If you’re looking for a home in Irvine, CA this year, exploring the cities nearby might be your best bet. These neighboring cities offer a blend of affordability and accessibility, providing a range of options for both renters and buyers. In this Redfin article, you can compare rent and housing costs, learn commute times, and find something that fits your budget and preferences. Live at an arm’s reach away from Irvine in these top cities.
1. Santa Ana
Average commute to Irvine: 15 min Median home sale price: $842,500 Average rent: $2,622
Santa Ana is great for: Cultural diversity, historic landmarks, vibrant arts scene
Santa Ana, located just a short drive from Irvine, is known for its rich cultural diversity and historic charm. The city is home to the Bowers Museum, which showcases a vast collection of art and artifacts from around the world, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The Santa Ana Zoo, with its focus on Central and South American animals, is another beloved attraction.
Santa Ana’s economy is bolstered by a mix of industries, including retail, manufacturing, and healthcare, providing a variety of job opportunities for residents. The city’s downtown area is a hub of activity, featuring a vibrant arts scene with numerous galleries, theaters, and live music venues. Residents enjoy a lively lifestyle with plenty of dining and entertainment options, as well as community events and festivals that celebrate the city’s diverse heritage.
Average commute to Irvine: 10 min Median home sale price: $877,500 Average rent: $3,555
Tustin is great for: Friendly neighborhoods, parks, shopping centers
Tustin, often referred to as the “City of Trees,” is a charming city located just north of Irvine. Known for its welcoming neighborhoods and excellent schools, Tustin offers a welcoming community atmosphere. The city boasts numerous parks and recreational facilities, including the popular Tustin Sports Park and the Tustin Ranch Golf Club, which provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities.
The District at Tustin Legacy is a major shopping and entertainment center, featuring a variety of retail stores, restaurants, and a movie theater, making it a popular destination for residents. Tustin’s economy is supported by a mix of retail, education, and healthcare sectors, contributing to a stable job market. Residents of Tustin enjoy a suburban lifestyle with easy access to the amenities of nearby Irvine. The city is also known for its historic Old Town area, which features preserved buildings and a quaint, small-town feel.
Average commute to Irvine: 15 min Median home sale price: $1,413,500 Average rent: $2,624
Costa Mesa is great for: Arts and culture, shopping, dining
Costa Mesa, located to the southwest of Irvine, is a vibrant city known for its thriving arts and culture scene. The city is home to the renowned Segerstrom Center for the Arts, which hosts a variety of performances, including Broadway shows, concerts, and ballet. The South Coast Plaza, one of the largest shopping centers in the United States, offers an extensive selection of high-end retail stores and dining options, attracting visitors from all over Southern California.
Costa Mesa’s economy is diverse, with strong sectors in retail, manufacturing, and the arts. The city’s lively atmosphere is complemented by numerous parks and recreational areas, such as Fairview Park and the Costa Mesa Country Club, providing residents with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. The lifestyle in Costa Mesa is dynamic and eclectic, with a mix of urban and suburban elements. The city is known for its diverse culinary scene, featuring a wide range of restaurants and cafes that cater to various tastes.
Average commute to Irvine: 20 min Median home sale price: $1,205,000 Average rent: $2,364
Lake Forest is great for: Outdoor activities, welcoming environment, community events
Lake Forest, situated southeast of Irvine, is a city known for its picturesque landscapes and friendly environment. The city features two man-made lakes, which are central to many community activities and events. Residents enjoy access to numerous parks and recreational facilities, including the expansive Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park, which offers hiking, biking, and equestrian trails.
Lake Forest’s economy is supported by a mix of industries, including technology, manufacturing, and retail. The city has a strong sense of community, with regular events and festivals that bring residents together. The Lake Forest Sports Park and Recreation Center is a popular destination, offering a variety of sports fields, playgrounds, and community programs.
Average commute to Irvine: 20 min Median home sale price: $988,000
Aliso Viejo is great for: Master-planned communities, outdoor recreation, modern amenities
Aliso Viejo, located to the south of Irvine, is a master-planned community known for its well-designed neighborhoods and modern amenities. The city offers a high quality of life with numerous parks, trails, and open spaces, including the Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park, which provides opportunities for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing.
The city’s economy is diverse, with strong sectors in technology, healthcare, and education. Aliso Viejo Town Center is a central hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment, featuring a variety of retail stores, restaurants, and a movie theater. The city’s commitment to maintaining a clean and safe environment is evident in its well-maintained public spaces and community facilities.
