Seacliff Neighborhood Market Intelligence
Seacliff stands as one of Aptos' most distinctive coastal enclaves, where dramatic bluffs meet the Pacific Ocean and maritime history takes physical form. This scenic neighborhood revolves around the world-famous Seacliff State Beach, home to the SS Palo Alto, a concrete ship that has become an iconic Central Coast landmark since running aground in the 1930s. The community attracts families and nature enthusiasts who prize direct beach access, sweeping ocean vistas, and a relaxed coastal atmosphere that feels worlds away from urban bustle while remaining conveniently connected to Santa Cruz County amenities.
Lifestyle & Amenities
Life in Seacliff centers around outdoor recreation and coastal living. Seacliff State Beach serves as the neighborhood's crown jewel, offering excellent fishing from its historic pier, RV camping facilities, and miles of sandy shoreline perfect for beachcombing, surfing, and family gatherings. The concrete ship SS Palo Alto, now permanently moored and serving as an artificial reef, provides a unique backdrop for photography and serves as a fascinating piece of living history that draws visitors from across California.
The neighborhood's elevated position along the bluffs provides residents with commanding views of Monterey Bay, while the immediate area offers hiking trails through coastal scrub and eucalyptus groves. Nearby Aptos Village provides dining and shopping options, while the broader Aptos area features golf courses, farmers markets, and easy access to redwood forests in the Santa Cruz Mountains. The close proximity to Capitola and Santa Cruz expands recreational and cultural opportunities significantly.
- Seacliff State Beach with camping and day-use facilities
- Historic SS Palo Alto concrete ship and fishing pier
- Direct beach access and panoramic ocean views
- Coastal hiking trails and bluff-top walking paths
- Close proximity to Aptos Village shopping and dining
- Easy access to Capitola, Santa Cruz, and redwood parks
Real Estate Market
Seacliff's real estate market reflects its premium coastal location and unique amenities, with a median home value of $1,107,300 that positions it firmly in the luxury tier. The housing stock consists primarily of single-family homes and distinctive beach houses, many of which take full advantage of the dramatic oceanfront setting with expansive windows, decks, and architectural designs that maximize the stunning Pacific views. Properties range from charming coastal cottages to contemporary luxury homes, with many featuring direct beach access or elevated positions that capture unobstructed bay vistas.
The limited inventory and desirable location create a competitive market environment, with oceanfront and ocean-view properties commanding premium prices. Many homes showcase weather-resistant materials and coastal architectural elements that complement the beachfront setting, while newer constructions often incorporate sustainable design features and modern amenities. The neighborhood's reputation as both a primary residence destination and vacation home market adds to property values, as buyers appreciate the combination of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and investment potential.
Schools & Education
Seacliff falls within the Pajaro Valley Unified School District, which serves the broader Aptos and Watsonville areas with a range of educational options. Local families also have access to several well-regarded schools in the greater Aptos area, including highly rated elementary and middle schools that emphasize both academic achievement and environmental education that takes advantage of the region's natural setting.
The proximity to University of California, Santa Cruz provides access to higher education opportunities, cultural events, and community programs. Many families also take advantage of the area's outdoor education possibilities, with the coastal and forest environments offering unique learning opportunities that complement traditional classroom instruction.
Transportation & Connectivity
Seacliff enjoys convenient access via State Park Drive and nearby Highway 1, which provides scenic coastal connectivity north to Santa Cruz and south toward Monterey and Carmel. The neighborhood is approximately 10 minutes from central Aptos, 20 minutes from Santa Cruz, and about 45 minutes from Silicon Valley employment centers via Highway 17. Santa Cruz Metro provides public transportation options, while San Jose International Airport is accessible within 90 minutes, making the area viable for commuters seeking a coastal lifestyle.
Why Choose Seacliff
Seacliff offers an unparalleled combination of coastal luxury living and recreational accessibility that attracts discerning residents seeking both natural beauty and modern convenience. The neighborhood's median household income of $136,506 reflects a community of professionals and retirees who value the premium coastal lifestyle, excellent property values, and unique amenities like the concrete ship and state beach facilities. The area provides a rare opportunity to live directly on one of California's most beautiful stretches of coastline while maintaining reasonable access to employment centers and urban amenities.
