The departure of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle from their Montecito, California, mansion has generated minimal reaction from local residents, who describe the couple as largely absent from the community. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex relocated to the United Kingdom in early 2024, after purchasing their Montecito home in June 2020 for $14.65 million.
While the couple's arrival in 2020 was met with initial excitement and speculation about their integration into the area, many neighbors report little interaction. "Meghan and Harry never became part of the community," said one neighbor who identified herself only as Susan. "You’d see him out on his electric bike and she’d drive past in a Range Rover but it was always ‘swish’ and you’d miss them." Susan added that a welcome gift of wine left at their gate was returned unopened the following day, suggesting the couple may have been selective about their social circle. "I’m not sure they ever wanted to hang out with anyone who wasn’t a billionaire or famous or both."
Wendy Foster, owner of a Montecito boutique that was a favorite of Meghan's, noted that while the Duchess was polite during her visits, she believes the couple's desire to return to Britain stems from their titles holding more significance there. "Over here they, and their children, don’t mean much in terms of status," Foster said. "In Britain their titles mean something."
Local estate agents suggest the couple's Montecito property, described as being on a prime piece of land with mostly usable flat ground, could be worth approximately $40 million. "Their name and being royalty has publicity value, which would bring in a lot more interest," commented Montecito estate agent Daniel Encell. There is speculation the property will be sold off-market to avoid public attention.
Meghan's As Ever brand, which had a dedicated display at the Godmothers bookstore, appears to have been removed from stock, with a shop assistant stating they no longer carry the products. The products, including $15 flower sprinkles, jams, herbal teas, and candles, were part of a much-publicized launch last year. In contrast to the initial buzz surrounding their move to California, fueled by a $100 million Netflix deal, the couple's departure seems to have passed largely unnoticed by the local populace. "The buzz surrounding them when they arrived has long since disappeared," said a friend living in nearby Santa Barbara. "Americans love success and there has been precious little of that. Their victim narrative became tiresome."
Prince Harry previously played polo at the Santa Barbara Polo Club but no longer owns his own ponies, instead renting or borrowing them from wealthy acquaintances, such as billionaire heiress and film producer Sarah Siegel-Magness. Reports that the private jet used for their return to Britain belonged to cosmetics mogul Victoria Jackson, a friend of Meghan's and co-owner of Godmothers bookstore, have been disputed, with public records indicating the aircraft is owned by a charter company.
Meghan's rescue chickens remain at the estate, cared for by staff including housekeepers, gardeners, and a pool man. The couple's departure coincides with what their spokesman described as a "wonderful" summer holiday in Britain. The decision to leave Montecito has raised questions about their future plans, with speculation focused on the sale of their estate and a potential return to royal life in the UK. "No-one cares. They came and they’ve gone. We’re indifferent," stated an assistant at a Montecito clothing store.
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