$1,168,131Average Value$756Average Price per Sq Ft19Homes For Sale
On California's Central Coast, a famously beautiful landscape that inspires art
About 15 miles from San Luis Obispo on California’s Central Coast, Morro Bay is a seaside fishing village named for its own estuary and famous for its stunning coastal landscape. The huge Morro Rock, part of a volcanic chain of peaks and hills known as the "Nine Sisters," rises from the Pacific Ocean beside a sandy beach and the sleepy downtown harbor. “People come from all over the world to vacation here because there are drop-dead gorgeous views everywhere you look,” says Morro Bay resident Kathleen Scruton, a Realtor with REeBroker Group. “It’s one of those places where artists come to paint, and photographers come to capture the sunset." There are plenty of opportunities for water recreation on both the bay and the open ocean, from sailing to surfing, fishing and birdwatching.
Roughly 11,000 residents live in Morro Bay either full- or part-time, a mix of retirees, families with children, and young professionals, all drawn by the laid-back local lifestyle. “There are a lot of remote workers who choose to live here,” Scruton says. “A lot of residents are employed in the service and hospitality industry here, and some are traveling to San Luis Obispo, which is like a 20-minute drive.” Despite regular tourists, Morro Bay manages to maintain it’s small-town feel. “It’s a really tight-knit community,” Scruton says. “People look out for each other.”
Visitors are drawn to Morro Bay for the large volcanic rock known as Morro Rock.
Morro Bay is a dreamy beach town that draws visitors from all over.
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Beaches, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing opportunities in Morro Bay
Morro Rock Beach and the adjacent Morro Strand State Beach span 6 continuous miles of ocean. These white sandy beaches are ideal for swimming, surfing and scouting for gray and humpback whales, which can occasionally be seen from the shore.
The 2,700-acre Morro Bay State Park is set right on the bay, with wetlands and brackish marshes that attract about 250 migratory bird species. The park's marina is a convenient spot to launch kayaks, canoes and paddleboards, and parkgoers can access trails that lead to the summits of Black Hill and Cerro Cabrillo — both part of the volcanic Nine Sisters chain. The state park also includes a public 18-hole golf course, and the Morro Bay Museum of Natural History here has exhibits about the bay’s wildlife and ecosystems.
Morro Rock Beach is a popular white sand beach in Morro Bay.
Many fisherman use the harbor in Morro Bay to dock their boats.
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A diverse housing scene for both full and part time residents
As of early 2025, Morro Bay's median home price is about $955,000. While this is more than double the national average, it’s lower than other nearby coastal communities like Cayucos and Avila Beach, where medians float above $1.3 million.
Mid-20th-century beach bungalows and coastal cottages are concentrated near the Embarcadero, while newer custom homes can be found further inland. “A lot of the homes are tiered on little rolling hills, so a huge portion of homes on the hills have views of the water and Morro Rock,” Scruton says. Homes set on the oceanfront and higher in elevation can go for upwards of $2.5 million. Condominiums and manufactured homes are less expensive options.
“There are quite a few year-round residents, but every street has at least one second-home owner," Scruton says. "A lot of people from the Central Valley, Los Angeles and San Francisco own second homes here to get out of the heat. We’ve got a pretty mild climate, so it doesn’t get too hot or too cold. For the most part, nobody here really has air conditioning in their home because they don’t need it.”
Oceanside homes line the bluffs in Morro Bay.
Morro Bay has many quiet residential streets.
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Boutique shopping and fresh seafood along the Embarcadero
Spanning Morro Bay’s harbor, the Embarcadero is the city’s waterfront shopping and dining district. This walkable stretch is lined with boutiques and seafood restaurants serving fresh fish and oysters supplied daily by local fishermen. “You can go down to the seafood markets on the docks and buy some fish to take home and cook,” Scruton says. “It doesn’t get much fresher than that.” The harbor’s also a popular spot to scout for sea lions and harbor seals, which are often seen splashing in the bay or lounging right on the docks.
While most of Morro Bay’s shopping and dining scene is focused on locally owned establishments —both along the Embarcadero and throughout the city— residents can find chain grocery shopping and a couple fast food restaurants further inland.