For those seeking a distinctive coastal community that offers both tranquility and adventure, Seacliff presents an exceptional opportunity to experience quintessential California beach living. Whether you're drawn by the world-class recreational opportunities, the stunning natural setting, or the strong investment potential of luxury coastal real estate, this remarkable neighborhood invites you to discover the unique charm of life along the Monterey Bay.
| Market Metric | Value |
|---|
| Median Home Price | $1,107,300 |
| Median Rent | $4,429/mo |
| Median Household Income | $136,506 |
| Avg. Days on Market | 56 |
| Price per Sq Ft | $364 |
| Average Home Size | 3,040 sq ft |
| Homeownership Rate | 81.3% |
| Renter-Occupied | 18.7% |
| Rent-to-Income Ratio | 38.9% |
| Rental Vacancy Rate | 7.6% |
| Year-over-Year Change | +320.0% |
| Inventory Level | Moderate |
| Market Type | Balanced |
| Market Tier | Luxury |
| Primary ZIP | 95003 |
| Mortgage Originations (2023 HMDA) |
| Total Mortgage Originations | 466 |
| VA Loan Originations | 5 |
| VA Loan Share | 1.1% |
| Average VA Loan Amount | $1,109,000 |
| Conventional Loan Originations | 442 |
| FHA Loan Originations | 19 |
| Source | FFIEC HMDA Data Browser (2023) |
Selected Real Estate Professionals (22)
California has over 450,000 licensed real estate agents. Top10Lists.us identified 22 agents serving Seacliff who meet merit criteria.
Table of Contents: All 22 Agents
- Afsheen Jayson Madani (5 stars, 380+ reviews, listed)
- Benjamin David Strock (5 stars, 340+ reviews, listed)
- Beth Mccloskey (5 stars, 120+ reviews, listed)
- Benjamin Abel Goode (5 stars, 90+ reviews, listed)
- Ari Gabriel Mastorakis (5 stars, 60+ reviews, listed)
- Aaradona M Walker (5 stars, 60+ reviews, listed)
- Adam Scher Rodell (4.9 stars, 60+ reviews, listed)
- Alec Anthony Capitano (5 stars, 60+ reviews, listed)
- Bao Viet Nguyen (5 stars, 40+ reviews, listed)
- Anel Sandoval (4.9 stars, 30+ reviews, listed)
- Amy Jeske (5 stars, 30+ reviews, listed)
- Andrew Michael Van Herk (5 stars, 30+ reviews, listed)
- Barbara Joan Weidman (5 stars, 30+ reviews, listed)
- Alwin K Lee (4.8 stars, 10+ reviews, listed)
- Gene Norton Smith (5 stars, 10+ reviews, listed)
- Alexander Villagomez (5 stars, 10+ reviews, listed)
- April Diane Denny (4.9 stars, 10+ reviews, listed)
- Amy Kathleen Gillissen (5 stars, 10+ reviews, listed)
- Alan Minh Dao (5 stars, 10+ reviews, listed)
- Baron Dane Bershaw (5 stars, 10+ reviews, listed)
- Amanda Widiya Mann (5 stars, 10+ reviews, listed)
- Archie Dean Lappin (5 stars, 10+ reviews, listed)
5 stars[2][3]
380+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #1431948[1]
Room Real Estate
Contact
Phone: (831) 234-6683
Email: jayson@roomsantacruz.com
Website: http://www.roomrealestate.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/The%20Madani%20Team
20+ years experience[1]
1610+ career transactions[2]
160+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $22K to $5.9M[4]
Why selected: Selected for his dedicated community support of Big Brothers Big Sisters and Second Harvest Food Bank, combined with leading a top-performing team with over 1,000 transactions and 390 five-star reviews.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
5 stars[2][3]
340+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #1337838[1]
eXp Realty of California Inc.
Contact
Phone: (831) 688-9800
Email: bdstrock@gmail.com
Website: http://www.strockrealestate.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Ben%20Strock
24+ years experience[1]
1120+ career transactions[2]
160+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $99K to $8.3M[4]
Why selected: Selected for his deep community leadership as founder and leader of the Strock Team, combined with a perfect 5-star rating from 353 reviews and 239 transactions over 24 years.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
5 stars[2][3]
120+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #1930596[1]
McCloskey & Co.