Average commute to Irvine: 25 min Median home sale price: $1,25,000 Average rent: $2,502
Mission Viejo is great for: Welcoming neighborhoods, recreational facilities, community events
Mission Viejo, located southeast of Irvine, is a city known for its friendly neighborhoods and extensive recreational facilities. The city features Lake Mission Viejo, a man-made lake that offers a variety of water activities, including boating, fishing, and swimming. The Oso Creek Trail and the Arroyo Trabuco Golf Club are popular destinations for outdoor enthusiasts.
Mission Viejo’s economy is supported by a mix of industries, including retail, healthcare, and education. The city’s commitment to providing high-quality services and amenities is evident in its well-maintained parks, sports fields, and community centers. The Norman P. Murray Community and Senior Center is a hub for community events and programs, catering to residents of all ages.
Average commute to Irvine: 20 min Median home sale price: $3,500,000 Average rent: $4,445
Newport Beach is great for: Coastal living, luxury amenities, outdoor activities
Newport Beach, located to the west of Irvine, is a coastal city known for its luxurious lifestyle and stunning ocean views. The city features miles of pristine beaches, including the popular Newport Beach and Balboa Peninsula, which attract both locals and tourists. The Newport Harbor is a hub for boating and water sports, offering a variety of recreational opportunities.
Newport Beach’s economy is driven by a mix of industries, including tourism, real estate, and finance. The city’s upscale shopping and dining options, such as those found at Fashion Island, provide residents with a high-end lifestyle. The Newport Beach Civic Center and Park is a modern facility that hosts community events and offers beautiful walking trails and gardens.
Average commute to Irvine: 25 min Median home sale price: $1,422,500 Average rent: $3,617
Laguna Niguel is great for: Scenic views, outdoor recreation, welcoming environment
Laguna Niguel, located to the south of Irvine, is a city known for its scenic views and extensive outdoor recreational opportunities. The city features numerous parks and trails, including the Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park and the Laguna Niguel Regional Park, which offer hiking, biking, and picnicking areas.
Laguna Niguel’s economy is supported by a mix of industries, including retail, healthcare, and education. The city’s commitment to maintaining its natural beauty is evident in its well-preserved open spaces and community facilities. The Laguna Niguel City Hall and Community Center is a hub for community events and programs, catering to residents of all ages.
Average commute to Irvine: 25 min Median home sale price: $1,293,500 Average rent: $2,350
Huntington Beach is great for: Surfing, beach lifestyle, outdoor activities
Huntington Beach, located to the west of Irvine, is a coastal city known for its surfing culture and laid-back beach lifestyle. The city features miles of sandy beaches, including the famous Huntington Beach Pier, which is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The annual U.S. Open of Surfing is held here, attracting surfers and spectators from around the world.
Huntington Beach’s economy is driven by a mix of industries, including tourism, retail, and technology. The city’s vibrant downtown area offers a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, making it a lively place to live. The Huntington Central Park and the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve provide residents with ample opportunities for outdoor activities and nature exploration.
Average commute to Irvine: 20 min Median home sale price: $1,300,500 Average rent: $2,760
Fountain Valley is great for: Friendly neighborhoods, parks, community events
Fountain Valley, located to the northwest of Irvine, is a city known for its friendly neighborhoods and extensive parks. The city features Mile Square Regional Park, a large park that offers a variety of recreational activities, including golf, fishing, and picnicking. The Fountain Valley Sports Park is another popular destination for sports enthusiasts.
Fountain Valley’s economy is supported by a mix of industries, including retail, healthcare, and education. The city’s commitment to providing high-quality services and amenities is evident in its well-maintained public spaces and community facilities. The Fountain Valley Recreation Center and Sports Park is a hub for community events and programs, catering to residents of all ages.
Methodology: All cities are less than 50 miles away from Irvine. Median home sale price and rent data sourced from Redfin and Rent.com during June, 2024.
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Marissa is a Content Marketing Specialist on Redfin’s Content Marketing team. She has been with Redfin for 3+ years, where she has also contributed to real estate support operations. A California native living in Los Angeles, Marissa loves taking walks, enjoying sunsets, and unwinding with a good movie. Her dream home is a modern cottage-style abode with a lush garden.
