Everything You Should Know Before Moving to South Laguna, CA
Considering a move to South Laguna, CA? With a population of just 2,200, this coastal enclave boasts a laid-back lifestyle, ocean views, and a sunny Mediterranean climate with 73% sunny days each year. The median home value is $2.3 million and average rent is $3,600, reflecting a high cost of living. Crime rates are very low, commutes average 27 minutes, and residents enjoy excellent schools and proximity to beaches. If you value safety, education, and ocean breezes, South Laguna is an exceptional choice for your next home.
Demographics - South Laguna, CA
Demographics - South Laguna, CA
South Laguna is a small, close-knit community of about 2,200 residents with a median age of 47, reflecting a mature population. The neighborhood is predominantly White, with a modest mix of Hispanic and Asian residents, and nearly 10% speak a language other than English at home. The population density of 1,600 per square mile offers a comfortable suburban feel near the coast.
Population:
2,200
Density:
1,600 per sq mi
Median Age:
47.2
Gender Ratio:
94 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
9.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
85.5%
Asian:
3.1%
Others:
1.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in South Laguna, CA?
Living in South Laguna comes with a premium price tag, as the median home value is around $2.3 million and rents average $3,600 per month. The cost of living index is over double the national average, especially due to high housing and transportation costs, making it one of the more expensive coastal communities in California. Residents should also factor in state taxes ranging from 1% to 13.3% and above-average utility and insurance costs.
Median House Value:
$2,300,000
Gross Rent:
$3,600
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$135
Auto Insurance:
$1,950
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$6,800
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$1,250
State Taxes:
Low:
1%
|
High:
13.3%
Cost Of Living Index:
218.0
Grocery:
120.0
Housing:
345.0
Utilities:
110.0
Transportation:
135.0
Health Care:
110.0
Miscellaneous:
115.0
Crime
Is South Laguna, CA a safe place to live?
South Laguna enjoys a very low crime rate, with violent crimes occurring at less than 80 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime rate of 1,050 per 100,000. Residents have a 1 in 1,280 chance of experiencing a violent crime, making the area notably safer than most California cities. The overall crime index reflects a peaceful, secure community environment.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
78
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,050
Crime Index:
1,128
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,280
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 95
Weather
What is the weather like in South Laguna, CA year-round?
The climate in South Laguna is mild year-round, with summer highs reaching the upper 70s and winter lows rarely dipping below the mid-40s. Residents enjoy approximately 73% sunny days annually and an average rainfall of about 14 inches, creating ideal conditions for outdoor activities and beach living. The area’s Mediterranean weather ensures comfortable temperatures in every season.
Winter
Min:
46°F
Max:
68°F
Spring
Min:
52°F
Max:
71°F
Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
78°F
Fall
Min:
55°F
Max:
73°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
13.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
73%
Neighbors
South Laguna households are generally affluent, with a median income of $81,000 and family incomes exceeding $150,000. Most adults are highly educated—nearly 60% hold at least a bachelor’s degree—and the poverty rate is a low 6.1%. The average commute time is about 27 minutes, and public transportation usage is minimal, reflecting the community’s suburban character.
Median Income:
$81,000
Household Income:
$134,500
Family Income:
$153,000
Per Capita Income:
$92,000
Income Male:
$95,000
Income Female:
$76,000
Poverty Rate:
6.1%
Non English Speakers:
9.5%
Rent:
$3,600
Unemployment Rate:
4.2%
Public Transport Usage:
1.5%
Commute Time:
27.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
97.5%
Bachelors or More:
59.9%
Education
How are the schools in South Laguna, CA?
Families in South Laguna benefit from well-regarded public schools, such as El Morro Elementary and Thurston Middle School, both known for favorable student-to-teacher ratios. Private school options like Anneliese Schools add to the educational diversity, and nearby colleges—including Soka University and Saddleback College—offer higher education opportunities within a short drive. The community’s high educational attainment rates reflect these excellent local resources.
Public Schools
Name:
El Morro Elementary
Street:
8681 N Coast Hwy
Phone:
949-497-7780
Students:
602
Student Teacher Ratio:
23.1
Name:
Thurston Middle School
Street:
2100 Park Ave
Phone:
949-497-7785
Students:
810
Student Teacher Ratio:
22.5
Private Schools
Name:
Anneliese Schools
Street:
20062 Laguna Canyon Rd
Phone:
949-497-8310
Students:
320
Colleges
Name:
Soka University of America
City:
Aliso Viejo
State:
CA
Distance:
7 miles
Students:
450
Name:
Saddleback College
City:
Mission Viejo
State:
CA
Distance:
12 miles
Students:
18,000
Healthcare
Residents have access to excellent healthcare options, with major hospitals like Mission Hospital Laguna Beach and Hoag Hospital Newport Beach nearby. With 3.1 physicians per 1,000 people and over 90% health insurance coverage, the community benefits from robust medical services. The area’s healthcare index indicates high quality and accessibility.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Mission Hospital Laguna Beach
Address:
31872 Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Phone:
(949) 499-1311
Type:
General & Emergency
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Hoag Hospital Newport Beach
Address:
1 Hoag Dr, Newport Beach, CA 92663
Phone:
(949) 764-4624
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
3.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
90.6%
Health Care Index:
78.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in South Laguna, CA?
South Laguna’s housing market is competitive, featuring a median home price of $2.3 million and average rent for a two-bedroom at $3,600. A majority of homes are owner-occupied, and property values have appreciated by over 7% in the past year. Low vacancy and foreclosure rates highlight the area’s strong demand and stable investment potential.
Median Home Price:
$2,300,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$3,600
Owner Occupied Rate:
62.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
3.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.9%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Residents handle vehicle registration and licensing through the California Department of Motor Vehicles, with the nearest branch located in Laguna Hills. The DMV provides comprehensive services both in person and online, making it convenient for local drivers. For assistance, residents can easily reach the office by phone or visit the official website.
State:
California
Department:
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
23535 Moulton Pkwy, Laguna Hills, CA 92653
Phone:
1-800-777-0133
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.