With the beach on one side and mountains on another, Santa Monica feels like a salt-air sanctuary carved into the LA coastline. Of course, Santa Monica is a separate city from Los Angeles—but we’re not here to lecture about city borders. Instead, we’re here to help you fill that time between rush hour and happy hour with a trip to Santa Monica’s most essential attractions.
Located right near the world-famous Los Angeles, Santa Monica is an enchanting coastal city with iconic beaches, a renowned pier, numerous leisure ops, and a diverse dining scene. This makes it a sought-after destination, attracting millions of tourists every year. The city is home to more than 92,000 inhabitants, boasts a delightful coastal climate, offers access to top-notch healthcare and education facilities, enjoys economic growth, and a well-established public transportation system. As a result, its rental properties are always highly valued.
Santa Monica is part of Silicon Beach which indicates a thriving, technology-driven economy. Its top industries include IT, retail trade, tourism, professional, scientific and technical services, which is part of the reason why its residents are wealthier than average and thus capable of spending more on real estate. According to City officials, Santa Monica businesses generate more than $130 million through business license taxes, sales and use taxes, and transit occupancy taxes. The University of Santa Monica, Santa Monica College, and Emeritus College are places that draw future young professionals.
The real estate market in Santa Monica is a competitive one. There’s a high demand for real estate properties, yet the prices are rather expensive. However, the city shows plenty of potential for single-family homes, condos, and townhouses.