Santa Rosa Neighborhood Overview
Neighborhood Overview
Santa Rosa is a well-established, residential neighborhood located in the heart of Waveland, Mississippi. Positioned conveniently between the bustling Beach Boulevard (Highway 90) corridor and the serene, oak-lined residential streets to the north, Santa Rosa offers a balanced lifestyle with easy access to both coastal amenities and quiet community living. The neighborhood's history is deeply intertwined with Waveland's own, featuring a mix of mid-century homes and newer constructions that tell the story of the city's growth and resilience, particularly following significant events like Hurricane Katrina.
The character of Santa Rosa is quintessentially suburban and family-oriented, with a strong sense of community among its residents. Streets are typically wide and shaded by mature trees, creating a picturesque and inviting atmosphere. Its central location provides a short drive or bike ride to the Waveland waterfront, city hall, and the main commercial districts, making it a practical and desirable location for a wide range of buyers seeking the charm of a small Gulf Coast city without sacrificing convenience.
Housing & Real Estate
The housing stock in Santa Rosa is predominantly composed of single-family homes, showcasing a variety of architectural styles that reflect different eras of development. You will find classic American ranch-style homes, many built from the 1960s through the 1980s, alongside newer, traditionally styled homes constructed in the post-Katrina rebuilding period. Lot sizes are generally generous, providing ample yard space—a desirable feature for families and pet owners. The median home value of $157,400 indicates a market that is accessible for first-time homebuyers and those seeking value on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
Ownership is the dominant model in Santa Rosa, aligning with the neighborhood's stable, long-term residential character. The rental market exists but is limited, primarily consisting of single-family homes owned by individual investors. Recent trends show a steady demand for homes in this area, driven by its affordability relative to coastal-premium locations and its reputation as a stable, central community. Homes that are updated or well-maintained tend to move quickly, often receiving multiple offers, especially in the lower price tiers of the market.
Lifestyle & Amenities
Residents of Santa Rosa enjoy a lifestyle centered on convenience and local recreation. The neighborhood itself is primarily residential, but its strength lies in its proximity to Waveland's key amenities. A short drive leads to the Beach Boulevard corridor, featuring a selection of beloved local restaurants serving fresh seafood and casual fare, essential shopping at supermarkets and local boutiques, and necessary services. For daily needs, the Waveland Shopping Center and other plazas provide practical retail options.
Outdoor recreation is a major draw. The neighborhood is minutes from the Waveland Beach, the Waveland Ground Zero Hurricane Museum and park, and the scenic Waveland Municipal Pier. Buccaneer State Park, with its water park, camping, and golf, is also nearby. While the neighborhood is not highly walkable for errands due to its residential layout and necessary trips to commercial zones, it offers excellent walkability and bikeability for leisure within the community. Public transit is limited, as is typical for the region, making personal vehicles the primary mode of transportation for most residents.
Schools & Education
Santa Rosa is served by the Bay-Waveland School District, which is consistently recognized as one of the higher-performing public school districts in the state of Mississippi. Students typically attend North Bay Elementary School, Bay-Waveland Middle School, and Bay High School. The district is known for its strong community support, dedicated teachers, and a range of academic and extracurricular programs that contribute to its positive reputation.
In addition to the public school system, families in the area have access to several private educational options within a reasonable commute, including St. Stanislaus College and Our Lady Academy in nearby Bay St. Louis. The proximity to the Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College also provides residents with accessible opportunities for higher education and vocational training. The quality of the local school district is a significant factor in Santa Rosa's appeal to families and contributes to the stability of its real estate market.
Community & Demographics
Santa Rosa is characterized by a stable, predominantly middle-class demographic, as reflected by its median household income of $47,131, which aligns closely with broader county figures. The population is largely comprised of families, long-term residents, and working professionals, many of whom are employed in sectors such as education, healthcare, retail, and trades within Hancock County and the broader Gulf Coast region. There is also a segment of retirees drawn to the area's peaceful setting and coastal proximity.