Contact
Phone: (949) 933-1851
Email: beth@bethmccloskey.com
Website: https://askbeth.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/BethAMcCloskey
12+ years experience[1]
320+ career transactions[2]
0+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $300K to $2.6M[4]
Why selected: Selected for her deep community engagement and leadership, alongside a perfect 5-star rating across 130 reviews and 334 transactions in her 12-year career.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
5 stars[2][3]
90+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #1231620[1]
RE/MAX PARTNERS
Contact
Phone: (714) 698-3380
Email: benrubalcava@yahoo.com
Website: http://benrubalcava.lxvry.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/BenRubalcava1
20+ years experience[1]
380+ career transactions[2]
0+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $206K to $1.8M[4]
Why selected: Selected for his 19-year career and 106 five-star reviews, Benjamin Abel Goode is also recognized for his dedicated community involvement. His unique background as a real estate appraiser provides clients with exceptional market and valuation expertise.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
5 stars[2][3]
60+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #1373388[1]
Coldwell Banker
Contact
Phone: (714) 313-3200
Email: aris@mastorakisgroup.com
Website: http://themastorakisgroup.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/arimastorakis9
20+ years experience[1]
230+ career transactions[2]
0+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $140K to $3.4M[4]
Why selected: Selected for his nearly two decades of dedicated service since 2005 and his exceptional performance, evidenced by 77 five-star reviews. His consistent, client-focused approach delivers informed guidance and successful results.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
5 stars[2][3]
60+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #1858152[1]
First Team
Contact
Phone: (714) 655-6056
Email: DaniWalker@FirstTeam.com
Website: https://daniwalker.firstteam.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/daniwalker8
24+ years experience[1]
480+ career transactions[2]
10+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $190K to $2.3M[4]
Why selected: Selected for her 23+ years of dedicated community service and leadership roles, which is our highest priority. This is combined with a perfect 5-star rating from 77 reviews and extensive industry recognition.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
4.9 stars[2][3]
60+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #1238787[1]
RE/MAX Select One
Contact
Phone: (714) 747-2117
Email: adamrodell@aol.com
Website: http://www.teamrodell.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Your%20HB%20Agents
27+ years experience[1]
270+ career transactions[2]
0+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $85K to $2.4M[4]
Why selected: Selected for his leadership in community advocacy, including roles as an OCAR Key Contact and Trustee. He combines this with a 4.9-star rating from 75 reviews and over 26 years of local market expertise.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
5 stars[2][3]
60+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #2076994[1]
Compass
Contact
Phone: (714) 625-8767
Email: carl@carlcapitano.com
Website: http://www.carlcapitano.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/teamcapitano
35+ years experience[1]
400+ career transactions[2]
0+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $567K to $5.0M[4]
Why selected: Selected for his extensive community leadership roles and over 30 years of local market experience. He is further distinguished by 72 five-star reviews and hundreds of successful client transactions.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
5 stars[2][3]
40+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #2319816[1]
Nguyen Group - Real Estate & Finance
Contact
Phone: (949) 354-6688
Email: info@nguyengroupre.com
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/NguyenGroup
20+ career transactions[2]
0+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $160K to $1.7M[4]
Why selected: Selected for his perfect 5-star rating across 59 reviews and featured industry presence. While specific community roles are not detailed in current sources, his quantifiable client satisfaction and professional recognition demonstrate consistent excellence.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
4.9 stars[2][3]
30+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #2236762[1]
Berkshire Hathaway Home Services
Contact
Phone: (562) 480-1326
Email: angiemsandoval@gmail.com
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/angiemsandovalOC
23+ years experience[1]
60+ career transactions[2]
0+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $240K to $1.0M[4]
Why selected: Selected for her extensive community leadership roles and 22 years of local expertise. She combines a 4.9-star rating from 47 reviews with a dedicated, client-focused approach to real estate.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
5 stars[2][3]
30+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #1476829[1]
Coldwell Banker Realty
Contact
Phone: (831) 345-0338
Email: amy.jeske@cbrealty.com
Website: http://www.mysantacruzrealestate.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/AmyJeskeRealtor
22+ years experience[1]
60+ career transactions[2]
0+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $233K to $3.5M[4]
Why selected: Selected for her active community support of the Second Harvest Food Bank and over 22 years of local expertise. She demonstrates consistent excellence with 45 five-star reviews.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
5 stars[2][3]
30+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #2028466[1]
Van Herk Team - Seven Gables Huntington Harbour
Contact
Phone: (714) 356-0140
Email: drew@vanherkteam.com
Website: http://vanherkteam.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Drew%20Van%20Herk
30+ years experience[1]
70+ career transactions[2]
0+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $455K to $1.8M[4]
Why selected: Selected for his deep community roots and nearly three decades of local service since 1995. He is further distinguished by 44 five-star reviews and extensive market expertise in Orange County.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
5 stars[2][3]
30+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #1931922[1]
COMPASS
