What to Know Before Moving to Huntington Beach

Huntington Beach represents that quintessential California oceanside lifestyle. Let’s get to know this SoCal gem better!

Historical Tidbits

Originally home of the Tongva (or Gabrielinos) people, Huntington Beach captured the hearts of Spanish and other European settlers as early as the 1700s. The city was incorporated in 1909 and was then first developed by the Huntington Beach Company. Fun fact: surfing was brought to the city’s beaches by Duke Kahanamoku in 1925, and the area’s first surf shop – Gordie’s Surf Boards – opened its doors in 1953. In 1959, the first US Surfing Championships were held on the shores of Huntington Beach. Huntington Central Park, which is made up of more than 350 acres, offers a sprawling respite with its myriad facilities and amenities. And, of course, we have the city’s world-famous beaches, including Huntington State Beach and Huntington Dog Beach.

Attractions And Amenities

Fantastic beaches, boutiques, cuisine, shopping, parks… Huntington Beach has it all when it comes to stellar SoCal living along the ocean! Located less than an hour southeast of Los Angeles, it provides a mix of world-class outdoor recreation (surfing, beachgoing, skateboarding) with outstanding nightlife, dining, and more. As one of the longest public piers on the West Coast, Huntington Beach Pier is a popular attraction. Enjoy retail therapy and delicious eats? Downtown is where it’s at, showcasing the rich diversity of the city.

Lifestyle

As one of the most renowned seaside towns not only in California but in the country, Huntington Beach offers all the most attractive elements of SoCal living – gorgeous beaches, picturesque drives along the Pacific Coast Highway, outdoor fun, outstanding food, and that legendary Mediterranean style climate. It’s also a rich melting pot of ethnicities, cultures, and influences. Laidback and neighborly, the city provides that ideal ‘California Paradise’ vibe. Whether you’re into hiking, sunbathing, skating, or building businesses, Huntington Beach is perfect for those looking for an active lifestyle. Sun, waves, sand… it’s what lures newcomers here. The high quality of life is what makes them stay!

Cost Of Living

Gorgeous beachfront, lush park areas, classic California weather, tons of fun stuff to do… Huntington Beach is an amazing place to call home! But at what cost? So, if you know anything about Southern California, it isn’t cheap here. For comparison, the median housing value is 15-20% higher than that of neighboring Los Angeles. Living expenses, which include food, utilities, and health, also see a bump in price here compared to LA. However, considering the high quality of life and locale along the Pacific Ocean, the price tag is worth it for many. Be sure you’re prepared for the cost, especially if you’re from out of state.

Best Neighborhoods

Made up of 32 square miles, Huntington Beach is home to 8 distinctive neighborhoods. Looking for a mellow seaside vibe? Huntington Beach Harbour provides a haven from the more bustling parts of the city. Sunset Beach has one of the widest beaches in SoCal, along with a 14-acre park. Into shopping and/or skateboard culture? Goldenwest, found in the northern reaches, is home to Vans Off the Wall Skatepark and an assortment of shops and restaurants. For that picturesque PCH vibe, Bolsa Chica is the place to be! Moving farther down, Downtown is the heart of Huntington Beach. Southeast is a swimmer’s paradise, and Beach Blvd is the spot for fun nightlife, dining, and more. Last but not least, Central Park has one of the largest (and most lush) parks in Orange County at 350 acres in size.