Manhattan Beach Real Estate

Eclectic seaside community with two miles of beachfront

Manhattan Beach is an eclectic seaside city in Los Angeles County’s South Bay region. An unbroken stretch of sandy beach runs for more than two miles along Manhattan Beach’s glorious Pacific coastline. The historic landmark of Manhattan Beach Pier juts out into the ocean at the beach’s center. Pro beach volleyball matches regularly take place on the sands of Manhattan Beach, and the pier features the Volleyball Walk of Fame. Manhattan Beach is a popular community for family living, with a strong focus on education shown through many top-ranked schools.

The Strand runs in parallel to the beach, offering spectacular oceanfront residences with unbeatable Pacific views. Each of the Strand’s masterpiece residences showcases the finest in contemporary architectural design. Properties along this iconic stretch represent some of the world’s most expensive and sought-after real estate. Other neighborhoods in Manhattan Beach offer spacious, single-family homes in a wide variety of styles.

What to Love

Oceanfront residences on The Strand
Two miles of unbroken beach
Manhattan Beach Pier
Pro volleyball matches

People & Lifestyle

Manhattan Beach is an exciting, small city packed with attractions and entertainment options. This two-mile-long stretch of beautiful coastline is flanked by the paved bicycle path of the Strand, linking Manhattan Beach to many other gorgeous beaches along California’s Pacific coast. The city also offers a wide variety of trendy shops and exceptional restaurants and is known as a top professional volleyball destination.

Dining, Entertainment & Shopping

Manhattan Beach Pier runs through the middle of Manhattan Beach to the ocean, extending for 928 feet. This landmark of Manhattan Beach has been attracting tourists, artists, photographers, anglers, and residents alike since it was built in 1920. The pier is known as an outstanding spot for fishing, with anglers sometimes catching hundreds of barred surfperch within the space of an hour. A distinctive red-roofed Mediterranean roundhouse at the end of the pier houses the popular Roundhouse Aquarium.

More than 50 restaurants and over 150 retailers can be found on the streets close to the pier’s entrance in Downtown Manhattan Beach. The Strand House serves chef-driven farm-to-table cuisine in a beautifully designed space with panoramic ocean views. The Arthur J offers a contemporary update of the classic American steakhouse. This stylish, retro restaurant pairs mouthwatering dry-aged steaks cooked on a wood-fired grill with redefined takes on vintage cocktails. Other dining highlights include sophisticated craft beer gastropub, The Rockefeller, elegant American taverna Nick’s Manhattan Beach, and Lemonade for health-focused, seasonal Californian cuisine. Downtown Manhattan Beach is also a hotspot for fashionistas, with trendy apparel on sale at boutiques such as All Yoo, BLVD, Katwalk, and The Beehive.

Things to Do

The city’s namesake beach is one of Los Angeles County’s most popular seaside destinations. Throughout the summer, Manhattan Beach is buzzing with activity as surfers tackle the waves beneath Manhattan Beach Pier and other beachgoers enjoy playing on its 100 beach volleyball courts.

The Manhattan Beach Open is regarded as the United States’ most prestigious beach volleyball tournament. Around 60,000 spectators typically gather to watch the action as top players compete for the honor of having their name added to Manhattan Beach Pier’s Volleyball Walk of Fame. It’s even possible to take part in this prestigious event yourself, as the Manhattan Beach Open allows amateurs to enter via a series of pre-qualifying rounds.

The Marvin Braude Bike Trail runs alongside Manhattan Beach on its 22-mile coastal trek from Torrance Beach in the south to Will Rogers State Beach in Pacific Palisades to the north. Popularly known as the Strand, this iconic, paved bike path takes in many of California’s finest beaches.

Schools

Manhattan Beach is served by the Manhattan Beach Unified School District. This whole public school district ranks among the very best in California.

Aurelia Pennekamp Elementary School, Public, K-5.
Opal Robinson Elementary School, Public, K-5.
Pacific Elementary School, Public, K-5.
Manhattan Beach Middle School, Public, 6-8.
Mira Costa High School, Public, 9-12.

Real Estate Market and Luxury Homes for Sale in Manhattan Beach

Manhattan Beach’s real estate market is one of the most sought-after in Southern California, known for its picturesque coastline, active lifestyle, and luxury beachfront living. This upscale beach city features an impressive mix of custom-built contemporary residences, coastal Cape Cod homes, and elegant modern designs. Properties in Manhattan Beach, especially those in the Sand Section and Hill Section, are prized for their proximity to the ocean, open floor plans, smart home technology, and expansive balconies or rooftop decks. Manhattan Beach luxury homes offer a laid-back yet refined lifestyle, making the market incredibly competitive and consistently strong.

What Luxury Homes in Manhattan Beach Offer

Luxury homes in Manhattan Beach offer residents a harmonious blend of beachside living and modern convenience. Many homes are just steps from the sand, surf, and The Strand, offering ocean views and walkability to boutiques, cafes, and top-rated restaurants. Amenities in these homes often include gourmet kitchens, home gyms, wine rooms, and private outdoor spaces perfect for entertaining. In addition to its residential appeal, Manhattan Beach is home to excellent public schools, making it popular among families seeking both luxury and community.

