Situated 87 miles north of San Diego and 41 miles south of Los Angeles, Irvine, CA is right in the center of Orange County. This 66-square mile city is home to 212,400 people. Many organizations have listed Irvine as one of the best places to live in the US, likely due to its robust economy, abundance of good schools, low crime rate, and stable housing,. The city has the typical Southern Californian weather: warm to hot summers and cool winters.
Housing Statistics Looking at the housing market trends of Irvine can offer an idea of the housing stability of this city compared to the state and the rest of the country. As of August 2013, the median home sale price of Irvine is $674,000, which is way higher than California's $376,000 and the nation's $221,000. In the first quarter of 2013, the city's average home sale price is $704,379, which was an increase of 2012's $622,909. As of July 2013, there have been 1,986 homes sold in Irvine, approximately 970 of which are single family type, with 1,016 being condos. Additionally, the annual residential turnover of this city is 33%, with 25% of its population having spent at least the last 5 years living in Irvine.
Local Events The city has many events lined up throughout the year. One popular and widely observed tradition is the Irvine Global Village Festival, which occurs every October. This event showcases local and regional diversity through product exhibits, cultural entertainment, and a sampling of food from different areas of Irvine and Orange County as a whole.
Nightlife Irvine is proof that safety and late-night fun can go hand in hand. One good destination for some late-night action with family or friends is Irvine Spectrum Center. This area offers a wide range of retail, entertainment, and dining options for just about everyone. Games, bars, movie theaters, coffee shops, retail stores- you name it, it's all here. Additionally, Jamboree Diamond just off Alton Parkway is another night-out destination. With its karaoke lounge, eateries, and sweets-treat cafe, this is one spot in Irvine where nocturnal people often hang out.
Neighborhood Guide Irvine is made up of several neighborhoods -- or villages -- as locals prefer to call them. These villages have their distinct ambiance and charm. Whether you're looking for homes for rent, or you're looking to buy your first home, or scouring the area for rent to own deals, choosing the right neighborhood is just as important as choosing the right building for your home. Here's an overview of some popular areas in Irvine: