Costa Mesa, CA

Costa Mesa is a city in Orange County, California. It’s known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, upscale shopping destinations, and beautiful beaches.

In Costa Mesa, CA, the median price of a home is $1,093,125, and the median price per square foot runs to $676. Real experts have witnessed a decrease of 0.1% in home values over the past year. A standard home in Costa Mesa goes to pending in around 21 days of being available on the housing market.

The average rent for an apartment in this city is approximately $2,648. Of course, the rental amount depends on the apartment size, number of bedrooms, property features, proximity to local amenities or major attractions, and neighborhood.

City highlights

This vibrant city is home to world-class shopping destinations such as the South Coast Plaza, which boasts high-end luxury brands and gourmet dining options. Costa Mesa is also known for its cultural attractions, including the Segerstrom Center for the Arts, which hosts a variety of musical and theatrical performances throughout the year.

The city’s parks and outdoor spaces, such as Fairview Park and the Talbert Regional Park, provide ample opportunities for recreational activities such as hiking, biking, and picnicking.

Additionally, Costa Mesa’s close proximity to some of Southern California’s most famous beaches and attractions makes it an ideal location for visitors.

Geographic location

Costa Mesa is located in Orange County, Southern California, United States. It is situated approximately 37 miles southeast of Los Angeles and 88 miles north of San Diego. Costa Mesa is bordered by Newport Beach to the east, Huntington Beach to the west, and Santa Ana to the north. It has a total area of 16.84 square miles.

Climate

Costa Mesa has a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. The climate is generally sunny and pleasant, with an average of 278 sunny days per year.

During the summer months, temperatures can range from the mid-70s to the high 80s Fahrenheit with low humidity. However, temperatures can occasionally reach 90 Fahrenheit during heat waves.

In the winter, temperatures in Costa Mesa usually range from the mid-60s to the mid-70s Fahrenheit during the day, with cooler temperatures at night. Rainfall is highest during the winter months – between December and March.

Costa Mesa is a popular destination for visitors and residents who enjoy outdoor activities year-round.

Demography

According to the United States Census Bureau, as of the 2020 census, Costa Mesa has a population of approximately 115,000 people, with a racial makeup that is primarily White, Hispanic/Latino, and Asian.

Here is a breakdown of the racial makeup of Costa Mesa, based on the 2020 census data:

• White: 64.1%
• Hispanic/Latino: 29.7%
• Asian: 14.4%
• Black/African American: 1.9%
• Native American: 0.3%
• Other races: 4.5%
• Two or more races: 4.7%

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Costa Mesa is generally higher than the national average.

Apart from high housing costs, there are other factors that contribute to the expensive cost of living in Costa Mesa. These include transportation, healthcare, food prices, utilities, and entertainment – all of which are higher than the U.S. average.

However, the cost of living in Costa Mesa is offset by the average household income of $109,315. Additionally, the city offers a high standard of living, excellent job opportunities, and quality amenities such as parks, beaches, restaurants, and entertainment centers.

Transportation

One of the best ways to move around in the bustling city is by car. The city is well-connected by a network of highways and roads, making it easy to travel between destinations. If you have your own vehicle, you can easily drive to different parts of the city and also explore the surrounding areas.

Another great option is to use public transportation. Costa Mesa is served by the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA), which provides bus services throughout the city. This is a convenient and affordable way to move around if you don’t have your own vehicle. The OCTA bus system also connects to nearby cities such as Newport Beach, Huntington Beach, and Irvine.

For those who prefer more eco-friendly transportation options, biking is a popular choice in Costa Mesa. The city has several bike paths and lanes, making it easy to navigate on two wheels. You can rent a bike from one of the many bike rental shops in the area, or bring your own bike to explore the city’s numerous parks and scenic trails.

Schools

Costa Mesa has several high-rated schools in the area. Some of the best educational institutions include:

• Costa Mesa High School – It has a diverse student population and offers a range of academic and extracurricular programs.
• Early College High School – This school is part of the Coast Community College District and offers a unique program that allows students to earn both a high school diploma and an associate degree.
• Pacifica Christian High School – This a private Christian high school that offers a rigorous academic program and a strong focus on character development.
• Newport Harbor High School – This highly-rated public high school has a strong athletics program and offers a range of academic programs.
• California Elementary School in the Newport-Mesa Unified School District – It has a diverse student population and offers a range of academic and extracurricular programs.
• Vanguard University – This is a private Christian university that offers undergraduate and graduate programs in a variety of fields, including business, education, and psychology.

What is the city like?

Living in Costa Mesa is a great experience. The best part is its unique combination of urban amenities, natural beauty, and community spirit.

One of the most appealing aspects of living in Costa Mesa is its proximity to the beach. The city is located just a few miles from Newport Beach, one of the most beautiful and popular beaches in Southern California. Residents of Costa Mesa can enjoy the sun, sand, and surf of the Pacific Ocean year-round, making it an ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts and beach lovers.

Another great thing about Costa Mesa is its diverse cultural scene. The city is home to a number of world-class museums, including the Orange County Museum of Art and the South Coast Plaza, which boasts one of the largest collections of contemporary art in the country.

In addition, Costa Mesa is known for its thriving music and theater scenes, with numerous venues hosting live performances and events throughout the year.

Finally, Costa Mesa is a close-knit community that takes pride in its local businesses and neighborhoods. The city is home to a number of small businesses and restaurants, many of which have been owned and operated by the same families for generations.

The community also comes together for a variety of events and festivals, including the annual Orange County Fair and the Costa Mesa Community Run.

Living in Costa Mesa offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and community spirit that is hard to find anywhere else. It’s no wonder that so many people choose to call this vibrant city their home.