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Santa Ana's real estate market offers diverse price points, from affordable condos starting around $300,000 to luxury homes reaching nearly $10 million.
As of September 2025, the median single-family home costs approximately $851,000, while condos average significantly less at $367,500 in downtown areas. The market has experienced substantial growth over the past five years, with home values increasing by 50.3% since 2020.
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 real estate market spans from $80,000 entry-level properties to $9.9 million luxury estates, with the median home priced at $851,000.
Rental costs average $2,910 for two-bedroom units and $3,666 for three-bedroom apartments, while property taxes run approximately 1.20% annually.
| Property Type | Price Range | Key Details |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level homes | $80,000 - $400,000 | Mobile homes, condos, fixer-uppers |
| Median single-family | $825,000 - $895,000 | Typical family homes, $611/sq ft |
| Downtown condos | $300,000 - $367,500 | 1-2 bedroom units in central areas |
| Luxury properties | $1.5M - $9.9M | High-end homes with premium amenities |
| 2-bedroom rentals | $1,982 - $3,410/month | Average $2,910/month |
| 3-bedroom rentals | $1,991 - $4,397/month | Average $3,666/month |
| Property taxes | 1.20% annually | $9,900/year on median home |
What's the current average price per square foot for homes in Santa Ana?
The average price per square foot in Santa Ana ranges from $597 to $623, with the current market average sitting at approximately $611 per square foot as of September 2025.
This price varies significantly depending on the specific neighborhood within Santa Ana. Downtown areas and newer developments tend to command higher per-square-foot prices, while older residential neighborhoods and areas further from the city center typically fall on the lower end of this range.
The $611 average represents a substantial increase from previous years, reflecting the overall appreciation in Santa Ana's real estate market. Premium neighborhoods and newly constructed homes can exceed $650 per square foot, while entry-level properties and those requiring renovation may be found below $500 per square foot.
For comparison purposes, this pricing places Santa Ana competitively within Orange County's real estate market, though still below some of the county's most expensive coastal communities.
How much does a typical single-family house cost right now in Santa Ana?
A typical single-family house in Santa Ana currently costs between $825,000 and $895,000, with the median home value at $851,184 according to the latest market data.
This median price represents the middle point of the market, meaning half of all single-family homes sell for more than this amount and half sell for less. The range reflects variations in home size, age, condition, and location within Santa Ana's diverse neighborhoods.
Newer construction homes and those in desirable school districts typically sell closer to or above the $895,000 mark, while older homes or those requiring updates may be found near the $825,000 threshold. Properties in prime locations with larger lots or premium features can command prices well above the median.
This pricing represents significant appreciation from historical levels, making Santa Ana an important consideration for both investors and homebuyers looking at long-term value potential in Orange County.
It's something we develop in our Costa Rica property pack.
What's the average condo price in Santa Ana compared to houses?
Condos in Santa Ana cost significantly less than single-family homes, with downtown condos averaging $300,000 for one-bedroom units and $367,500 for two-bedroom units.
The county-wide average for condos is $752,500, which is nearly half the cost of the average single-family home at $1.38 million county-wide. This means condos typically cost about 50% less than comparable single-family homes in the same area.
The price difference stems from several factors including smaller living spaces, shared amenities, HOA fees, and different ownership structures. Condos offer an entry point into Santa Ana's real estate market for buyers who want to live in desirable areas but have more limited budgets.
Downtown Santa Ana condos provide particular value, offering urban living at prices significantly below the median single-family home cost. These units often include amenities like fitness centers, pools, and security features that individual homeowners would need to purchase separately.
How do prices differ between entry-level homes and luxury homes in Santa Ana?
| Price Category | Price Range | Property Types |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level | $80,000 - $400,000 | Mobile homes, fixer-uppers, small condos |
| Affordable programs | $250,000 - $400,000 | City-sponsored below-market homes |
| Mid-range | $400,000 - $800,000 | Standard condos and smaller homes |
| Median market | $825,000 - $895,000 | Typical single-family homes |
| Upper-tier | $1.0M - $1.5M | Larger homes, premium locations |
| Luxury properties | $1.5M - $9.9M | Estate homes, premium amenities |
| Ultra-luxury | $4.7M - $9.9M | Highest-end properties currently listed |
What are the current rental prices for a two-bedroom and a three-bedroom in Santa Ana?
Two-bedroom apartments in Santa Ana average $2,910 per month, with rental prices ranging from $1,982 to $3,410 depending on location, amenities, and building quality.
Three-bedroom units command higher rents, averaging $3,666 per month with a range from $1,991 to $4,397 for luxury buildings and newer developments. The wide range reflects the diversity of rental options available throughout Santa Ana.
Location plays a crucial role in rental pricing, with downtown units and those near transit centers typically commanding premium rents. Newer apartment complexes with amenities like pools, fitness centers, and parking tend to fall on the higher end of these ranges.
Older buildings and those requiring updates can be found at the lower end of the price spectrum, offering opportunities for renters with tighter budgets to live in Santa Ana while still accessing the city's employment and cultural opportunities.
How much is the average down payment needed for a median-priced home in Santa Ana?
The average down payment for a median-priced home in Santa Ana is approximately $165,000, based on the standard 20% down payment on the median home price of $825,000.
However, California's average down payments have recently exceeded $300,000 for some buyers, particularly those purchasing above-median properties or those with specific lending requirements. Many buyers use various down payment assistance programs to reduce this amount.
First-time homebuyer programs and low-down payment mortgages can reduce the required down payment to as little as 3-5% of the purchase price, which would be $24,750 to $41,250 on a median-priced home. However, lower down payments typically result in higher monthly payments and mortgage insurance requirements.
