Moving to Newport Beach? Here's Everything You Need to Know

Moving to a new city is always an exciting chapter in life, and if you're considering a move to Newport Beach, get ready for a slice of coastal paradise! Nestled in Orange County, California, Newport Beach is a picturesque gem renowned for its stunning beaches, upscale lifestyle, and vibrant community.

 Learn about Newport Beach before moving there, including its geography and the lifestyle it provides. Newport Beach is a great place for your next adventure. It has beautiful beaches, nice facilities, and a friendly community.

Location of Newport Beach, CA

Newport Beach is a beautiful coastal area in Orange County, California. Do not mistake it for Newport, Rhode Island. Corona Del Mar, Costa Mesa, and Irvine surround Newport Beach. It has a nice downtown and boardwalks, as well as beautiful beaches with good waves for surfing.

Proximity to Nearby Cities:

• For those keen on exploring California's diverse cities, Newport Beach offers convenient proximity:
• San Diego is 89.7 miles away.
• Long Beach is a short 25.4-mile drive.
• Los Angeles is easily accessible at just 43.6 miles.

Transportation Options:

• Newport Beach ensures seamless connectivity with various transportation options:
• OASIS Transportation: Ideal for essential appointments.
• OC ACCESS: Tailored for those with disabilities.
• Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA): Serving Newport Beach's public transportation needs.
• Shuttle, Taxi, and limousine Services: Perfect for special events or larger gatherings.
• Amtrak (Southern Pacific Railroad): Located nearby, providing efficient travel for longer trips.

Newport Beach, CA Population & Demographics

As of 2021, Newport Beach, CA, embraces a population of 85,806 individuals, characterized by a median age of 48.2 years. This coastal community is not only beautiful but also has a strong economy. The median household income in this community is $142,463.

In the past years, Newport Beach experienced a slight decline in population, decreasing by 1.02% from 86,694 in 2020. Median household income increased by 6.44% from $133,849 to $142,463 during the same period.

Ethnic Diversity:

Newport Beach celebrates a rich tapestry of ethnicities, with the five largest groups comprising:

1. White (Non-Hispanic): The majority, constituting 77.3% of the population.
2. Asian (Non-Hispanic): Making up 8.03% of the community.
3. White (Hispanic): Representing 4.33% of Newport Beach.
4. Two+ (Non-Hispanic): Comprising 3.61% of the population.
5. Two+ (Hispanic): Contributing to the diverse fabric at 3.58%.

Cost of Living in Newport Beach, CA

Living in Newport Beach, California is expensive, with a cost of living index of 164.9. It is 64.9% higher than the U.S. average but 10.0% lower than California's average.

Newport Beach is a very expensive city. It ranks 15th globally, 12th in the U.S., and 9th in California. The average monthly cost in Newport Beach is $3,479. The average monthly cost is $3,479. 

Newport Beach is a popular city in California. It offers a good quality of life and ranks as one of the best places to live in the world. The average salary after taxes is $4,042, which can cover living expenses for about 1.2 months. Many people consider it one of the best cities in the United States, and it has a population of around 85.2K.

Newport Beach Climate

Experience Southern California's famed beautiful weather in Newport Beach, where the climate is a key attraction. The city enjoys short, warm summers and cool, extended winters, with temperatures rarely exceeding 87 degrees or dropping below 42 degrees throughout the year. 

Rainfall is minimal at just 12 inches annually, well below the U.S. average of 38 inches, and residents bask in an impressive 277 sunny days per year. Summer highs reach a comfortable 78 degrees, while the colder season, spanning November to April, maintains an average daily temperature below 68 degrees, with lows around 49 degrees and highs near 66 degrees Fahrenheit. 

If you're planning a visit, the optimal time to explore Newport Beach is from early June to mid-October, ensuring a delightful experience of the city's inviting climate.

Newport Beach, CA Schools & Higher Education

When you make Newport Beach your home, you'll discover a community deeply committed to education. The Newport Mesa Unified School District, a beacon of excellence, welcomes you. Among the city's stellar public high schools are Corona del Mar High School and Newport Harbor High School, celebrated for their outstanding test scores and student progress. If you're considering private education, there are excellent choices like Pacifica Christian High School, Sage Hill School, and Carden Hall.

If you're looking to pursue higher education, Newport Beach if full of diverse academic opportunities. Imagine having more than 100 colleges within 100 miles! Nearby options include Coastline Community College, UC Irvine, and Chapman University, a top private college in the state. 

Employment Opportunities in Newport Beach, CA

Choosing a new home involves considering the local economy, and in Newport Beach, you're in luck—job opportunities abound! Newport Beach's job market has grown by 0.6% in the past year. The future looks good, with a projected job rate increase of 31.9% by 2033. The city offers an average salary of $80,000, translating to an hourly pay of $23.58.

Newport Beach boasts thriving industries, including Manufacturing, Finance and Insurance, Scientific, and Technical Services, and Healthcare and Social Assistance. Key employers contributing to the city's economic vibrancy include Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian, PIMCO, and Pacific Life Insurance. 

Top Neighborhoods in Newport Beach, CA

Before you start contemplating living in your dream home in Newport Beach, it's important to choose the right neighborhood that aligns with your lifestyle and family preferences. Newport Beach has many different neighborhoods, including gated communities, coastal areas, and man-made islands, for people to explore. 

Crystal Cove

Situated on the far southwest side of Newport Beach, Crystal Cove is a coveted upscale community on Newport Coast. Crystal Cove is a popular gated community in the county. It is next to Crystal Cove State Park, so residents can easily enjoy the beach, canyons, and historic district.

