Huntington Harbour, nestled in the northwest corner of Huntington Beach, California, is a waterfront gem that beckons those seeking a blend of coastal luxury and laid-back Southern California charm. Known for its picturesque canals, private docks, and upscale homes, this neighborhood offers a unique lifestyle that’s hard to match. If you’re considering relocating to Huntington Harbour, this blog post provides an in-depth look at the real estate market, neighborhood highlights, lifestyle, and key considerations to help you make an informed decision.
Why Choose Huntington Harbour?
Huntington Harbour is a serene, upscale community defined by its man-made islands and intricate waterways, often likened to a “Venice of Southern California.” Spanning just 1.403 square miles, with a significant portion of that being water, the neighborhood is home to approximately 7,000 residents. Its small size belies its appeal, offering a quiet, residential atmosphere with access to high-end amenities, top-rated schools, and proximity to some of Orange County’s best beaches.
The neighborhood’s five man-made islands—Admiralty, Davenport, Gilbert, Humboldt, and Trinidad—create a distinctive layout where many homes come with private boat docks, making it a boater’s paradise. Beyond the water, Huntington Harbour is known for its safe streets, family-friendly vibe, and a tight-knit community that appeals to young professionals, families, and retirees alike. With a median household income of $102,380, the area attracts well-educated, affluent residents, and about 48% of households are owner-occupied.
Real Estate Market Overview
Housing Options and Prices
Huntington Harbour’s real estate market is competitive, reflecting its status as one of Southern California’s most desirable coastal communities. The neighborhood offers a mix of single-family homes, condominiums, townhomes, and luxury waterfront properties. Architectural styles vary widely, from modern and Mediterranean to Cape Cod and Spanish Revival, ensuring there’s something for every taste.
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Single-Family Homes: These dominate the market, with prices ranging from $720,000 to over $6 million, depending on size, location, and waterfront access. The average single-family home has four bedrooms and three bathrooms, with many featuring private docks or spacious lots. In 2024, the median sale price for homes in Huntington Harbour was approximately $1,240,000, up 7% from 2017.
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Condominiums and Townhomes: For those seeking more affordable options, condos and townhomes are available in developments like Bay Club, Broadmoor, and Seabridge, with prices starting in the high $400,000s and going up to $1.5 million. These properties often offer access to community amenities like pools and marinas.
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Luxury Properties: Waterfront homes, particularly on the islands, are the crown jewels of Huntington Harbour. These properties, often starting at $1–2 million and reaching up to $6.2 million, boast upscale design, modern amenities, and private docks for boating enthusiasts.
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Rental Market: For those not ready to buy, median rent in Huntington Harbour is around $3,400 per month, with luxury apartments and condos starting between $3,000 and $4,000. Rent prices have stabilized in recent years, making renting a viable option for newcomers.
The competitive nature of the market is evident in the list-to-sales ratio, which hovers near 100% for houses and 99.5% for condos, indicating that properties often sell at or close to their asking price. The average days on the market are 28 for houses and 31 for condos, reflecting strong demand.
Market Trends for 2025
The Huntington Harbour real estate market has seen steady appreciation, driven by its waterfront appeal and proximity to Huntington Beach’s vibrant coastal lifestyle. Posts on X highlight the broader challenges in the U.S. housing market, with rising prices making homeownership less attainable for some. However, Huntington Harbour’s unique offerings justify its premium pricing.
For 2025, expect continued demand for waterfront properties, particularly those with private docks, as boating remains a key draw. While oceanfront homes command top dollar, more affordable options a few blocks inland still offer proximity to the water without the hefty price tag. Buyers should be prepared for competition, especially for well-priced properties, and may benefit from working with local real estate experts like Scot Campbell or Kristina Morales, who offer personalized guidance and access to off-market listings.
Neighborhood Highlights
Waterfront Lifestyle
Huntington Harbour’s defining feature is its network of canals, which provide residents with direct access to boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Many homes come with private docks, and the Huntington Harbour Yacht Club offers social events and exclusive beach access. The neighborhood’s proximity to Sunset Beach, Huntington State Beach, and Bolsa Chica State Beach ensures endless opportunities for water-based recreation. Catalina Island, just 23 miles away, is a popular boating destination.