Types of Homes Available

Oceanfront & Strand Homes:
The most prestigious properties in Manhattan Beach are located along The Strand, a world-famous beachfront walkway. These ultra-luxury homes offer direct beach access, unobstructed ocean views, and prime sunset vistas. Residences feature expansive glass walls, rooftop decks, and high-end finishes. Prices for Strand homes typically start around $10M and can exceed $30M+ depending on size, frontage, and design.

Modern Coastal Estates:
Contemporary single-family homes dominate many neighborhoods, particularly in areas like the Hill Section and Sand Section. These properties emphasize indoor-outdoor living with open floor plans, large sliding glass doors, and resort-style amenities such as pools, spas, and outdoor kitchens. Prices generally range from $3M to $10M+, with premium homes commanding significantly higher values.

Luxury Townhomes & Villas:
High-end townhomes offer a more low-maintenance alternative while still delivering upscale finishes and prime locations. Many feature multi-level layouts, private garages, and rooftop decks with ocean views. Prices typically range from $1.5M to $4M+ depending on proximity to the beach and amenities.

Custom New Constructions:
Manhattan Beach continues to see redevelopment with custom-built homes replacing older structures. These residences feature cutting-edge design, smart home integration, and energy-efficient construction. New builds often command top-tier pricing due to limited land availability and strong buyer demand.

Buying and Renting Tips

For Buyers

Buying in Manhattan Beach, California requires preparation, as inventory is limited and demand remains consistently high. Securing financing early and working with a local luxury real estate expert is essential.
Location within the city significantly impacts value—properties closer to the beach or with ocean views command substantial premiums. Buyers should also consider lot size, parking availability, and potential for future redevelopment.

For Renters

Luxury rentals in Manhattan Beach are highly sought after, particularly for furnished short-term leases near the beach. Monthly rents can range from $8,000 to over $40,000+ depending on property type, location, and season.
Renters should act quickly when desirable properties become available and review lease terms carefully, especially regarding parking, utilities, and beach access.

Factors to Consider When Buying

Ocean Proximity & Views:
Homes closer to the beach or with unobstructed ocean views command significantly higher prices and tend to retain long-term value.

Lot Size & Zoning:
Lot dimensions and zoning regulations influence redevelopment potential. Many buyers purchase older homes for tear-down opportunities to build custom luxury residences.

Parking Accessibility:
Parking can be limited in beachside areas, making garages and additional spaces highly valuable features.

Lifestyle & Walkability:
Manhattan Beach offers a highly walkable lifestyle with access to upscale dining, boutique shopping, and the iconic pier area. Proximity to these amenities can enhance both lifestyle and property value.

Factors to Consider When Selling

Market Timing:
While luxury properties in Manhattan Beach, California sell year-round, spring and summer often bring heightened buyer activity, particularly from second-home seekers.

Buyer Demographics:
Buyers include high-net-worth individuals, professionals, and international investors seeking coastal luxury. Marketing should emphasize lifestyle, exclusivity, and proximity to the ocean.

Pricing Strategy:
Accurate pricing based on comparable luxury sales is critical. Overpricing can lead to extended time on market, even in high-demand areas.

Presentation & Staging:
Professional staging, high-end photography, and video tours are essential. Highlight ocean views, outdoor living spaces, and luxury amenities to maximize appeal.

Property Details & Disclosure:
Providing detailed information about property condition, upgrades, and zoning helps build buyer confidence and streamline the transaction process—especially for high-value coastal homes.

Manhattan Beach, CA as Your Next Home

Choosing Manhattan Beach as your next home means embracing the best of Southern California living. This vibrant coastal city offers a unique combination of small-town charm, elite-level real estate, and an active, wellness-focused lifestyle. Whether you're drawn by the walkable beachfront, the modern luxury homes, or the highly rated schools, Manhattan Beach presents an exceptional place to live, invest, and thrive.

Demographics and Employment Data for Manhattan beach, CA

Population Households Employment

Manhattan beach has 13,323 households, with an average household size of 2.59. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Manhattan beach do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 34,584 people call Manhattan beach home. The population density is 8,790.64 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

34,584

Total Population

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

43.4

Median Age

49.8 / 50.2%

Men vs Women

Population by Age Group

0-9:

0-9 Years

10-17:

10-17 Years

18-24:

18-24 Years

25-64:

25-64 Years

65-74:

65-74 Years

75+:

75+ Years

Education Level

Less Than 9th Grade
High School Degree
Associate Degree
Bachelor Degree
Graduate Degree

13,323

Total Households

2.59

Average Household Size

$113,441

Average individual Income

Households with Children

With Children:

Without Children:

Marital Status

Married

Single

Divorced

Separated

Blue vs White Collar Workers

Blue Collar:

White Collar:

Commute Time

0 to 14 Minutes

15 to 29 Minutes

30 to 59 Minutes

60+ Minutes

Manhattan beach

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