Santa Monica is one of the most desirable areas in greater Los Angeles. I doubt the demand for it is that shallow. However, this helps more people (who are like

Santa Monica is one of the most desirable areas in greater Los Angeles. I doubt the demand for it is that shallow. However, this helps more people (who are likely well off) to afford it and reduce pressures elsewhere. If your goal is a paid off place to live, SM isn’t the best choice unless you are either high income already or are set to receive a windfall somehow.