Washington Square

Santa Ana, CA

Neighborhood Market Analysis

Q3 2025 Report
$760,000 (2024-2025)
Median Home Price
Walk Score: 74 (Very Walkable—most errands can be accomplished on foot)[5]
Walkability Score
Public schools are rated average to above average for Santa Ana; OCSA is highly regarded for arts education.[1]
School Rating

Location Overview

Neighborhood Boundaries

Officially recognized neighborhood in central Santa Ana, generally bordered by Washington Avenue, Flower Street, and Civic Center Drive. Exact boundaries may vary by city records and association maps.

Zip Codes

92706

Market Data Summary

Price Range$570,000 to $930,000 (recent closed sales)
Price per Sq FtApproximately $500–$650 per sq. ft. depending on condition and lot size (2024)
Inventory LevelsLow to moderate; typically 4–8 homes on the market at any given time.

Property Characteristics

Home Types & Architecture

Home Types

Single-family homesSome attached homes (condos, townhomes)

Architectural Styles

Spanish Colonial RevivalCraftsmanTudorRanch (mid-century)

Property Details

Typical Lot Sizes5,000–8,000 sq. ft.
Home Age RangeBuilt 1923–1958, with some restored and updated properties.
Construction QualityGenerally solid, with many homes featuring original hardwood, plaster, and period details. Restoration quality varies; some homes are fully modernized while others retain vintage character.

Community Profile

Demographics & Lifestyle

Demographics

Diverse, with a mix of long-term residents, young families, and professionals. Median household income estimated at $98,000–$105,000 (2025).

Community Vibe

Historic, tight-knit, and neighborly. Over 60% of residents participate in the neighborhood association, fostering strong community ties and pride in preservation.[3][4]

Typical Residents

  • Families
  • Young professionals
  • Retirees
  • Artists and creatives

Family Friendly

Very family-friendly; active neighborhood association, babysitter program, and frequent community events.

Amenities & Lifestyle

Parks & Recreation

  • Nearby Santiago Park (trails, tennis, playground)
  • Flowering fruit trees and landscaped yards

Dining Options

  • Local taquerias
  • Family-owned restaurants
  • Quick access to Downtown Santa Ana dining scene

Shopping Centers

  • MainPlace Mall (short drive)
  • Local markets and grocers within walking distance

Local Businesses

  • Cafés
  • Boutique shops
  • Local service providers

Education & Schools

Public schools are rated average to above average for Santa Ana; OCSA is highly regarded for arts education.[1]
Overall School Rating

Elementary Schools

  • Washington Elementary
  • Monroe Elementary

Middle Schools

  • Sierra Preparatory Academy

High Schools

  • Santa Ana High School

Private Schools

  • Orange County School of the Arts (nearby)

Transportation & Accessibility

Transit & Roads

Public Transit

  • OCTA bus lines along Flower St. and Civic Center Dr.

Major Roads

  • Flower Street
  • Civic Center Drive
  • 17th Street

Commute & Walkability

Commute Times10–15 minutes to central Orange County business districts; 15–25 minutes to Irvine or Anaheim.
WalkabilityVery walkable for daily errands and recreation; sidewalks throughout.[5]
ParkingGenerally easy street parking; most homes have driveways or garages.

Marketing Intelligence

Target Buyer Types

  • Young families
  • Move-up buyers
  • Historic home enthusiasts
  • Investors seeking stable returns

Key Selling Points

  • Historic architecture
  • Active, friendly community
  • Central location
  • Walkability

Pricing Considerations

Homes in excellent, restored condition command a premium; pricing should reflect restoration quality and lot size.

Common Objections & Response Strategies

Objection: Older homes may require more maintenance.

Response Strategy:

Provide inspection reports, highlight recent upgrades, and connect buyers with local contractors experienced in historic properties.

Objection: Some homes lack modern amenities (e.g., central AC, open floor plans).

Response Strategy:

Showcase homes that have been sensitively updated, and discuss potential for tasteful renovations.

Objection: Higher price per square foot compared to newer suburbs.

Response Strategy:

Emphasize unique character, walkability, and community engagement that newer areas may lack.

Investment Insights

Investment Potential

Appreciation Potential

Moderate to strong, driven by historic appeal and central location. 3–5% annual appreciation projected for 2025.

Rental Demand

Steady, with strong interest from families and professionals seeking historic homes.

Buyer Competition

Moderate to high; multiple offers common on well-maintained or updated homes.

Best For

  • Owner-occupants seeking historic charm
  • Buy-and-hold investors
  • Families valuing community

Potential Concerns

  • Older homes may require ongoing maintenance
  • Limited new construction
  • Some homes need modernization

Professional Recommendations

1

Network with the Washington Square Neighborhood Association to access off-market opportunities and community insights.

2

Educate buyers on the value and responsibilities of historic home ownership.

3

Stage homes to highlight both period charm and modern conveniences.

4

Leverage neighborhood events and association activities in marketing materials.

5

Prepare for multiple-offer scenarios and advise sellers on strategic pricing.

Competitive Analysis

Comparable Markets

  • Wilshire Square
  • Floral Park
  • Park Santiago

Market Positioning

Ideal for buyers seeking historic homes with a strong sense of community at a more accessible price point than Santa Ana’s most exclusive neighborhoods.

Competitive Advantages

  • Lower median price than Floral Park
  • Stronger community engagement than many nearby areas
  • Historic charm with central location

Price Comparison

Median home price is $100,000–$250,000 lower than Floral Park, but higher than some outlying Santa Ana neighborhoods.

Investment Metrics

3.8%–4.2% for well-maintained rentals (2025)
Cap Rates
Gross yields of 4%–5% typical for single-family homes
Rental Yields
Approximately 18–21, reflecting strong owner-occupant demand
Price-to-Rent
Generally neutral to modestly positive for long-term holds; best returns with value-add or short-term rental strategies.
Cash Flow
3–5% annual appreciation expected through 2026.
Appreciation

Buyer Journey Insights

First-Time Buyers

May be priced out of fully restored homes, but fixer-uppers offer entry opportunities. Community support and walkability are attractive.

Move-Up Buyers

Drawn to larger lots, historic charm, and community events. Value the blend of tradition and modern upgrades.

Downsizers

Appreciate single-level homes and walkable amenities, but may find lot sizes larger than needed.

Investors

Steady rental demand and appreciation, but must account for maintenance of older properties.

Relocators

Central location and access to OC business hubs are strong draws; historic vibe and community engagement differentiate from newer tracts.

This neighborhood analysis was generated using hyperlocal data and AI intelligence.

Neighborhood conditions change - consult with local real estate professionals for the most current information.

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