Cardiff By The Sea
CA
Average Sales Price
$2,964,789
Median Sales Price
$2,795,000
Population
10,181
Total Listings
19
Discover Life in Cardiff By The Sea with Luda Phipps
Local Perspective
If I were walking you through Cardiff By The Sea, I’d point out how this little pocket of the coast has managed to hold onto its original spirit while quietly evolving. Cardiff isn’t just another beach town—it’s a community that’s deeply woven into the fabric of North County San Diego. Whenever clients ask me about Cardiff, I always mention its rare blend of laid-back surf culture and genuine neighborhood warmth. It’s not the flashiest spot, but that’s part of its appeal. I often recommend Cardiff to buyers who want to feel like locals from day one, and who appreciate a place where people still know their neighbors and the ocean is part of daily life. In a market that can sometimes feel overwhelming, Cardiff offers a sense of groundedness that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Neighborhood Highlights
Cardiff By The Sea feels like a small town with a big heart. There’s a relaxed, creative energy here—you’ll notice it in the local coffee shops, the murals, and the way people greet each other on the street. Unlike some neighboring areas that have gone fully upscale or touristy, Cardiff balances authenticity with a dash of coastal cool. The beaches are a central part of life, from the iconic surf breaks at Swami’s to sunset strolls along the bluffs. You’ll find families picnicking at Glen Park, runners on the Rail Trail, and folks gathering for live music at the local spots. It’s vibrant but never overwhelming, making it just as comfortable for young professionals as it is for families or retirees.
Homes & Architecture
Homes in Cardiff By The Sea are as eclectic as the community itself. You’ll see everything from classic 1950s beach cottages to thoughtfully updated mid-century homes, and a growing number of modern builds that take full advantage of the ocean views. There’s a mix of single-family homes, townhomes, and a handful of low-rise condos, especially closer to the coast. Many properties feature open layouts, generous outdoor spaces, and design elements that invite in the sea breeze—think wraparound decks, large windows, and lush, drought-tolerant landscaping. The architectural diversity here means buyers can find something that fits their style, whether they’re after old-school charm or contemporary flair.
Demographics
Data provided by Attom Data
Population
Employment
Population
10.2K
10.2K in 2020
Density
4K
per square mile
Households
4.4K
25 With Children
Gender
51% / 49%
Men Vs Women
Occupancy
55% / 45%
Owned Vs Rented
Age Median: Years
Education Level
Educational Environment
Elementary Schools (2)
Name
Category
Grades
Library
Ratio
8/10
Ada W. Harris Elementary School
1508 Windsor Rd, Cardiff By The Sea, CA 92007
Public
3 - 6
No
22:1 STUDENTS/TEACHERS
0/10
Cardiff Elementary School
1888 Montgomery Ave, Cardiff By The Sea, CA 92007
Public
PK - 2
No
20:1 STUDENTS/TEACHERS
Amenities & Attractions
Featured Listings
For Sale (9)
For Sold (728)
New1 Bath375 SqFt1300 Belleview, Cardiff By The Sea, CA 92007
Listed by Bill Shafer of Properties in Paradise
New3 Beds6 Baths4,185 SqFt2516 San Elijo, Cardiff By The Sea, CA 92007
Listed by Jason Barry of Barry Estates
Active4 Beds3 Baths2,831 SqFt1978 Lake Drive, Cardiff By The Sea, CA 92007
Listed by Tammy Tidmore of Willis Allen Real Estate
Active5 Beds4 Baths2,978 SqFt1839 Freda Lane, Cardiff By The Sea, CA 92007
Listed by Mike Mullins of Coldwell Banker West
Price Dropped by $500K4 Beds4 Baths3,934 SqFt1632 Brahms, Cardiff By The Sea, CA 92007
Listed by Sean Caddell of Pacific Sotheby's Int'l Realty
Price Dropped by $7K2 Beds1 Bath876 SqFt2556 Ocean Cove Dr., Cardiff By The Sea, CA 92007
Listed by Kelly Douglass of Hunter Properties
Cardiff By The Sea: Your Coastal Living Questions Answered
To help you make informed decisions, we've compiled answers to some of the most commonly asked questions.
What types of homes are common in Cardiff By The Sea?
Cardiff offers a mix of coastal cottages, single-family homes, and modern townhomes. You'll also find some condos and custom builds, many with ocean views. The area retains a laid-back, beach-town feel, with a variety of architectural styles reflecting its unique character.
How is the commute and connectivity from Cardiff By The Sea?
What’s the lifestyle and walkability like here?
How fast do homes typically sell in Cardiff By The Sea?
What should I know about schools in Cardiff By The Sea?
Are there HOAs or extra fees to consider?
