Laguna Beach Real Estate in 2025: Worth It, or Just Worth Dreaming About?

Laguna Beach is stunning. We all know that. But with homes selling for an average of $5 to more than $20 million in 2025, it’s fair to ask: is it still worth the price tag? Let’s dig into what buyers are really paying for — and whether the view, the vibe, and the value are still aligned.

What does $17M really buy you in Laguna Beach these days - and is it still worth the price tag? In this quick video, I break down who's buying, what's moving, and whether Laguna still delivers that dream home ROI in 2025.

For those of you who don’t know me, I’m Missy Wiesen — your Coastal Orange County real estate pro. I show you what it’s really like to live in The OC. Thinking about buying, selling, or investing in Orange County real estate? Call, text, or scan the QR code to book a quick Zoom with me.

Let’s start with the elephant in the room: yes, Laguna Beach homes are sitting a bit longer than they are in Newport Beach or Corona del Mar. Right now, Laguna's demand is around 12%, with an average of 247 days on market. Compare that to CDM and Newport, where demand is about 21% and homes average 141 days on market.

But don’t confuse longer market times with a lack of value. In 2025, buyers in the Laguna Beach real estate market are just being more intentional. They’re taking their time. Being strategic. And honestly? That’s not a bad thing.

Because no one moves to Laguna Beach on a whim. This isn’t the kind of place where people stumble into an open house and decide to throw down millions. Laguna buyers know what they want. They’re in it for the lifestyle, the views, the art, the nature.

So, is Laguna Beach still worth it? Let’s talk about what that price tag really gets you — and what makes Laguna Beach real estate in 2025 so unique.

1000 Steps Beach - one of Laguna's most iconic (and stunning) spots. With homes perched right above the sand, this view is exactly why people pay a premium to live here.

The Laguna Lifestyle: Still One-of-a-Kind

Laguna Beach has this rare magic you can’t fake. I’ve lived here for over 30 years and I still pull over sometimes just to snap a sunset photo. There’s something about the way the cliffs catch the light, the breeze smells like salt and eucalyptus, and even the tourists slow down to admire the views. It just hits different.

And if you’re someone who values walkability, it doesn’t get much better than the village. The cottages tucked between art galleries, coffee shops, and ocean-view parks? So cute. So Laguna. Add in summer art festivals, tide pools, and rooftop cocktails and it feels like living in a perfectly curated coastal dream — straight out of Coastal Living magazine.

Forest Avenue in Laguna beach is lined with locally loved boutiques, salons, and cafes - a charming, walkable hub just blocks from the sand.

Now, the big estates in the hills? They’re next-level. We’re talking panoramic views, infinity pools, home spas, and wine cellars that would make Napa jealous. But you don’t need a $20 million home to live well here. There are layers to Laguna, and each one has its own kind of charm.

Neighborhood Spotlight: Three Arch Bay

If you know, you know. Three Arch Bay in South Laguna is a private, gated community that feels like its own little world. There’s a home there I’m obsessed with: original cottage on about an acre, perched right on the bluff. It has a guest house at street level, a private staircase to the sand, and a concrete pool in the beach that fills with high tide. Oh, and did I mention the lighthouse?

Let’s just say… if the pool fills with high tide, you’re probably not in Kansas anymore.

It feels more like Cape Cod than California, and that’s what makes it so special. It’s one of those properties where the experience is almost impossible to replicate. And that’s what people are paying for.

This might be my favorite house in all of Orange County. This home highlights the magic that is, Laguna Beach.

Areas to Watch: Where the Price Tag Feels Heavy

Okay, let’s talk about the neighborhood that gets a lot of buzz: Emerald Bay.

Now don’t get me wrong — Emerald Bay is stunning. Private beach, security, community events, tennis courts, the whole nine yards. But I have to be honest: some of the pricing just feels a little much. Like $10 million for a home that backs up to PCH? That’s a hard sell, even with ocean views.

And yet… people pay it. Because for some, Emerald Bay is the dream. And in real estate, perceived value is everything. If it checks all your boxes and you can afford it? Great. But if you’re looking for something with a little more soul per square foot, there are other pockets of Laguna that offer a lot more bang for your buck.

Investor Insight: Not Just a Pretty Place

Laguna may be dreamy, but it’s not just for dreamers. I recently helped a client close on a duplex in North Laguna. During escrow, we found out about construction approved next door. I negotiated a $200,000 discount.

This classic duplex in Laguna is a prime example of Laguna Beach's multifamily housing - offering both charm and investment potential just blocks from the ocean.

Fast forward eight months: my buyer made some smart cosmetic upgrades and the property appraised for $400,000 more than what she paid.

So yes, the market is slower. But the opportunities? They’re still here if you know where to look — and how to negotiate. Laguna Beach real estate in 2025 may just be the perfect blend of lifestyle and long-game.

So… Is Laguna Beach Still Worth the Price in 2025?

Here’s the real answer: it depends on what you’re looking for.

If you want an affordable coastal bungalow you can grab off-market before anyone else? Laguna probably isn’t your scene.

But if you’re looking for a town that delivers jaw-dropping views, small-town charm, artistic soul, and a lifestyle that just feels different… then yes. It’s still worth every penny.

Buying in Laguna Beach isn’t about scoring a deal. It’s about making a decision to live (or invest) in one of the most iconic zip codes in Coastal Orange County. And in 2025? There’s still plenty of opportunity if you know where to look — and who to call.

Ready to start your own OC story?

Whether you're buying, selling, or just exploring what’s possible — I'm here for it.Call, text, or scan the QR code to connect.

Because I don’t just sell the dream — I live it!

Thinking about buying, selling, or investing in Coastal Orange County? Let's hop on a Zoom and talk strategy. I'm just a click or scan away.