Santa Monica

Homes for sale in Santa Monica, CA

Santa Monica is hard to beat if you’re looking for a slice of coastal paradise in Los Angeles County. This iconic beachfront city offers an unbeatable combination of beautiful scenery, ideal weather, world-class amenities, and some of the most desirable real estate in all of Southern California.

From what it’s like living in Santa Monica, CA to its gorgeous homes and condos for sale, here’s a look at everything you need to know about the city.

OVERVIEW OF SANTA MONICA, CA

History

Santa Monica’s story stretches back long before its iconic pier. For thousands of years, the Tongva people thrived in the area. When the Spanish arrived in the 18th century, the area became part of what was known as Rancho San Vicente y Santa Monica. The sprawling ranch eventually fell into the hands of entrepreneurs like Senator John P. Jones who endeavored to subdivide the land and establish Santa Monica in 1875. The name was taken from a local spring’s name: “The Tears of St. Monica.”

The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw the rise of iconic landmarks. The Santa Monica Pier, with its amusement rides and Ferris wheel, became a major draw. Tourist attractions like Palisades Park and the opulent Hotel Casa del Mar solidified Santa Monica’s reputation as a vacation paradise.

Transportation also played a key role. The Los Angeles and Independence Railroad connected Santa Monica to the growing metropolis of Los Angeles, while the Pacific Electric Railway brought beachgoers from across the region.

Today, Santa Monica offers a unique blend of its rich history, vibrant beach culture, and a growing aerospace and tech industry.

Location

Santa Monica enjoys an enviable location in Los Angeles County’s Westside region. Situated on the fringes of the Pacific Ocean, this medium-sized city covers around 16.8 square miles, with over 8 miles of gorgeous sandy beaches stretching along its east flank. This prime beachfront locale is one of the biggest selling points of Santa Monica.

But Santa Monica’s location offers much more than just seaside living. The city borders upscale neighborhoods like Brentwood, Pacific Palisades, and Venice to the east and south. This puts the homes for sale in Santa Monica, CA right in the heart of LA’s popular and affluent coastal communities.

Santa Monica is bounded by the iconic Sunset Boulevard to the north and the Santa Monica Freeway (I-10) to the south, making it easily accessible from most parts of the city. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is just a short 15 to 20-minute drive away.

Santa Monica belongs to a ring of other highly sought-after communities:

• Located immediately north of Santa Monica along the Pacific Coast Highway, Pacific Palisades sits atop the bluffs overlooking the open sea, giving it a secluded, scenic vibe. This affluent residential neighborhood features gorgeous multimillion-dollar homes on large lots, many of which have sweeping ocean views.
   
• Just south of Santa Monica lies the iconic beach town of Venice. While it has a funky, eccentric reputation thanks to the eccentric Venice Beach Boardwalk, it’s also home to beautiful canals, coastal walkways, and renovated modern homes that command premium pricing.
   
• Heading inland northwest of Santa Monica, you’ll find the sophisticated neighborhood of Brentwood. Embodying quintessential LA luxury, this area is known for its massive mansions, quiet tree-lined streets, and high concentration of celebrity residents.
   
• Going eastward from Santa Monica lies the energetic, walkable city of West Hollywood (WeHo). While technically not part of LA proper, it’s at the heart of it all surrounded by Beverly Hills and Hollywood.
   

HOMES FOR SALE IN SANTA MONICA, CA

Oceanfront property is always at a premium, and Santa Monica has some of the most coveted in the region. Based on the statistics above, the median price for homes for sale in Santa Monica, CA is $5.5 million. Properties on the higher end of the market may go upwards of $59 million.

The range of home values going way past the $1 million benchmark shows that Santa Monica has solidified its place among the most elite property markets in Southern California. For those who can spend for the finer things in life, the city offers the complete package: a beach lifestyle, sunny weather, walkable amenities, quality schools, and proximity to jobs in LA’s Westside and Silicon Beach.

Top neighborhoods in Santa Monica

The city’s residential neighborhoods exude a laid-back yet luxurious vibe, with homes in an assortment of architectural styles ranging from modern mansions to historic Craftsman bungalows. Sought-after enclaves include

DOWNTOWN SANTA MONICA 

At the heart of the city is pedestrian-friendly Downtown Santa Monica. This lively neighborhood centers around the iconic Third Street Promenade, an upscale outdoor mall brimming with shops, restaurants, bars, movie theaters, and street performers. The streets exude a palpable, animated atmosphere as crowds stroll the car-free lanes. Just a few blocks away is the beach, with the famous Santa Monica Pier providing endless ocean views and entertainment.

