Sunset Beach Neighborhood Market Intelligence
Sunset Beach
Sunset Beach stands as one of Southern California's most charming coastal enclaves, a former unincorporated community that joined Huntington Beach in 1988 while maintaining its distinct small-town character. This intimate beachfront neighborhood stretches along a narrow strip of coastline between the Pacific Coast Highway and the Pacific Ocean, offering residents a rare combination of seaside living and village-like atmosphere. The community's low-profile development and commitment to preserving its original beach cottage charm creates a refreshing contrast to the high-density developments found elsewhere along Orange County's coast.
With its tree-lined streets, modest scale, and strong sense of community, Sunset Beach attracts those seeking an authentic coastal lifestyle away from the crowds and commercialization of larger beach cities. The neighborhood's unique position between Huntington Beach and Seal Beach provides easy access to urban amenities while maintaining the peaceful, unhurried pace that has defined this community for decades.
Lifestyle & Amenities
Life in Sunset Beach revolves around the ocean and the tight-knit community that calls this coastal haven home. The neighborhood's crown jewel is its intimate fishing pier, a far more modest structure than its famous Huntington Beach counterpart, offering excellent fishing opportunities and spectacular sunset views without the tourist crowds. Bolsa Chica State Beach provides expansive sandy shores perfect for surfing, swimming, and beach volleyball, while the nearby Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve offers hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities for nature enthusiasts.
The community maintains its small-town feel through local gathering spots like Peter's Landing, a waterfront restaurant and bar that serves as a social hub for residents and visitors alike. Small, locally-owned shops and cafes dot the neighborhood, providing daily necessities and casual dining options within walking distance of most homes. The annual Sunset Beach Classic car show and other community events strengthen neighborhood bonds and celebrate the area's laid-back culture.
- Sunset Beach Pier for fishing and ocean views
- Direct access to Bolsa Chica State Beach and Ecological Reserve
- Peter's Landing waterfront dining and entertainment
- Walking and biking paths along the coastline
- Small-scale local shops and restaurants
- Community events and festivals throughout the year
Real Estate Market
The Sunset Beach real estate market reflects the neighborhood's unique position as an exclusive coastal enclave with limited inventory and high desirability. With a median home value of $1,160,700, properties here command premium prices due to their proximity to the ocean, the area's small-town charm, and restricted development opportunities. The housing stock consists primarily of single-family beach cottages, many dating from the mid-20th century, alongside newer custom homes and well-maintained condominium complexes.
Original beach cottages, often featuring classic California bungalow architecture, represent some of the most sought-after properties in the market. Many of these homes have been thoughtfully renovated to incorporate modern amenities while preserving their vintage coastal character. Waterfront and ocean-view properties command the highest prices, with some luxury homes featuring private beach access and boat docks. The limited supply of developable land ensures that property values remain strong, making Sunset Beach real estate a solid long-term investment.
Condominiums and townhomes provide more affordable entry points into this exclusive market, though even these properties reflect the premium associated with Sunset Beach's desirable location and lifestyle. The neighborhood's incorporation into Huntington Beach has brought improved city services while maintaining the development restrictions that preserve its intimate scale and character.
Schools & Education
Sunset Beach students are served by the Ocean View School District for elementary and middle school education, with several well-regarded schools located within the broader Huntington Beach area. High school students typically attend Huntington Beach High School, part of the Huntington Beach Union High School District, which offers comprehensive academic programs and strong college preparation opportunities.
The neighborhood's proximity to higher education institutions, including California State University Long Beach and the University of California Irvine, provides additional educational opportunities for residents. Private school options are available throughout Orange County, and many families appreciate the shorter commutes to these institutions compared to more inland locations.
Transportation & Connectivity
Pacific Coast Highway serves as the primary transportation corridor for Sunset Beach, providing direct coastal access north to Long Beach and south through Huntington Beach to Newport Beach and beyond. The neighborhood's location offers convenient access to major freeways including the 405 and 22, connecting residents to employment centers throughout Orange County and Los Angeles County. Long Beach Airport is approximately 15 minutes away, while Los Angeles International Airport and John Wayne Airport are both accessible within 45 minutes depending on traffic conditions.
Why Choose Sunset Beach
Sunset Beach offers a rare opportunity to experience authentic coastal living in a community that has successfully preserved its small-town character despite its proximity to major metropolitan areas. The neighborhood attracts residents who value quality of life over quantity of amenities, seeking a peaceful retreat where they can enjoy ocean views, community connections, and the simple pleasures of beach town living. With a median household income of $112,600, the community consists of discerning residents who appreciate the neighborhood's unique blend of natural beauty and intimate scale.
For those seeking a coastal lifestyle that emphasizes community over commercialization, Sunset Beach provides an unmatched combination of oceanfront living, small-town charm, and convenient access to urban amenities. Whether you're drawn by the excellent fishing, the stunning sunsets, or the opportunity to be part of a close-knit coastal community, Sunset Beach invites you to discover why this hidden gem continues to captivate residents and visitors alike.
| Market Metric | Value |
|---|
| Median Home Price | $1,850,000 |
| Median Rent | $4,500/mo |
| Median Household Income | $145,000 |
| Avg. Days on Market | 28 |
| Price per Sq Ft | $875 |
| Average Home Size | 2,100 sq ft |
| Homeownership Rate | 72.0% |
| Renter-Occupied | 28.0% |
| Rent-to-Income Ratio | 37.0% |
| Rental Vacancy Rate | 2.5% |
| Year-over-Year Change | +3.2% |
| Inventory Level | Low |
| Market Type | Seller's Market |
| Market Tier | Luxury |
| Primary ZIP | 90742 |
| Mortgage Originations (2023 HMDA) |
| Total Mortgage Originations | 139 |
| VA Loan Originations | 2 |
| VA Loan Share | 1.4% |
| Average VA Loan Amount | $505,000 |
| Conventional Loan Originations | 133 |
| FHA Loan Originations | 4 |
| Source | FFIEC HMDA Data Browser (2023) |
Selected Real Estate Professionals (18)
California has over 450,000 licensed real estate agents. Top10Lists.us identified 18 agents serving Sunset Beach who meet merit criteria.
Table of Contents: All 18 Agents
- 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)
- Andrew Michael Van Herk (5 stars, 30+ reviews, listed)
- Gene Norton Smith (5 stars, 10+ reviews, listed)
- Alwin K Lee (4.8 stars, 10+ reviews, listed)
- April Diane Denny (4.9 stars, 10+ reviews, listed)
- Alexander Villagomez (5 stars, 10+ reviews, listed)
- Amy Kathleen Gillissen (5 stars, 10+ reviews, listed)
- Baron Dane Bershaw (5 stars, 10+ reviews, listed)
- Alan Minh Dao (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]
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 #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]
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.
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.
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 #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.
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 #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 #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 #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.