Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s life in California has been anything but typical since they left the royal spotlight. After stepping down from their roles as senior members of the Royal Family in 2020, they moved to a lavish $14 million mansion in Montecito, California, where they hoped to build a financially independent life. But as they settle into their new life in the celebrity-filled enclave, a potential challenge looms that could disrupt their American dream, particularly with the possibility of Donald Trump returning to the White House.
The couple’s move to California, where Markle could reconnect with her roots, was a chance to live privately while maintaining their high-profile status. Markle has described their home as more than just a luxurious escape, calling it a sanctuary where she feels “free” and “healed.” However, even with their privileged position, the couple’s life in Montecito hasn’t been without its difficulties. Financial concerns, a lack of integration into their local community, and whispers of tensions with their neighbors suggest that their time in California might not be as flawless as it seems.
One of the biggest potential issues is the couple’s real estate situation. With Trump’s political comeback looking increasingly likely, there’s speculation about how that could affect their future in the U.S., especially with Trump having hinted at possibly deporting Prince Harry. If the Sussexes were to sell their Montecito mansion, they might face financial setbacks due to the dip in local property values. According to Redfin, Montecito home prices have fallen 14.1% from last year, with the median price now at $5.5 million—well below what the couple paid for the property. Selling at a loss could complicate their financial future, especially after the considerable investment they made.
Despite the real estate challenges, there are indications that Prince Harry and Markle aren’t planning to leave California anytime soon. They’ve been raising their children, Archie (5) and Lilibet (3), in the area, and now that Archie is old enough for school, they’ve chosen to send him to a local institution. This suggests they’re still committed to building a future in California, even as rumors swirl.
However, their relationship with the local community hasn’t been entirely smooth. Some neighbors have voiced concerns about their lack of involvement in local life. Richard Mineards, one neighbor, criticized Markle for not being an asset to the community, claiming she doesn’t participate in local events or engage with neighbors. Another neighbor, Frank McGinity, an 88-year-old Navy veteran, shared a less-than-welcoming experience with the couple when they brushed him off while he was attempting to give them a neighborhood history CD. This lack of engagement with the community stands in stark contrast to Markle’s more high-profile social circle, which includes celebrities like Katy Perry, Oprah Winfrey, and Tyler Perry.
These tensions have led some locals to wonder whether the couple is truly invested in becoming part of Montecito’s quiet, close-knit community or if their time there is more about building Markle’s career in Hollywood. If they were to leave the U.S. next year due to political pressure or changing priorities, it could spark a backlash and damage their reputations both in the U.S. and back in the UK. Their decision to leave would be closely scrutinized, potentially deepening the divide between them and both the British and American public.
