor activities central, while events like the US Open of Surfing or Fourth of July Parade—both nearby—add excitement.

Why Huntington Landmark Stands Out

Huntington Landmark’s allure lies in its blend of affordability, amenities, and location within Huntington Beach’s pricier market. Here’s what sets it apart:

• • Coastal Access: Less than 2 miles from the beach, it rivals coastal condos at a lower cost ($550K-$850K vs. $1M+).

• • Resort Amenities: Pools, tennis, and a clubhouse outshine many 55+ options, offering a vacation-like feel.

• • Gated Security: 24-hour guards provide peace of mind, a draw for retirees.

• • Value: Below Huntington Beach’s $1.3M median, it delivers coastal proximity affordably.

• • Active Lifestyle: Over 25 clubs and endless activities cater to diverse interests, rare for its size.

Compared to Huntington Beach’s broader market—where single-family homes dominate at 46% of housing stock (NeighborhoodScout)—Huntington Landmark’s condo/townhome focus appeals to those seeking low-maintenance living near downtown (4 miles) and the pier (2 miles). It outshines inland 55+ options with its coastal vibe and competes with pricier communities like Huntington Harbour Village by offering more amenities at a lower entry point.

Challenges to Consider

Huntington Landmark has its quirks. The $550,000-$850,000 range requires an income of $100,000-$155,000 annually with a 20% down payment, factoring in taxes (1% yearly), insurance, and HOA fees ($460-$500 monthly)—a stretch for some retirees. Traffic on PCH or Magnolia can snarl during summer, reflecting its coastal draw. The 1972-1986 build means some units need updates (e.g., plumbing, electrical), and parking is capped at two spaces, challenging multi-car households.

Inventory scarcity—often 5-10 listings—sparks bidding wars, with buyers facing competition. Noise from nearby streets may affect quieter preferences, though the gated design mitigates this.

Investment Potential

For investors, Huntington Landmark is a coastal sleeper hit. Appreciation tracks Huntington Beach’s 7-9% rate, with flipped units—like a $750,000 sale in early 2025—showing 15-20% returns post-renovation. Rentals fetch $2,500-$3,500 monthly, driven by retiree demand and proximity to downtown (4 miles). Long-term holds shine, as the community’s value grows with Huntington Beach’s coastal appeal—short-term rentals are limited by HOA rules.

Conclusion

Huntington Landmark in Huntington Beach is a premier 55+ retreat, blending resort-style living with coastal proximity. As of early 2025, its market thrives on scarcity, amenities, and a lifestyle that captures Surf City’s essence. From cozy condos to spacious townhomes, it suits active adults—all drawn by its gated security and vibrant community.

Challenges like cost and competition are par for Huntington Beach, but Huntington Landmark’s rewards—beach access, endless activities, and investment upside—shine bright. Whether you’re retiring, downsizing, or investing, this community delivers. Partnering with a local realtor can unlock this coastal haven, turning a house hunt into a homecoming.