Recognized across the globe for its legendary surf culture, Huntington Beach, a.k.a. Surf City, USA, is undoubtedly one of the most well-known beach destinations in Orange County. The beach lays claim to an iconic 1,850-foot-long pier, holds a record for the World’s Largest Surfboard, and sees millions of visitors each year. It’s also the site of the world-famous U.S. Open of Surfing.

All that said, there’s more to Huntington Beach than its crisp waves and beachside atmosphere. Its top-rated schools, buzzing main streets, and exceptional quality of life make it a top choice for many kinds of home buyers.

If you’re considering moving to Huntington Beach, consider this your ultimate guide to the city, from the real estate market to the cost of living and nearby shopping and dining options.

Huntington Beach sits between Seal Beach and Newport Beach in Orange County, California, just 35 miles south of Los Angeles. The city spans 31.9 square miles and features a beautiful 9.5-mile stretch of sandy coastline. As of the latest U.S. Census, more than 194,000 residents call Huntington Beach home.

What it’s known for

Huntington Beach is, first and foremost, famous for its legendary surf culture.

The city holds a unique claim to fame with the world record for the largest surfboard ever built – a massive 42-foot-long board constructed by Westerly Marine and mouldCAM. In a historic moment, 66 surfers rode the board at once, breaking the previous record held by Australian surfers. Today, this giant surfboard is proudly displayed at the International Surfing Museum.

Each summer, Huntington Beach hosts the U.S. Open of Surfing, the world’s largest surf competition. This week-long event draws in top surfers and thousands of spectators, showcasing the best of the sport in a vibrant atmosphere. During the competition, new members are inducted into the Surfing Walk of Fame, honoring those who have made significant contributions to the sport and the surfing community.

On top of its surfing legacy, the beach sees an estimated 11 to 15 million visitors each year, more than 2 million of whom are Non-Orange County residents.

A brief history of Huntington Beach

Huntington Beach, founded in 1901 as Pacific City, transformed from a rough oil town into Orange County’s third-largest city. Renamed in 1904 after developer Henry Huntington, who extended his Pacific Electric Railway to the area, the city saw its first boom in the 1920s with oil drilling.

Early on, the beaches were littered with debris, leading to the unflattering moniker, “Tin Can Beach.” However, in 1961, the state cleaned up the coastline and created Bolsa Chica State Beach, marking the start of Huntington Beach’s revival.

Today, it has evolved into a popular tourist destination, with pristine beaches, a bustling pier rebuilt in the 1990s, and a diversified economy.

With its enviable location, sun-drenched climate, and a plethora of housing options, it’s no surprise that Huntington Beach is one of the most desirable places to live. Let’s go through the homes for sale in Huntington Beach, CA.

Available properties

Homes for sale in Huntington Beach, CA are diverse and highly coveted. The market is largely dominated by single-family properties but you’ll find no shortage of condos, apartments, mobile homes, and townhomes in the mix. With so many options, your ideal home will depend on your preferred lifestyle and neighborhood.

For those who want to live in a suburban area with wide streets and leaf-strewn sidewalks, there are plenty of single-family homes tucked away in serene residential neighborhoods. These homes are typically closer to the city than the beach area but still offer easy access to the water. Meanwhile, Downtown Huntington Beach provides a decent selection of condos and townhomes for buyers who prefer to reside close to the city’s best cafes, restaurants, and nightlife.

If oceanside living is your ultimate dream, you’ll be glad to know that there are plenty of waterfront homes for sale in Huntington Beach, CA. Neighborhoods like Huntington Harbour, Sunset Beach, and Seacliff provide a range of bayfront and oceanfront properties at different price points and sizes, allowing homeowners to reap the benefits of Huntington Beach’s prime location.

Typical features

Homes for sale in Huntington Beach, CA typically have 2 to 3 bedrooms, with plenty of variety in terms of size. Looking for a cozy bungalow or a spacious mid-century home? Do you want a large lot, or are you amenable to a smaller property in a central location? No matter your preferences, Huntington Beach provides plenty of options.

Properties on the higher end of the housing market usually offer plenty of features, such as thoughtfully designed interiors, gourmet kitchens, and landscaped grounds.