NORTH OF MONTANA 

One of the most affluent neighborhoods, North of Montana (NOMA) is known for its multimillion-dollar estates and celebrity residents. The Montana Avenue shopping district offers an impressive array of boutiques, cafes, and gourmet markets. This walkable neighborhood has a distinctly upscale yet laid-back vibe. Whenever residents want to visit the Great Outdoors, hiking trails of the nearby mountains may be found just outside their doorsteps.

MID-CITY SANTA MONICA 

Mid-City gives the full Santa Monica experience with a warm, neighborly feel and easy access to the beach, parks, and major job centers. It’s composed of a pleasant mix of residences alongside commercial zones. Tree-lined streets are filled with condos, apartments, and single-family homes at slightly lower price points than those in other parts of Santa Monica. Bonus recommendation: Check out the trendy restaurants and shops along Wilshire Boulevard.

OCEAN PARK 

For those craving a more bohemian atmosphere, check out the eclectic Ocean Park neighborhood. Within its borders, you’ll find everything from cozy bungalows to modern multi-unit dwellings. Main Street is a happening stretch filled with funky cafes, vintage shops, art galleries, and nightspots, all of which make it popular with the younger crowd. The Sunday Main Street Farmers Market is a local favorite. Best of all, Ocean Park is just steps away from miles of beaches.

NORTHEAST SANTA MONICA

Families flock to the tranquil, residential Northeast Santa Monica neighborhood. It’s still within Santa Monica’s boundaries but has a suburban feel to it. Affordable single-family homes on shaded streets make it a top choice for those looking for quality schools and more living space. The neighborhood borders Brentwood and is conveniently near retail and dining hubs like Wilshire Boulevard and Montana Avenue.

LIVING IN SANTA MONICA

Shopping

• MAIN STREET
  
  This tucked-away area feels like its own friendly shopping village. Wander the quaint storefronts lining Main Street and explore an appealing mix of boutiques, home goods stores, and locally owned eateries and cafes. Pop into fun spots like Angel City Books & Records or JaZoo’s Japan for funky finds.
   
• THIRD STREET PROMENADE
  
  The lively, palm tree-lined Promenade pulses with street performers, al fresco dining, and an eclectic mix of shops and entertainment. Major retail anchors like Nordstrom share space with funky local boutiques, galleries, and more. Don’t miss the organic food-focused Co-Opportunity Market and cop the SoCal beach hunk/babe look with apparel, accessories, and even skates from Sand ‘n Surf.
   
• SANTA MONICA PLACE
  
  Recently renovated, this open-air mall in the heart of Downtown brings stellar shopping, dining, and entertainment together in a modern setting. Over 100 stores, restaurants, and recreation/service venues like Bloomingdale’s, Nike, True Food Kitchen, and The Gourmandise School are found within the shopping center’s unique indoor/outdoor setup.
   

Dining and nightlife

• MICHAEL’S 
  
  This iconic Santa Monica establishment has been a local favorite for over 40 years. Michael’s offers a taste of old-school California cuisine with dishes like grilled meats, fresh seafood, and hefty servings of pasta.
   
• LA PUREPECHA
  
  Craving regional Mexican flavors done right? Then, head to La Purepecha. This family-owned spot specializes in dishes from the Purepecha region like charcoal-grilled meats, handmade tortillas, and an impressive selection of mole sauces. Highlights include the succulent chicken in pumpkinseed sauce and the mixed grill platter piled high with carne asada, chorizo, and grilled cactus.
   
• OFFHAND WINE BAR
  
  Wine lovers adore this charming spot located just off the main Santa Monica drag. With its cozy, intimate ambiance, Offhand is a welcoming spot to discover unique small-production wines from around the world. To accompany the impressive wine list, there’s also a frequently changing menu of small plates like Spanish octopus skewers or roasted beet hummus.
   
