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425 Merrimac Way, Costa Mesa, CA 92626$1,795 - $2,140
- 1-2 Beds
- 1-2 Baths
Available Today! Last updated 7 Dec 2019 -
1000 South Coast Drive, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
- 1-3 Beds
- 1-2 Baths
Available Today! Last updated 7 Dec 2019 -
1500 Mesa Verde Drive E., Costa Mesa, CA 92626$2,140 - $2,615
- 1-2 Beds
- 1-2 Baths
Available Today! Last updated 7 Dec 2019 -
151 East 21St Street, Costa Mesa, CA 92627See current rent specials$2,150 - $2,295
- 1-3 Beds
- 1-2 Baths
Available Today! Last updated 7 Dec 2019 -
2345 Newport Blvd, Costa Mesa, CA 92627See current rent specials$1,955 - $2,560
- 1-3 Beds
- 1-2 Baths
Available Today! Last updated 7 Dec 2019 -
1142 Buckingham Drive, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
- Studio-2 Beds
- 1-2.5 Baths
Available Today! Last updated 7 Dec 2019 -
655 Baker Street, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
- 1-3 Beds
- 1-2 Baths
Available Today! Last updated 7 Dec 2019 -
2400 Harbor Boulevard, Costa Mesa, CA 92626$1,804 - $4,288
- 1-2 Beds
- 1-3 Baths
Available Today! Last updated 7 Dec 2019 -
580 Anton Blvd, Costa Mesa, CA 92626$2,340 - $3,863
- Studio-2 Beds
- 1-2 Baths
Last updated 7 Dec 2019 -
550 Paularino, Costa Mesa, CA 92626$1,765 - $2,175
- Studio-2 Beds
- 1 Baths
Last updated 7 Dec 2019 -
845 Paularino Ave., Costa Mesa, CA 92626See current rent specials$1,775 - $2,435
- Studio-2 Beds
- 1 Bath
Last updated 7 Dec 2019 -
241 Avocado Street, Costa Mesa, CA 92627$1,795 - $1,895
- 1-3 Beds
- 1-1.5 Baths
Last updated 7 Dec 2019 -
2178 Canyon Drive, Costa Mesa, CA 92627
- 2-3 Beds
- 2.5 Baths
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621 W. Wilson, Costa Mesa, CA 92627$2,300
- 2 Beds
- 1-1.5 Baths
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530 W. Wilson Street, Costa Mesa, CA 92627$1,990 - $1,995
- 1-2 Beds
- 1 Bath
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1981 Wallace Avenue C101, Costa Mesa, CA 92627$2,626
- 2-3 Beds
- 1-2 Baths
Last updated 7 Dec 2019 -
1840 Park Ave., Costa Mesa, CA 92627
- 1-2 Beds
- 1 Bath
Last updated 7 Dec 2019 -
2043 Charle St., Costa Mesa, CA 92627See current rent specials$2,200
- 2-3 Beds
- 2.5 Baths
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635 WEST BAKER, COSTA MESA, CA 92626
- 1-2 Beds
- 1 Bath
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Apartment1931 Pomona Ave., Costa Mesa, CA 92627
- 3 Beds
Last updated 7 Dec 2019 -
Apartment2621 Harbor Blvd., Costa Mesa, CA 92626
- Studio-2 Beds
Last updated 7 Dec 2019 -
Apartment2186 Pacific Ave., Costa Mesa, CA 92827
- 2 Beds
Last updated 7 Dec 2019 -
Apartment2151 Orange Ave., 2152 Elden Ave., 2160 Elden Ave., Costa Mesa, CA 92627
- 1-2 Beds
Last updated 7 Dec 2019 -
Apartment393 Hamilton St., Costa Mesa, CA 92627
- Studio-3 Beds
Last updated 7 Dec 2019
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Renter’s Guide to Costa Mesa, CA
Known as the city of the arts, Costa Mesa is a city in Orange County, CA. The name translates to ‘coast table’, or more accurately, the plateau by the coast, which describes the local geography perfectly. It’s among the top 50 best places to live for young professionals in the U.S., coming in at #39, and ranks as the 10th healthiest city in America. This comes as little surprise when you consider that it’s also the 15th best city for outdoor activities in America.
