Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the Costa Rica Property Pack
Yes, the analysis of Santa Ana's property market is included in our pack
Santa Ana's housing market in September 2025 shows a mixed picture with median home prices ranging from $765,000 to $895,000, depending on property type and neighborhood. The market is experiencing a period of stabilization after years of rapid growth, with some areas cooling while others maintain steady demand.
Current market conditions reflect a shift toward buyer-friendly dynamics, with inventory increasing slightly and days on market extending compared to the pandemic-era frenzy. Interest rates hovering around 6.7% to 7.1% are impacting affordability, but local assistance programs and diverse property options provide opportunities for different buyer segments.
If you want to go deeper, you can check our pack of documents related to the real estate market in Costa Rica, based on reliable facts and data, not opinions or rumors.
Santa Ana's housing market as of September 2025 shows median home prices between $765,000-$895,000, with year-over-year price changes varying from -5.6% to +7.8% depending on data source.
The market features 406 active listings, 44-day median selling time, and rental prices averaging $2,600/month with 3% annual growth in most neighborhoods.
| Market Metric | Current Value | Change |
|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $765,000 - $895,000 | -5.6% to +7.8% YoY |
| Active Listings | 406 homes | +4.6% month-over-month |
| Days on Market | 44 days | +1 day from previous year |
| Average Rent | $2,600/month | +3% annually |
| Mortgage Rates | 6.66% - 7.12% | Near recent highs |
| Single-Family Homes | $819,000 - $895,000 | Highest price segment |
| Condos/Townhouses | $310,000 - $798,000 | Widest price range |
What's the average home price in Santa Ana right now?
As of September 2025, Santa Ana's median home price sits between $765,000 and $895,000, depending on the data source and specific month measured.
The variation in reported prices reflects different methodologies and timing across real estate platforms. Redfin reports a median of $765,000 based on July 2025 data, while Rocket Homes shows $895,000 for the same period. Zillow's data falls in between these figures.
Single-family homes command the highest prices, typically ranging from $819,000 to $895,000. Condominiums and townhouses offer more accessible entry points, with prices spanning from $310,000 to $798,000. Multi-family properties, including duplexes, average around $845,000.
Premium neighborhoods like Floral Park and Morrison Park consistently exceed $800,000 for single-family homes, while South Coast Metro and certain condo developments provide options in the $300,000 to $600,000 range.
It's something we develop in our Costa Rica property pack.
How have prices changed over the past 3 months, 12 months, and 5 years?
Santa Ana's housing market shows mixed price trends across different timeframes, reflecting a market in transition from previous rapid growth periods.
Over the past 3 months, the most notable change has been inventory growth rather than dramatic price shifts. Active listings increased by 4.6% from May to June 2025, indicating a gradual shift toward more balanced supply and demand conditions.
The 12-month price changes vary significantly depending on the data source. Redfin reports a 5.6% year-over-year decline in median prices, while Zillow shows a modest 1.1% increase. Rocket Homes indicates a stronger 7.8% annual appreciation to reach $895,000. This variance suggests market segmentation with different property types and neighborhoods experiencing distinct trends.
Looking at the 5-year horizon, Santa Ana has experienced substantial cumulative gains following several years of increases. However, the year-over-year growth rate has decelerated significantly from the pandemic-era peaks, indicating market stabilization rather than continued rapid appreciation.
Downtown Santa Ana exemplifies this cooling trend, with prices down 17.6% year-over-year in some segments, representing a notable correction in previously hot neighborhoods.
How many homes are currently on the market, and how long are they staying listed before selling?
As of September 2025, approximately 406 homes are actively listed for sale in Santa Ana, representing a 4.6% increase from the previous month.
The median time homes spend on the market is 44 days, up slightly from 43 days in the previous year. This modest increase indicates a gradual shift toward more normal market conditions compared to the extremely fast-paced sales environment of recent years.
Competitive properties in desirable neighborhoods continue to move quickly, with some going pending in as little as 27 to 29 days. Multiple offer situations remain common for well-priced homes in sought-after locations, though not as universally as during peak market periods.
Properties that exceed market expectations in pricing or have condition issues tend to sit longer, contributing to the overall average. Downtown Santa Ana has seen notably longer selling times as that market segment has cooled considerably.
The increased inventory combined with slightly longer selling times suggests buyers have more options and negotiating power compared to the seller's market conditions of 2021-2022.
What are the trends in rental prices, both short term and over the past year?
Santa Ana's rental market shows steady demand with average rents ranging from $2,100 to $2,715 per month, with a median around $2,600 monthly as of September 2025.
