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Plaza Santa Ana, located at 2027 W 1st St in Santa Ana, California, functions as an indoor swap meet shopping center spanning approximately 50,000 square feet. Opened in the 1970s, it serves a densely populated urban neighborhood with a focus on affordable retail and community-oriented vendors. The tenant mix consists primarily of over 100 independent booths selling apparel, accessories, electronics, beauty products, and fresh produce, alongside a few permanent tenants such as nail salons, check-cashing services, and quick-service food outlets like taco stands.
Anchored by its diverse vendor ecosystem, the center draws from Santa Anas 78% Hispanic demographic, with median household income of $65,000 and a population density supporting steady local patronage. Footfall averages 7,000 visitors weekly, peaking at 15,000 on weekends, bolstered by its position on a major arterial street near the I-5 freeway for regional access. Occupancy stands at 92%, reflecting strong demand for low-barrier entry spaces.
Rent levels are competitive at $1.50 to $2.50 per square foot on a triple net basis, with flexible month-to-month leases ideal for pop-up or seasonal retailers. Advantages include minimal build-out requirements, vibrant cultural atmosphere enhancing dwell time, and proximity to residential areas ensuring repeat customers. However, drawbacks encompass limited structured parking (about 400 spaces), competition from upscale centers like South Coast Plaza (15 miles away, 2.5 million sq ft, 250+ stores), and market saturation in discount categories amid Orange Countys 7% retail vacancy rate.
Operational quality is fair, with basic amenities but potential needs for infrastructure upgrades to meet modern safety standards.
Overall, it positions well for value-driven retailers targeting budget shoppers in a high-density, diverse market.
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Hours of Operation
Hours
| Monday | 10:00 AM — 07:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 10:00 AM — 07:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 10:00 AM — 07:00 PM |
| Thursday | 10:00 AM — 07:00 PM |
| Friday | 10:00 AM — 07:00 PM |
| Saturday | 10:00 AM — 07:00 PM |
| Sunday | 10:00 AM — 07:00 PM |
Hours may vary on public holidays. Check with individual stores for specific holiday schedules.
Insights
Demographic Profile
Santa Anas population exceeds 310,000, featuring a young median age of 32 and 78% Hispanic or Latino residents. Household incomes average $65,000, with 25% below poverty line, favoring affordable goods like clothing and groceries. This profile drives consistent footfall for ethnic-specific offerings but poses risks for higher-end retail due to income constraints and preference for discount formats. Proximity to schools and families enhances weekend traffic, supporting family-oriented vendors.
Competition and Accessibility
Positioned in Santa Anas core retail corridor, Plaza Santa Ana competes with nearby MainPlace Mall (180 stores, 1.2 million sq ft, annual footfall 10 million) and emerging strip centers. Accessibility via 1st Street (30,000 daily vehicles) and I-5 (250,000 vpd) aids draw, but public transit reliance (OCTAs bus lines) limits broader appeal. Regional market shows 2% rent growth, with saturation in apparel risking sales dilution; strengths lie in niche local loyalty over regional draws.
Lease Terms and Risks
Leases are predominantly NNN at $1.50-$2.50/sq ft, with CAM fees around $0.40/sq ft and short terms (1-12 months) suiting flexible operations. High occupancy (92%) indicates stability, but vendor turnover averages 20% annually due to economic volatility in low-income area. Risks include parking shortages during peaks, aging infrastructure (built 1975, last renovated 2010), and sensitivity to gas prices affecting drive-in traffic. Operational challenges like inconsistent vendor quality may impact perceived professionalism for co-tenants.
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Santa Ana
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City Snapshot
Santa Ana
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