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Santa Monica, CA Housing Market
In July 2025, Santa Monica’s housing market showed remarkable strength, with home prices climbing 18.9% year-over-year to a median of $2.1M. Homes are also selling faster, averaging 54 days on the market compared to 61 days last year, signaling strong buyer demand despite rising prices. The increase in closed sales—from 53 to 60—further highlights the depth of demand in this coastal city, where limited inventory, lifestyle appeal, and proximity to both the beach and major job centers continue to drive competition and support long-term value growth.
Santa Monica is a somewhat competitive market, where most homes sell in about 53 days and typically close around 1% below list price. While many buyers have room to negotiate, desirable properties can attract multiple offers, often selling for up to 2% above asking and going under contract in as little as 30 days. This balance means buyers should be prepared to act quickly on standout homes, while sellers can still achieve strong results with the right pricing and presentation.
Santa Monica, CA is a balanced market in July 2025, meaning the number of homes available for sale is closely aligned with the level of buyer demand. This creates an environment where neither buyers nor sellers have a distinct advantage—buyers benefit from having more options without the extreme pressure of bidding wars, while sellers can still secure solid offers if their homes are well-priced and marketed effectively. For both sides, this balance signals stability in the market, suggesting that while prices remain high due to Santa Monica’s desirability, the pace of activity is sustainable rather than overheated.
If you're ready to explore luxury homes in Santa Monica, contact us today. We’ll help you navigate the market with discretion, insight, and local expertise to secure the right property that fits your vision and goals.
Santa Monica’s coastline is its greatest draw, and homes near the beach—especially those with ocean views—command premium prices. Properties along Ocean Avenue or near Palisades Park often feature unobstructed views and easy beach access, making them highly sought after. Buyers should consider not only the value of ocean views but also the lifestyle trade-offs, such as higher pedestrian traffic, salt-air exposure affecting property upkeep, and limited parking.
Each neighborhood in Santa Monica offers a unique living experience. For example, North of Montana is known for luxury estates and tree-lined streets, Downtown Santa Monica provides a vibrant urban lifestyle with walkability to shopping and dining, while Sunset Park offers a quieter, family-friendly environment. Buyers need to evaluate which neighborhood best aligns with their lifestyle—whether they value prestige, convenience, or community feel—as this significantly impacts both daily living and long-term investment.
Santa Monica is known for having some of the strictest rent-control laws in California. For investors, this means rental income potential is more regulated compared to other Los Angeles markets, and there may be limits on annual rent increases. At the same time, these protections make Santa Monica attractive to long-term renters, ensuring high occupancy rates. Buyers should carefully review property use—whether for personal residence, vacation home, or rental investment—since local regulations can directly affect profitability.
Unlike much of Los Angeles, Santa Monica offers exceptional walkability. Properties close to Third Street Promenade, Santa Monica Place, or the Santa Monica Pier allow easy access to shopping, dining, entertainment, and public transit. This walkability boosts property value and lifestyle appeal, particularly for those who prefer a car-light or car-free lifestyle. Buyers should consider how proximity to these amenities influences both convenience and long-term appreciation potential.
Santa Monica is served by the highly regarded Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District (SMMUSD), which is a significant draw for families. Properties located within certain school zones, especially near top-performing schools like Franklin Elementary or Santa Monica High, are often priced higher because of the demand from families prioritizing education. Buyers with children should factor in these school boundaries, while investors can view them as value drivers that help properties hold their appeal over time.
Santa Monica’s location at the western edge of Los Angeles makes traffic a unique consideration. While access to major freeways can be limited, the addition of the Metro Expo Line provides a direct rail connection from Downtown Santa Monica to Downtown Los Angeles, reducing reliance on cars. Buyers should assess daily commuting needs and accessibility when choosing a property, particularly if balancing beachside living with work in other parts of LA. Proximity to transit hubs or bike-friendly routes can significantly enhance convenience and lifestyle.
From luxury estates north of Montana to ocean-view condos by the beach, Santa Monica offers a lifestyle unlike anywhere else in Los Angeles. If you have questions about the market or want to schedule a private showing, reach out to us—we’ll help you find the perfect Santa Monica property that matches your needs and goals.
From its iconic beaches and vibrant downtown to its serene residential neighborhoods, Santa Monica blends coastal charm with urban sophistication. Browse our Santa Monica neighborhood guide to discover local insights, lifestyle highlights, and real estate opportunities tailored to this one-of-a-kind community.
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