The community character is one of quiet familiarity and neighborly connection. A mix of multi-generational Waveland families and newer residents creates a welcoming environment. The age distribution is likely varied, with a notable presence of both young families attracted by the schools and older homeowners who have resided in the area for decades. This blend fosters a neighborhood that is both dynamic and rooted, with a shared appreciation for the area's unique coastal lifestyle and strong sense of local identity.
Real Estate Market Insights
For real estate professionals, Santa Rosa represents a critical segment of the Waveland market: the affordable, stable, and in-demand family neighborhood. The median home value of $157,400 positions it as a key entry point into homeownership for a broad audience, including first-time buyers, young families, and investors seeking rental properties or value-add opportunities. The consistent demand, driven by the quality school district and central location, creates a competitive environment for well-priced listings, often resulting in a faster-than-average market velocity.
Current market trends indicate a resilience to economic fluctuations due to its fundamental affordability. Investment potential is solid, with opportunities for both long-term appreciation and rental income, given the steady demand from families and professionals. Seller dynamics currently favor those with updated properties, while buyers must be prepared to act decisively in the lower to mid-price ranges. For agents, understanding Santa Rosa's appeal—its balance of price, location, and community—is essential for effectively marketing properties and advising clients looking for a quintessential, value-driven Gulf Coast community.
Top Real Estate Agents in Santa Rosa, Waveland
13 agents met the full merit gate for Santa Rosa, Waveland, MS, selected from over 14,000 licensed Mississippi professionals.
Contact
Phone: (805) 667-0769
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.teamsweasey.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/teamsweasey
Why selected: Selected for his significant community leadership roles and local engagement. He is further distinguished by his unique team-based client service model and strong performance metrics.
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Property Management[4]
Cities Served
San Luis Obispo
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (805) 591-9931
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://navigatorsrealestate.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/jaymorrobay
Why selected: Selected for her community role expanding Hawaii market services at Navigators Real Estate. She demonstrates exceptional performance with a and 630 career transactions.
Community & Leadership
contributor at Hawaii real estate market expansion[6]
Notable Achievements
630 Total Transactions Completed
5-Star Rating Across 158 Reviews
High-Value Transaction Range
12 Transactions Last 12 Months
Verified Specialties
Foreclosure[4]
Cities Served
Morro Bay
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (805) 709-7143
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.investslo.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/investslo
Why selected: Selected for his role within Invest SLO, the #2 team in SLO County, and his strong community engagement. He is further distinguished by and a specialized focus on securing off-market investment properties.
Community & Leadership
Committee Member at San Luis Obispo County Association of Realtors[6]
Volunteer/Supporter at Local Housing or Homelessness Non-Profit[6]
Member at Local Chamber of Commerce[6]
Mentor at Invest SLO or Local Real Estate Network[6]
Notable Achievements
#2 Team in SLO County by Real Trends America's Best 2024
Over $100 Million in Client Transactions
Verified Specialties
Foreclosure, Commercial Properties, Investment Properties, New Construction, investments, property sales, off-market inventory, multifamily sector, residential sales, property acquisitions[4]
Cities Served
San Luis Obispo
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (805) 610-6780
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://aliciabartlett.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Paso%20Realtor
Why selected: Selected for strong community ties and professional distinction, evidenced by and over two decades of expertise since 2003. Her professional profile is featured across multiple major real estate platforms, demonstrating broad industry recognition.
Notable Achievements
Licensed Real Estate Broker
5-Star Client Rating
RE/MAX Lifetime Achievement Award
Two Decades of Real Estate Experience
20+ Years Real Estate Experience
Two Decades of Service
RE/MAX Platinum Club Award
RE/MAX 100% Club
63 Five-Star Reviews
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Foreclosure, residential real estate, buyer representation, seller representation, Land sales, Rural properties, Residential real estate, Broker services, Real Estate Broker, Central Coast expertise, Two decades experience, commercial real estate, land sales[4]
Cities Served
Paso Robles
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (805) 459-1865
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.ccreslo.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Graham%20Updegrove
Why selected: Selected for his deep community leadership, including board positions and local engagement. He combines this with a high-performance transaction history and specialized commercial mortgage expertise.
