Since their pivotal move to a sprawling $14.7 million estate in Santa Barbara in July, Meghan Markle, 39, and Prince Harry, 36, have undeniably found their stride, cultivating a remarkable “great groove at home,” as an exclusive source shared with HollywoodLife. The transition from their former lives as active senior royals to independent, California-based philanthropists has been met with both challenges and profound personal growth. Despite the global lockdown that has impacted countless lives and the significant shift away from their Royal duties, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex have discovered an abundance of meaningful ways to remain engaged, fulfilled, and deeply connected. Their new life in Montecito symbolizes not just a change of address, but a deliberate embrace of a future defined by purpose, family, and a deeper commitment to the causes they champion. This period has allowed them to solidify their vision for Archewell, their foundation dedicated to driving systemic cultural change, and to truly build the independent life they envisioned.

Their journey to California marked a significant pivot, allowing them to redefine their roles and focus on mental well-being, social justice, and environmental causes without the constraints of traditional royal protocols. This new environment has provided them with the space and freedom to explore projects close to their hearts, leveraging their global platform in innovative ways. From high-profile virtual appearances to laying the groundwork for ambitious initiatives, their commitment to making a positive impact remains unwavering. The move has not only provided them with much-sought-after privacy for their family but also enabled them to immerse themselves fully in their chosen endeavors, fostering a vibrant and dynamic new chapter.

Embracing New Ventures and Global Connections

“They’ve been able to work on so many cool things; they’re really enjoying all the Zoom interviews, just being able to connect with all sorts of different people and shine a light on the things that are important to them,” our source reveals, emphasizing the couple’s enthusiasm. They further added that Meghan and Harry “plan to do even more of that,” signaling a long-term commitment to their digital engagement and advocacy. This new mode of operation has allowed them to transcend geographical boundaries, bringing attention to crucial global issues such as mental health awareness, voting rights, and the importance of digital well-being. Their ability to connect directly with experts, activists, and everyday people has become a cornerstone of their post-royal work.

Their Archewell Foundation serves as the primary vehicle for these endeavors, encompassing a wide range of initiatives from content production deals with Netflix and Spotify to partnerships with various charitable organizations. These projects are not merely professional undertakings; they are deeply personal expressions of Meghan and Harry’s shared values and their desire to create a better world. Through their interviews and collaborations, they’ve articulated a vision for a more compassionate and equitable society, using their unique voices to inspire change. The flexibility of their new lifestyle has empowered them to be more proactive and hands-on with their philanthropic efforts, allowing them to dedicate significant time and energy to causes that resonate deeply with them.

Settling into Montecito: A Sanctuary of Peace and Privacy

We also gained insight into how Meghan and Harry are settling into their new haven in Montecito, the exclusive seaside town nestled within Santa Barbara. “They’re loving Montecito; it’s everything they were hoping for and more,” our source elaborated. This picturesque region, known for its stunning natural beauty, serene environment, and high degree of privacy, offers the perfect backdrop for their new family life. The area’s discreet charm and close-knit community appeal strongly to the couple, providing a refreshing contrast to the intense public scrutiny they experienced in the UK.

Their new residence is more than just a house; it’s a sanctuary. “They have such beautiful grounds at the place they bought so they spend a lot of their downtime outside,” the source continued. The expansive outdoor spaces, likely featuring lush gardens, mature trees, and perhaps even a pool or tennis court, allow them to fully immerse themselves in the Southern California lifestyle. Being able to enjoy meals al fresco in October, a significant departure from the typically cooler British autumns, has been a particularly delightful experience for Harry. “Being able to have dinner outside in October is a big change for Harry; he’s loving that, they both are.” This simple pleasure underscores the profound sense of normalcy and freedom they’ve found in their new home, fostering a more relaxed and contented way of life for the entire family.

