Irvine

Located in the heart of Orange County, Irvine strikes a balance between work, life, and nature. During the day, tech companies and startups drive the local economy while in the evenings, residents enjoy miles of bike trails, local dining, and family-friendly neighborhoods. Learn more about Irvine, CA, and what the city has to offer.

OVERVIEW OF IRVINE, CA

Incorporated in 1971, Irvine was designed from the ground up as one of America’s most successful master-planned cities. Known for its highly rated schools, safe neighborhoods, and vibrant green spaces, Irvine has grown into a hub for tech professionals, young families, and anyone looking for a clean, well-structured place to call home.

Location and accessibility

Irvine is located right in the heart of Orange County and is bordered by cities like Tustin, Lake Forest, and Newport Beach. It’s about 10 miles from the Pacific Coast and just 15 miles from Disneyland. With the 405 and 5 Freeways cutting through the city and John Wayne Airport nearby, getting around (whether for work or a weekend getaway) is easy and efficient.

What it’s known for

Ask a local, and you’ll hear a few things right away: Irvine has great public schools and is one of the cleanest, most well-kept cities in Southern California. Irvine is also home to the University of California, Irvine (UCI), a major academic and cultural hub. Irvine has sprawling parks, trails, and nature preserves that offer year-round outdoor fun, while business parks, international dining options, and retail centers like Irvine Spectrum round out its live-work-play lifestyle.

Basic facts:

• Total area: Over 55 square miles
• Population: Approximately 310,000 residents
• Nearby cities: Tustin, Lake Forest, Newport Beach, and Santa Ana
• Notable employers: Broadcom, Blizzard Entertainment, Amazon, UC Irvine

IRVINE, CA REAL ESTATE

If you’re looking for a home for sale in Irvine, CA, you’ll find no shortage of options. The city offers a wide mix of home styles, thanks to its well-planned neighborhoods. You’ll see everything from luxury homes in gated communities to modern townhouses, detached condos, and single-family homes tucked into quiet, tree-lined streets.

Property types & architectural styles

The architectural styles in Irvine, CA often reflect Tuscan and Mediterranean influences. Newer builds, especially in places like Altair, Orchard Hills, and Portola Springs, tend to lean towards modern and sleek designs, with open layouts, energy-efficient designs, and upscale finishes.

Common features

If you’re browsing the homes for sale in Irvine, CA, here’s what you’ll find:

• Open-concept layouts with lots of natural light
• Gourmet kitchens with large islands and high-end appliances
• Smart home features and solar energy systems
• Dual-pane windows and energy-efficient upgrades
• Two to three-car garages (sometimes with epoxy floors)
• Private, low-maintenance yards or outdoor spaces
• Bonus spaces like lofts, guest suites, or home offices

Average home specs

• Bedrooms: 3 to 5
• Bathrooms: 2 to 4
• Garage: 2 to 3 cars
• Year Built: 1965 to 2025

Best neighborhoods in Irvine, CA

• Woodbridge: One of Irvine’s most iconic communities, Woodbridge is well-loved for its scenic lakes, extensive greenbelts, and a layout that puts lifestyle first. It’s split into two main loops (North Lake and South Lake) with walking paths, community pools, and even a beach-style lagoon. A popular area for anyone looking for a family-friendly home for sale in Irvine, CA.
• Turtle Rock: Tucked near the hills and nature preserves, this neighborhood offers some of Irvine’s most established homes, many with stunning canyon or city views. It’s also close to UC Irvine and major job centers, but still feels calm and residential.
• Orchard Hills: This gated, hillside community is at the northern edge of Irvine and is known for its luxury homes, Tuscan-style architecture, and stunning views. Residents enjoy a private, upscale setting with top-tier finishes, access to top-rated schools, and nearby trails like Loma Ridge for hiking and sunset walks.

LIFE IN IRVINE, CA

Here’s what it’s like living in Irvine, CA.

Getting around

Getting in and around Irvine is fairly easy, especially if you drive. Major freeways like the 5 and 405 run through the city, and you can get to L.A. or San Diego without much hassle (although traffic during rush hour is common). If you prefer to stay in the city, Irvine is surprisingly bike-friendly for a city of its size, with more than 60 miles of off-street bike trails and wide, walkable streets throughout its many “villages.” Public transportation isn’t Irvine’s strong suit, but if you’re flying often, John Wayne Airport is just a quick 15-minute drive away.

Cost of living

While Irvine does have a higher cost of living compared to many other cities, many residents feel the value is well worth it. Home prices in Irvine CA reflect the city’s strong school system and exceptional quality of life. Day-to-day expenses like utilities, groceries, and healthcare costs may be slightly above the national average, but the tradeoff is living in a clean, safe, and beautifully maintained environment. If you’re browsing homes for sale in Irvine, CA, expect to find properties in well-kept, master-planned communities, many with HOA-managed amenities and landscaped green spaces that add to the appeal of everyday living.

Schools

Irvine is a major draw for families thanks to its top-rated school system. The Irvine Unified School District (IUSD) is consistently ranked among the best in California. Whether you’re looking at public or private options, there’s a solid lineup to choose from, such as:

• Stonegate Elementary
• Santiago Hills Elementary
• Vista Verde School
• Irvine International Academy
• University High School

At the college level, UC Irvine is a nationally recognized research university and an important part of the community. You’ll also find several private prep schools that offer alternative academic paths. Buying a home for sale in Irvine, CA often means access to some of the strongest academic programs in the region.

Dining

Irvine’s dining scene is one of the most diverse in Orange County, especially if you’re into Asian cuisine. Locals swear by spots at Diamond Jamboree, a plaza packed with Korean BBQ, Japanese sushi bars, Taiwanese desserts, and more. If you’re craving something beyond Asian fare, Solstice and North Italia offer fresh takes on modern American dishes. Other go-to favorites in Irvine include:

• HiroNori. Serves some of the best bowls of ramen in the area.
• Andre’s Restaurant. A long-time local favorite, Andre’s offers a menu of classic European-inspired dishes.
• Urban Plates. Fresh, fast, and made-from-scratch, Urban Plates is perfect for those who want a healthy but hearty meal.
• CUCINA enoteca. Try rustic Italian flavors with a California twist at this stylish restaurant.

Shopping

When it comes to shopping, Irvine Spectrum Center is the main event. It’s a sprawling outdoor mall with 100+ stores, restaurants, a Giant Wheel, movie theaters, and even seasonal events like winter ice skating. For everyday errands, Irvine has all the essentials, from Trader Joe’s and Whole Foods to international grocery markets and boutique shops.

Outdoor recreation

Even though Irvine is known for being a business and academic hub, the city makes plenty of room for nature. In fact, Irvine was designed with over 16,000 acres of dedicated open space. Some local favorites include:

• Great Park. Over 1,300 acres (and growing) with sports fields, art installations, the iconic orange balloon ride, and a seasonal farmer’s market.
• Bommer Canyon and Quail Hill. Popular with hikers, runners, and nature lovers.
• San Joaquin Marsh & Wildlife Sanctuary. 300 acres of birdwatching and peaceful trails near UC Irvine.
• Oak Creek and Strawberry Farms Golf Courses. For those looking to tee off in scenic surroundings.

MAKE THE MOVE TO IRVINE, CA

When you’re ready to start your home search, we at the Vincent Hinh Group are here to help you navigate the market with confidence. Let’s find the right house for you in Irvine, California today. Get in touch with the top Realtors in Irvine, CA at 310.892.4996 or send us an email.