As for age, plenty of homes in Huntington Beach were established in the 1970s up to the 1990s, striking a balance between character and modern amenities. More than a third of the total housing stock was built even earlier (1940s to the 1960s), while new builds make up a smaller fraction.

When finding the perfect home in Huntington Beach, consider the neighborhood, too. Here’s a brief guide to the top neighborhoods in the city.

• NORTHWEST
  Located two miles inland, Northwest is an upscale enclave known for its million-dollar homes, wide streets, and tall palm trees. The properties here tend to be spacious, with three to four bedrooms, and draw architectural inspiration from styles such as Tudor, Ranch, Spanish Revival, and Monterey.
• BOLSA CHICA
  Meaning “little pocket” in English, Bolsa Chica offers a diverse housing landscape. You’ll find high-end homes in gated communities alongside more affordable condos. Its main draw? The proximity to the beach.
• DOWNTOWN
  As Huntington Beach’s central economic district, Downtown is ideal for those who want to be close to the action while still being just a short walk or bike ride from the ocean.
• SEACLIFF
  This is one of the most coveted addresses in Huntington Beach. It encompasses many smaller gated communities, allowing for a private and tranquil lifestyle. Residents of Seacliff enjoy access to a much quieter stretch of beach, perfect for escaping the crowds.
• SUNSET BEACH
  This oceanfront neighborhood has plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities, including surfing, bodysurfing, and volleyball. Housing options range from compact one-bedroom condos to spacious five-bedroom detached homes.

Ready to become part of the Surf City community? Here’s everything you need to know about the Huntington Beach lifestyle.

Lifestyle, culture, and community vibe

Huntington Beach embodies the laid-back charm of a classic surf town, yet offers all the modern amenities of city living. With numerous walkable and bike-friendly areas, residents are always just moments away from the ocean.

While the beach sees its fair share of summer crowds, it remains quieter during other seasons, allowing for year-round outdoor enjoyment thanks to the consistently pleasant weather. Downtown is packed with great restaurants, shops, and entertainment, so there’s always something to do and places to go in Huntington Beach.

Cost of living

The cost of living in Huntington Beach may be quite high, at 64.9% above the national average, yet it remains just around 10% higher than overall state figures. Housing prices play a major role in this but the expense is balanced by a lifestyle that’s hard to match.

Groceries and transportation costs are only slightly higher than average, while healthcare and utilities are actually more affordable compared to many areas. The quality of life – complete with stunning beaches, a relaxed coastal atmosphere, and abundant outdoor activities – makes the investment worthwhile for many residents.

Schools

Schools in Huntington Beach offer a nurturing environment for school-age children so that they may achieve their utmost potential in academics and extracurricular activities. The city is served by multiple districts: Huntington Beach City School District, Ocean View School District, and Huntington Beach Union High School District. Certain schools operate under the Fountain Valley School District and Westminster School District.

Among the top public schools in the area are:

• Huntington Beach High School
• Edison High School
• Marina High School
• Ocean View High School
• Hawes Elementary
• Huntington Seacliff Elementary
• Marine View Middle
• Lake View Elementary
• Harbour View Elementary
• Eader Elementary
• S.A. Moffett Elementary
• Dwyer Middle
• Sowers Middle

Private school options include:

• California Science Academy
• Great Adventures Learning Center
• Warner Avenue Christian Academy
• Grace Lutheran School
• Liberty Christian School
• Huntington Christian School

Economic profile

Huntington Beach has a vibrant lifestyle and a robust economy, making it an excellent place to live and work. Tourism thrives thanks to its iconic beaches and surf culture, while the city also supports a growing technology and manufacturing sector. Major employers such as Boeing, Cambro Manufacturing, C&D Aerospace, and Quiksilver contribute to a diverse job market, offering strong career opportunities alongside the relaxed coastal living Huntington Beach is known for.

Beaches

Want a beach that’s safe for swimming or a place where you can bring your furry friend? No problem – Huntington Beach is home to plenty of beaches where you get to soak up the sun, catch some waves, or simply roll out a towel and read a good book.