Annual rent growth has been moderate at approximately 3% year-over-year in most areas, though some data sources report slight declines of around 2% in certain market segments. This variation reflects neighborhood-specific dynamics and property types.
Neighborhood rental costs vary significantly across Santa Ana. More affordable areas for renters include Windsor Village North, MacArthur Village, and Willard, while premium neighborhoods like Lacy, Artists Village, and Historic 4th Street command higher rents.
Short-term rental trends show continued strength, particularly in downtown areas near cultural amenities and business districts. Investors remain active in converting properties to short-term rentals, capitalizing on Santa Ana's ongoing revitalization and proximity to major employment centers.
The rental market's stability provides confidence for investors considering cash flow properties, with steady demand from young professionals and families supporting consistent occupancy rates across most neighborhoods.
Don't lose money on your property in Santa Ana
100% of people who have lost money there have spent less than 1 hour researching the market. We have reviewed everything there is to know. Grab our guide now.
Which neighborhoods in Santa Ana are seeing the fastest price growth, and which are cooling down?
Santa Ana's neighborhood price trends reveal a market experiencing both growth and correction across different areas as of September 2025.
The fastest-growing neighborhoods include Midtown, Mabury Park, and South Coast Metro, which continue to attract buyers seeking balanced affordability and quality of life. These areas benefit from community amenities, good schools, and reasonable pricing compared to premium neighborhoods.
Up-and-coming zones near downtown revitalization projects, including areas around Lacy and Historic 4th Street, show strong potential for continued appreciation. These neighborhoods are benefiting from ongoing urban renewal initiatives and cultural development.
Downtown Santa Ana represents the most significant cooling market, with prices declining 17.6% year-over-year in some segments. This neighborhood experienced rapid appreciation in previous years but is now adjusting to more sustainable levels.
Mid-City, which saw strong appreciation in recent years, has also moderated its growth pace. Properties in this area are taking longer to sell compared to peak market conditions, indicating buyer selectivity and price sensitivity.
It's something we develop in our Costa Rica property pack.
How do prices compare between single-family homes, condos, and multi-family properties?
| Property Type | Price Range | Market Position |
|---|---|---|
| Single-Family Homes | $819,000 - $895,000 | Highest overall pricing |
| Condos/Townhouses | $310,000 - $798,000 | Widest price range, entry-level options |
| Multi-Family Properties | $845,000 average | High demand from investors |
| Downtown Condos | $400,000 - $600,000 | Urban lifestyle premium |
| Suburban Single-Family | $750,000 - $950,000 | Family-oriented markets |
| Luxury Single-Family | $1,000,000+ | Premium neighborhoods only |
| Investment Duplexes | $800,000 - $900,000 | Strong rental income potential |
What's the current mortgage rate environment, and how does that affect affordability in Santa Ana?
As of September 2025, mortgage rates in Santa Ana range from 6.66% to 7.12% for 30-year fixed loans, with 15-year fixed rates around 5.98%.
These elevated rates significantly impact affordability compared to the ultra-low rates of 2020-2021. A buyer purchasing a $800,000 home with 20% down faces monthly principal and interest payments of approximately $4,300 to $4,500, compared to roughly $2,700 at 3% rates.
Multi-family investment loans start around 5.3% to 5.8% for qualified borrowers with 80% loan-to-value ratios. These slightly lower commercial rates make investment properties relatively more attractive than owner-occupied purchases.
Santa Ana offers relief through its My First Home Program, providing up to $120,000 in down payment assistance for qualified buyers. This program helps offset the affordability challenge created by higher interest rates and elevated home prices.
The rate environment has effectively priced out some buyers, contributing to increased inventory and longer selling times. However, it has also created opportunities for cash buyers and investors who can capitalize on reduced competition.
What's the average budget buyers need to secure a decent property in different parts of the city?
Budget requirements in Santa Ana vary dramatically by neighborhood and property type, with entry-level options starting around $310,000 and premium areas exceeding $1 million.
For affordable entry points, South Coast Metro and select condo developments offer opportunities in the $300,000 to $600,000 range. These areas provide access to Santa Ana's amenities while maintaining relative affordability for first-time buyers.
Mid-range neighborhoods like Midtown, Mabury Park, and South Coast Metro typically require budgets of $650,000 to $850,000 for single-family homes. These areas offer good schools, community amenities, and reasonable commute access.