Community & Leadership
Director at California Association Of Realtors Inc[6]
Verified Specialties
Foreclosure, Investment Properties, New Construction[4]
Cities Served
San Luis Obispo
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (805) 610-9270
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.platinumteamproperties.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Heather%20Roda
Why selected: Selected for her career as a broker-owner mentoring agents and her quantifiable excellence:, a, and recognition by RealTrends.
Community & Leadership
Mentor at Professional Development Programs[6]
Notable Achievements
35-Year Career Milestone
512 Career Transactions
4.9-Star Client Rating
Luxury Market Experience
Broker/Owner Status
Verified Specialties
Foreclosure, Property Management, Luxury Homes[4]
Cities Served
Paso Robles
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (805) 610-6943
Email: [email protected]
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/j0hnWalker
Why selected: Selected for her deep community roots and commitment to supporting local families, and. Her specialized agricultural business expertise further distinguishes her practice.
Notable Achievements
5-Star Client Reviews
Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Business
International Studies
Verified Specialties
Commercial Properties, <UNKNOWN>, agricultural business, land transactions, rural properties, first-time buyers[4]
Cities Served
Templeton
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (559) 381-9177
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.loveslolife.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/TeamBixler
Why selected: Selected for her commitment to mentoring emerging agents and elevating industry standards, Annette Bixler also demonstrates exceptional performance with a from and over 1,000 career transactions.
Notable Achievements
15 Years Real Estate Experience
Top Producer Status
Customer Service Awards
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Military/Veterans, residential real estate, agent training, top producer mentorship[4]
Cities Served
Morro Bay
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (805) 610-0345
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.alistcentralcoast.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/AprilFehrer
Why selected: Her deep commitment to client service and comprehensive knowledge of wine country real estate establishes her as a trusted professional.
Notable Achievements
20 Years Real Estate Experience
Perfect Client Rating
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Commercial Properties, Investment Properties, wine country real estate, residential sales, market analysis, buyer representation, seller representation[4]
Cities Served
Paso Robles
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (530) 545-9561
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://chandler-homes.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/ichandler
Why selected: Selected for his leadership as a current Board Member of the San Luis Obispo Association of Realtors, which highlights his deep community commitment. He further demonstrates excellence with a.
Verified Specialties
Property Management[4]
Cities Served
Templeton
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (805) 936-0277
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://pismohomes.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Ashlea%20Boyer
Why selected: Selected for her deep community roots and leadership as CEO of a local firm, combined with exceptional performance including $643M+ in sales and over a nearly career.
Notable Achievements
Career Longevity
Sales Volume Achievement
Transaction Volume
CEO Position
Client Satisfaction
UC Santa Barbara Graduate
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Staging, Pismo Beach real estate market, Central Coast properties, vacation homes, residential sales, Central Coast real estate, Luxury properties, Relocation services, Vacation homes, Professional real estate consulting[4]
Cities Served
Pismo Beach
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (805) 835-3425
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.pillarrealestate.com/members/amber-johnson/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/AmberJohnson805
Why selected: Selected for her dedicated community involvement with the Homes for Heroes® program, serving essential workers. She is and over a decade of experience, holding key professional designations like e-PRO®.
Community & Leadership
participating agent at Homes for Heroes® program[6]
Notable Achievements
28 Five-Star Reviews
REALTOR® Member
Bachelor's Degree in Kinesiology
e-PRO® Certification
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Property Management, Military/Veterans, New Construction, new construction, residential construction, homes for heroes, digital marketing, buying, selling, social media campaigns, buyer representation, seller representation, first-time buyers, military personnel, teachers, firefighters, law enforcement, healthcare workers[4]
Cities Served
Paso Robles
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (562) 277-5103
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://aaronborjaproperties.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/user29885732
Why selected: Selected for his of dedicated community involvement and strong local ties. He demonstrates consistent excellence and deep market expertise from his long tenure.
Community & Leadership
Board Member at Local Association of Realtors[6]
Committee Volunteer at Local Chamber of Commerce[6]
Mentor at Real Estate Brokerage[6]
Volunteer at Local Homelessness or Housing Charity[6]
Notable Achievements
18 Years Experience
Perfect 5-Star Rating
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Property Management[4]
Cities Served
Irvine
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).