Laguna Beach, California, is a coastal gem that evokes images of sun-drenched beaches, turquoise waves, and a laid-back yet luxurious lifestyle. Nestled along the Pacific Coast Highway, this artistic enclave has long been a haven for creatives, retirees, and those seeking a slice of paradise. But with its prime location and high demand, real estate in Laguna Beach often comes with a hefty price tag—especially for oceanfront homes or sprawling estates. For many, owning property here feels like a distant dream. However, there’s good news for budget-conscious buyers: condos under $1 million still exist in Laguna Beach, offering an affordable entry point into this coveted market. In this post, we’ll explore where to find these hidden gems, what to expect, and how to make your Laguna Beach dream a reality—all without breaking the bank.
Why Laguna Beach Condos Are a Smart Investment
Before diving into the “where,” let’s talk about the “why.” Condos in Laguna Beach under $1 million represent a unique opportunity in a market where single-family homes often start at $2 million or more. These properties provide access to the same stunning scenery, vibrant community, and proximity to world-class beaches as their pricier counterparts, but at a fraction of the cost. Plus, condos typically come with lower maintenance responsibilities—HOA fees often cover landscaping, exterior upkeep, and sometimes even utilities—making them ideal for part-time residents, busy professionals, or those downsizing.
The Laguna Beach condo market also holds strong investment potential. With tourism booming year-round and a steady influx of renters seeking short-term vacation stays, many owners offset costs by leasing their units. Whether you’re looking for a primary residence, a vacation home, or a rental property, a condo under $1 million can deliver both lifestyle and financial rewards.
The Lay of the Land: Laguna Beach Neighborhoods
Laguna Beach spans just under nine square miles, but its neighborhoods each offer a distinct vibe. To find condos under $1 million, you’ll need to focus on areas that balance affordability with access to the town’s signature charm. Here’s a breakdown of where to look:
1. North Laguna
North Laguna is known for its quieter streets, proximity to Crystal Cove State Park, and easy access to Main Beach. While single-family homes here often exceed $3 million, condos provide a more accessible entry point. Look for smaller complexes or older buildings (think 1960s or 1970s construction) that haven’t undergone extensive renovations. These units might lack modern finishes, but they often come with ocean views or short walks to the beach—key selling points at this price range.
For example, a 1-bedroom, 1-bath condo around 700-900 square feet in North Laguna can sometimes be found in the $800,000 to $950,000 range. Check listings near Emerald Bay or along Cliff Drive for opportunities. Patience is key here, as inventory moves fast.
2. Laguna Village
Laguna Village, the heart of downtown, buzzes with art galleries, boutique shops, and eateries like The Cliff Restaurant. It’s walkable to Main Beach and Heisler Park, making it a prime spot for those who crave convenience. Condos here tend to be pricier due to their central location, but smaller units or those slightly inland (away from direct oceanfront) can dip below $1 million.
A 2-bedroom, 1-bath condo around 1,000 square feet might hit the market at $900,000-$999,000, especially in older complexes without luxury amenities like pools or gated parking. Streets like Glenneyre or Ocean Avenue are good starting points for your search.
3. South Laguna
South Laguna offers a more relaxed, residential feel with stunning beaches like Victoria Beach and Aliso Beach Park. It’s slightly removed from the downtown hustle, which can translate to lower prices. Condos here often come in small clusters or low-rise buildings, and you might snag a 1- or 2-bedroom unit with partial ocean views for $850,000-$975,000. Look near Coast Highway or in developments off side streets like Mountain Road.
4. Laguna Canyon
If you’re willing to trade proximity to the sand for affordability, Laguna Canyon is a sleeper hit. This area, stretching inland along Laguna Canyon Road, is home to artists’ studios, hiking trails, and a bohemian vibe. Condos here are typically the most budget-friendly in Laguna Beach, with 1-bedroom units starting as low as $700,000-$800,000. The tradeoff? You’re a 5-10 minute drive from the beach rather than a short walk. Still, the savings—and the chance to live in Laguna—make it worth considering.
