Costa Mesa, CA
Your complete hub for neighborhood data, housing costs, safety statistics, and quality of life metrics in Costa Mesa.
Population: 111,490
Costa Mesa at a Glance
Population
111,490
Median Home Value
$959,800
Nat'l avg: $281,900
Median Rent
$1,066
Nat'l avg: $1,163
Median Income
$104,981
Nat'l avg: $74,580
Violent Crime
5.0 per 1K
Nat'l avg: 3.7 per 1K
Walk Score
0/100
Car-Dependent
Air Quality
AQI 58
Moderate
Climate Risk
Very High
Score: 99.98454092492835
Explore Costa Mesa
Dive deeper into Costa Mesa with specialized neighborhood guides and rankings.
Best Neighborhoods
Top-rated neighborhoods in Costa Mesa ranked by Kurby Score
Affordable Neighborhoods
Most budget-friendly areas to live in Costa Mesa
Up & Coming Neighborhoods
Emerging neighborhoods with growth potential in Costa Mesa
Young Professionals
Best neighborhoods for career starters in Costa Mesa
Retiree Neighborhoods
Best neighborhoods for retirees in Costa Mesa
Living In Guide
Complete guide to life in Costa Mesa — cost, safety, schools & more
All Neighborhoods
Browse every neighborhood in Costa Mesa with detailed data
About Costa Mesa
Costa Mesa, California presents a compelling proposition for those seeking a vibrant Southern California lifestyle without the sticker shock of some coastal neighbors. Home to over 111,000 residents, it offers a dynamic blend of suburban tranquility and urban convenience. While the median home value of nearly $960,000 is significantly above the national average, the area's strong median household income of around $105,000 provides a solid foundation for comfortable living. While the homeownership rate sits at 30%, indicating a healthy rental market, the median rent of $1,066/month is surprisingly low, offering several affordable housing options. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, Costa Mesa offers a unique mix of cultural attractions and recreational opportunities that make it a desirable locale. From an investment perspective, Costa Mesa's real estate market offers both stability and growth potential. The area's affordability index of 140 suggests a housing market that remains relatively accessible, despite the high median home value. While the violent crime rate is 5.0 per 1,000 residents, there's a strong sense of community safety. The prevalence of property crime is higher, at 29.6 per 1,000 residents, so it is important to be aware of your surroundings. Those seeking a balanced lifestyle, with access to employment opportunities and a reputation for being a great place to raise a family, will find Costa Mesa particularly appealing. Costa Mesa offers a favorable environment for outdoor enthusiasts, though the walk score is a low 0, and the bike score is 25. The air quality, with an AQI of 58, is considered moderate. The noise level is quiet, creating a peaceful atmosphere. Known for its family-friendly attractions and proximity to beaches, Costa Mesa provides a quintessential Southern California experience.