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Santa Monica Pier Area-Ocean Avenue, Santa Monica,CA

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For those considering a move to the Santa Monica Pier Area-Ocean Avenue, this vibrant neighborhood offers a blend of classic California beach vibes with modern urban conveniences. One of the standout attractions here is the iconic Santa Monica Pier itself, a lively hub filled with amusement rides, an aquarium, and a variety of restaurants and shops. Strolling along Ocean Avenue, residents can enjoy breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, especially during sunset, making it a perfect spot for evening walks or casual bike rides. The area also boasts beautiful parks and green spaces, such as Palisades Park, where you can relax while gazing out over the coastline.

Living in this area means you’re never far from exciting cultural and recreational activities. Just steps away from the pier, the Third Street Promenade offers an eclectic mix of boutique stores, cafes, and entertainment venues. Whether you're looking for a morning coffee spot or an evening out, the dining scene along Ocean Avenue and nearby streets is diverse, featuring everything from cozy beachside eateries to upscale restaurants. For families, the neighborhood provides excellent schools and community centers, adding to its appeal for those relocating with children. Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to outdoor workout spots and the famous beach bike path.

One of the perks of this neighborhood is its proximity to Downtown Santa Monica, which is just a short drive or bike ride away. This means residents can easily access additional shopping, dining, and entertainment options without sacrificing the laid-back beach atmosphere of the Pier Area. Public transportation is also readily available, making commutes smooth whether you're heading into the city or exploring further afield. Overall, the Santa Monica Pier Area-Ocean Avenue offers a unique coastal lifestyle with plenty of amenities, making it a fantastic choice for anyone relocating to the north west of Santa Monica.

Community Snapshot

Population 3,810
Density (People/sqml.) 8,011
Median Age 47.3
Married Couples
35%
35% of the population of Santa Monica Pier Area-Ocean Avenue aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
9%
9% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

About 35% of the Santa Monica Pier Area-Ocean Avenue 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 9% 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.

Age Breakdown

Santa Monica Pier Area-Ocean Avenue neighborhood age breakdown chart

Santa Monica Pier Area-Ocean Avenue demographics offer valuable insights into the character and lifestyle of the neighborhood, helping you understand who lives there and what daily life might feel like. Home to only about 3,810 residents, Santa Monica Pier Area-Ocean Avenue is notably smaller than many other Santa Monica neighborhoods, creating a more peaceful and community-oriented atmosphere. Its lower population can translate to quieter streets, a more relaxed pace of life, and easier access to local amenities — all without sacrificing the vibrant urban lifestyle the city is known for.

Boasting a population density of 8,011, Santa Monica Pier Area-Ocean Avenue 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.

Home to a population with a higher-than-average age of 47, this area offers a calm and refined atmosphere shaped by experience and tradition. The neighborhood’s more mature demographic fosters a strong sense of community, a relaxed pace of life, and an environment that’s both welcoming and well-established — making it an especially appealing choice for retirees seeking comfort, stability, and connection.

Crime in Santa Monica Pier Area-Ocean Avenue

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Types of Crime

Santa Monica Pier Area-Ocean Avenue neighborhood age breakdown chart

Santa Monica Pier Area-Ocean Avenue Crime Map

The Santa Monica Pier Area-Ocean Avenue 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

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Home Price $1,746,467
Median Rent $2,315
People/Household 1.7

Home Price Breakdown

Santa Monica Pier Area-Ocean Avenue neighborhood home price breakdown chart

Rent vs Own

Rent 75% Own 25%

Year Moved In

Before 2010 53% After 2010 47%

Types of Homes in the Area

Market Trends

Year-over-Year YoY data

 

Housing costs often reflect the desirability and overall character of a neighborhood. In Santa Monica Pier Area-Ocean Avenue, home prices come in around $1,746,467, 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 Santa Monica Pier Area-Ocean Avenue 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 $2,315, rental rates in Santa Monica Pier Area-Ocean Avenue 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.

Walkability & Lifestyle

Coffee Shops

Carousel Cafe
Coffee Shop
min.
min.
Jinky's Café
Coffee Shop
min.
min.

Entertainment

Santa Mónica Pier Aquarium
Aquarium
min.
min.
Breakdance Showdown
Attraction
min.
min.

Food & Drink

Big Dean's OceanFront Cafe
Bar
min.
min.
Subway
Fast Food
min.
min.

Groceries

Funnel Cakes
Bakery
min.
min.
Carlo's Bake Shop
Bakery
min.
min.

