Ocean Park, Santa Monica,CA

Ocean Park is a charming neighborhood in the south west of Santa Monica, known for its laid-back coastal vibe and vibrant community spirit. If you’re considering moving here, you’ll quickly appreciate the blend of residential calm with easy access to lively local attractions. One of the standout features of Ocean Park is the beautiful Ocean Park Beach itself, offering a relaxed spot for sunbathing, swimming, or simply enjoying a peaceful walk along the shore. The neighborhood’s tree-lined streets are dotted with cozy cafes, boutique shops, and artisanal eateries that give it a welcoming, small-town feel despite being part of the bustling Santa Monica area.

For those who love the outdoors, the nearby Tongva Park is a must-visit. This modern urban park offers green spaces, playgrounds, and art installations, making it perfect for families and visitors of all ages. Ocean Park is also home to the lively Main Street, where you can find a range of restaurants serving everything from fresh seafood to creative vegan dishes. Plus, the weekly farmers market is a favorite among locals for fresh produce and handmade goods. With such a variety of dining and entertainment options, Ocean Park creates a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere that’s perfect for anyone looking to enjoy the best of Santa Monica living.

One of the great perks of living in Ocean Park is its close proximity to Downtown Santa Monica, just a short drive or bike ride away. This means residents can easily access the city’s bustling shopping districts, cultural venues like the Santa Monica Playhouse, and the famous Third Street Promenade for dining and entertainment. Despite being near the heart of the city, Ocean Park maintains a peaceful residential charm that makes it a sought-after neighborhood for families, young professionals, and retirees alike. Whether you’re taking an evening stroll along the beach or grabbing coffee at a local café, Ocean Park offers a wonderful blend of community warmth and coastal beauty.

About 31% of the Ocean Park population aged 16 and older are married, which is notably lower than average. This could suggest a community with a younger, more transient population—perhaps made up of students, professionals, or renters. It may also reflect a neighborhood that attracts singles or couples without children, contributing to a more independent, urban lifestyle.

With only 13% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Ocean Park demographic details provide a clearer picture of what life is like in the neighborhood, offering insight into its character, community, and overall lifestyle. With a population of 9,417, the number of residents who reside in Ocean Park is about average in size compared to other Santa Monica neighborhoods, striking a perfect balance between energy and tranquility. It’s large enough to offer plenty of amenities, activities, and a vibrant local scene, yet small enough to maintain a welcoming community feel and a more relaxed pace of life.

Boasting a population density of 10,936, Ocean Park is more densely populated than many other Santa Monica neighborhoods, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. The higher concentration of residents contributes to a lively street scene, a strong sense of community, and convenient access to shops, restaurants, and urban amenities just steps from home.

With an average age of 42, you're likely to find a well-balanced community where multiple generations live side by side. This mix of age groups contributes to a neighborhood atmosphere that’s both active and welcoming, offering a blend of fresh perspectives and long-standing community values.

The Ocean Park crime map offers a clear, data-driven look at how crime is distributed throughout the neighborhood, using block group data to highlight both safer areas and potential hot spots. The color-coded map makes it easy to see where crime is more concentrated and where it occurs less frequently, helping residents and prospective buyers better understand local safety patterns. It’s important to note that darker or red zones on the map don’t necessarily mean those areas are unsafe — locations near busy transit hubs, shopping districts, or popular attractions often show higher activity simply due to larger crowds and increased foot traffic.

Housing costs often reflect the desirability and overall character of a neighborhood. In Ocean Park, home prices come in around $1,591,100, which is higher than many other areas. This elevated pricing points to a sought-after location with strong demand, well-maintained properties, and access to premium amenities that contribute to a higher quality of life. Historical home price trends and appreciation rates in Ocean Park can serve as a window into the neighborhood’s economic strength and future potential. By understanding how the market has performed in the past, buyers and investors can better evaluate whether the area offers promising opportunities for growth and long-term value.

With an average rent price of $2,371, rental rates in Ocean Park are higher than many other neighborhoods. This reflects the area’s desirability and strong demand, often accompanied by well-maintained properties, premium amenities, and a high quality of life.

School ratings in Ocean Park combine factors like student performance, graduation rates, and standardized test scores to provide a clear picture of overall educational quality. The use of NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores adds valuable context by offering a consistent national benchmark to see how local schools compare on a broader scale. Additionally, understanding the overall education level achieved by residents in Ocean Park can give insight into the community’s priorities and opportunities, helping families make more informed decisions about where to live and how well local schools may support long-term student success.