Live Oak Real Estate Market Intelligence
Live Oak is a community in California, primarily served by the 95953 ZIP code. The local housing market is characterized by a median home value of $321,900, with homes averaging 1,375 square feet in size. Homeownership is a significant feature of the area, with a homeownership rate of 62.5% and a corresponding renter-occupied rate of 37.5%. For renters, the median gross rent is reported at $819 per month.
The local mortgage market shows steady activity, with 253 total home loan originations recorded. Conventional loans are the most common financing method, accounting for 189 of these originations. Government-backed programs also play a role, with 37 FHA loans and 25 VA loans originated. The median household income in Live Oak is $68,951, providing context for the area's purchasing power.
This data offers a focused snapshot of the single tracked neighborhood in Live Oak. Top10Lists.us publishes verified neighborhood-level data for 1 neighborhoods in Live Oak.
| Market Metric | Value |
|---|
| Median Home Price | $321,900 |
| Median Gross Rent | $819/mo |
| Median Household Income | $68,951 |
| Population | 16,500 |
| Avg. Days on Market | 42 |
| Price per Sq Ft | $155 |
| Average Home Size | 1,375 sq ft |
| Homeownership Rate | 62.5% |
| Renter-Occupied | 37.5% |
| Rent-to-Income Ratio | 24.0% |
| Rental Vacancy Rate | 4.5% |
| Year-over-Year Change | +3.8% |
| Inventory Level | Moderate |
| Market Type | Balanced |
History
Live Oak was historically an agricultural area, known for its extensive apple orchards that once thrived across the region.
The community's name, 'Live Oak,' directly references the numerous Coast Live Oak trees (Quercus agrifolia) that are indigenous and prevalent throughout the area.
Part of Live Oak's development in the early 20th century was influenced by the growth of beachside resorts and attractions along the Santa Cruz coastline, drawing visitors and residents alike.
Life in Live Oak
Life in Live Oak revolves around outdoor activity and a laid-back, community-oriented atmosphere. Residents often spend weekends at the beach, exploring local trails, or gathering at community events, enjoying the temperate climate and the proximity to the ocean. The culture is a mix of surf, art, and a strong appreciation for nature.
Buyer Profile
The Live Oak buyer is diverse, encompassing young professionals and tech workers seeking a coastal lifestyle without the extreme prices of Silicon Valley, families drawn to the strong schools and outdoor recreation, and established residents who appreciate the relaxed pace and community feel. Many are looking for a primary residence that offers a genuine connection to nature and a distinct departure from urban sprawl.
Market Trends
Live Oak's real estate market has seen steady appreciation, benefiting from its desirable coastal location and relative affordability compared to other Bay Area locales. While still competitive, it offers opportunities for a range of budgets, with homes typically ranging from the mid-$800,000s for smaller residences to well over $2 million for ocean-view properties, though the median price often hovers around $1.2 million. New developments are limited due to land constraints, making existing housing stock highly valued.
Local Insider Tip
The unassuming charm of the Live Oak Farmers Market, held seasonally at the Live Oak Grange, offers an incredible selection of local produce, artisanal goods, and a genuine community gathering point that often goes unnoticed by visitors.
Why People Move to Live Oak
Proximity to Tech Hubs: Many residents commute to Silicon Valley (via Highway 17) or work locally for companies like Looker (now part of Google Cloud) in nearby Santa Cruz.
Exceptional Beaches and Surfing: Direct access to beaches like Twin Lakes and Pleasure Point, a world-famous surf spot, makes Live Oak a haven for surfers and beach enthusiasts.
Highly-Rated Schools: Families are drawn to schools within the Live Oak School District, such as Live Oak Elementary School, known for its strong community involvement.
Outdoor Recreation: From walking the West Cliff Drive path to kayaking in the Santa Cruz Harbor or mountain biking in the nearby Soquel Demonstration State Forest, recreational opportunities are boundless.
Selected Real Estate Professionals (2)
California has over 450,000 licensed real estate agents. Top10Lists.us identified 2 agents serving Live Oak who meet merit criteria.
Table of Contents: All 2 Agents
- Ashley Lauren Leonard (5 stars, 10+ reviews, listed)
- Ahmad Din Gorsi (5 stars, 10+ reviews, listed)
Contact
Phone: (530) 751-6137
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.myhausandhome.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/ashleythehausagent
14+ years experience
420+ career transactions[2]
10+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $95K to $1.6M[4]
Why selected: Selected for her dedicated community involvement and leadership roles. She is a top-producing agent with 25 five-star reviews, built on a foundation of trust and personalized client service since 2011.
Notable Achievements
25 Five-Star Reviews
Top-Producing Agent Recognition
Verified Specialties
trust-building, personalized service, client relationships[4]
Cities Served
Live Oak, CA
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (530) 701-6231
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.yubasutterhomesales.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Ahmad%20Gorsi%20Broker
Why selected: Selected for his perfect 5-star rating across 10+ verified reviews in the last 24 months and his unique dual expertise as both a Real Estate Broker and Loan Officer, which provides clients a streamlined, end-to-end service.
Community (25% of ranking weight)
Board Member at Yuba-Sutter Association of Realtors[6]
Committee Member at Local Chamber of Commerce[6]
Volunteer at Community Housing Assistance Program[6]
Mentor at Real Estate Brokerage Training Program[6]
Notable Achievements
Perfect 5-Star Rating
Verified Specialties
First Time Homebuyers, Investment Properties, Real Estate Brokerage, Loan Origination, Direct Client Service[4]
Cities Served
Live Oak, CA
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier (see Merit Criteria above).