Costa Mesa Apartments and Rentals

A vibrant Southern California city, Costa Mesa is typically considered to be one of California's most eclectic and vibrant cities. It features a diverse dining scene, is home to one of the largest shopping centers in the United States and has an economy that generates more than $100 million annually in tax revenues.

Costa Mesa apartments for rent offer a number of opportunities to residents. Its high-quality municipal golf courses, top-notch public libraries and state-of-the-art educational institutions are just a few of the reasons why people consider making the move to Costa Mesa. These citizens can enjoy the mild Southern California climate year-round and maintain fast, easy access to popular spots including local beaches, mountain areas and high and low deserts.

Costa Mesa was incorporated on June 29, 1953, and featured a 3.5-square-mile radius. However, plenty changed over the next 35 years, and by 1988, this city grew to 17 square miles. The area remains a diverse blend of cultures, and the U.S. Census Bureau reports that its population included approximately 110,000 residents in 2010.

This city features many educated citizens, and between 2006 and 2010, nearly 86 percent of its residents 25 years and older were high school graduates. People sometimes pursue apartments for rent in Costa Mesa, California, to explore educational and job opportunities in and around the city. 

Many young professionals call Costa Mesa home, as the city's median age is 33.6 years. It serves as the headquarters for companies including Hurley International, Volcom, RVCA and Paul Frank Industries. Costa Mesa also is roughly a 45-minute drive to Los Angeles, which makes it easy for commuters to pursue jobs in the city.

Additionally, citizens might consider the colleges and universities available in Los Angeles. These schools provide career growth and learning opportunities that may allow locals to accomplish personal goals. For example, Los Angeles City College offers pupils a variety of programs, and is just minutes from downtown Los Angeles. 

Many people consider cost of living when they evaluate rentals in Costa Mesa, and this element might play a key role in their moving decisions. According to City-Data.com, the cost of living in Costa Mesa is about 28 points higher than the national average as March 2012.

There is a mix of low-, moderate- and high-income residents, and these citizens positively impact the rental market. Residents may find a number of Los Angeles commuters in the area, as the city may offer a cost-effective alternative to living in the nation's second-largest metro.

Costa Mesa does a great job offering the benefits of a large city while maintaining a small-town atmosphere. It boasts the South Coast Plaza, which gives visitors the chance to explore a vast selection of boutiques and stores. Bloomingdale's, Macy's, Nordstrom and Sears are just a few of the stores visitors enjoy when this visit this high-end shopping venue.

Art and theater lovers may enjoy the world-class Segerstrom Center for the Arts and South Coast Repertory Theater. Meanwhile, this city is also considered to be the capital of the action sports industry, so those seeking new thrills will likely be engaged by what Costa Mesa has to offer. In fact, Costa Mesa's Westside is a common hangout for action sports businesses, including The Camp and The SoCo Collection.

To find a Costa Mesa apartment or rental, check out our apartment listings. Rent.com® is happy to help you find your next home.