Parks

Carousel Park
Park
min.
min.
Pier Playground
Park
min.
min.

Shops

Pier Shop
Gift Shop
min.
min.
Gift Shop
Gift Shop
min.
min.

Getting Around

Transit Stops

Ocean & Colorado
Bus Stop
min.
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Ocean & Broadway
Bus Stop
min.
min.

Transit Stations

Downtown Santa Monica
Transit Station
min.
min.
 
 
 
 
 
 

Health & Safety

Medical Facilities

CVS Pharmacy
Pharmacy
min.
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Santa Monica Urgent Care
Hospital
min.
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Health Care

Lisa Chan Flagg D D S Inc
Dentist
min.
min.
Scott Gould Newhart D M D Inc
Dentist
min.
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Safety

Santa Monica Police Pier Office
Police
min.
min.
Santa Monica Police Headquarters
Police
min.
min.

Top Neighborhood Schools

Name Category Grades Rating
John Muir Elementary
2526 Sixth St., Santa Monica, CA
Elementary School KG - 5 School Score
Pacifica Christian High School
1730 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica, CA
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Pacific Point Academy
2701 Ocean Park Blvd Ste 150, Santa Monica, CA
High School 1 - 9 School Score
Ps 1 Pluralistic School
1225 Broadway, Santa Monica, CA
Elementary School KG - 6 School Score
Roosevelt Elementary
801 Montana Ave., Santa Monica, CA
Elementary School KG - 5 School Score
Crossroads School For Arts & Sciences
1714 21St St, Santa Monica, CA
High School KG - 12 School Score
Santa Monica-Malibu Preschool
1651 16Th St., Santa Monica, CA
Elementary School M - M School Score

Education Level Achieved

Education is a key factor in understanding the character and opportunities within a community like Santa Monica Pier Area-Ocean Avenue. School ratings here reflect important indicators such as academic performance, graduation outcomes, and standardized testing, while NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores offer a valuable national comparison to gauge how local schools measure up. Looking at the overall education level of residents in Santa Monica Pier Area-Ocean Avenue can also provide meaningful insight into the neighborhood’s focus on learning and long-term growth, helping families choose a community that aligns with their educational goals.

Economy

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Income Per Capita $104,855
Household Income $109,018
Unemployment 6.9%

Income Breakdown

Santa Monica Pier Area-Ocean Avenue Income breakdown chart

Employment by Industry

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The economic makeup of a neighborhood often tells a deeper story about its lifestyle, opportunities, and overall character. In Santa Monica Pier Area-Ocean Avenue, median household incomes average $109,018, which is higher than many surrounding neighborhoods. This elevated earning power helps support a more upscale environment, offering residents access to premium amenities, well-maintained surroundings, and a standard of living that emphasizes comfort and quality.

The employment landscape can reveal important details about the economic conditions of a neighborhood and the opportunities available to its residents. In Santa Monica Pier Area-Ocean Avenue, the unemployment rate is 7%, which is higher than average. This elevated rate may point to a more competitive job market or transitional economic conditions, shaping the overall character and pace of the community.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the highlights?

Santa Monica Pier Area-Ocean Avenue is famous for its iconic Santa Monica Pier, which features the Pacific Park amusement park with a historic Ferris wheel, an aquarium, and numerous restaurants and shops. Ocean Avenue offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, beautiful beaches, and well-maintained bike paths. Nearby, you can also explore Palisades Park, a scenic coastal park with walking trails and picnic areas, making the neighborhood a vibrant and attractive destination for both residents and visitors.

Are there any notable landmarks or historical sites?

The Santa Monica Pier is the most notable landmark in the Ocean Avenue area, dating back to 1909 and serving as a symbol of Santa Monica's rich history. The pier houses the Looff Hippodrome, a National Historic Landmark that features a beautifully restored carousel. Additionally, the area has several Art Deco and mid-century modern buildings that reflect the architectural history of Santa Monica. The proximity to the historic Route 66 also adds to the cultural significance of the neighborhood.

Are there major highways or transit lines nearby?

Yes, Santa Monica Pier Area-Ocean Avenue is conveniently located near major transportation routes. The Pacific Coast Highway (State Route 1) runs close by, providing easy access to other parts of Los Angeles and the coast. Public transit options include the Big Blue Bus system with multiple lines serving the area, and the Metro Expo Line light rail connects Santa Monica to Downtown Los Angeles, making commuting and exploring the greater LA area accessible without a car.

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