Top-Rated Schools
Education is a major draw for families relocating to Huntington Harbour. The neighborhood is served by highly-rated public and private schools, including Harbour View Elementary, Marine View Middle, and Marina High School, all of which boast strong academic performance and student-teacher ratios. For example, Harbour View Elementary has a 28:1 student-teacher ratio, with 66% of students proficient in reading and 62% in math. Nearby universities like California State University Long Beach and UC Irvine add to the area’s educational appeal.
Amenities and Entertainment
Huntington Harbour offers a blend of upscale shopping, dining, and outdoor activities. The Harbour Mall features Trader Joe’s, restaurants, and boutique shops, while nearby Pacific City and Bella Terra provide additional retail and dining options. Local favorites include Duke’s Huntington Beach for beachfront dining and J. King Neptune’s for fresh seafood. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore parks like Humboldt Beach Park, Seabridge Park, or the nearby Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve, a haven for birdwatching and nature walks.
Safety and Community
Huntington Harbour is notably safe, with a crime rate 16% below the national average and a violent crime rate 45% below the national average. This makes it safer than 47% of U.S. neighborhoods, with odds of experiencing a crime estimated at 1 in 47. The tight-knit community fosters a welcoming environment, with residents often citing the neighborhood’s friendly vibe and stunning sunsets as highlights.
Key Considerations for Relocating
Cost of Living
Huntington Beach, including Huntington Harbour, has a higher cost of living than many U.S. cities, driven primarily by housing costs. Utilities, transportation, groceries, and healthcare are also above average. For example, a post on X noted that rent for an apartment in downtown Huntington Beach has skyrocketed from $1,300 in 2013 to $3,800–$5,000 in 2025, underscoring the area’s rising costs. Budget-conscious buyers may find better value in condos or inland properties.
Natural Disaster Risks
Due to its coastal location, Huntington Harbour is prone to heavy precipitation, high surf conditions, and occasional flooding, with 30% of weather extremes between 1950 and 2010 being flood events. The area’s earthquake index is nearly quadruple California’s already high baseline, so residents should be prepared for tremors. Homebuyers may want to invest in flood and earthquake insurance.
Commute and Transportation
Commuting in Huntington Harbour is relatively straightforward but limited by its geography. Bordered by the Bolsa Chica Channel and Seal Beach National Wildlife Refuge, access is primarily via CA-1 or east into Huntington Beach. The neighborhood is about 45 minutes from downtown Los Angeles and 15 minutes from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Public transportation options are limited, so a car is recommended.
Lifestyle Fit
Huntington Harbour is ideal for those who love water-based activities, quiet residential living, and proximity to urban amenities. However, it may not suit those seeking a highly diverse community or robust public transit. The neighborhood leans slightly liberal and attracts a mix of families, young professionals, and retirees, with 34.9% of households being family-oriented.
Tips for Relocating to Huntington Harbour
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Work with a Local Expert: Realtors like Scot Campbell or Jay Valento can provide market insights and access to builder floorplans or off-market listings. Contacting a professional early can help navigate the competitive market.
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Explore Financing Options: With high home prices, buyers with strong credit may still face challenges, as noted in a recent X post about loan denials despite excellent financials. Consider buying down interest rates or exploring condos for more affordable entry points.
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Visit Before You Buy: Spend time in Huntington Harbour to experience its canals, parks, and beaches firsthand. Attend open houses or take a gondola tour to get a feel for the lifestyle.
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Plan for Natural Risks: Factor in insurance costs for floods and earthquakes, and ensure your home is built to withstand seismic activity.
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Consider Rentals: If you’re not ready to buy, renting a condo or apartment can be a great way to test the neighborhood. Median rents are more stable than purchase prices, offering flexibility.
Conclusion
Relocating to Huntington Harbour offers a chance to live in a waterfront paradise with access to top schools, safe streets, and a vibrant coastal lifestyle. While the real estate market is competitive and costs are high, the neighborhood’s unique blend of luxury, recreation, and community makes it a top choice for those who can afford it. Whether you’re drawn to the private docks, scenic canals, or proximity to Huntington Beach’s beaches, Huntington Harbour delivers a slice of the California dream. Start your journey by connecting with a local realtor and exploring the neighborhood’s offerings to find your perfect home.