What to Expect in the Under-$1-Million Market
At this price point, don’t expect sprawling penthouses or brand-new construction. Most condos under $1 million in Laguna Beach are older (built between the 1950s and 1980s), smaller (700-1,200 square feet), and may need updates like new flooring, kitchens, or bathrooms. Many are part of modest complexes with basic amenities—think assigned parking rather than garages, or shared laundry instead of in-unit hookups. That said, location remains the star of the show. Even a dated unit can feel like a jackpot if it’s steps from the Pacific or offers a peekaboo view of the coastline.
HOA fees are another factor to consider. In Laguna Beach, these typically range from $300 to $600 per month, depending on the complex’s size and amenities. Fees might cover water, trash, and exterior maintenance, so factor them into your budget when calculating affordability.
Tips for Finding Laguna Beach Condos Under $1 Million
The Laguna Beach real estate market is competitive, and condos in this price range don’t linger long. Here’s how to get ahead of the game:
- Work with a Local Realtor: A seasoned Laguna Beach agent knows the market inside out and can alert you to off-market listings or pocket deals before they hit Zillow or Redfin.
- Set Up Alerts: Use real estate platforms to get instant notifications when properties matching your criteria (e.g., “condo,” “Laguna Beach,” “under $1M”) pop up.
- Be Flexible: Consider fixer-uppers or units needing cosmetic work. A $900,000 condo with $50,000 in upgrades could still keep you under budget while adding value.
- Look Beyond the Beachfront: Properties a block or two inland often come with lower price tags but still offer the Laguna lifestyle.
- Act Fast: Have financing pre-approved and be ready to make an offer within days—or hours—of a listing going live.
Spotlight: Sample Condo Listings (Hypothetical Examples)
To give you a sense of what’s out there, here are some fictional yet realistic examples based on market trends as of March 2025:
- North Laguna Gem: 850 sq. ft., 1 bed/1 bath, partial ocean view, built 1972. Listed at $925,000. HOA: $450/month. Walking distance to Diver’s Cove.
- Laguna Village Retreat: 1,100 sq. ft., 2 bed/1 bath, updated kitchen, no view. Listed at $995,000. HOA: $375/month. Steps from downtown.
- South Laguna Steal: 900 sq. ft., 1 bed/1 bath, balcony with peekaboo ocean view, built 1965. Listed at $875,000. HOA: $500/month. Near Thousand Steps Beach.
- Laguna Canyon Bargain: 750 sq. ft., 1 bed/1 bath, modern updates, built 1980. Listed at $799,000. HOA: $325/month. Quiet complex with canyon views.
The Lifestyle You’re Buying Into
Owning a condo under $1 million in Laguna Beach isn’t just about the property—it’s about the life it unlocks. Imagine mornings sipping coffee as the ocean breeze rolls in, weekends exploring tide pools at Treasure Island Beach, or evenings at the Laguna Art Museum or Sawdust Art Festival. You’re not just buying walls and a roof; you’re investing in a community where surfers, artists, and nature lovers coexist in harmony.
Challenges to Watch For
No real estate market is without hurdles. In Laguna Beach, condos under $1 million often face stiff competition, with multiple offers driving prices up. Older buildings might have deferred maintenance or strict HOA rules (e.g., no short-term rentals). And if you’re banking on rental income, check local regulations—Laguna Beach has tightened restrictions on vacation rentals in recent years.
Final Thoughts: Your Laguna Beach Dream Awaits
Laguna Beach condos under $1 million may not be the norm, but they’re out there for savvy buyers willing to do the legwork. By targeting neighborhoods like North Laguna, Laguna Village, South Laguna, or Laguna Canyon, and staying flexible on size and condition, you can secure a foothold in one of California’s most iconic coastal towns. Whether it’s a cozy 1-bedroom retreat or a 2-bedroom rental prospect, these properties prove that paradise doesn’t have to cost millions.
Ready to start your search? Connect with a local expert, scour listings, and prepare to pounce when the right condo hits the market. In Laguna Beach, a million-dollar view doesn’t always require a million-dollar budget—you just need to know where to look.
