Costa Mesa is a vibrant city in the heart of Orange County, Southern California. It’s just a few miles inland from the stunning Pacific Coast. With its coastal charm, vibrant arts scene, strong economic growth, and urban convenience, Costa Mesa is an ideal location for both residential and commercial real estate ventures.
The city's central location makes it easy to reach some of Southern California’s most iconic destinations, including Newport Beach, Huntington Beach, Canyon Park, and the cultural scenes of Irvine and Santa Ana.
Are you a real estate investor looking to make the most of your investment in Costa Mesa? Certain neighborhoods stand out for their potential to deliver long-term value, rental income, and appreciation.
This article provides an overview of the best Costa Mesa neighborhoods for real estate investors and explains why they are so appealing. Let’s dive in!
1. Eastside Costa Mesa
Eastside Costa Mesa is arguably one of the city's most sought-after areas for real estate investors. It boasts a charming, family-friendly environment with tree-lined streets, excellent schools, and well-maintained parks.
This neighborhood’s close proximity to the beach and vibrant local culture make it particularly attractive to young professionals and families. Many residents utilize the mile-long bike path for transportation, making biking to work and other areas highly convenient.
Eastside is known for its jungle of historic homes and newly built luxury residences. Many of the homes in this neighborhood feature large lots, which is a rarity in Orange County. For investors, this means potential opportunities for expansion, remodeling, or development of accessory dwelling units (ADUs), which can provide an additional income stream through rentals.
2. Westside Costa Mesa
Westside Costa Mesa has significantly transformed in recent years, making it an attractive option for real estate investors seeking appreciation potential. Its location has made it increasingly popular among young professionals and artists seeking a more affordable coastal lifestyle.
Investors can find a wide variety of property types in Westside Costa Mesa, including older single-family homes, condos, and townhomes. With ongoing redevelopment projects, there are opportunities for investors to acquire older properties at lower prices and renovate them to meet the demands of the growing population.
The neighborhood’s increasing desirability means that property values are on an upward trajectory, which gives investors the potential for strong returns over time.
3. Mesa Verde
Mesa Verde is known for its tranquil suburban feel. It’s a picturesque community with tree-lined streets, well-maintained homes, and a strong sense of community. The area is particularly popular among families due to its highly rated schools, numerous parks, and proximity to recreational facilities such as the Mesa Verde Country Club.
This area offers a stable and attractive real estate market. Home prices are relatively high, but the area’s desirability ensures a steady demand for both rental properties and homes for sale. Investors can find a mix of single-family homes, many of which were built in the mid-20th century, offering opportunities for renovation or value-added improvements.
Its location provides easy access to major highways, shopping centers, and entertainment venues. Mesa Verde is a strong contender for investors seeking long-term rental properties or stable appreciation.
4. College Park
College Park is a well-established neighborhood that offers a blend of mid-century single-family homes and newer developments. Its affordability and central location make it popular with first-time homebuyers and renters.
Compared to other neighborhoods in Costa Mesa, this one offers opportunities for both long-term rental properties and fix-and-flip projects. Its proximity to college institutions allows investors to tap into the student rental market, which can provide consistent rental income.
This area offers a good education to aspiring students who are on a budget and love to explore the surrounding nature. The Costa Mesa crime rate is slightly lower than the national average, making it a comfortable place to live.
5. South Coast Metro
South Coast Metro is a bustling neighborhood in the northern part of Costa Mesa. It is known for its proximity to South Coast Plaza, one of the largest shopping centers in the United States.
The real estate market is diverse, with a mix of condos, townhomes, and single-family homes. Investors can find opportunities for both long-term and short-term rentals. The city's strong job market and vibrant cultural scene ensure a steady demand for rental properties, making it ideal for investors looking to generate rental income.
The neighborhood’s office buildings, retail centers, restaurants, and hotels make it a hub for business and tourism, creating a potential for investors interested in commercial properties or mixed-use developments.
6. Fairview Park
Fairview Park is a neighborhood that offers a balance of natural beauty and urban convenience. It’s popular with outdoor enthusiasts and families who enjoy access to hiking trails, open spaces, and outdoor activities.
Fairview Park offers a range of property types for real estate investors, from single-family homes to condos and townhomes. The neighborhood’s proximity to parks and recreational areas makes it appealing to families and outdoor lovers, ensuring a steady demand for rental properties.
Investors can find opportunities to purchase older homes and renovate them to meet the demands of modern buyers or renters, potentially increasing the property’s value and rental income.
Discover the Charm of Costa Mesa with Sail Properties
Costa Mesa offers a variety of neighborhoods that cater to different types of real estate investors, whether you’re looking for long-term rental properties, business opportunities, or commercial real estate ventures.
Eastside Costa Mesa, Westside Costa Mesa, Mesa Verde, College Park, South Coast Metro, and Fairview Park all offer unique advantages, from location and amenities to appreciation potential. With its strong economy, desirable location, and ongoing development, Costa Mesa remains a prime destination for real estate investors seeking to maximize their returns.
Our highly skilled professionals at Sail Properties can guide you through your real estate venture journey and ensure you maximize your investment. Get on the line and book an appointment with one of our experts!
Additional Resources
Should I Rent Out My Home Long-Term or Short-Term?
The Benefits of Vacation Property Management for Huntington Beach Owners