Many restaurants are oceanfront in Morro Bay.
Giovanni's Fhish Market and Gallery is an iconic spot in Morro Bay.
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Learning in the top-rated school district in San Luis Obispo County
Morro Bay is zoned for San Luis Coastal Unified School District, which Niche gives an A rating and names as the best district in San Luis Obispo County. The district serves about 7,500 students and enables high schoolers to enroll in a variety of career and technical education courses, as well as earn dual enrollment credits through Cuesta College.
Morro Bay High School
Del Mar Elementary School.
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Low rates of property and violent crime in Morro Bay
Morro Bay's property and violent crime rates are below the national average, and have fallen in recent years. According to the most recent information provided by the California Department of Justice, 2023 saw 32 reported incidents of violent crime, down from 55 incidents in 2022. There were 102 reported incidents of property crime in 2023, down from 150 the previous year and the lowest annual rate in 10 years.
Access to public transportation and the iconic Pacific Coast Highway
Morro Bay is located right on California’s scenic Highway 1, which connects drivers to hubs along the coast. San Luis Obispo Regional Transit Authority buses serve local residents. Morro Bay has several medical offices, and two hospitals—Adventist Health Sierra Vista Medical Center and Dignity Health French Hospital Medical Center—are about 15 miles away in San Luis Obispo. The small San Luis Obispo County Airport (SBP) is about 18 miles away, with direct flights to several U.S. cities, as well as Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and San Francisco International Airport (SFO); both airports are within a 4-hour drive of Morro Bay.
Written By
Lauren Schott
Photography Contributed By
Joseph Palacios
Video By
Anne Sheridan
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
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On average, homes in Morro Bay, CA sell after 63 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Morro Bay, CA over the last 12 months is $946,500, up 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Modern coastal elegance meets refined design in the heart of Morro Bay’s coveted Del Mar neighborhood. This thoughtfully crafted home captures the essence of seaside living with a sophisticated, contemporary twist. Framed by lush, mature landscaping and stylish horizontal fencing, the home’s curb appeal is both striking and private. A two-car garage with extra-high ceilings and a glass-paneled
Lindsey HarnChristie's International Real Estate Sereno
California Central Coast Gem. Experience wonderful ocean and Morro Rock views from this two-bedroom two-bathroom property located on a quiet neighborhood street. View is protected via a deed restriction. Open floorplan that highlights the views from the kitchen, living room and dining area. Natural light flows throughout. Both bedrooms are good sized. The downstairs second bedroom has a separate
Don't miss this Beautifully updated 2-bedroon 1-bath gem with an attached garage in the heart of Morro Bay where coastal charm meets modern comfort. This move in ready home features a bright, open concept kitchen and living room, creating a seamless flow that is perfect for both everyday living and entertainment. Stylish upgrades throughout add a fresh, contemporary feel while maintaining a warm
BUILDER'S SPECIAL! Welcome to Jade Cove. An exceptional development opportunity awaits. This shovel-ready 9,000 sq ft lot comes with approved plans for a 5-unit project, with entitlements already in place. This property is primed for your next build, whether you’re a seasoned developer or looking to capitalize on a rare multi-unit opportunity. Seller financing available with 50% down, interest
Welcome to this Central Coast Avocado Ranch, a rare 350-acre agricultural gem in the heart of California’s Central Coast. This income-producing ranch is equipped with 7 wells and riparian rights from Morro Creek, ensuring a sustainable and abundant water supply to support its thriving avocado orchards. With over 100 acres already planted, this property also features four income-producing rental
Welcome to 545 Quinn Ct, a contemporary residence set in Morro Bay’s desirable Black Hills Villas, just a short drive from Morro Bay Golf Course, State Park hiking trails, downtown shops, & the iconic Embarcadero waterfront. This home blends comfort with contemporary living that may be ideal for buyers seeking convenience and coastal lifestyle access. Built circa 2020, this 1,783± sqft home
Cassandra MerrilllMerrill & Associates Real Estate