But Meghan and Harry’s profound contentment extends far beyond the impressive walls of their luxurious new abode. Their happiness stems genuinely from the increased quality time they now share as a family, a precious commodity in their previous demanding roles. “They also really love working together on all their projects; it’s very stimulating for them and their relationship,” our source proudly revealed. This shared professional purpose has become a powerful bond, enhancing their personal connection. While some couples might find the prospect of being together almost 24/7 challenging, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are truly “treasuring it.” Far from causing strain, this constant companionship and collaborative spirit has, if anything, “made their relationship even stronger.” They thrive on their mutual support and collective ambition, approaching their endeavors as a united front. This intensive period has also provided invaluable opportunities to bond deeply with their one-year-old son, Archie. Meghan herself shared a heartwarming detail during an interview, revealing that Archie took his very first steps during the quieter, more intimate moments of quarantine – a milestone that epitomizes the cherished family life they are building.

A Stronger Bond: Nurturing Love and Family in Privacy

The privacy afforded by their Montecito estate has been instrumental in allowing Meghan and Harry to cultivate this deepened bond. Away from the constant gaze of the media and the relentless demands of royal engagements, they have been able to establish daily routines centered around family, well-being, and their shared passions. This includes everything from quiet mornings spent with Archie to collaborative brainstorming sessions for their Archewell initiatives. Their commitment to each other and their son is evident in every decision they make, prioritizing a nurturing environment where Archie can grow up with a semblance of normalcy and freedom.

Their ability to navigate the complexities of their new life, hand-in-hand, speaks volumes about the strength and resilience of their marriage. They view challenges as opportunities to grow closer, supporting each other through every step of their independent journey. The shift has allowed them to rediscover the simple joys of family life, whether it’s exploring their beautiful grounds, engaging in playful moments with Archie, or simply enjoying a quiet dinner together under the California sky. This newfound equilibrium has not only fortified their relationship but also laid a robust foundation for their future endeavors, both personal and philanthropic.

Glimpses into Their Private World: Thoughtful Shares from Montecito

Despite their well-known desire for privacy, Harry and Meghan have thoughtfully offered glimpses into their Santa Barbara estate, revealing snippets of their new life through various virtual engagements. These carefully chosen appearances provide a curated peek into their professional and personal worlds, allowing their audience to connect with them in a more intimate setting. Meghan, for instance, conducted a video chat from within her elegant mansion in September, speaking with clients of the Smart Works clothing charity. This moment offered a subtle view of her home’s sophisticated interior, reflecting her personal style.

Similarly, Prince Harry showcased another room of the house during a video call with Team Invictus in August, providing insights into his dedicated workspace. These glimpses are not merely accidental; they are strategic choices that blend their personal environment with their professional commitments. The couple even filmed a poignant video together in the property’s lush green backyard for the TIME100 special (which can be viewed above), highlighting the expansive and serene outdoor spaces they cherish. These appearances serve to humanize their public image, demonstrating their adaptability to a new reality while maintaining their commitment to their chosen causes. Each backdrop, whether an elegant living area or a vibrant garden, tells a subtle story of their transition and their dedication to their work.

The Road to Independence: From Royal Life to California Dream

Meghan and Harry have consistently proven themselves an indestructible team since they made the seismic announcement at the beginning of 2020 that they would be stepping back from their senior royal duties. This bold decision, dubbed ‘Megxit’ by the media, signaled their intention to forge an independent path, free from the traditional strictures of the monarchy. Their journey westward began with a reported move to Los Angeles by March of 2020, a significant change from their lives in Windsor, England, where they had resided in the historic Frogmore Cottage. The transition was multifaceted, involving not only geographical relocation but also a profound reimagining of their public and private identities.

Initially, they reportedly found temporary refuge at Tyler Perry’s expansive mansion in Beverly Hills, a period that allowed them to adjust to their new country while seeking a more permanent family home. Living in Southern California represents a stark yet refreshing contrast to their former royal life. It offers them the space, privacy, and freedom to raise their son, Archie, away from the intense media scrutiny that often accompanies life within the British Royal Family. This strategic move to Montecito, Santa Barbara, cemented their commitment to building a life defined by their own terms—one that balances their public philanthropic endeavors with the quiet dignity of a private family existence, far from the pressures of the Crown.