When it comes to coastal living in Southern California, few places rival the charm and allure of Laguna Beach and Newport Beach. Nestled along the Pacific Coast in Orange County, these two beach towns are often pitted against each other as prime destinations for residents seeking sun, sand, and a slice of that laid-back California lifestyle. But which one is truly better for living? The answer depends on what you value most—whether it’s artsy vibes, family-friendly neighborhoods, or luxury living. Let’s dive into the details and compare Laguna Beach and Newport Beach across key categories to help you decide.
Location and Accessibility
Both Laguna Beach and Newport Beach sit along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), offering stunning ocean views and easy access to the water. Laguna Beach, located about 50 miles south of Los Angeles, feels a bit more tucked away, with its rugged cliffs and smaller, winding streets giving it a secluded, almost hidden-gem vibe. Newport Beach, just 10 miles north of Laguna, is larger and more connected, with proximity to major hubs like Irvine and John Wayne Airport (only a 15-minute drive).
For commuters, Newport Beach has the edge. Its closeness to business centers in Irvine and Costa Mesa makes it ideal for professionals working in Orange County’s tech or corporate sectors. Laguna Beach, while still accessible via PCH, can feel more isolated, especially during tourist season when traffic clogs the highway. If you’re someone who values convenience and quick access to urban amenities, Newport might win you over. But if you crave a quieter escape from the hustle, Laguna’s slightly off-the-beaten-path location could be perfect.
Cost of Living and Housing
Let’s get real—neither of these towns comes cheap. Orange County’s coastal real estate is notoriously pricey, and both Laguna Beach and Newport Beach reflect that. However, there are differences worth noting.
In Laguna Beach, the median home price hovers around $3 million (as of early 2025), with many properties being custom-built homes perched on hillsides or overlooking the ocean. The town’s smaller size—about 9 square miles—means limited inventory, driving prices even higher. Renting isn’t much easier, with one-bedroom apartments starting at around $2,500-$3,000 per month. The exclusivity of Laguna Beach comes with a premium, appealing to those who can afford a bespoke, artsy lifestyle.
Newport Beach, spanning 53 square miles, offers a broader range of housing options. The median home price is slightly lower, around $2.8 million, though luxury estates in areas like Newport Coast can easily top $10 million. You’ll find everything from waterfront mansions to condos and townhouses, giving Newport a bit more flexibility for different budgets. Renting a one-bedroom here starts at about $2,200-$2,800, depending on proximity to the harbor or beach. Newport’s larger size and diverse neighborhoods—like the family-oriented Balboa Island or the upscale Corona del Mar—make it more accessible to a wider range of income levels, though it’s still far from affordable.
Winner? Newport Beach, if only for its variety and slightly lower entry point. But if money’s no object and you want a unique, high-end home, Laguna Beach holds its own.
Lifestyle and Vibe
The vibe of a place can make or break your living experience, and here’s where Laguna Beach and Newport Beach really diverge.
Laguna Beach is the bohemian artist’s dream. Known for its thriving arts scene, the town hosts the famous Pageant of the Masters and Festival of Arts every summer, drawing creatives from around the world. The streets are lined with galleries, boutique shops, and cozy cafes, and the community has a tight-knit, eclectic feel. It’s less about flashy wealth and more about individuality—think yoga studios, tidepool explorations, and a slower pace of life. The natural beauty, with coves like Victoria Beach and Crystal Cove State Park, adds to its allure for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat.
Newport Beach, on the other hand, exudes polished coastal glamour. It’s home to the Newport Harbor, one of the largest recreational boating harbors on the West Coast, and the lifestyle reflects that—yachts, waterfront dining, and a bustling social scene. Areas like Fashion Island offer upscale shopping, while the Balboa Peninsula is a hotspot for beachgoers and nightlife. Newport feels more cosmopolitan and family-oriented, with a mix of young professionals, retirees, and multi-generational households. It’s lively and polished, with a hint of that OC glitz.
If you’re an artist, introvert, or nature enthusiast, Laguna Beach might call your name. If you thrive in a vibrant, social, and slightly more urban environment, Newport Beach is your match.
Community and Demographics
Laguna Beach has a population of about 23,000, giving it a small-town feel where locals often know each other. The demographic skews older, with a median age around 52, and many residents are retirees, artists, or second-home owners. It’s less diverse than Newport, with a predominantly white population, and the focus is on preserving the town’s unique character over rapid growth.
Newport Beach, with a population of roughly 85,000, is more dynamic. The median age is younger (around 48), and the community includes families, working professionals, and a growing number of transplants drawn by the area’s amenities. It’s still affluent and mostly white, but there’s a bit more diversity in terms of age and lifestyle. Neighborhoods like Eastbluff and Dover Shores are packed with families, while areas like the Peninsula attract a younger, singles crowd.
For community, it’s a toss-up. Laguna Beach wins for intimacy and charm; Newport Beach takes it for variety and energy.
Amenities and Activities
Both towns offer incredible beach access, but their amenities cater to different tastes. Laguna Beach’s beaches—like Heisler Park and Main Beach—are picturesque and serene, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or just soaking in the scenery. The town leans into outdoor recreation, with hiking trails in Laguna Canyon and parks like Crystal Cove. Dining is upscale but understated, with spots like Nick’s Laguna Beach serving elevated comfort food.
Newport Beach, however, is a playground for water lovers. The harbor is the star, offering sailing, paddleboarding, and whale-watching tours. Balboa Island’s ferry ride and the Fun Zone add a whimsical touch, while Fashion Island provides high-end shopping and dining. Restaurants like Nobu and Javier’s bring a splash of sophistication. Newport also has more in the way of family amenities, like top-rated schools and sports facilities.
If you’re after tranquility and nature, Laguna Beach delivers. If you want action, dining, and retail, Newport Beach has the edge.
Schools and Family Life
For families, education is a big factor. Newport Beach is part of the Newport-Mesa Unified School District, which boasts some of the best public schools in California, like Newport Harbor High and Corona del Mar High. Test scores are consistently high, and extracurriculars are robust. The abundance of parks, safe neighborhoods, and kid-friendly activities (like the Balboa Fun Zone) make it a haven for raising kids.
Laguna Beach Unified School District is smaller but equally impressive, with Laguna Beach High often ranking among the state’s top schools. Class sizes are smaller, and the district has a reputation for personalized attention. However, Laguna lacks the breadth of family-oriented infrastructure Newport offers—fewer parks, less suburban sprawl. It’s better suited for families who prioritize a quieter, less structured lifestyle.
Newport Beach is the clear winner for families with school-age kids.
Final Verdict: Which is Better?
So, Laguna Beach or Newport Beach? It boils down to your priorities.
- Choose Laguna Beach if: You’re drawn to an artistic, serene lifestyle with breathtaking natural beauty. It’s ideal for retirees, creatives, or anyone who values privacy and doesn’t mind paying a premium for it.
- Choose Newport Beach if: You want a vibrant, versatile coastal experience with more housing options, top schools, and a lively social scene. It’s perfect for families, professionals, or those who love being in the thick of things.
Personally, I’d lean toward Newport Beach for its balance of luxury and livability—it’s got something for everyone without feeling as insular as Laguna can. But if I were an artist with a hefty savings account, Laguna’s charm might just sway me.
Ultimately, you can’t go wrong with either. Both offer that dreamy SoCal lifestyle with sunsets to die for. Visit both, walk the streets, and see which one feels like home—because at the end of the day, that’s what matters most.