Welcome to 670 Sequoia Court. This unique nearly half acre lot is a rare find with incredible views and preliminary plans for a custom-built home that can be designed to your specifications. Soil Engineering Report, Engineering Geology Report, Environmental Report and Topographic Survey already completed. Located on a cul-de-sac street with easy access and space between surrounding lots, the
Just half a mile from the sand, 500 Atascadero Road Space M3 delivers spacious coastal living in Morro Bay’s welcoming 55 plus Silver City Resort East, ideal as a primary residence or refined second home near the beach. Built in 2018 and beautifully maintained, this approximately 1,520 square foot home offers three generously sized bedrooms and two full bathrooms in one of the closest 55 plus
Discover the epitome of coastal elegance in this stunning 2-story home, boasting breathtaking views of Morro Rock and the bay right across the street, conveniently situated opposite a park for endless outdoor enjoyment, and just a short walk to Main Street, Morro Bay where you'll find a variety of restaurants and shops to savor. The main level invites gatherings with two spacious living rooms: a
Just half a mile from the sand, 500 Atascadero Road Space F1 offers a modern coastal retreat in Morro Bay’s active 55 plus Silver City Resort East, ideal as a primary residence or stylish second home near the beach. Built in 2021, this spacious double wide home provides approximately 1,500 square feet with three bedrooms and two full bathrooms, blending contemporary design with low maintenance
Modern coastal elegance meets refined design in the heart of Morro Bay’s coveted Del Mar neighborhood. This thoughtfully crafted home captures the essence of seaside living with a sophisticated, contemporary twist. Framed by lush, mature landscaping and stylish horizontal fencing, the home’s curb appeal is both striking and private. A two-car garage with extra-high ceilings and a glass-paneled
Lindsey HarnChristie's International Real Estate Sereno
Prime Business Opportunity in Downtown Morro Bay.Discover exceptional potential at 600 Morro Bay Blvd B, a high visibility corner location in the heart of downtown Morro Bay. This prominent site offers excellent street presence and easy access, making it ideal for a variety of business ventures.Whether you’re envisioning a new pharmacy, boutique retail store, or your own unique concept,
Welcome to the pristine Bayshore Village community! An exceptional opportunity to own a spacious ±1,584 sq ft, three-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bath condominium in one of Morro Bay’s most breathtaking locations. From bayfront picnic tables and just steps away to the pool, spa, and clubhouse right outside your door, every day here feels like a getaway. Inside, the home provides a cozy
Prime Development Opportunity - 1151 Main St, Morro Bay, CA 93442 Exceptional commercial lot located just three short blocks from the Embarcadero, offering unmatched visibility and accessibility. With convenient access to Highway 1 and flexible mixed-use zoning, this property opens the door to a wide range of development possibilities. The lot is ideally suited for a two-story project, taking
Location and vintage charm awaits the new owner of this 1958 Flamingo Mobile Home. This unit is located where you have views of the bay from the kitchen and living area. This model features the optional "expandable" living space with a full wall of windows keeping the unit light. It also features built-ins in the bedroom. Windows have all been replaced with new, dual pane windows from Los Osos
Property Id: 2181801Enjoy the best of Morro Bay from this charming 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom ground-floor unit, perfectly located just minutes from the beach and downtown. This comfortable apartment combines convenience, privacy, and a relaxed coastal vibe — ideal for anyone seeking an easygoing Central Coast lifestyle.
Open-concept living with walls of windows throughout to capture ocean, bay and golf course views. 1950's Midcentury home, mixed with original and new amenities. On golf course, close to beach, shopping, Embarcadero, and state park. 3BD/2BA. Large patio and decks with BBQ. Open floor plan to maximize the amazing views throughout the home. Large 1950's single pane windows throughout the
Modern, fully furnished, one bedroom; all inclusive apartment in a quiet neighborhood. Great walkable neighborhood. Easy walk to grocery store, farmers market, beach. Great sunset, ocean and Morro rock views. Most attractions and sights are within one hour (or less) driving, such as Hearts Castle, Madonna Inn, SLO County Wine Country, hiking trails. Fully appointed kitchen with stainless steel
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