With a population of 112,930 and an area of 15.81 sq. miles, it has a population density of 7,219 people per square mile. While this may be considered high within the United States as a whole, it’s relatively low compared to other cities and neighborhoods within the Los Angeles Metropolitan Area. It’s among the principal cities in LA, though it’s dwarfed by neighbors such as Irvine, and Huntington Beach, in terms of size and population.
Costa Mesa enjoys a semi-arid climate, resulting in mild temperatures throughout the year, and little rainfall, especially in summer. January is typically the coldest and wettest month, with average lows of around 47°F, and 2.5 inches of rainfall. August is generally the hottest month, with high temperatures averaging out at around 85°F. Throughout the year you can expect an average of 10.7 inches of rainfall.
Costa Mesa, CA Demographics
- Total Population112,930
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Female 57,580Male 55,350
- Median Age34.5
Cost of Living in Costa Mesa, CA
Public transport in Costa Mesa is somewhat limited, and most residents rely on a private automobile, with gasoline costing $3.46 per gallon. However, the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA), runs several bus lines that serve the city. A regular local fare should cost no more than $2.00, while express route tickets to Irvine or Huntington Beach, are $7.00. Taxis generally start at $3.50, plus $1.00 per mile.
There are plenty of places to eat out for a good price in Costa Mesa, and you can expect to pay around $12.00 for a meal in an inexpensive restaurant. If you’re craving something quick and easy, fast food combo meals average out at around $6.50. Alternatively, a 3-course meal for 2 in a mid-range restaurant should cost around $57.50. A pint of beer is generally $4, and your morning coffee should be about $3.50.
Your utilities for a standard 915 sq. ft. apartment should cost around $50 each month. This includes all the basics, such as water, electricity, heating, cooling, and garbage disposal. To add an internet connection, expect to pay $55.42 each month.
Average Rent in Costa Mesa, CA
- Costa Mesa, CA Average Rental Price, October 2019 $2,117 /mo
Costa Mesa, CA Apartment Rent Ranges
- $1,001-$1,5003%
- $1,501-$2,00040%
- > $2,00056%
Costa Mesa, CA Rent Trends
| Average Rent | Nov / 2016 | Mar / 2017 | Jul / 2017 | Nov / 2017 | Mar / 2018 | Jul / 2018 | Nov / 2018 | Mar / 2019 | Jul / 2019 | Oct / 2019 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Costa Mesa, CA | $1,951 | $1,937 | $1,966 | $1,994 | $2,000 | $2,026 | $2,066 | $2,068 | $2,074 | $2,117 |
| National | $1,353 | $1,349 | $1,381 | $1,383 | $1,386 | $1,421 | $1,430 | $1,434 | $1,470 | $1,476 |
Average rent is projected to grow by 3% in 2019 compared to 2018.
Please note that projected rent growth is calculated at city level.
Check out the average rent prices in Costa Mesa by neighborhood.
Living in Costa Mesa, CA
Costa Mesa has a lot going for it and has become a hub for young professionals and their new families. It’s an ideal spot for those who love the great outdoors, with a wealth of nearby nature reserves and state parks to explore. As a college town, it has an active nightlife, and a thriving theater and arts district, meaning there’s plenty to keep you busy.
Besides the buzz, it’s not an overly large town, and manages to retain a small-town vibe. Most residents know their neighbors, and with residential neighborhoods well-spaced out, it doesn’t seem overly cramped. On the other hand, public transport links are relatively poor, and owning a private vehicle is almost essential if you wish to venture outside of town.
