If you live in Santa Monica — or you've been thinking about it — right now is one of the most exciting moments this city has had in years. There's a real energy building, and it's not just the spring weather. Here's what's happening this week and why it matters.
The City Just Made a Big Move
Last week, the Santa Monica City Council unanimously approved an eight-point economic revitalization package that's the most aggressive investment in the local economy the city has made in years. Here's what it includes and why you should care:
A $3 million economic development fund to attract new businesses. Restaurant fees are being eliminated for simple sidewalk dining setups — up to 59 restaurants could benefit immediately. The Entertainment Zone, which launched on Third Street Promenade last summer as the first of its kind in Southern California, is expanding to cover the entire downtown core, as well as the Pier, Main Street, and Montana Avenue. Film permit fees are being temporarily waived. And downtown parking rates are being discounted to drive foot traffic.
Why does this matter for real estate? Because the vitality of a neighborhood's commercial district directly impacts home values. When restaurants fill empty storefronts, when streets feel alive at night, when a city invests in making itself more walkable and vibrant, property values follow. This package signals that Santa Monica isn't just coasting on its reputation. It's actively building the next chapter.
World Cup and Olympics Are Coming to Santa Monica
This isn't a distant headline — it's happening now. The city accepted $750,000 in Metro grants for Open Streets events tied to the FIFA World Cup this summer and the 2028 Olympics. A five-week World Cup activation is planned for downtown Santa Monica from June 11 through July 19. A large-scale music festival partnership with Goldenvoice is advancing for September 2026. And ESPN broadcasting partnerships are in negotiation for 2027.
Santa Monica is positioning itself as a global stage, for homeowners, which translates to visibility, investment, and long-term value.
The Food Scene Is on Fire (in the Best Way)
The dining scene in Santa Monica keeps leveling up. Here's what's new and notable:
Crudo e Nudo is celebrating its fifth anniversary this month with a chef-and-winemaker takeover series running April 13–19. If you haven't been, this sustainable seafood gem on Santa Monica Blvd is worth the reservation.
The Win-Dow recently opened on Montana Avenue — their seventh location, serving smashburgers, fried chicken sandwiches, and grain bowls. Montana Avenue continues to quietly add great casual spots alongside its boutique shopping.
Gott's Roadside, the beloved Bay Area burger spot, is opening a Downtown Santa Monica location this summer. If you've ever detoured through Napa just for their garlic fries, you understand the excitement.
Holy Basil brought their Bangkok street-food-inspired Thai to the Westside with a Santa Monica location featuring custom-designed tiles and a stunning non-alcoholic drink program.
Pasjoli is running a guest chef collaboration series through April — upcoming dates include Dan Rabilwongse of Budonoki (April 9), Vin Folk's team (April 16), and the incomparable Mei Lin (April 23). These are the kinds of dining experiences that make living in Santa Monica feel like a privilege.
And 1 Pico at Shutters on the Beach just hosted a gorgeous Easter prix-fixe this weekend — a reminder that some of the best meals in LA come with an ocean view.
This Week on the Pier and Around Town
Wellness & Waves kicked off for the season — every Saturday morning from 8–10 AM, join a group run followed by yoga or pilates overlooking the ocean. It's free and it's one of those only-in-Santa-Monica moments.
Western Wednesdays at Santa Monica Place — free line dancing every Wednesday evening through August in Center Plaza. Even if you've never line danced, it's a scene.
Downtown Farmers Markets continue on Wednesday and Saturday mornings. The Wednesday Arizona Avenue market is the one the chefs shop — get there early.
Parsons Dance performs April 18–19 — internationally acclaimed contemporary dance right here in Santa Monica.
And the Pier's Third Thursday community nights continue through May — live DJs, art, kids activities, classic cars, and the kind of good-vibes evening that reminds you why you live here.
What This Means if You're Thinking About Santa Monica
I tell my clients: don't just look at the house. Look at what's happening around it. And what's happening around Santa Monica right now — the city investment, the food scene, the global events pipeline, the community energy — is exactly the kind of momentum that supports long-term real estate value.
The median home price sits around $1.8 million, with condos offering entry points around $1.2 million. Appreciation is projected at 3–5% through 2026. And the lifestyle is, frankly, unmatched.
Whether you're already here and want to know what your home is worth, or you're considering making the move, I'd love to have that conversation.