Balboa Peninsula

Popularly known as "The Peninsula," Balboa Peninsula is a scenic three-mile stretch between the Pacific Ocean and Newport Bay. It has a harbor and sandy beaches, making it a popular place for activities like beach volleyball, surfing, and cruising. Ideal for those who want a calm coastal life, with lots of waterfront dining, shopping, and nightlife options. Homes include a mix of single-family homes, villas, and condos featuring diverse styles such as New England, Cape Cod, cottage, and contemporary.

Lido Isle

Lido Isle is a man-made island located near Newport Beach. It offers a peaceful environment that allows people to escape from the noise of the city. Lido Isle has great shopping, beaches, and businesses nearby. It also offers fine dining, boutiques, theaters, and beautiful ocean views.

Pelican Hill

For those seeking a family-friendly atmosphere, Pelican Hill in the affluent Newport Coast is an ideal choice. This area has fancy neighborhoods like Pelican Crest, Pelican Point, and Pelican Ridge. The houses are luxurious and have amazing views of the Pacific Ocean. Homes in Pelican Crest, for instance, range from $7 million to $34 million, providing an upscale and welcoming family environment.

Linda Isle

Shaped like a horseshoe, Linda Isle is a prestigious guard-gated neighborhood on a man-made island in the Lower Bay. Renowned for opulent waterfront living, Linda Isle restricts access to residents and their guests, making it appealing to high-profile individuals. Notably, all homes are waterfront, and most have private docks, making it a haven for watersports and sailing enthusiasts.

5 Exciting Things to Do in Newport Beach 

Newport Beach is not all work, no play! There is a reason why residents from all over the world choose to relocate to Newport Beach: it has every amenity you can think of. And no, it's not all beaches either! Here is a list of 5 exciting things to do in Newport Beach with the family: 

Enjoy the Thrill of Surfing 

Newport Beach is a surfer's paradise with popular spots like Blackies, just north of the Newport Beach Pier. Ideal for beginners and longboarders, Blackies offers consistent waves. Another hotspot, Newport Point, near 18th Street on the Peninsula, is perfect for those embracing the change from southwest to south. 56th Street is a bustling surf location with reliable waves, while the River Jetties, located at the Santa Ana River mouth, is a popular choice—just avoid it during or after rainstorms due to water conditions.

Go on a Whale Watching Tour 

Explore the wonders of Newport Beach by embarking on a whale-watching tour, a must-do activity in a town nestled along significant whale migration paths. Operating near Balboa Pier, a couple of tour companies offer excursions with almost guaranteed sightings of these majestic marine creatures.

During the two-hour journey, navigate the waves while keeping a keen eye out for dorsal fins, water spouts, and breathtaking breaches. Blue and grey whales are common sights, and lucky observers may also spot humpbacks, minkes, dolphins, seals, and even sharks. Given the constant movement of whales along the coast, there's a high likelihood of encountering these incredible creatures up close and personal throughout the year. 

Luxury Shopping and Dining Delights 

Discover upscale shopping at Fashion Island, an outdoor haven in Newport Beach featuring renowned stores like Neiman Marcus, Louis Vuitton, Bloomingdales, and Nordstrom. Indulge in high-end dining experiences, including the charming Bloomingdale 59th and Lex Cafe.

Corona del Mar Plaza, located at 984 Avocado Avenue, offers another chic destination with Bristol Farms, Gulf Stream restaurant, Sprinkles cupcakes, Sur La Table, White House Black Market, and Tommy Bahamas. Bristol Farms, known for its gourmet offerings, is a standout choice. This plaza sits adjacent to the Newport Beach Library.

Venture a bit farther to South Coast Plaza at 3333 Bristol Street, Costa Mesa, for a shopping and dining extravaganza. Explore stores like Ann Taylor, Abercrombie & Fitch, Nordstrom, Louis Vuitton, and Bloomingdale.

Take a Stroll Along Balboa Pier

Discover the charm of Balboa Pier, a picturesque spot a bit farther down from Newport Beach's main pier, close to the vibrant Balboa Fun Zone. Built-in 1906 alongside the Balboa Pavilion, it played a key role in drawing investors and real estate enthusiasts to the area, becoming a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike.

At Balboa Pier, you can do more than just enjoy the scenic views. Engage in fantastic fishing, hop on a whale-watching excursion, or take a peaceful stroll along the historic pier. If you're feeling hungry, don't miss the chance to dine at the delightful 1940s-themed Ruby's Diner, offering a unique culinary experience.

Feel the Joy at Balboa Fun Zone

Step into the Balboa Fun Zone, a place that's been spreading joy since 1936, becoming a favorite for generations and families. Situated on the Balboa Peninsula, it's more than just an amusement spot—it's a vibrant mix of arcades, rides, and a lively boardwalk with shops and eateries.

From its roots as a boat yard, the Fun Zone now treats visitors to views of both the bay and the Pacific. Dive into the excitement with a rock climbing wall, bungee jump, carnival-style rides, and the iconic Ferris wheel, all with the famous Balboa Pavilion close by.

But it's not just about the thrills. The Fun Zone opens doors to scenic harbor cruises, ferry trips to Balboa Island, and adventures like fishing or whale-watching. 

Conclusion 

Congratulations on considering the vibrant move to Newport Beach! As you set out on this move, remember that Newport Beach is more than a destination; it's a welcoming community with endless possibilities. From the serene beaches and upscale shopping to the family-friendly attractions like Balboa Pier and Fun Zone, Newport Beach offers a blend of coastal charm and modern delights.

Welcome to Newport Beach—your home by the sea!