Top 10 Cities Near Irvine, CA to Buy or Rent Your Next Home

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.

Interested in moving to Santa Ana? Check out:
Homes for sale in Santa Ana, CA | Apartments for rent in Santa Ana, CA | Houses for rent in Santa Ana, CA

2. Tustin

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.

Interested in moving to Tustin? Check out:
Homes for sale in Tustin, CA | Apartments for rent in Tustin, CA | Houses for rent in Tustin, CA

3. Costa Mesa

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.

Interested in moving to Costa Mesa? Check out:
Homes for sale in Costa Mesa, CA | Apartments for rent in Costa Mesa, CA | Houses for rent in Costa Mesa, CA

4. Lake Forest

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.

Interested in moving to Lake Forest? Check out:
Homes for sale in Lake Forest, CA | Apartments for rent in Lake Forest, CA | Houses for rent in Lake Forest, CA

5. Aliso Viejo

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.

Interested in moving to Aliso Viejo? Check out:
Homes for sale in Aliso Viejo, CA | Apartments for rent in Aliso Viejo, CA | Houses for rent in Aliso Viejo, CA

6. Mission Viejo

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.

Interested in moving to Mission Viejo? Check out:
Homes for sale in Mission Viejo, CA | Apartments for rent in Mission Viejo, CA | Houses for rent in Mission Viejo, CA

7. Newport Beach

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.

Interested in moving to Newport Beach? Check out:
Homes for sale in Newport Beach, CA | Apartments for rent in Newport Beach, CA | Houses for rent in Newport Beach, CA

8. Laguna Niguel

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.

Interested in moving to Laguna Niguel? Check out:
Homes for sale in Laguna Niguel, CA | Apartments for rent in Laguna Niguel, CA | Houses for rent in Laguna Niguel, CA

9. Huntington Beach

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.

Interested in moving to Huntington Beach? Check out:
Homes for sale in Huntington Beach, CA | Apartments for rent in Huntington Beach, CA | Houses for rent in Huntington Beach, CA

10. Fountain Valley

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.

Interested in moving to Fountain Valley? Check out:
Homes for sale in Fountain Valley, CA | Apartments for rent in Fountain Valley, CA | Houses for rent in Fountain Valley, CA

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.