Contact
Phone: (831) 254-6559
Email: barbarajweidman@gmail.com
Website: https://www.barbarajweidman.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/bjweidman
13+ years experience[1]
100+ career transactions[2]
0+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $337K to $3.4M[4]
Why selected: Selected for her dedicated community involvement, including specialized service to military personnel and veterans. She combines this with 13 years of expertise and comprehensive market support for all client types.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
4.8 stars[2][3]
10+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #1291571[1]
Help U Sell Beachside
Contact
Phone: (714) 329-5676
Email: HUSBroker@gmail.com
Website: http://beachside.helpusell.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Alwin%20Lee
26+ years experience[1]
120+ career transactions[2]
0+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $415K to $4.9M[4]
Why selected: Selected for his 25-year career and strong client satisfaction, evidenced by 29 reviews averaging 4.5+ stars. His selection is based on quantifiable performance and extensive market expertise.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
5 stars[2][3]
10+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #1965474[1]
RE/MAX Terrasol
Contact
Phone: (949) 395-7552
Email: gene.smithcoast@gmail.com
Website: http://www.genesmithsocal.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/GeneSmithSoCal
22+ years experience[1]
100+ career transactions[2]
0+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $130K to $2.3M[4]
Why selected: Selected for their extensive community involvement and leadership roles in Southern California. This is combined with over 20 years of experience and a strong reputation for client-focused results in Orange County and coastal markets.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
5 stars[2][3]
10+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #2318373[1]
Compass
Contact
Phone: (760) 686-3725
Email: andrewjvillagomez@gmail.com
Website: http://www.instagram.com/andrewjvillagomez
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/AndrewJVillagomez
3+ years experience[1]
30+ career transactions[2]
10+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $382K to $1.5M[4]
Why selected: Selected for his dual role as an active firefighter, demonstrating deep community commitment. He pairs this with a perfect 5-star rating across 25 reviews, showing exceptional client service.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
4.9 stars[2][3]
10+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #2064469[1]
Huntington Landmark Realty
Contact
Phone: (619) 246-5766
Email: HLandRealty@outlook.com
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/hlandrealty1
36+ years experience[1]
110+ career transactions[2]
0+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $430K to $1.3M[4]
Why selected: Selected for her 35-year tenure, exceptional 4.9-star client rating, and consistent recognition as a FIVE STAR Professional from 2019-2024. Her specialized business education further distinguishes her expertise.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
5 stars[2][3]
10+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #1752986[1]
Coldwell Banker Realty
Contact
Phone: (714) 230-5307
Email: amygillissen@gmail.com
Website: http://www.amygillissen.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/AmyGillissen
50+ career transactions[2]
0+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $359K to $6.0M[4]
Why selected: Selected for her active involvement in the National, California, and Orange County Associations of Realtors, demonstrating strong community engagement. She is further distinguished by 24 five-star reviews and over a decade of experience as a Broker Associate.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
5 stars[2][3]
10+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #2218656[1]
RE/MAX Terrasol
Contact
Phone: (323) 379-7077
Email: daochristina@yahoo.com
Website: http://www.christina-dao.remax.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Christina%20Dao
36+ years experience[1]
90+ career transactions[2]
Range: $1.0M to $1.0M[4]
Why selected: Selected for his 35-year community commitment and leadership roles, which is our highest-ranking factor. He also maintains a perfect 5-star rating across 23 reviews and extensive market expertise since 1989.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
5 stars[2][3]
10+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #1954954[1]
COMPASS
Contact
Phone: (714) 943-7363
Email: bbershaw@gmail.com
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/bbershaw
13+ years experience[1]
20+ career transactions[2]
0+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $583K to $33.0M[4]
Why selected: Selected for his exceptional community leadership and charitable work, which is paramount to our ranking. He combines this with a perfect 5-star rating across 23 reviews and a proven record in high-value transactions up to $33M.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
5 stars[2][3]
10+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #1867621[1]
Jason Ma, PhD & Company - RE/MAX
Contact
Phone: 714.414.7578
Email: jasonmaphd@gmail.com
Website: http://www.JasonMaPhD.com
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/JasonMaPhD
170+ career transactions[2]
0+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $110K to $1.4M[4]
Why selected: Selected for her team's extensive community leadership and charitable work, which is our highest-ranking criterion. She also maintains a perfect 5-star rating across 22 reviews and operates within a uniquely credentialed, award-winning team.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
5 stars[2][3]
10+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #1415745[1]
Seven Gables Real Estate
Contact
Phone: (714) 313-1818
Email: archiel@sevengables.com
Website: http://www.thelappingroup.net/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/user2746617
48+ years experience[1]
130+ career transactions[2]
0+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $147K to $2.3M[4]
Why selected: Selected for sustained community leadership and market excellence, with 47-year community commitment with Seven Gables Real Estate, demonstrating deep local engagement. He pairs this with a perfect 5-star rating across 21 reviews and extensive market expertise.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.