May 2025 Coastal Market Update: Laguna Beach, Newport Beach, Dana Point & Laguna Niguel

by Jill Witte | May 2025 

As we head into late spring, the Orange County coastal real estate market continues to find its footing. Some cities are seeing increased inventory and a cooling pace, while others hold steady in seller-friendly territory. Whether you're thinking of making a move or just keeping a pulse on your neighborhood, these updates will help you stay one step ahead.

Let’s dive into the latest market trends for Laguna Beach, Newport Beach, Dana Point, and Laguna Niguel—courtesy of Altos Research.

Laguna Beach, CA Market Update

• Median List Price: $5,372,500

• Market Action Index (MAI): 26 – Slight Buyer’s Advantage

• Inventory: 188

Laguna Beach is showing continued signs of cooling this month. The Market Action Index dipped slightly again to 26, indicating a stronger buyer’s edge than we saw in April. Inventory continues to rise, and while pricing has remained relatively stable, increased supply could start to apply downward pressure. Homes are lingering on the market, with a median of 70 days and an average of 147 days, so buyers have some room to negotiate and explore options.

Newport Beach, CA Market Update

• Median List Price: $6,195,000

• Market Action Index (MAI): 35 – Slight Seller’s Advantage

• Inventory: 167

Newport Beach remains balanced in a slight seller’s market. The MAI saw a small dip from 36 to 35, but overall market activity feels relatively unchanged. With days on market averaging just over 100, and inventory slowly rising, the market is treading water for now. If buyer activity picks up, we could see prices tick upward again—but for now, sellers should price thoughtfully, and buyers might find some opportunity in the still-competitive landscape.

Laguna Niguel, CA Market Update

• Median List Price: $2,249,900

• Market Action Index (MAI): 41 – Slight Seller’s Advantage

• Inventory: 87

Laguna Niguel continues to hover in a slight seller’s market. The MAI ticked down slightly, but low inventory levels are helping maintain seller leverage. Homes here are selling faster than in many other coastal cities, with a median of 42 days on market. For buyers, this market may be more fast-paced—but rising inventory could begin to shift the dynamic later this season.

Dana Point, CA Market Update

• Median List Price: $3,978,000

• Market Action Index (MAI): 32 – Slight Seller’s Advantage

• Inventory: 55

Dana Point's market is experiencing a more noticeable cooling trend. The MAI fell from 38 to 32 this month, indicating a shift toward more balanced conditions. Inventory has increased slightly, and while prices have plateaued, any continued drop in market activity could nudge the area closer to a buyer’s market. Keep an eye out for pricing adjustments and new listings as summer approaches.

💡 Takeaway
Spring is ushering in a bit more balance in our coastal communities. While some cities remain firmly in seller territory, others—like Laguna Beach and Dana Point—are softening just enough to give buyers more flexibility. For sellers, presenting your home at its best and pricing strategically is crucial. For buyers, now may be the time to act while options are expanding.

Whether you're ready to make a move or simply curious about what your home might be worth, I’m here to provide guidance and insight every step of the way.

📩 Let’s talk strategy—reach out anytime for a personalized consultation.

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Report Credit: Data provided by Altos Research, Report Run Date: Sunday, May 4, 2025

Contact Jill Witte
📞 +1 (949) 439-4040
📧 jillwitte@bhhscal.com
🏡 DRE #01790889