Eastside Costa Mesa

Inland from Newport Beach lies Eastside Costa Mesa, a family-friendly neighborhood that’s one of the most highly sought residential areas in the entire city. Eastside Costa Mesa is bordered to the north by the Costa Mesa Freeway and to the south by the community of Dover.

 

Eastside Costa Mesa is ideally located for commuting: its easternmost border is demarcated by California State Route 73, the neighborhood is within easy distance of beaches and urban amenities, and the city of Costa Mesa itself is under an hour from the bustling metropolis, Los Angeles. This neighborhood has developed into an eclectic mix of architectural styles and luxury estates from its early rural roots and has around 29,000 residents.

 

A healthy mix of affluent and upper-middle-class, the Eastside neighborhood harbors diverse housing styles that range from renovated mid-century homes to multimillion-dollar new builds styled in coastal and contemporary design with eco-friendly upscale amenities. While the average price is in the $1-2 million range, the sheer amount of variety—did we mention the gorgeous Craftsman bungalows or the opulent Transitional style estates?—in real estate makes living in Eastside Costa Mesa full of possibilities. 

Hip and on the rise, this neighborhood houses trendy health food stores and boutiques while being right next door to beautiful nature preserves and some of the state’s best shopping districts. The demographics are a refreshing mix of families and young professionals, couples looking to start their lives, and entrepreneurs who want residential living close enough to commute to the city.

Nationally acclaimed shopping plazas, niche local restaurants, charming boutiques, and designer stores can all be found in Eastside Costa Mesa, one of the most conveniently located neighborhoods in the city. Less than ten minutes away, the biggest shopping mall on the United States’ west coast is the South Coast Plaza. With over 250 retailers and 30 restaurants, it’s impossible not to find everything you need at the South Coast Plaza, which houses brands like Apple, Cartier, Stella McCartney, and Nordstrom.

 

Around E 17th Street, residents and visitors can browse a bevy of dining and shopping options. This little section of Eastside Costa Mesa is beloved for its old-world charm and extraordinary culinary scene. One favorite, located where E 17th Street meets the freeway, is Jujubar. A high-quality juice shop, Jujubar serves smoothies, healthful bowls, and of course, cold-pressed and nutrient-dense juices. Sidecar Donuts is just down the road and gives off retro vibes inside its beautiful venue while dishing out inventive seasonal donuts created with the finest locally sourced ingredients. Food & Wine Magazine even called them California’s best donut!

 

If your sweet tooth wasn’t satisfied by the donuts and hand-crafted coffee drinks at Sidecar, stop in at Stella Jean’s Ice Cream for hand-made ice cream nestled in warm waffle cones. For those who can’t get enough of the decadent treat—and with flavors like brown butter pecan, who can resist?—Stella Jean’s even sells their ice cream by the pint. A classic breakfast staple in Costa Mesa, Shirley’s Bagels is a great way to start your morning. Their NYC-style bagels are absolute heaven and can be eaten alone or as the frame for an incredible sandwich.

Residents of this neighborhood in the heart of Costa Mesa get easy access to some of the city’s most energetic and appealing events. Whether you’re heading out for live music at venues like The Observatory or taking the kids for a stroll under the swaying palms at Heller Park, Eastside Costa Mesa has plenty to keep you entertained.

 

Every year, Costa Mesa serves as the host for the Orange County Fair. This signature event is held on a 150-acre center that produces hundreds of other events throughout the year and serves as the location for the Pacific Amphitheater, The Centennial Farm, and the Costa Mesa Speedway. The fair itself is a colossal celebration that draws over a million visitors over 23 days packed with rides, farm animals and competitions, hundreds of food vendors, and live concerts.

 

Another signature Costa Mesa event that residents can enjoy is the OC Night Market branch of the 626 Night Market. The largest Asia-inspired night market in the states, this festival features more than 250 food vendors, live entertainment, and palpable, dynamic energy.

Eastside Costa Mesa is home to several excellent schools. Top educational opportunities include: