Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, are reportedly contemplating a move from their Montecito estate to the star-studded Malibu, according to insiders. This potential relocation to the outskirts of central Los Angeles, a region known for its Hollywood players, stars, and tech giants, is said to be in the early stages of discussion.
The couple's interest in Malibu, home to celebrities such as Simon Cowell, Cher, Lady Gaga, Leonardo DiCaprio, Miley Cyrus, and Charlize Theron, is reportedly driven by its proximity to central LA and Beverly Hills. The move would significantly reduce their commute, which currently can take over three hours in rush hour from their Montecito estate to the City Of Angels.
Another key factor in their consideration is Meghan's recent decision to be represented by LA powerhouse agent Ari Emanuel of William Morris Endeavour (WME) Talent Agency. Meghan is looking to expand her media profile as a producer, philanthropist, and content creator, and Emanuel's connections and experience in Tinseltown could be instrumental.
"Harry and Meghan are reviewing their living options with Malibu being a place of interest," a source revealed. "They have secretly visited the area a couple of times and have been out and about, looking at what's there." The source also noted Meghan's familiarity with the region from her childhood.
The potential move is seen as a strategic step for the Sussexes, aligning them closer to the heart of Hollywood and the Malibu scene, where major stars, producers, and studio executives socialize and strike deals. Meghan's friends in the area and her fondness for spots like Soho House also make Malibu an attractive option.
The couple's decision may also be influenced by their children's schooling. Their oldest, Archie, turns five next year, and Malibu's schools are popular with celebrity parents. "Malibu has loads of star kids enjoying normal schools," the insider explained.
In 2019, Meghan's stepbrother Tom spoke about how Meghan had beloved childhood memories in Malibu and the surrounding areas. She enjoyed plenty of fun beach dates at The Will Rogers Beach near Malibu, near her Woodland Hills family home.
The Sussexes currently reside in their £11.4million ($14.65million) estate in Montecito – a lush community in Santa Barbara, California. The estate features nine bedrooms and 16 bathrooms, along with a games room, a gym, tennis courts, and a tea house. If they decide to sell, estimates suggest it could fetch as much as £15.5million on the market.