• Head to Huntington City Beach if you want to lounge, watch experienced surfers hit some waves, or take a stroll along the famous Huntington Beach Pier. There are also several bonfire pits and volleyball courts throughout the beach.
• If you’re a dog owner, Huntington Dog Beach is perfect. This popular dog-friendly beach lies between 21st Street and Seaport Avenue, just along the Pacific Coast Highway. On top of the wide-open space, the beach also has a lineup of dog-friendly oceanfront resorts, as well as regular meet-up groups for pups.
• Want to catch a stunning sunset? Be sure to stop by Huntington State Beach, a 121-acre beach located only 2 miles south of the Huntington Beach Pier. It’s a hub of activity: surf, sunbathe, or fish, the choice is yours. And, if you plan on attending surfing events or live music festivals, you’ll discover that this beach is one of the most popular venues for some of the biggest events in the city.
• Bolsa Chica State Beach, right across the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve, is a great spot for newbie surfers thanks to its smaller waves. In the summer, it’s famous for grunion runs, where you may grab the little fish with your hand – just make sure to grab a permit first.

Dining

Huntington Beach has a little something for everyone when it comes to food. If you’re looking for an upscale dining experience, head to Bluegold at Pacific City. It’s known for its top-notch seafood and creative New American dishes, all served with a stunning ocean view as your backdrop. For a hidden gem, LSXO is Bluegold’s moody speakeasy, dishing out flavorful homestyle Vietnamese cuisine in a more intimate setting.

Craving pizza? Head to Riip for its famous Detroit-style pies and a great selection of craft beers. For Italian, Capones delivers classic dishes and an extensive selection of wine in a vibrant, cozy setting.

Athens West brings Mediterranean flavors to the heart of the city. And, for a more interactive dining experience, Shima serves up lively teppanyaki, where skilled chefs prepare your meal right in front of you, adding an entertaining touch to the excellent Japanese fare.

Shopping and entertainment

Downtown Huntington Beach is the go-to spot for shopping and entertainment, with Main Street and Fifth Street offering a lively, walkable atmosphere. You’ll find everything from vintage treasures to surf gear, along with swimwear, jewelry, and bike shops. And, when the need arises, there are plenty of places to grab a bite.

Pacific City, located right on Pacific Coast Highway, is another favorite. This open-air destination features beautiful ocean views, a variety of stores, a gym, a nail lounge, and great restaurants. It’s also known for hosting fun community events year-round.

Attractions

There are plenty of things to do in Huntington Beach beyond exploring the beaches. Check out these local attractions and learn more about the city’s environment and history.

BOLSA CHICA ECOLOGICAL RESERVE

Tucked away near Huntington Beach, Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve spans 1,300 acres of wetland, making it the largest saltwater marsh along the California coast. With over five miles of trails, visitors may enjoy leisurely walks, scenic runs, or birdwatching adventures.

As a crucial stopover along the Pacific Flyway, the reserve attracts over 200 resident and migratory bird species. In addition, it offers a rich experience for botany enthusiasts interested in the diverse plant life native to the area.

HUNTINGTON BEACH INTERNATIONAL SURFING MUSEUM

Celebrating the deep connection between surfing and Huntington Beach, the Huntington Beach International Surfing Museum is a must-visit for those who want to explore the sport’s legacy.

The museum houses an impressive collection of surfing memorabilia and immersive exhibits, chronicling the history of surfing in California. Past exhibits have featured iconic moments like the First Surf Spots of California and the OP Pro Surfing Championship.

The museum is open Thursdays to Sundays, from 11 AM to 5 PM.

NEWLAND HOUSE MUSEUM

Imagine life in a bygone era at the Newland House Museum, the oldest and best-preserved residence in Huntington Beach. Built in 1898, this beautifully restored home offers a glimpse into the lives of early pioneers William and Mary Newland. The house is authentically furnished, maintaining the charm and atmosphere of the late 19th century.

Operated by the Huntington Beach Historical Society, the museum is open on the first and third weekends of the month from noon to 4 PM. Admission is by suggested donation: $2 for adults and $1 for children.

Looking to buy a home in Huntington Beach, CA? Maty Guiza and Associates is dedicated to providing a seamless real estate experience.

With a wealth of expertise both in real estate and finance, Maty Guiza provides tailored services to every client. After obtaining her real estate broker license in 2015, Maty has been providing comprehensive real estate services, including facilitating residential and commercial sales.

Discover the finest Huntington Beach real estate with Maty Guiza and Associates today! Reach out to the team at 949.302.6990 or submit a contact form through our website.