Premium neighborhoods including Floral Park, Morrison Park, and select areas of Midtown generally require budgets exceeding $800,000 for single-family homes. Properties in these areas often surpass $1 million for larger or updated homes.
Condo and townhouse buyers can access most neighborhoods with budgets of $400,000 to $700,000, providing more geographic flexibility compared to single-family home purchases.
Where are investors most active right now, and which areas have the strongest rental yields?
Investor activity in Santa Ana concentrates heavily in downtown areas and up-and-coming neighborhoods with revitalization potential as of September 2025.
Downtown Santa Ana remains a hot spot for investor interest despite recent price corrections. The area's cultural amenities, ongoing revitalization projects, and potential for short-term rentals continue to attract investment capital.
Neighborhoods with the strongest rental yields include Willard, Windsor Village North, and MacArthur Village. These areas offer lower purchase prices combined with steady rental demand from working families and young professionals.
Multi-family properties and condos near employment centers provide the most consistent cash flow opportunities. Properties close to transportation corridors and major business districts maintain high occupancy rates and steady rent growth.
Short-term rental conversions are particularly active in downtown and culturally rich neighborhoods, where investors can capitalize on Santa Ana's growing tourism and business travel sectors.
It's something we develop in our Costa Rica property pack.
We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Costa Rica versus those in neighboring countries. It provides a clear view of how this country positions itself as a real estate investment destination, which might interest you if you're planning to invest there.
For someone buying to live in Santa Ana, which areas currently offer the best balance of affordability and quality of life?
Midtown Santa Ana offers the optimal balance of affordability and quality of life for residents as of September 2025.
This neighborhood provides reasonable home prices compared to premium areas while maintaining good schools, community amenities, and convenient access to employment centers. Single-family homes typically range from $650,000 to $850,000.
Mabury Park represents another excellent choice for lifestyle-focused buyers, offering family-friendly environments with parks, good schools, and established communities. The area maintains more affordable pricing than premium neighborhoods while providing suburban amenities.
South Coast Metro appeals to buyers seeking modern amenities and proximity to business districts. The area offers both condos and single-family options across various price points, making it accessible to different budget levels.
For buyers prioritizing walkability and urban amenities, select areas near downtown provide cultural attractions and dining options, though buyers should carefully evaluate specific blocks due to varying neighborhood conditions.
For someone buying to rent out, which property types and locations give the best cash flow potential?
Multi-family properties in established neighborhoods provide the strongest cash flow potential for rental investors in Santa Ana as of September 2025.
Duplexes and small apartment buildings in areas like Willard and Windsor Village North offer multiple income streams with relatively affordable purchase prices. These properties typically generate $3,000 to $5,000 monthly gross rental income.
Condos and townhouses near employment centers and transportation corridors provide consistent rental demand from young professionals. Properties in these locations maintain high occupancy rates and steady rent growth.
Single-family homes in mid-range neighborhoods can generate solid cash flow when purchased below market value or in emerging areas. Focus on properties in Mabury Park and select areas of Midtown for stable long-term tenants.
Downtown properties converted to short-term rentals can generate higher yields but require more active management and carry additional regulatory considerations. These properties work best for investors willing to actively manage bookings and maintenance.
For someone buying to resell in the medium to long term, which areas and property types have the strongest appreciation outlook?
Areas near downtown revitalization projects and emerging neighborhoods offer the strongest appreciation potential for medium to long-term investors in Santa Ana.
Neighborhoods like Lacy, Historic 4th Street, and areas around cultural development projects are positioned for continued growth as revitalization efforts mature. These areas benefit from ongoing public and private investment in infrastructure and amenities.
Mabury Park and select areas of Midtown show strong fundamentals for appreciation, with good schools, community amenities, and reasonable current pricing creating upside potential as demand increases.
Single-family homes in up-and-coming neighborhoods provide the best appreciation potential, particularly properties that can benefit from renovation and improvement. Focus on areas with strong development pipelines and infrastructure improvements.
Fix-and-flip opportunities exist in diverse downtown neighborhoods where properties can be improved and repositioned for higher market segments. These investments require renovation expertise but offer substantial return potential.
Properties near planned transportation improvements and major employment center developments are positioned for long-term appreciation as infrastructure enhancements increase accessibility and desirability.
Conclusion
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. We do not assume any liability for actions taken based on the information provided.
Santa Ana's housing market in September 2025 presents a balanced landscape with opportunities for both residents and investors across different price points and neighborhoods.
The market's transition from rapid growth to stabilization creates selective opportunities for informed buyers willing to research specific areas and property types carefully.