Living in Santa Monica, California, offers the perfect blend of coastal charm and urban sophistication. This seaside city, incorporated in 1886, was named after Saint Monica, the mother of Saint Augustine. Known affectionately as "The Queen of the Westside" and "The Pearl of the Pacific," Santa Monica has become one of California’s most desirable places to live.
So, what is Santa Monica famous for? The city draws global attention with its iconic Santa Monica Pier, walkable Third Street Promenade, and gorgeous stretch of beach. It’s also a major player in the Silicon Beach tech scene, attracting creatives, entrepreneurs, and digital innovators alike.
Whether you're moving to Santa Monica for job opportunities, top-rated schools, or that SoCal beach lifestyle, this vibrant city offers something for everyone. Living in Santa Monica means embracing a lifestyle that combines urban amenities with coastal relaxation. In this guide, we'll explore what makes living in Santa Monica truly special. And if you're planning a move, Movegreen's award-winning moving and storage solutions can help you get settled with ease and peace of mind.
Where Is Santa Monica?
Santa Monica is one of the many neighborhoods in Los Angeles County and sits on the edge of the Pacific coast at the western tip of the Greater Los Angeles area. This coastal city covers just over 8.4 square miles of land and another 7.6 square miles of bay waters.
Bordered by Venice to the south and Brentwood to the north, Santa Monica is tucked between the Santa Monica Mountains and the sea. It is a top choice for those who want both nature and city life. Living in Santa Monica provides easy access to mountain recreation and beachfront activities.
Located about 17 miles from Downtown Los Angeles, it offers a 30-minute commute by car or a direct ride on the Metro E Line, which connects to DTLA, Long Beach, and Pasadena. Local transit is excellent too, with the Big Blue Bus system covering 58 square miles across its many routes. Living in Santa Monica means having excellent transportation options for work and leisure.
Santa Monica Population
According to the 2020 Census, nearly 93,000 people live within city limits. Living in Santa Monica means being part of one of California's most densely populated cities, with over 11,000 residents per square mile. It's one of California's most densely populated cities, though growth has slowed in recent years, with the population declining by 2.5% since 2020.
The city boasts a fascinating story of coastal California diversity. While 71.4% of residents identify as White (including 61.7% non-Hispanic White), living in Santa Monica means the city pulses with multicultural energy - 10.9% Asian, 10.3% multiracial, and 16.6% Hispanic or Latino residents contribute to a vibrant community where tech entrepreneurs might grab Korean BBQ before catching a sunset with their Spanish-speaking neighbors.
Santa Monica Demographics
- Sex ratio: 53% female, 47% male
- Median age: 43.5 years
- Median household income: $109,503
- Educational attainment:
- High school graduate or higher: 96.4%
- Bachelor's degree or higher: 71.9%
- Foreign-born population: 22.7%
- Married couples: 43% of households
- Poverty rate: 10%
Source: Census Reporter
Santa Monica has attracted its share of notable residents over the years, including Miley Cyrus, a Grammy-nominated singer and actress; Zac Efron, an actor known for High School Musical and The Greatest Showman; and Natalie Wood, the legendary actress celebrated for films like West Side Story and Rebel Without a Cause.
Is Santa Monica Safe?
Safety is a legitimate concern for those considering a move to Santa Monica, as the city experiences significantly higher crime rates than both state and national averages. The overall crime rate is 5,386 per 100,000 residents, 89.4% higher than the California average and 131.7% higher than the national average. Violent crime stands at 854 per 100,000 residents (130.9% above the national average), while property crime is 4,532 per 100,000 - 131.9% higher than the U.S. average.
While these figures may seem alarming, living in Santa Monica can still be safe and family-friendly, especially in neighborhoods farther from tourist-heavy areas like the Promenade and beach zones. The Santa Monica Police Department, with approximately 200 sworn officers, continues to work proactively to address public safety in a city that sees high daily foot traffic from both residents and visitors.
Santa Monica Cost of Living
Let's be real - living in Santa Monica doesn't come cheap. This iconic beach city offers an idyllic lifestyle, but that ocean breeze comes with a price tag. Santa Monica's cost of living is 112% higher than the national average, making it one of California's most expensive places to live.
According to the Economic Policy Institute's Family Budget Calculator, a family of four in the Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim metro area needs to earn at least $134,902 per year to maintain a modest yet comfortable standard of living. This means that living in Santa Monica requires careful financial planning and budgeting for higher expenses.
Typical Santa Monica CA Living Expenses
- Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: $25.00
- Cappuccino: $5.71
- Gallon of milk: $4.48
- Dozen eggs: $7.05
- Gallon of gas: $4.72
- Average monthly utilities (915 sq ft): $191.73
* Includes electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage
Source: Numbeo - Santa Monica
California's tax burden ranks among the highest in the U.S., and living in Santa Monica reflects this with a progressive state income tax from 1% to 13.3% based on earnings. Property taxes average around 1.1%, and the combined sales tax rate is 10.25%.
Real Estate Market
According to Redfin, the median sale price in Santa Monica is about $1.762 million - a 16.1% drop year-over-year. Due to strong demand and limited inventory, homes usually sell within 36 days, with an average price of $1,090 per square foot. Browse current Santa Monica real estate for sale to see the latest market trends. For renters, according to RentCafe, the average rent in Santa Monica, CA, was $3,922 as of July 2025, with the average apartment size at around 751 square feet.
Neighborhoods in Santa Monica | Where to Live in Santa Monica
Is Santa Monica a good place to live? Yes! Whether you're relocating for work, chasing that iconic SoCal lifestyle, or simply wanting to wake up near the waves and natural beauty, living in Santa Monica neighborhoods brings something special to every resident. Here are the best neighborhoods in Santa Monica where locals love to live:
Downtown Santa Monica - Urban Beach Living With World-Class Shopping and Dining
Downtown Santa Monica offers walkability and culture near the Third Street Promenade, Santa Monica Place, and the Pier. Living in Santa Monica's downtown area features luxury high-rises and upscale apartments with ocean views. It is perfect for young professionals seeking the heart of the action.
