Buying a Home in Costa Mesa: A Local’s Guide to the Neighborhoods That Make It Special

If you’re searching for a home in Costa Mesa, you already know this city offers something special. From coastal energy to tight-knit residential neighborhoods, Costa Mesa isn’t a one-note market — and that’s exactly why buyers love it.

As a lifelong Costa Mesa resident and Realtor® with Torelli Realty, I help buyers every day who are trying to decide which Costa Mesa neighborhood fits their lifestyle best. The truth is, buying a home here isn’t just about bedrooms and bathrooms — it’s about walkability, community, parks, schools, restaurants, and how you want to live day-to-day.

Below is a breakdown of some of Costa Mesa’s most desirable neighborhoods and what makes each one unique for home buyers.

Mesa Verde

Mesa Verde is one of the most established and sought-after neighborhoods in Costa Mesa, known for its sense of safety, walkability, and strong community feel. Buyers are drawn to the quiet streets, mature trees, and sidewalks that actually get used — you’ll regularly see neighbors walking dogs, kids riding bikes, and families heading to nearby parks.

Mesa Verde offers multiple parks, convenient walking paths, and proximity to Mesa Verde Country Club, making it especially appealing to buyers who value an active, outdoor lifestyle. Community events, holiday light displays, and neighborhood gatherings are common here, creating a true small-town atmosphere within the city.

For buyers looking for long-term livability, walkability, and a welcoming neighborhood, Mesa Verde continues to be one of the most desirable areas to buy a home in Costa Mesa.

Mesa Del Mar

Mesa Del Mar is often considered one of Costa Mesa’s hidden gems. While it feels quiet and residential, its central location is one of its biggest selling points.

Mesa Del Mar is close to the Costa Mesa Tennis Center, the OC Fair & Event Center, and popular shopping and dining hubs like The CAMP and The LAB Anti-Mall.

Despite its proximity to freeways, entertainment, and retail, Mesa Del Mar feels tucked away and peaceful. Buyers love the well-maintained homes, central park, and neighborhood pride, including seasonal events and community gatherings. It’s an excellent option for buyers who want convenience without sacrificing a calm, neighborhood atmosphere.

College Park

College Park offers a classic Costa Mesa neighborhood feel with wide streets, consistent home styles, and strong pride of ownership. Buyers are drawn to College Park for its stability — it’s a neighborhood where people tend to stay long term.

Parks, nearby schools, and easy access to shopping and dining make College Park especially attractive to families and buyers planning for the future. Its central location also provides quick access to South Coast Plaza, major commuting routes, and surrounding Orange County cities.

Westside Costa Mesa

Westside Costa Mesa has become one of the most popular areas for buyers seeking a more coastal, lifestyle-driven neighborhood. Known for its proximity to the beach, bike paths, and vibrant food scene, Westside Costa Mesa blends laid-back energy with urban convenience.

Buyers love being close to local restaurants, breweries, and coffee shops while still living in a residential setting. The Westside offers a mix of charming original homes, remodeled properties, and newer construction, making it appealing to a wide range of buyers.

Freedom Track Homes

Freedom Track Homes is a highly recognizable pocket within Westside Costa Mesa and one of the strongest community-driven neighborhoods in the city.

Known for its iconic Fourth of July parade and neighborhood events, the Freedom Track offers a rare sense of connection and pride. Buyers are drawn to the walkable streets, family-friendly atmosphere, and the fact that homes here rarely come on the market — and when they do, they move quickly.

Eastside Costa Mesa

Eastside Costa Mesa is consistently one of the most competitive areas for home buyers. Its close proximity to the beach, Back Bay, and 17th Street dining and shopping makes it ideal for buyers who want walkability and lifestyle.

Tree-lined streets and a strong neighborhood feel set Eastside Costa Mesa apart. Buyers here value being able to walk to coffee shops, restaurants, and boutiques while still enjoying a residential environment.

South Coast Metro

South Coast Metro is perfect for buyers looking for a more urban, low-maintenance lifestyle. With South Coast Plaza, Segerstrom Center for the Arts, and endless dining options nearby, this area offers unmatched convenience.

South Coast Metro is especially popular with first-time buyers, professionals, and anyone looking for condos or townhomes with easy access to freeways, employment centers, and entertainment.

Why Buying in Costa Mesa Requires Local Expertise

Each Costa Mesa neighborhood has its own micro-market, pricing trends, and buyer competition. As someone who grew up here and now helps buyers navigate this market through Torelli Realty, I don’t just understand the numbers — I understand the neighborhoods, the streets, and what truly matters to buyers long term.

If you’re considering buying a home in Costa Mesa and want guidance on neighborhoods, strategy, and timing, working with a local expert makes all the difference.

Who you buy with matters — especially in Costa Mesa.