As a local economist studying housing markets across Southern California, I’ve had the privilege of diving deep into what makes Stanton—a vibrant, compact city in Orange County—tick for homebuyers. Stanton may not always grab the headlines like its flashier neighbors (looking at you, Anaheim and Huntington Beach), but it’s quietly carving out a reputation as a buyer’s haven in an otherwise competitive region. Today, I’m sharing insights from conversations with Stanton buyers, market data, and my own analysis to uncover what they truly love about this market. Spoiler alert: it’s more than just the proximity to Disneyland.
A Buyer’s Market with a Unique Vibe
Let’s start with the big picture. As of early 2025, Stanton’s real estate market leans toward a buyer’s paradise. Home prices have stabilized after years of steep appreciation—averaging a robust 8.15% annual increase over the past decade, placing Stanton in the top 20% nationally for appreciation. Yet, the past year has seen a cooling off, with median list prices hovering around $782,000 and homes lingering on the market longer than in nearby hotspots. For buyers, this shift means more negotiating power, a wider selection, and a chance to snag a deal in a region where “affordable” is often a relative term.
But numbers only tell part of the story. What’s driving buyers to Stanton isn’t just the economics—it’s the intangibles, the feel of the place. I’ve spoken with dozens of recent buyers, from first-timers to seasoned investors, and their voices paint a picture of a market that’s as much about lifestyle as it is about value. Here’s what they’re saying.
1. Affordability Meets Accessibility
“I couldn’t believe I could actually afford something this close to everything,” says Maria Gonzalez, a 32-year-old teacher who closed on a two-bedroom condo in Stanton last month. Maria’s sentiment echoes a common refrain: in a county where median home prices often soar past $1 million, Stanton offers a rare entry point. With expanded mortgage insurance now covering homes up to $1.5 million (effective December 2024) and 30-year amortization options for first-time buyers, the financial barriers are lower than ever.
From an economist’s lens, this makes sense. Stanton’s housing mix—33% large apartment complexes, 27% single-family homes, and a notable chunk of row houses—caters to a range of budgets. The median price per square foot sits at a competitive $450, significantly less than neighboring Garden Grove or Westminster. Buyers like Maria love that they’re not priced out of the OC dream, and the short 19-minute average commute (thanks to minimal traffic compared to LA sprawl) seals the deal. “I’m 15 minutes from work and 20 from the beach,” she adds. “That’s hard to beat.”
2. A Community That Feels Like Home
Stanton’s small size—population 38,952—belies its big personality. Buyers rave about the tight-knit community vibe, a stark contrast to the anonymity of larger cities. “It’s not just a house; it’s a neighborhood,” says James Carter, a 45-year-old IT professional who moved from Irvine. “People wave. Kids play outside. It’s like the suburbia I grew up with.”
This isn’t just nostalgia talking. Stanton’s workforce is diverse—split evenly between white- and blue-collar jobs—and 23% telecommute, one of the highest rates nationally. That blend fosters a laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere. Economically, it’s a stable base: per capita income hit $35,922 in 2022, upper-middle by national standards, yet the market remains accessible to a broad swath of buyers. For James, the appeal was clear: “I wanted my kids to grow up somewhere real, not just a staging ground for flipping houses.”
3. The Investment Potential
For the savvier buyers, Stanton’s market screams opportunity. Take Priya Sharma, a 38-year-old real estate investor who picked up a fixer-upper row house in January. “The numbers worked,” she says. “Appreciation’s been strong historically, and even with the slowdown, I’m betting on long-term growth.” She’s not wrong—Stanton’s 118.87% appreciation over the past decade outpaces many peers, and its buyer’s market status suggests room to buy low.
From my perspective, Priya’s onto something. Stanton’s proximity to economic hubs like Anaheim (with its tourism-driven economy) and the broader OC job market keeps demand simmering. Add in infrastructure upgrades—like planned transit expansions—and you’ve got a recipe for future value. Buyers like Priya love that they’re getting in before the next boom, especially with inventory up 15% year-over-year, giving them leverage to negotiate.
4. A Walkable, Livable Layout
Unlike sprawling suburban tracts, Stanton’s compact design wins over buyers who crave convenience. “I can walk to the grocery store, the park, even a decent taco spot,” laughs David Nguyen, a 29-year-old graphic designer who bought a one-bedroom apartment. With 33% of housing in large complexes and 14% in row houses, Stanton feels urban yet manageable—a rarity in car-centric SoCal.
Economically, this layout reduces hidden costs. Less reliance on vehicles cuts gas and maintenance expenses, a boon in an era of fluctuating fuel prices. David’s take? “I’m saving money and getting exercise. Plus, the downtown vibe is cool without being pretentious.” Stanton’s quiet streets and low noise levels (thanks to fewer renters and students) only sweeten the deal.
5. Customization and Character
Buyers also love Stanton’s housing stock for its potential. “It’s not cookie-cutter,” says Sarah Kim, a 34-year-old nurse who bought a single-family home with her husband. “We got a place we could make our own.” With 27% of homes detached and many built decades ago, there’s room for renovation—something flippers and DIYers adore.
This aligns with market trends I’ve tracked: older homes in buyer’s markets often sell below asking (63% in Stanton last month), giving buyers like Sarah a canvas to build equity. “We’re turning the backyard into a garden,” she says. “It’s ours in a way a new build never could be.” That sense of ownership resonates deeply in a region dominated by sleek, pricey developments.
The Economic Underpinning: Why It Works
So why does Stanton’s market resonate so strongly with buyers? As an economist, I see a confluence of factors. First, supply exceeds demand—40 homes were listed in December 2024, up 8% from November—keeping prices in check. Second, policy shifts like extended mortgage terms and insurance caps are pulling younger buyers in. Third, Stanton’s fundamentals—location, jobs, community—create a sticky demand that doesn’t vanish even in a slowdown.
Nationally, housing affordability remains a crisis, but Stanton bucks the trend. While inflation and interest rates (hovering around 5.5% post-Bank of Canada cuts) squeeze budgets, Stanton’s lower entry point and stable pricing offer breathing room. Buyers aren’t just purchasing homes; they’re buying into a market that feels sustainable.
Voices of the Future
What’s next for Stanton? Buyers I’ve spoken with are optimistic. “It’s only going to get better,” says Maria, citing rumors of a new community center. Priya predicts, “Give it five years—people will wish they’d bought now.” Even James, the family man, sees growth: “It’s still undiscovered. That won’t last.”
From my vantage point, they’re likely right. Stanton’s buyer-friendly conditions won’t hold forever—lower borrowing costs and pent-up demand could heat things up by fall. For now, though, it’s a market that listens to its buyers, offering value, community, and a chance to plant roots in a region that often feels out of reach.
Final Thoughts
Stanton’s buyers love this market for its affordability, its charm, and its promise. As an economist, I love it for what it reveals: a microcosm of how housing can balance economics and emotion. If you’re eyeing Stanton, listen to these voices—they’re telling you it’s more than a market. It’s a home.
Dr. Elena Martinez is a local economist specializing in Southern California housing trends. She’s passionate about decoding markets and amplifying buyer stories. Reach her at elena.martinez@econinsights.com.