North of Montana - Exclusive Family-Friendly Enclave With Top-Rated Schools
North of Montana ("N of M") is Santa Monica's most prestigious area and one of the best neighborhoods for families. This upscale area features tree-lined streets and Spanish-style estates. Living in Santa Monica's North of Montana offers boutiques along Montana Avenue and excellent schools, attracting affluent families and celebrities seeking privacy and quality.
Ocean Park - Bohemian Beach Community Perfect for Creatives and Remote Workers
Ocean Park, bordering Venice, offers a bohemian vibe with beach bungalows, mid-century homes, and indie shops along Pico Boulevard. Living in Santa Monica's Ocean Park is popular with creatives, artists, and remote workers who appreciate the eclectic community and laid-back beach lifestyle.
Santa Monica Weather
Ask anyone why they love Santa Monica, and the weather is near the top. Santa Monica has a Coastal Mediterranean climate (Köppen Csb) with warm, dry summers and cooler, wetter winters.
Average highs range from 76°F in July to 43°F in January. Annual rainfall is about 12.7 inches, with virtually no snowfall. The best time to visit is May to October, though let’s be honest, it's enjoyable year-round.
Things to Do in Santa Monica
Santa Monica offers some of the best things to do in California. It combines classic beach culture with vibrant shopping and entertainment. Living in Santa Monica means you'll enjoy convenient shopping at Santa Monica Place, Third Street Promenade, and the popular Santa Monica Farmers Market. Other top attractions in Santa Monica include:
A city icon since 1909, the Pier features Pacific Park with the world’s only solar-powered Ferris wheel, an aquarium, arcade, and street performers, capturing Santa Monica’s fun-loving spirit.
200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401, (310) 458-8900
Just steps from the beach, this bustling pedestrian mall offers over 80 shops, outdoor cafés, street music, popular music venues, and a popular weekend farmers market, the city’s hub for shopping and dining.
1351 3rd Street Promenade, Santa Monica, CA 90401, (310) 393-8355
Stretching along Ocean Avenue atop coastal bluffs, Palisades Park offers panoramic ocean views, rose gardens, public art, and shaded walking paths, perfect for jogging, sunsets, or picnics.
Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90401, (310) 458-8300
Outdoor Activities in Santa Monica
Looking for more things to do in Santa Monica? The Santa Monica Parks & Recreation Department manages beautiful beaches, parks, and facilities throughout the city. Check the City of Santa Monica events calendar for upcoming festivals, outdoor concerts, and seasonal activities!
Santa Monica Restaurants
Santa Monica's culinary scene is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself, perfect for everything from casual bites to upscale dining with a view. Living in Santa Monica means wondering where to eat while soaking up that coastal vibe.
Here are three top picks you won't want to miss:
Situated right at the entrance to the Santa Monica Pier, The Lobster is a landmark seafood spot offering stunning floor-to-ceiling ocean views alongside its signature lobster bisque and fresh catches. It is perfect for a special occasion or a memorable meal by the water.
1602 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90401, (310) 458-9294
A longtime local favorite, Blue Plate Taco offers authentic Baja-style tacos, fresh guacamole, and craft margaritas just steps from the beach. It is casual, flavorful, and ideal for enjoying a laid-back California meal.
1515 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90401, (310) 458-2985
Known for its unique “Trust Me” sushi menu, Sugarfish serves impeccably fresh, chef-selected nigiri and rolls in a minimalist, welcoming setting. Sushi lovers rave about the quality and simplicity here.
1345 2nd St, Santa Monica, CA 90401, (310) 393-3338
Jobs in Santa Monica
Santa Monica’s job market thrives on technology, entertainment, tourism, and the creative arts. Living in Santa Monica connects you to major employers like Hulu, Lionsgate, Activision Blizzard, and Universal Music Group, creating strong demand in streaming, media, gaming, hospitality, and tech. The average salary is around $95,000 per year (Payscale).
Job seekers can find openings on Indeed’s Santa Monica listings or the City of Santa Monica Careers page.
Santa Monica School District
Families moving to Santa Monica with kids are served by the highly rated Santa Monica–Malibu Unified School District (SMMUSD). The district enrolls over 8,700 students and is known for strong academics, arts, and STEM programs across its schools.
Santa Monica is home to several higher education institutions:
- Santa Monica College – one of the nation's largest community colleges, offering diverse associate degrees and transfer options.
- Pepperdine University – a top-rated private university located nearby in Malibu, providing excellent undergraduate and graduate programs.
Residents can also take advantage of the Santa Monica Public Library system, with five branches offering extensive collections, free Wi-Fi, community classes, and events.
Santa Monica Statistics & Information
- County: Los Angeles County
- City area: 8.41 square miles (land); 7.58 square miles (water)
- Zip codes: 90401–90411
- Area codes: 310, 424
- Elevation: 105 feet
- Time zone: Pacific Time Zone (PST)
The closest airport to Santa Monica is Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), located approximately 13 miles southeast. Living in Santa Monica means frequent flyers and beachside commuters alike will appreciate the short drive to one of the busiest international airports in the world.
Santa Monica Map
Thinking of Living in Santa Monica? Let Movegreen Handle the Heavy Lifting
From golden beaches and oceanfront parks to luxury shopping and a booming tech scene, living in Santa Monica offers a lifestyle that's hard to beat. Whether you're relocating for work, school, or sunshine, living in Santa Monica means enjoying the perfect blend of laid-back coastal vibes and big-city convenience.
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