Residents in Montecito share their experiences living near Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, expressing hopes to see more of the couple in the community

Life near Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in Montecito, California, is proving to be both exciting and mysterious for the couple’s neighbours. According to a local journalist, Richard Mineards, who resides near the Sussexes, residents in the exclusive community are eager to include the Duke and Duchess in local life, yet feel somewhat disappointed by the pair’s limited public appearances.

The couple, who stepped down from their roles as senior members of the British Royal Family in 2020, now lives a quieter existence in the affluent neighbourhood with their two children, Prince Archie, 5, and Princess Lilibet, 3. While the Sussexes are recognized for their public endeavours and media presence, their private life seems much more subdued.

Menards, a society columnist, shared that Prince Harry is occasionally spotted on the beach, riding his bike, or having dinner, but always with a security detail close by. He turns 40 soon, and despite his low-key presence, his privacy is strictly maintained. Meghan, 43, is also not frequently seen, although she reportedly enjoys lunches with friends or shopping at local markets when she does venture out.

“The community is waiting for them,” Mineards said, expressing the enthusiasm of neighbors to see Harry and Meghan participate more actively in local events. “They’re gnashing at the bit. The cachet of a Duke and Duchess! They live splendidly, it couldn’t be a nicer place.”

Despite living among other high-profile celebrities, the Sussexes’ level of security is notable, according to Mineards. This extra layer of protection distinguishes them from other rich and famous Montecito residents, who are often more relaxed about personal security.

Reports about Harry’s routine in California reveal that he starts his days with meditation, followed by workouts with personal trainers. He also handles the morning school run for his two children, balancing his roles as both a public figure and a father.

In recent royal news, Prince Harry’s UK return included a touching tribute to his late mother, Princess Diana. There’s also growing speculation about whether Harry and Meghan will join the rest of the royal family for Christmas, with some rumours suggesting they might choose to spend it with the Spencers instead of the British royals.

However, in a hopeful turn of events, it has been reported that Harry is open to reconciling with his brother, Prince William. According to sources close to both princes, while this reconciliation might not come easily, Harry believes it’s possible to repair their fractured relationship.

For now, Montecito remains the Sussexes’ haven, where they live a relatively quiet life, even as the world remains curious about their next moves.

Analysis:

Political:

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s move to Montecito and their decision to distance themselves from the British Royal Family marked a significant political and cultural shift in their roles. No longer tethered to royal duties, the couple has redefined their public personas through philanthropy, media, and business ventures. Politically, this reflects the broader trend of public figures reshaping their identities outside of traditional institutions. Their decision to live more privately also underscores the couple’s ongoing effort to control their narrative, moving away from the intense scrutiny they faced in the UK.

Their status as former royals continues to influence public perceptions and political discourse, especially regarding discussions around modern monarchy, media intrusion, and individual autonomy. The couple’s every move, even in their relatively quiet California life, is still dissected by both supporters and critics, highlighting the intersection of public interest, celebrity culture, and political relevance.

Social:

The Sussexes’ life in Montecito speaks to the balancing act that many celebrities face between public visibility and private life. While they continue to have a significant media presence, Harry and Meghan are seen as trying to maintain a sense of normalcy for themselves and their children. Their choice to live in an affluent, yet relatively secluded, area reflects broader societal debates about privacy, security, and the limits of fame.

For their neighbors, having such high-profile figures nearby has generated both excitement and curiosity. The community’s desire to see more of the Sussexes reflects society’s fascination with royalty and the aura that surrounds them, even after they step back from formal roles. This also speaks to the growing phenomenon of celebrities being viewed as accessible through social media and public appearances, but remaining guarded in their personal lives.

Racial:

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s lives in Montecito continue to be intertwined with discussions of race, particularly following their well-publicized interview with Oprah Winfrey, where they discussed challenges related to race within the royal family. Their move to the United States and their experiences as a mixed-race family in a predominantly white neighbourhood have fueled ongoing conversations about race, privilege, and identity.

Meghan’s presence as a biracial woman in the historically homogeneous world of British royalty has long been a point of both admiration and controversy. In Montecito, while race may not be at the forefront of their neighbors’ comments, the couple’s visibility as a powerful interracial couple continues to symbolize broader social shifts regarding race, acceptance, and belonging in elite communities.

Gender:

Meghan Markle’s role as a mother, entrepreneur, and public figure exemplifies the modern balance that many women in the public eye strive to achieve. Her ability to maintain a public presence while focusing on her family highlights shifting gender norms, particularly in terms of expectations for women in leadership and fame.

Additionally, the fact that both Prince Harry and Meghan are hands-on parents—evidenced by Harry’s involvement in the daily school run—challenges traditional gender roles within elite families. This kind of active fatherhood, particularly in royal or celebrity circles, sets a progressive example that aligns with changing societal views on parenting.

Economical:

The couple’s move to Montecito reflects their financial independence, a key factor following their departure from royal duties. Their luxurious lifestyle, including a $14 million mansion, is maintained through a combination of business ventures, media deals, and philanthropy. However, it also raises questions about the financial aspects of their security, with neighbors noting the extraordinary measures taken to ensure their privacy.

Their economic model, which blends media production, public speaking, and brand partnerships, is a new template for former royals. It highlights the intersection of fame, influence, and business, where personal brand and public interest can be leveraged for substantial financial gain.