Costa Mesa
Welcome to Costa Mesa, California
Urban convenience and vibrant community life in the heart of Orange County.
Located in central Orange County, Costa Mesa is known for its dynamic neighborhoods, thriving arts scene, and premier shopping and dining destinations. From the world-class South Coast Plaza to performing arts venues like the Segerstrom Center for the Arts, the city offers a blend of cultural richness and modern urban living.
Home to approximately 115,000 residents, Costa Mesa is celebrated for its top-rated schools, diverse communities, and convenient amenities. Residents enjoy easy access to shopping, restaurants, entertainment, and nearby coastal cities such as Newport Beach, Huntington Beach, and Laguna Beach. With a mild Southern California climate and plentiful recreational and cultural opportunities, Costa Mesa provides a lifestyle that combines city sophistication with coastal accessibility.
Costa Mesa Real Estate Market
Costa Mesa’s real estate market is highly sought-after in Orange County, offering a mix of contemporary homes, upscale townhomes, and convenient urban living. Its vibrant neighborhoods, proximity to premier shopping at South Coast Plaza, cultural destinations like the Segerstrom Center for the Arts, and access to nearby coastal cities continue to attract buyers seeking a balanced Southern California lifestyle.
From modern condos and townhomes to spacious single-family homes with city or canyon views, Costa Mesa provides options for a wide range of buyers — all within a dynamic, well-established urban community.
Contact Costa Mesa real estate agent James Choi to find condos, homes, and luxury properties for sale in Costa Mesa, CA.
What to Love
- Vibrant neighborhoods with tree-lined streets and a welcoming community
- Top-rated schools and family-friendly, safe environments
- Abundant parks, walking paths, and recreational amenities throughout the city
- Easy access to premier shopping, dining, and cultural attractions at South Coast Plaza, Segerstrom Center for the Arts, and local dining districts
- A dynamic urban lifestyle with convenient connections to nearby Newport Beach, Huntington Beach, and other Orange County destinations
Local Lifestyle
Costa Mesa offers a vibrant, urban lifestyle with diverse neighborhoods and easy access to the best of Orange County.
Mornings often begin with walks in local parks, jogging along tree-lined streets, or grabbing coffee at neighborhood cafes. Many residents work in nearby business hubs across Newport Beach, Irvine, and Huntington Beach, taking advantage of the city’s central location.
Afternoons are perfect for exploring premier shopping at South Coast Plaza, visiting cultural venues like the Segerstrom Center for the Arts, or enjoying local dining districts and community events. Evenings are ideal for family time, attending performances, or socializing at local restaurants and entertainment spots.
Each area of Costa Mesa has its own character — from quiet residential streets to bustling commercial corridors — creating a lifestyle that blends urban convenience, cultural richness, and Southern California vibrancy.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
Costa Mesa offers a dynamic mix of dining, shopping, and entertainment in a vibrant urban setting.
Start with local favorites in neighborhood dining districts, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants offering diverse cuisines. Nearby Newport Beach, Irvine, and Huntington Beach provide additional culinary options, trendy cafes, and cultural hotspots for evening outings.
For a relaxed night out, residents enjoy movies at local theaters, live music and arts events, or seasonal festivals and community gatherings.
Shopping is convenient, with everyday essentials in local centers, while premier destinations like South Coast Plaza, The LAB Anti-Mall, and The CAMP are just a short drive away. Costa Mesa combines urban convenience with cultural richness and access to the best of Orange County living.
Things to Do
Outdoor recreation, cultural experiences, and family-friendly activities define life in Costa Mesa.
- South Coast Plaza — Premier shopping, dining, and entertainment in the heart of the city.
- Segerstrom Center for the Arts — Concerts, theater performances, and cultural events year-round.
- Costa Mesa Parks & Recreation — Walking trails, sports fields, playgrounds, and community events.
- The LAB & The CAMP — Unique shopping, local dining, and artsy outdoor spaces.
- Nearby Newport Beach & Huntington Beach — Coastal attractions, beaches, and scenic day trips.
- Nearby Irvine & Orange County attractions — Museums, cultural venues, fine dining, and entertainment just a short drive away.
From outdoor adventures and family activities to arts, shopping, and cultural events, life in Costa Mesa offers a vibrant, active, and uniquely Orange County experience.
Schools
Costa Mesa is known for its excellent public and private schools, making it a highly desirable community for families seeking quality education and supportive learning environments.
Top schools and districts serving the area include:
- Orange County Department of Education & Newport-Mesa Unified School District (NMUSD) — Offers highly rated schools throughout Costa Mesa and surrounding communities.
- Costa Mesa High School — Strong academic programs, athletics, and extracurricular activities.
- Wilson Elementary & Eastbluff Elementary School — Supportive programs, quality academics, and community involvement.
- TeWinkle Middle School & Estancia High School — Known for rigorous academics and student engagement.
Families also have access to nearby private schools and higher education institutions, including Orange Coast College, Concordia University Irvine, and University of California, Irvine (UCI).
With top-rated schools, a safe and welcoming community, and abundant amenities, Costa Mesa remains one of Orange County’s most desirable neighborhoods for families.
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Overview for Costa Mesa, California
115,000
Total Population
38 years
Median Age
High
Population Density
Population Density
This is the number of people per square mile in the neighborhood.
$95,000
Average Individual Income
Browse Properties in the Area
Sold
264 Blue Sky Dr
264 Blue Sky Dr, Tustin, CA 92782
3 BD
4 BA
1573 SQ.FT.
$1,160,000
Sold
5218 Clementine Ave
5218 Clementine Ave, Fontana, CA 92336
4 BD
3 BA
2702 SQ.FT.
$765,000
Sold
8451 Deepcliff Dr
8451 Deepcliff Dr, Huntington Beach, CA 92646
4 BD
3 BA
2065 SQ.FT.
$1,450,000
Sold
1307 Shadow Ln UNIT D
1307 Shadow Ln UNIT D, Fullerton, CA 92831
2 BD
2 BA
1044 SQ.FT.
$560,000
Explore Other Neighborhoods
From charming neighborhoods to vibrant Southern California communities, James helps you find the ideal place to call home — where lifestyle, location, and comfort come together seamlessly.