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Life in Costa Mesa, CA

174 Rooms Available
$1289 Average Rent
381 Roommates Available
$1277 Average Budget

Moving to Costa Mesa

Costa Mesa is where Orange County gets interesting. Sandwiched between Newport Beach and Santa Ana, this city of about 115,000 has emerged as OC's creative capital — home to South Coast Plaza (one of the highest-grossing shopping centers in America), the Segerstrom Center for the Arts, anti-mall concepts like The Lab and The Camp, and a food scene that punches far above its weight. It's younger, edgier, and more affordable than its coastal neighbor Newport while being just minutes from the sand. Here's what you need to know.

Here's what we'll cover:

Why is Everyone Moving to Costa Mesa, CA?

Things to Know Before Moving to Costa Mesa, CA

The Pros and Cons of Living in Costa Mesa, CA

Moving to Costa Mesa, CA FAQ's

Thinking About Moving to Costa Mesa, CA?

Things to Know Before Moving to Costa Mesa

Before moving to Costa Mesa, CA, understand that this city has two distinct vibes. The Westside (west of the 55 freeway) is the hip, creative side — 17th Street is lined with restaurants, bars, and boutiques; The Camp and The Lab offer indie shopping in converted industrial spaces; and the 17West arts district is growing. The Eastside is home to South Coast Plaza, the Segerstrom Center, and more corporate/residential neighborhoods. Both sides are appealing, just for different reasons.

Housing in Costa Mesa sits in a sweet spot: cheaper than Newport Beach (dramatically so) but pricier than inland OC. A one-bedroom apartment runs $2,000 to $2,700 per month. Roommate shares average $1,200 to $1,700 per person. The Westside tends to have older, more character-filled apartments at slightly lower prices, while the Eastside has newer complexes near South Coast Plaza.

The job market benefits from South Coast Plaza's retail economy, the healthcare sector (Hoag Hospital has a major presence), and proximity to Irvine's tech corridor and Newport Beach's finance industry. Costa Mesa is centrally located in OC with easy access to the 405, 55, and 73 freeways. Newport Beach is literally next door — the back bay and beaches are a 10-minute drive. The climate is near-perfect coastal OC, with moderate temperatures year-round and ocean breezes keeping summer comfortable.

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Pros & Cons of Living in Costa Mesa

Costa Mesa is Orange County at its most creative and cosmopolitan. The food scene is extraordinary, the proximity to Newport Beach gives you coastal access without coastal rent, and the Westside has an indie energy unique in OC. The trade-offs include rising rents as the city becomes trendier, some areas on the Westside that are still rough around the edges, and the car-dependency that plagues all of OC. For young professionals who want OC beach access with urban creative energy, Costa Mesa is the answer.

Pros of Living in Costa Mesa

Exceptional Food and Dining Scene

Costa Mesa has quietly become one of the best food cities in Orange County. From Michelin-caliber restaurants at South Coast Plaza to innovative spots along 17th Street, craft breweries, and diverse ethnic eateries, the range and quality are outstanding. The food hall concepts at The Camp and the surrounding neighborhood keep pushing boundaries.

Newport Beach Access at Lower Prices

The Newport Beach border is literally a street crossing away. You can bike to the Back Bay, drive to Corona del Mar in 10 minutes, and enjoy all that Newport offers while paying rent that's $500-$1,000 less per month. For practical purposes, you get Newport's beach lifestyle at Costa Mesa's prices.

Creative and Indie Culture

The Lab and The Camp anti-malls pioneered a different kind of OC shopping — independent boutiques, vintage stores, organic eateries, and galleries in converted industrial spaces. The 17West arts district and the growing gallery scene on the Westside give Costa Mesa a creative identity that's genuinely unique in Orange County.

South Coast Plaza and Segerstrom Center

South Coast Plaza is one of the most prestigious shopping centers in the world, with luxury brands, excellent restaurants, and world-class people-watching. The adjacent Segerstrom Center for the Arts hosts the Pacific Symphony, Broadway touring shows, and ballet. Having both in your city means culture is always close.

Central OC Location with Freeway Access

Costa Mesa's location at the intersection of the 405, 55, and 73 freeways makes it one of the most connected cities in OC. Irvine is 10 minutes south, Huntington Beach 10 minutes north, and DTLA about 45 minutes. John Wayne Airport is right next door for easy travel.

Cons of Moving to Costa Mesa

Rising Rents as Trendiness Grows

Costa Mesa's reputation as OC's coolest city has pushed rents upward. What was once a genuine bargain compared to Newport is becoming incrementally pricier each year. The Westside in particular has seen significant rent increases as new development arrives.

Uneven Neighborhood Quality on the Westside

Parts of the Westside, while rapidly improving, still have areas that feel rough around the edges — some blocks have unkempt properties, occasional noise issues, and higher property crime. The gentrification is uneven, so visit specific streets at different times before signing a lease.

Car-Dependent Despite Central Location

Even though Costa Mesa is well-connected by freeways, daily life requires a car. OCTA bus service exists but is impractical for most trips. The 17th Street area is somewhat walkable, but connecting between the Westside, Eastside, and South Coast Plaza without a car is difficult.

No True Downtown or City Center

Costa Mesa lacks a defined downtown core. 17th Street functions as a commercial strip and South Coast Plaza as a gathering point, but there's no walkable town center with a plaza, park, or civic focal point. The city feels like a collection of great spots rather than a cohesive whole.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Moving to Costa Mesa

Is Costa Mesa, CA a good place to live?

What is Costa Mesa, CA known for?

What is the cost of living in Costa Mesa, CA?

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Thinking About Moving to Costa Mesa?

For choosing a neighborhood in Costa Mesa, the Westside near 17th Street and The Camp is ideal for young creatives and foodies. The Mesa Verde area on the Eastside is family-friendly with good schools. Near South Coast Plaza puts you at the center of shopping and culture. South Costa Mesa borders Newport and has a more upscale feel. Using Roommates.com will help you connect with people already living in Costa Mesa and find a roommate who matches your lifestyle and budget.

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