California’s coastline is renowned for its beauty, vibrant communities and diverse lifestyle options. For international buyers looking to invest in property, the Golden State’s coastal cities offer an irresistible blend of scenic views, excellent amenities and a variety of property types. Here, we take a closer look at some of the top coastal cities in California that might appeal to international buyers.
San Diego
San Diego is famous for its perfect weather, beautiful beaches, and laid-back lifestyle. The city offers a wide range of properties, from oceanfront estates to cosy beach cottages. The average property price in San Diego is approximately $1,010,000 (California Association of Realtors, Aug 2024), but here on Rightmove, properties in San Diego start at $399,000. San Diego’s neighbourhoods, such as La Jolla and Pacific Beach, are particularly popular among international buyers. The city is also home to top-rated schools, world-class healthcare facilities, and numerous recreational activities, including surfing, hiking and golfing.
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Malibu
Malibu is synonymous with luxury and exclusivity. Known for its celebrity homes and coastal views, Malibu offers high-end properties that cater to discerning buyers – it’s no wonder Barbie chose to live here! Malibu is located in the Santa Monica Mountains of Los Angeles. The average LA house price in summer 2024 was €919,890 (CAoR). This city is perfect for those seeking a serene and upscale lifestyle, with private beaches, gourmet restaurants and boutique shopping. Malibu’s natural beauty and tranquil environment make it a desirable location for wealthy international buyers.
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Newport Beach
Newport Beach is a picturesque coastal city known for its upscale living and beautiful harbour. The city offers a variety of properties, including waterfront homes, luxury condos and charming beach houses. Property prices in Newport Beach and the wider Orange County region are in high demand. The average Orange Country sales price in summer 2024 was $1.4 million, around 7% higher than a year ago. Newport Beach is renowned for its excellent schools, high-end shopping and vibrant dining scene. The city’s marina and yacht clubs also make it a haven for boating enthusiasts.
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Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara, often called the “American Riviera,” is known for its Mediterranean-style architecture, beautiful beaches, and lush landscapes. The city offers a mix of historic homes, luxury estates and modern condos. According to the California Association of Realtors, the average property price in Santa Barbara is around $1 million, but prices on Rightmove start at $740,000. Buyers are attracted to Santa Barbara for its relaxed yet sophisticated lifestyle, excellent schools and cultural attractions, which include art galleries, theatres and wineries.
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Currency Zone
For guidance on managing your exposure to the ever-changing currency markets, head to our Currency Zone. We partner with Smart Currency Exchange, an FCA-authorised currency specialist. Choosing to work with a currency specialist rather than your high-street bank will enable you to benefit from their competitive exchange rates and specialist currency knowledge. For more information, head to our Currency Zone.
Written by PropertyGuides for Rightmove