Things to Do in Costa Mesa, CA
For nature lovers, Costa Mesa is heaven on earth, with several parks within the city limits offering stunning views and a plethora of hiking trails. Fairview park offers spectacular views out to the ocean, hiking trails, a space reserved for flying model airplanes, and wildlife. In addition, it plays host to Costa Mesa Concerts in the Park, a free event featuring live music, a beer garden, and kids activities, which runs every Tuesday evening throughout July.
There’s lots more to Costa Mesa than just stunning scenery, however. It’s a top shopping destination, with the internationally acclaimed South Coast Plaza standing out as a firm favorite. Home to over 250 luxury brands, it’s a great place to keep up with the latest fashions, eat world-class food from across the globe, or enjoy the latest blockbuster. Check out the free movie screenings every Monday throughout July and August, during Movies in the Park, just outside the Plaza. For a more local feel, head to The LAB, or The CAMP, two smaller shopping centers that focus on being eco-friendly and supporting local artisans.
The OC Fair and Event Center also plays host to numerous markets and festivals throughout the year, including street food festivals, farmer’s markets, and many more. It’s also home to the iconic Orange County Fair, a 23-day extravaganza featuring funfair rides, concerts, carnival games, competitions, and workshops, making it fun for all the family.
Employment & Economy in Costa Mesa, CA
As Costa Mesa is renowned as an international shopping mecca, it’s no surprise that retail trade is the most common industry, with almost 8,000 residents employed in retail and sales related occupations. Other common industries include accommodation and food services, and professional, scientific, and technical services. There’s also a higher than average number of people employed in real estate.
Besides retail, the most common jobs include management roles, and office and administration positions. A high number of residents also work in arts, design, entertainment, sports, and media occupations. The highest paid residents work in legal roles, healthcare, and architecture and engineering positions.
Several well-known companies have headquarters in Costa Mesa, including Experian, Toyota Racing Development, and Vans.
Costa Mesa, CA Households
- Total Number of Households40,557
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Family 24,702Non-family 15,855
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Children 12,224No Children 28,333
- Average People Per Household2.74
- Median Household Income$75,109
- Median Housing Costs Per Month$1,757
Education in Costa Mesa, CA
There is a total of 27 public schools within Costa Mesa, served by the Newport-Mesa unified school district. The top-rated high schools are Early College High School and the Costa Mesa High School. The Maude B. Davis Elementary School is the top-rated elementary school in the city and students frequently perform well above average in state tests. Killybrooke Elementary School is another top-rated school, and constantly performs above average.
There are also several higher education institutions within Costa Mesa, including the University of Pheonix-California, Orange County College, Whittier Law School, National University, and Vanguard University. With so many colleges offering a wide range of degrees, Costa Mesa is a popular college town.
Costa Mesa, CA Education Statistics
- No High School9%
- Some High School24%
- Some College25%
- Associate Degree7%
- Bachelor Degree25%
- Graduate Degree10%
Tips for Renting in Costa Mesa, CA
Many people who consider moving to Costa Mesa are moving from LA in search of a more peaceful life. The slightly lower prices are also an attraction. If you do plan to move from LA, but continue to work there, be warned that commute times from Costa Mesa can be extremely long, with congestion causing daily delays.
Costa Mesa, like other parts of Orange County, is also more family-orientated than downtown LA, with more of a small-town feel. As such, it attracts families, and you might find life a little quiet. Having said that, it’s a college town that has attracted many young professionals in recent years, lending it a more hip vibe than other nearby towns.
Like other places near the ocean, temperatures don’t get as high as the inner city areas, so be prepared for cooler temperatures. If you see a place advertised without air-con, don’t turn it down outright like you might in downtown LA, as you might be okay with just an electric fan in summer.
In terms of neighborhoods, the most popular areas are in West Side Costa Mesa, though these also tend to be the more expensive.
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Most Expensive Rental
Mediterranean Village Costa Mesa $1,804 - $4,288 -
Least Expensive Rental
Park Mesa Villas $1,765 - $2,175
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