• LIBRARY ALEHOUSE
  
  If craft beer is more your taste, you’ll feel right at home in this neighborhood brewpub. It offers a rotating selection of beers on tap and by the bottle, with a focus on American craft brews and small-batch releases. The ambiance is warm and inviting in a cozy, library-inspired setting with fireplaces, reclaimed wood, and brick walls.
   

Parks and other outdoor attractions

• SANTA MONICA BEACH
  
  You can’t talk about Santa Monica without mentioning the wide, uncrowded stretch of sand that defines SoCal sun, sand, and surf at its finest – Santa Monica State Beach. The western end of the beach provides unobstructed sunset views over the ocean. Plus, you can’t miss the famous Santa Monica Pier.
   
• SANTA MONICA PIER
  
  Jutting out into the Pacific is Santa Monica’s star attraction, drawing visitors and locals alike with its carnival-like atmosphere. This Instagram-worthy attraction comes complete with its historic carousel, arcade games, street performers, restaurants, and Pacific Park, the area’s famous amusement park perched at the end of the pier. Spend hours strolling the pier, taking in the ocean views, playing games, and people-watching to your heart’s content.
   
• PALISADES PARK
  
  Stretching for over a mile along the bluffs, this sprawling green space offers postcard-perfect ocean views. Hike or jog along the paved paths lined with palm trees, take a moment to appreciate the public art installations, or have a picnic with a breathtaking backdrop.
   
• BARNARD WAY LINEAR PARK
  
  For a unique perspective of the Santa Monica coastline, visit this elevated park. It runs parallel to the beach, offering panoramic views of the ocean, the Santa Monica Pier, and the city skyline. It’s a great spot for a romantic stroll, a scenic bike ride, or simply taking in the sights while sipping a cup of coffee.
   
• MARVIN BRAUDE BIKE TRAIL
  
  Also known as The Strand, this is a paved paradise for cyclists, skateboarders, and rollerbladers. This scenic path stretches 22 miles along the coast, allowing you to cruise past beaches, parks, and charming neighborhoods. Rent a bike and explore at your own pace, stopping to admire the ocean views or grab a bite at a beachfront cafe.
   

Arts and culture

• SANTA MONICA HISTORY MUSEUM
  
  Learn all about Santa Monica’s rich heritage at this engaging local history museum located in the heart of Downtown. Permanent and rotating exhibits cover everything from the city’s indigenous roots and ranchero past to its evolution into a celebrity beach destination.
   
• SANTA MONICA ART MUSEUM
  
  Standing in the place where the former ArcLight cinema complex in Santa Monica Place was located is one of the newest art galleries to open in town. Also called Arte Museum, SMAM fashions itself as a modern art museum but invites LA artists and creative partners to push forward beyond boundaries and bring it to its full potential.
   
• GETTY VILLA
  
  Perched majestically on the Pacific coast, the Getty Villa is one of the most impressive museums, not just in Santa Monica but in all of Los Angeles. This dramatic recreation of an ancient Roman villa houses the Getty’s outstanding collection of Greek, Roman, and Etruscan art and artifacts dating from 6,000 B.C. to 400 A.D.
   
• HAMMER MUSEUM
  
  As one of the world’s most distinguished museums dedicated to contemporary art, the Hammer at UCLA brings cutting-edge exhibitions featuring emerging and established artists to its Westwood location just inland from Santa Monica. Contemporary paintings, sculptures, installations, and more comprise the thought-provoking shows.
   
• MORGAN-WIXSON THEATRE
  
  This charming art deco theater in the heart of Santa Monica offers an intimate setting for audiences to enjoy professional plays, musicals, and other live performances. As the home base of the Morgan-Wixson Theatre Company, expect high-quality productions from classics to contemporary works gracing its stage throughout the year.
   

FIND YOUR PERFECT HOME IN SANTA MONICA TODAY

Looking for and investing in luxury homes for sale in Santa Monica, CA could be overwhelming. Our task is to help make it easier. We’re Monica Antola and Mia Falkenstein of Antola Properties and we look forward to working with you.

Combining decades of real estate success, Antola Properties is more than qualified to be your guide to Santa Monica real estate. Our portfolio includes properties in the most desirable neighborhood in Los Angeles County. So, whether you’re looking for your dream home or interested in buying a second property, we are here to help.

Give us a call at 310.230.3755 or send a message here to start.