The substantial down payment requirement represents one of the biggest barriers to homeownership in Santa Ana, leading many buyers to save for several years or seek assistance through family or down payment assistance programs.
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What's the average monthly mortgage payment for a $600,000 home in Santa Ana at today's interest rates?
The monthly mortgage payment for a $600,000 home at today's prevailing interest rate of 7.02% is approximately $3,997 for principal and interest on a 30-year fixed mortgage.
When including property taxes, homeowner's insurance, and possible PMI, the total monthly housing payment ranges from $4,800 to $5,000 per month. Property taxes alone add roughly $600 per month ($7,200 annually) based on Santa Ana's 1.20% effective tax rate.
Homeowner's insurance typically adds another $100-200 per month depending on coverage levels and the home's specific characteristics. If the down payment is less than 20%, private mortgage insurance (PMI) would add an additional $200-400 per month.
These calculations assume excellent credit and standard lending terms. Buyers with lower credit scores or non-conventional loans may face higher interest rates, increasing the monthly payment substantially.
What are the yearly property taxes on a median-priced home in Santa Ana?
Property taxes on a median-priced home in Santa Ana amount to approximately $9,900 per year, based on the median home value of $825,000 and the effective property tax rate of 1.20%.
This translates to roughly $825 per month in property taxes, which homeowners typically pay through their mortgage escrow account. The 1.20% rate includes all local assessments, school district taxes, and municipal services.
Property tax bills in Santa Ana are reassessed annually based on market value changes, meaning taxes can increase as home values appreciate. However, California's Proposition 13 limits annual increases to 2% plus inflation for existing homeowners, providing some protection against dramatic tax increases.
New buyers should budget for the full assessed value tax rate, as Prop 13 protections reset when properties change ownership, potentially resulting in significantly higher taxes than the previous owner paid.
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How much do HOA fees typically add per month for condos or townhouses in Santa Ana?
HOA fees for condos and townhouses in Santa Ana typically range from $300 to $400 per month, with luxury buildings charging up to $674 per month for premium amenities and services.
Single-family homes in planned communities generally have lower HOA fees, ranging from $100 to $300 per month, while luxury high-rise condos may exceed $500 per month. The fees vary based on the amenities provided, building age, and management efficiency.
These fees typically cover exterior maintenance, common area upkeep, insurance for shared spaces, security services, and amenities like pools, fitness centers, and landscaping. Higher fees often correlate with more extensive amenities and newer buildings with advanced systems.
Buyers should carefully review HOA financial statements and meeting minutes to understand fee stability and any planned special assessments that could increase costs beyond the monthly fee.
It's something we develop in our Costa Rica property pack.
What are the average closing costs for buyers in Santa Ana, both in dollars and as a percentage of the purchase price?
Closing costs for buyers in Santa Ana range from 2% to 5% of the purchase price, with California averages typically falling closer to 4-5% of the sale price.
For a median-priced home at $825,000, buyers can expect closing costs between $16,500 and $41,250. Most buyers in Santa Ana experience closing costs in the $33,000 to $41,250 range, representing approximately 4-5% of the purchase price.
These costs include loan origination fees, appraisal fees, title insurance, escrow fees, recording fees, and various inspections. California's transfer taxes and title insurance costs tend to be higher than national averages, contributing to the elevated closing cost percentages.
First-time homebuyers may qualify for assistance programs that help offset some closing costs, while cash buyers can avoid many loan-related fees but still face title, escrow, and transfer tax expenses.
How have Santa Ana home prices changed over the last 5 years, and what's the percentage increase?
Santa Ana home prices have increased by 50.3% over the past five years, rising from an average of $574,211 in August 2020 to $862,825 in August 2025.
This represents an annualized appreciation rate of approximately 8.5% per year, significantly outpacing inflation and many other investment options. The growth has been particularly strong compared to neighboring cities and reflects increased demand for Orange County real estate.
The appreciation has been driven by limited housing supply, population growth, economic development in the region, and historically low interest rates during much of this period. Santa Ana's relative affordability compared to coastal Orange County cities has attracted many buyers.
This substantial price appreciation has created significant wealth for existing homeowners while making homeownership more challenging for new buyers. The trend reflects broader California housing market dynamics and Orange County's economic strength.
It's something we develop in our Costa Rica property pack.
What's the current price range from the lowest-priced starter home to the highest-priced luxury property on the market in Santa Ana?
The current price range in Santa Ana spans from $80,000 for the lowest-priced properties to $9,900,000 for the highest-end luxury estates, representing a broad spectrum of housing options.
1. **Entry-level properties ($80,000 - $300,000):** Mobile homes, fixer-uppers, and small condos2. **Affordable housing programs ($250,000 - $400,000):** City-sponsored below-market rate homes3. **Standard condos and townhomes ($300,000 - $600,000):** Mainstream residential options4. **Median single-family homes ($600,000 - $1,000,000):** Typical family housing5. **Premium properties ($1,000,000 - $2,000,000):** Larger homes in desirable areas6. **Luxury estates ($2,000,000 - $5,000,000):** High-end homes with premium amenities7. **Ultra-luxury properties ($5,000,000 - $9,900,000):** Exclusive estates and luxury developmentsConclusion
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 real estate market offers diverse opportunities across all price points, from affordable entry-level condos to luxury estates exceeding $9 million.
With median home prices around $851,000 and strong historical appreciation of 50.3% over five years, the market continues to attract both investors and homebuyers seeking long-term value in Orange County.