Orange County Market Update: HB, Newport, Costa Mesa (Sept 2025)

Snapshot

September brought steady activity across coastal Orange County. Median prices held firm in Newport Beach and Huntington Beach, while Costa Mesa saw modest softness—yet sales counts rose year over year in multiple sub-markets, signaling resilient demand as fall begins. Countywide, median sale price is up roughly 3% year over year.

Huntington Beach

• Median sale price: ~$1.40M (+5.9% YoY)

• Sales volume: Stable demand heading into fall.

• Days on market: Normalized from 2024’s faster pace.

What it means: With prices edging up and buyers still active, well-prepped homes in prime neighborhoods (Downtown, Seacliff, Harbour-adjacent) are finding traction. Pricing intelligently and launching with strong visuals continues to capture early-week traffic.

Newport Beach

• Median sale price: ~$3.59M (+1.3% YoY)

• Homes sold: 94 (up from 79 last year)

• Average days on market: ~77 (flat YoY)

What it means: Sales velocity improved despite national luxury slowdowns. High-end buyers remain selective—homes with modern design, outdoor living, and strong walkability still command attention.

Costa Mesa

• Median sale price: ~$1.48M (–3.0% YoY)

• Homes sold: 49 (up from 37 last year)

• Average days on market: ~40 (vs. 33 last year)

What it means: Slight price softness with higher sales volume suggests buyers are value-hunting. Sellers can expand their pool by investing in simple updates (paint, lighting, landscaping) and pricing just below key thresholds ($1.5M, $1.6M).

Countywide Trends

Orange County’s median sale price sits near $1.2M (+3% YoY) with ~1,841 total sales in September, up from about 1,649 a year earlier.
Overall, the coastal markets are balanced—motivated buyers meeting selective sellers in a steady environment.

Why This Matters for Orange County Buyers and Sellers

For sellers, realistic pricing and visual presentation remain the difference-makers.
For buyers, localized expertise is key—each city is reacting differently to rate pressure and inventory shifts. Having data-backed insight helps you act decisively when the right home appears.

Key Takeaways

For Sellers

• Price to the current market, not to last year’s highs.

• Stage to reflect coastal lifestyle—neutral tones, curb appeal, outdoor flow.

• Launch strategically for first-week exposure with strong visuals and full disclosures.

For Buyers

• Use rate dips or buydowns to improve affordability.

• Move quickly on fairly priced homes, especially in Costa Mesa and Harbour-area Huntington Beach.

• Lean on experienced local representation to navigate off-market or pocket listings.

FAQs

Q1: Are coastal Orange County prices falling?
Not broadly. Newport Beach and Huntington Beach posted price gains, while Costa Mesa saw a modest dip but stronger sales.

Q2: Is inventory improving?
Inventory remains below pre-pandemic levels but is improving slightly in some areas, keeping prices relatively stable.

Q3: What’s the best time to list this fall?
Weeks before major holidays, when rates ease and buyer attention peaks, usually bring the strongest results.

Call to Action

If you’re considering a move this quarter and want a pricing and prep plan tailored to your home and neighborhood, I’m here to help.

Lauren Roberts — DRE #02233434

Disclosure

Market statistics and figures referenced in this article are compiled from publicly available sources such as Redfin, MLS data, and county reports believed to be reliable but not guaranteed. All information is subject to change without notice. Readers are encouraged to verify independently before making financial or real estate decisions. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or real estate advice.