Torrance, California, Hits the Spot for Beach-Loving, City-Visiting Retirees

Editor’s Note: Recently, MoneyWise revealed its list of the 40 most frugal and friendly places to retire. In a bid to provide an idea of what housing inventory is available in these cities and towns, we’re taking a look at listings in each of the cities on the list.

Not everyone can spend $1 million or more on a second home, even if it’s with the idea that eventually you’ll retire there. So when MoneyWise’s list of 40 places to retire that are more budget-friendly came out, we were curious — what kind of homes could you find in these towns?

Last week, we looked at the 38th city on the list — The Woodlands, Texas. This week, we look at Torrance, California, and found you could find a great selection well within the mid-$300,000 range to just slightly more than the median price of $600,000.

So why is Torrance on the list? In short, it’s close to Los Angeles, but provides that smaller community feel that some might desire, the publication said.

“If you like the idea of living near Los Angeles but would prefer living in a smaller community, Torrance could be just the place you’re looking for!” MoneyWise said. “This town is home to California’s famous sunny weather and promises easy access to nearby beaches.”

“It’s a little pricier than some of the communities we have listed so far, with a median home value of $600,000,” the piece continued. “Median household income is just below $80,000. With 15 healthcare centers, Torrance is a good place for medical care.”

While we can’t get you amazing views or ocean sightings in this price range (that’s going to cost you a bit more), we do have three options.

LOCK-AND-LEAVE, BUDGET-FRIENDLY CONDO

Price: $369,000

At $369,000, this fully-remodeled condo may be cozy, but it’s also a great lock-and-leave option for snowbirds who prefer the West Coast to Florida or the Gulf Coast.  

A new shower, new hardwood floors, paint, and brand-new stainless steel appliances make this nearly turnkey. Higher ceilings and an open floor plan make great use of the smaller space, and the two bedrooms are generously sized for the square footage.

You also have a large, private gated patio, perfect for the temperate climate.

But what makes this home even better are the amenities, from the two pools, the jacuzzi, gym, recreation room, and pet stations throughout the pathways in the complex.

The home is listed by Wendy Rich-Soto with Keller Williams Realty.

SINGLE FAMILY HOME IN QUIET NEIGHBORHOOD

Price: $587,500

If you are looking for a little more distance between you and your neighbors, this three-bedroom, one-full bath, and one half-bath home has been updated throughout, and is sized just right for someone looking to downsize.

And it’s about a 16-minute drive to the beach, too, plus lots of restaurants and shopping.

The home has new laminate flooring throughout, plus a gourmet kitchen with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a sophisticated subway tile backsplash.

The two bathrooms have been given a modern update with custom cabinetry and tilework as well.

The property is on a cul-de-sac like bend, with a long driveway. Outside, a large, fully gated and private backyard offers plenty of entertaining and relaxation space.

The home is listed by Richard Schulman with Keller Williams-Santa Monica.

ADORABLE TRADITIONAL WITH COMPLETE RENOVATION

Price: $629,000

Just six minutes away from our second option, this three bedroom, two bath home is situated on a quiet cul-de-sac and has been completely redone.

And when we say completely, we mean from the landscaping to everything about the interior, which boasts three generous bedrooms, a dining area, a large kitchen, and two living areas — all of which benefited from new laminate flooring new dual-pane windows, new interior and exterior doors, fresh paint inside and out, and recessed lighting.

The master suite has an en-suite bathroom, and the other two bedrooms share a hall bath. Both bathrooms have been completely modernized.

The kitchen also saw a complete overhaul, with brand new stainless steel appliances, quartz counters, and white shaker cabinets.

Outside, fresh sod beckons bare feet, and sprinklers with a timer have been installed to maintain that sod. A large backyard is perfect for outdoor entertaining, and there’s a bonus room off the garage perfect for an office, gym, or playroom.

The home is listed by Kevin Lee with T.N.G. Real Estate Consultants.