Orange County is one of the most desirable places to live in the United States. It has amazing weather throughout the year and lots of things to do. Anyone who lives here already plans to stay here forever and if you are moving locally and thinking about a new neighborhood, we created a list of our top 10 picks for everyone – young professionals, families or senior citizens.
- Irvine
Irvine is just an amazing place for anyone who is into business, high tech or biotechnology. It is a home to the University of California-Irvine. Over the years, Irvine is becoming more and more popular because it is the national center for high-tech research, development and manufacturing. No matter if you are moving here by yourself or with a family, you will be warmly greeted. It has great schools, both public and private and it is a very safe town overal. Parks in the area are amazing for families with young kids. It is rated as one of the best cities to raise a family in. If you decide to move here, be ready to pay a bit more than in the other neighborhoods in Orange County. But if you ask their residents, they will tell you it is worth it!
- Huntington Beach
If you always had a dream of living on the beach, this is a place for you! Downtown meets the pier and you will enjoy the U.S. Open of Surfing draws every summer. It is also a paradise for anyone who likes surfing, beach volleyball or cruises. Although it is a city where you can enjoy any water sport, it is also far more than that. It has great job opportunities for anyone who is looking to start a new career. But everything is better when you wake up feeling the taste of fresh salt air in the morning. Besides that, you can enjoy amazing restaurants in the area. It is a great city for a laid back lifestyle. Endless sandy beaches, pedestrian areas, bike trails.. You will simply love it!
- Newport Beach
Another beach town with a similar vibe like Huntington Beach, but we just can’t skip it. First thought when someone mentions Newport Beach, first thing that comes to your mind are multi-million dollar beachfront homes and luxury cars. So who wouldn’t like to live here? Yes, you will have to spend a lot of money to get here, but you will love it for sure. It is close to great beaches, they have the largest recreational harbor on the West Coast. In your spare time you can enjoy luxury shopping, amazing dining and movies at Fashion Island. Climate is just perfect. So if you can afford it – go for it!
- Mission Viejo
For anyone who is looking for a safe and stable neighborhood where they can raise their families – Mission Viejo is a place to consider. It is a family-friendly and kids-friendly neighborhood where you will feel safe any time. Mission Viejo is a city known for its picturesque lake where you can enjoy with your family throughout the year. It also has a rich culture that you will love exploring. There are good schools, nice parks and a bunch of entertainment options for you and your family. During your free time you can relax in one of the restaurants or enjoy shopping.
- Los Alamitos
Los Alamitos is a suburb in Orange County that is great for anyone who wants their peace. You will enjoy Los Alamitos cozy atmosphere with many local, small shops that create a sense of community. Your neighbors will welcome you warmly if you decide to move here. Streets are very safe and it is a great place for families with kids. Schools are very good. If you move to Los Alamitos, you will be close to other cities and even more importantly, close to the beach. There are lots of options for a free time, such as cute restaurants, parks and shopping in one of the local stores.
- Costa Mesa
Costa Mesa is one of the affordable neighborhoods, so if you are looking for something like that, but still very vivid and vibrant, think about this neighborhood. It is very close to the beach, which is always a plus. Costa Mesa is a neighborhood with a unique personality, with lots of outdoors options, sports etc. It is also home to the nation’s largest shopping centers, the world-class Segerstrom Center for the Arts as well as the famous Orange County Fair.
- Tustin
Tustin is also on an affordable side when we talk about living in Orange County. On the other hand it is rated as one of the top 25 towns to live well in America, so it is probably a cool option. Tustin has a rich history with buildings dating back to the 1880’s in the Old Town District. For anyone who enjoys meeting its culture, it will be a great pleasure to live here. It is a fairly safe town, with great schools and job opportunities, which makes it great for families.
- Laguna Beach
Friendly community with respectful residents. Laguna Beach is a very safe neighborhood where you can rely on your neighbors to watch your back. Surrounding area is amazing and it is diverse, so you will love meeting other cultures.
- Dana Point
Dana Point is an amazing place for anyone looking for a peace and quiet neighborhood. You will find all amenities people usually seek in Southern California, but without the hustle, bustle and rushing. Air is clean and the beaches are uncrowded. It is a fantastic place if you are looking for a laid back lifestyle. Neighbors here are super friendly and you will just love living here! Public schools are greatly rated and overall it is a very nice place for families.
- Anaheim
There is a lot to do in Anaheim – international cuisine, basketball games, Disneyland, local shops etc. If you love spending time outdoors, there are lots of parks where you can enjoy with your family and friends.Bike trails are amazing for anyone who enjoys recreation. Schools in the area make this place perfect for the young families with kids.