The Vibe in Santa Monica
I consider Santa Monica to be the ‘soul’ of Los Angeles. It has been said that it lies in an energy vortex, and because of the negative ions from the ocean, people just have better energy when they are in Santa Monica. Maybe I’m biased because I live in Santa Monica. Or maybe it’s that I live in Santa Monica because of what a wonderful place it is!
Santa Monica is an incorporated city with its’ own police department, fire department, school district and City Council. As a result, it is a highly desirable community to live in. Santa Monica just celebrated its lowest crime rate since 1956!
Because of its agreeable weather, Santa Monica had become a major travel destination and resort town by the early 20th century. The city has experienced a boom of late due to a revitalization of the core downtown area, significant job growth and increased tourism.
Santa Monica is bordered on the north by the Pacific Palisades, on the east by Wes Los Angeles, Brentwood, and Mar Vista, on the west by the Pacific Ocean and on the south by Venice.
As beach communities go, there is never a lack of activities in Santa Monica. The beaches are clean and beautifully maintained.
Santa Monica boasts an incredibly high rate of residents in the Cultural Arts (I have heard 64% of residents!). You’ll find the vibe to be relaxed and happy (except if you get stuck in downtown Santa Monica traffic!)
Check out what Wikipedia has to say
Why live in Santa Monica?
Santa Monica is the ultimate beach community. It also happens to be so culturally diverse, that gays and lesbians are completely integrated as residents in this community. It tends to be a very liberal town. If you want to feel that you can be out in all aspects of your life, then you would feel comfortable in Santa Monica.
The shopping and dining highlight of Santa Monica is Third Street Promenade …nothing but fun, fun, fun.
Santa Monica is about a 15 minute drive to Culver City, 5 minute drive to Venice, and 30 minute drive to West Hollywood.
There is a big push by the residents of Santa Monica to preserve as much of the early 20th Century architecture as possible. As a result, Santa Monica has a very eclectic blend of architecture.
There is no lack of lifestyle options in Santa Monica. You can live in the canyons with views, in a high rise luxury condo, a low rise condo, a modern architectural, or in a charming Spanish bungalow built in the early 1900’s. No matter what, you’ll find the energy in Santa Monica to be fun and friendly.
If beach living appeals to you, then you will want to consider Santa Monica as a fantastic lifestyle choice.
Real Estate Reality in Santa Monica
Santa Monica property values have continued to stay extremely strong due to it’s’ appeal as a small town community within a big city. Santa Monica is a diverse mix of single family homes, multi-family apartments, and condominiums.
My prediction is that real estate values will remain strong in Santa Monica due its proximity to the ocean, ideal climate, moderate crime levels, and desirability as a community.
Here’s a snapshot of current real estate prices in Santa Monica (as of August, 2007)
Single family homes
2 bedroom $825K - $3.3M
3 bedroom $850K - $2.5M
Condominiums
1 bedroom $400K - $1.5M
2 bedroom $500K - $2M
3 bedroom $600K - $3M
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Important Links to Resources in Santa Monica
