Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are virtually ‘ghosts’ in their Montecito neighbourhood, according to locals, which comes as they build their brand in Hollywood

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s neighbours in Montecito have opened up about what it’s like to live near one of the most famous couples in the world.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have resided in Montecito, California since 2020. The couple moved to America almost four years ago, with their relocation coming shortly after they announced that they were stepping down as senior working royals.

Harry and Meghan live in a nine-bedroom, 16-bathroom mansion with their two children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet. The sprawling home has been valued at around $14.7 million (£11.6m), but it seems that Sussexes don’t make too much of an impact in their neighbourhood, with them keeping themselves to themselves.

The Sussexes have resided in Montecito since 2020 ( 
Image:
AFP via Getty Images)

The Express US has reported that the couples are “ghosts” in their own neighbourhood after they chatted to those who reside and work within the community. Chatting to a lady who works at a boutique in Montecito, she revealed: “Day to day people don’t see them. I don’t think it’s too much of an impact here.”

Another resident, who is the co-owner of Tresor Montecito, then told the paper: “It’s kind of the way Montecito is anyway, everyone just does their own thing.”

Zach Rosen, the managing editor of the local Montecito Journal newspaper, then told the outlet: “We probably feel the media presence more than their presence.” Mr Rosen added: “We’re usually taking the stance that these are our community members and we do want to respect their privacy.”

Harry and Meghan live in a sprawling mansion with their two children ( 
Image:
Anadolu via Getty Images)
While the owner of the Tecolote bookshop said: “I have seen black SUVs on my road. Other than that, it has no impact at all.”

One reason that the Sussexes might not venture out much in the neighbourhood is down to the fact that they are busy with their various pending projects. Meghan is in the midst of launching her new lifestyle brand American Riviera Orchard, with her also working on two Netflix shows with her husband.

This comes as the Sussexes left Montecito for a short trip. Harry flew from America to England last Tuesday after the family celebrated Prince Archie’s fifth birthday.

The Duke of Sussex was back in London for the 10th anniversary of the Invictus Games. He then reunited with his wife at the airport before they jetted to Nigeria together for a tour of the West African country.