Irvine, California is one of the fastest-growing, safest, and most family-friendly cities in the U.S. Known for its top-rated schools, master-planned communities, and tech-forward economy, Irvine offers an unbeatable lifestyle for families, professionals, and investors alike.
Whether you’re relocating from L.A., moving up within Orange County, or looking for long-term real estate value, this guide will help you explore the best neighborhoods in Irvine, real estate trends, and everything you need to know before making the move.
🌳 Master-planned city with clean parks, walking trails, and low crime
🎓 Top-tier public schools (IUSD & Tustin Unified)
💼 Home to major tech and healthcare employers
🏡 Diverse housing options from condos to luxury homes
✈️ Close to John Wayne Airport & major freeways (405, 5, 133)
Vibe: Established, charming, and family-oriented
Highlights: Two lakes, community pools, and walkable schools
Who it’s for: Families looking for strong community feel and amenities
Real Estate: Single-family homes and townhomes, starting in the $1.3M range
Vibe: Modern, active, and growing fast
Highlights: FivePoint Amphitheatre, sports parks, brand-new schools
Who it’s for: Young families, professionals, and new home buyers
Real Estate: Newer construction homes, townhomes, and luxury builds
Vibe: Peaceful, mature, and top-performing academically
Highlights: Northwood High School, tree-lined streets, gated communities
Who it’s for: Education-focused buyers and multigenerational families
Real Estate: Spacious single-family homes, some with large lots
Vibe: Upscale and scenic with rolling hills
Highlights: Near UCI, great views, hiking trails, and golf
Who it’s for: Professionals, empty nesters, and those wanting more privacy
Real Estate: Custom homes and luxury properties—starting around $2M
Vibe: Serene, newer, and well-designed
Highlights: Mountain views, parks, newer schools
Who it’s for: First-time buyers and young families
Real Estate: Newer homes, condos, and townhouses—generally $1M+
Vibe: Quiet and academic
Highlights: Next to UCI campus, nature preserves, and libraries
Who it’s for: Professors, grad students, and long-term investors
Real Estate: Older but charming homes with long-term value
Irvine’s school districts are a huge reason why families move here:
Irvine Unified School District (IUSD) consistently ranks among California’s top districts
National Blue Ribbon Schools like Northwood HS, University HS, and Portola HS
Multiple STEM magnet programs, language immersion options, and AP course access
Irvine is also home to UC Irvine (UCI), one of the top public universities in the U.S.
Median home price (2025): ~$1.5M
New construction: Abundant in Great Park, Portola Springs, and Orchard Hills
Rental demand: High among students, professionals, and corporate relocations
Investor insight: Strong appreciation history, low vacancy, and long-term ROI
Shopping & Dining: Irvine Spectrum Center, Diamond Jamboree, Woodbury Town Center
Parks & Trails: Over 60 community parks + Bommer Canyon hiking
Transportation: John Wayne Airport, Amtrak Station, 405/5/133 access
Events: Irvine Global Village Festival, Great Park concerts, farmers markets
✅ Families wanting elite public schools
✅ Young professionals working in tech, finance, or healthcare
✅ Retirees looking for safety and walkability
✅ Investors targeting long-term value
✅ Buyers wanting clean, safe, and HOA-maintained neighborhoods
As a local real estate expert, I can help you navigate the different Irvine villages, explore off-market opportunities, and find the perfect fit—whether you’re upsizing, downsizing, or relocating for work.
👉 Let’s schedule a private consultation or home tour today.
308,160 people live in Irvine, where the median age is 33.9 and the average individual income is $62,149. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Total Population
Median Age
Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.
Average individual Income
There's plenty to do around Irvine, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.
Explore popular things to do in the area, including Falafa Food Truck, Faith Monet - RN, and The Fit Appeal.
| Name | Category | Distance | Reviews |
Ratings by
Yelp
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|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dining | 4.92 miles | 15 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 3.23 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 4.83 miles | 8 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 4.76 miles | 20 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 4.92 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 3.74 miles | 9 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 3.45 miles | 12 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 4.67 miles | 8 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 0.92 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 3.44 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 3.59 miles | 12 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
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Irvine has 111,979 households, with an average household size of 2.65. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Irvine do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 308,160 people call Irvine home. The population density is 4,696.81 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Total Population
Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.
Median Age
Men vs Women
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Total Households
Average Household Size
Average individual Income
Households with Children
With Children:
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Marital Status
Blue vs White Collar Workers
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Zach recognizes and values the trust his client's place in him and Zach strives every day to exceed their expectations. Contact him today to start your home searching journey!
