Orange, California, is one of the most unique and vibrant cities in Orange County. Known for its historic charm, strong community spirit, and diverse housing, Orange offers something for everyone—from vintage lovers to new construction buyers.
Whether you're a family looking for top-rated schools, a professional wanting to live close to major job hubs, or an investor eyeing long-term upside, this guide to living in Orange will help you find the right neighborhood and lifestyle fit.
Vibe: Vintage, walkable, and full of character
Highlights: Historic homes, antique shops, Chapman University, The Circle
Who it’s for: Buyers who love architecture, local events, and a small-town feel
Real Estate: Craftsman, Victorian, and Spanish Revival homes dating back to the early 1900s
Vibe: Rural, private, and equestrian-friendly
Highlights: Horse trails, large lots, custom estates
Who it’s for: Buyers wanting space, nature, and a semi-country lifestyle within city limits
Real Estate: Ranch-style homes, gated estates, and multi-acre properties
Vibe: Quiet, scenic, and family-focused
Highlights: Peters Canyon trails, community parks, and top-rated schools
Who it’s for: Outdoor lovers and families looking for safety and schools
Real Estate: Primarily single-family homes, many with direct trail access
Vibe: Elevated, spacious, and semi-rural
Highlights: Views, privacy, and proximity to hiking and biking
Who it’s for: Professionals and families wanting custom homes and large lots
Real Estate: Custom builds, large split-level homes, and high-end remodels
Vibe: Newer, suburban luxury
Highlights: Views of Catalina, gated communities, hillside living
Who it’s for: Move-up buyers and those seeking a blend of new construction and security
Real Estate: 2000s-era homes, some with panoramic views and large backyards
Orange is served primarily by Orange Unified School District (OUSD), which includes:
Villa Park High School – Strong academic programs and athletics
Orange Lutheran High School – Highly regarded private school option
Chapman Hills, Linda Vista, and Panorama Elementary – Popular with families in East Orange and Santiago Hills
The city is also home to Chapman University, a nationally recognized private university that adds vibrancy and student life to the downtown core.
Orange offers a rare combination of history, nature, and modern conveniences:
Old Towne Plaza (The Circle): Restaurants, antique shops, breweries, live music
Irvine Park & Zoo: 477-acre regional park perfect for biking, horseback riding, and family picnics
Peters Canyon Regional Park: Hiking, mountain biking, and stunning sunrise views
The Outlets at Orange: Outlet shopping, AMC theaters, and bowling for the whole family
You’re also close to the 5, 55, 22, and 91 freeways, giving you direct access to all of Southern California.
Entry-level homes: Around $800K for older single-family or townhomes
Mid-range: $1M–$1.5M for remodeled homes or newer builds
Luxury: $2M–$4M+ in Orange Park Acres, Orange Hills, and Cowan Heights
Rental market: Strong demand from Chapman students and local professionals
Orange continues to hold its value due to low inventory, strong schools, and unique home styles that aren’t common elsewhere in OC.
If you want a city that combines character, community, nature, and long-term value, Orange should be on your radar. Whether you're drawn to the historic homes of Old Towne or the hillside retreats of East Orange, there's a neighborhood for every lifestyle and budget.
Let’s connect—I’ll help you find the best opportunities, on or off market, and guide you through your move to Orange with confidence.
139,195 people live in Orange, where the median age is 36 and the average individual income is $44,157. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
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Median Age
Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.
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There's plenty to do around Orange, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.
Explore popular things to do in the area, including Oc Smoke Shack, SweetGaerlan, and Affair A La Carte.
| Name | Category | Distance | Reviews |
Ratings by
Yelp
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|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dining | 2.59 miles | 10 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Dining | 4.35 miles | 11 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Dining | 3.7 miles | 22 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 1.62 miles | 8 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 1.57 miles | 9 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 3.1 miles | 9 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 2 miles | 19 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 4.06 miles | 76 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 3.03 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 3.18 miles | 33 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 1.07 miles | 13 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 3.64 miles | 18 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
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Orange has 43,421 households, with an average household size of 3.03. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Orange do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 139,195 people call Orange home. The population density is 5,423 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
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Average Household Size
Average individual Income
Households with Children
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Blue vs White Collar Workers
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