Explore Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA

Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA Neighborhood Guides

Explore the sought-after neighborhoods in Carmel-By-The-Sea and get to know their real estate details. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us!

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Overview

Luxury Homes for Sale in Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA

The city of Carmel-by-the-Sea in California is where nature’s beauty and artistic legacy dance hand in hand.

It was founded in the early 1900s as a bohemian haven for artists. The early City Councils and mayors were poets and actors, including Herbert Heron, founder of the Forest Theater, bohemian writer and actor Perry Newberry, and actor-director Clint Eastwood. The creative flair was extended into the residential enclaves, where each house tells its own story. You’ll see charming cottages, remodeled residences with distinct architecture, and homes blending timeless designs with modern comforts, giving an eclectic vibe. The area sits along California’s scenic coast; hence, many properties showcase breathtaking sights of the turquoise ocean and sandy shores. It’s a postcard-perfect scene representing “a village in a forest overlooking a white sand beach.”

FULL OF CHARM & CHARACTER: Carmel-by-the-Sea is often described as a scene from a fairytale. Wander along Ocean Avenue, and you’ll be in a European-like village. The area boasts inspired restaurants, wine tasting, boutique shops, and art galleries lining cobblestone sidewalks. Beyond the buzz are whimsical cottages showcasing their original 1920s charm. They often feature stone walls, paths, and patios. Some have added modern touches like bright, airy living spaces, beamed ceilings, stylish bathrooms, and terraces. Every corner tells a tale, and every stroll is a journey through a storybook, creating a captivating living experience.

ICONIC BEACH TOWN: The city wears the crown as one of America’s Top Beach Towns. It centers on Carmel Beach, a crescent of pale sand that meets a cerulean blue ocean backed by Monterey cypress. Point Lobos and Pebble Beach offer crystal clear waters, creating an ambiance perfect for an incredible surf ride. You can also explore Point Lobos State Reserve for an unforgettable diving experience or enjoy a breathtaking Pacific sunset by the shore with your canine companions. The coast becomes a source of serenity and adventure.

ART & ENTERTAINMENT: Immerse yourself in Carmel-by-the-Sea’s rich artistic roots, dating back to 1916. This haven has attracted literary giants like Sinclair Lewis, Mary Austin, and Jack London. Today, the city has nearly 100 galleries showcasing a diverse collection from 19th-century Impressionism to cutting-edge contemporary pieces worldwide. The performing arts centers are fountains of creative expression, hosting concerts, plays, and professional productions. These bring inspiration to the locals and a unique kind of entertainment.

Market Overview

Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA Real Estate Information

Median Listing Price

$4,000,000

Median Price Per Sq Ft

$2,100

Average Days on Market

86

Median Price of Sold Homes

$3,400,000

Home Ownership Percentage

79.8%

Median Rent

$7,068

Homes in Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA

10 Real Estate Facts About Homes for Sale in Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA

  • Carmel-by-the-Sea is a quaint one-square-mile village featured in Travel + Leisure’s “11 Best Small Towns in America.”
  • The city forgoes traditional street addresses, opting for unique identifiers like “San Carlos St. at 9th Ave.” or “Carmelo St., three houses south of Ocean Ave.”
  • It maintains its village charm through ordinances—no sidewalks in residential areas, absence of streetlights, no parking meters, no commercial development on the beach, strict height limitations (one or two stories), no chain restaurants, and a ban on billboards.
  • Carmel-by-the-Sea has nine designated parks and recreational areas boasting walking paths, play structures and sports courts.
  • Carmel-by-the-Sea’s real estate median age is 63 years, reflecting its commitment to preserving historic architectural character.
  • Nearly 38.3% of Carmel-by-the-Sea housing units date back to 1939 and earlier, contributing to the area’s timeless aesthetic.
  • Carmel-by-the-Sea’s current housing market features homes ranging from $2.5M to $9M. Previous sales were recorded at $1.3M to $12.9M.
  • Homes in Carmel-by-the-Sea span from 814 to 3,800 sq ft.
  • Lot sizes range from 0.06 to more than 1 acre, offering outdoor spaces, but the most common lot size is 4,000sqft for a typical 1600sqft home in Carmel-by-the-Sea. 
  • Carmel-by-the-Sea boasts a low crime rate, with an average of 12.3, significantly below the US average of 22.7.
On the map

Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA Neighborhoods Map

The most prominent thoroughfare in Carmel-by-the-Sea is Cabrillo Highway (SR 1), commonly known as Highway 1. It extends northward towards San Francisco, intersecting with U.S. Highway 101.

a drawn out map of Carl-By-The-Sea, CA
Credit: Photo by Heinrich Brooksher Real Estate Group | Source
Carmel-By-The-Sea Map

Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA Interactive Map

Click on any neighborhood for a brief introduction

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Heinrich Brooksher Real Estate Group is a group of real estate experts who possess financial know-how and local insight. They aim to provide their clients with an enriching and rewarding experience while buying a home. With over 30 years of experience guiding clients through the home-buying process, The Heinrich Team has established a strong reputation in the local community. Their commitment to ensuring their clients’ success and happiness makes them a trusted choice for anyone looking to buy a home. 

Meet the locals

Who Lives in Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA

Population

4,642

Median Age

58.5

Median Household Income

$223,994

Households

1,970

Household size

2.35

Cost of living

151.9

Entertainment

Things to do in Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA

Carmel Mission Basilica

This 1797 gem features Spanish architecture and serene courtyards, offering a tranquil retreat to explore the region's past.

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Rugged cliffs meet the azure Pacific at this scenic masterpiece. Hiking trails wind through rare plant life and breathtaking vistas.

Pebble Beach Golf Links

The unanimously rated number one public course in the country, which hosts prestigious tournaments and attracts golf enthusiasts worldwide.

Carmel Beach

A white sandy haven bordered by a scenic trail and cypress trees—perfect for dog strolls, volleyball games, and catching waves.

Education

Schools in Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA

School NameGradesAdmission
Carmel River Elementary SchoolK - 5Public
Carmel Middle School6 - 8Public
Carmel High School9 - 12Public
All Saints Day SchoolK - 8Private
San Carlos SchoolK - 8Private
Stevenson SchoolK - 12Private