7 Best Places to Live in Orange County

If you’re thinking about moving to Orange County, you won’t be in shortage of fun. From scenic beaches to historical landmarks, there are many things to do in this vibrant area. There might not be so many oranges now since urbanization took over, but from beautiful cities to gorgeous beach towns, there’s so much more to explore.

However, we know that finding the perfect place can be overwhelming and stressful. But as local movers we know which neighborhoods people like and where they are moving to.

So we created a list of the seven best places to live in Orange County in order to try to help you with making your decision.

1. Irvine

You’ll never regret it if you choose Irvine as the winner. It’s been ranked one of the safest cities in America, so you won’t have to worry about the safety, and you can just enjoy peace of mind.

After safety comes education, and Irvine is the perfect place for it. Irvine Unified School District offers a wide range of programs and is home to the University of California, which is ranked as one of the best in the country.

But that’s not where it stops; high quality of life is also what attracts new residents every year. You’d be surprised by the abundance of open spaces, outdoor activities, and a dope cultural scene.

Yes, we’ve got more! Probably the most appealing aspect of Irvine is its location. O.C. is conveniently located near major transportation hubs, making it easy to access other parts of Orange County and beyond.

2. Aliso Viejo

This one’s what you call a dynamic city. It’s probably because it’s the youngest city in Orange County; you know how the younger ones get, full of energy, vibrant, and always in the center of attention. On top of that, it also has a rich history dating all the way back a thousand years. It’s not all about trendy shops and chill coffee dates here; There are plenty of parks and trails to explore, like the Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and canyons.

Not to mention it’s only a short drive from the Pacific Ocean so you can also go swimming, kayaking, or just soaking in the sun if you’re feeling adventurous. Whether you’re a foodie, an adventurer, or an environmentalist, you’ll surely find your gang somewhere in Aliso.

3. San Clemente

San Clemente is full of charm, history, and character. It’s your typical middle child. And it’s in love with surfing. So much so, you might know it as ‘’Spanish Village by the sea’’. San Clemente Pier is probably gonna become your new favorite spot; it has breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, and many got proposed here; just saying… We’ve got more- San Clemente State Beach. It’s a beautiful place where you can hike, make a picnic, or even camp.

If this wasn’t fun enough for you, a bunch of festivals and events hosted by San Clemente might. So if you’re into a fun, laid-back coastal, and adventurous lifestyle, you’ve found the one!

Quick fact: Did you know that San Clemente was used for filming a few famous movies and TV shows? Do “The O.C.” and “Vertigo” ring a bell?

4. Newport Beach

Newport is more for the luxurious ones. It’s a playground for the rich and famous – as they like to call it. Newport Beach also has one of the most iconic places to visit – Newport Pier. Here you can enjoy the views, but also fish, and visit Balboa Peninsula where you might even decide to go on a rollercoaster. You’ll always feel like you’re on vacation here with so many tourists and attractions.

Alongside amazing restaurants and fresh seafood, you can take long walks in the Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve and hike or even bike in Newport Back Bay. Fashion Island, on the other hand, is where you can find all that luxury. Whether you’re into the latest fashion trends or a luxurious spa experience, Fashion Island’s got you.

5. Seal Beach

Seal Beach is the eldest child since we went into all family-tree-thing. It’s known for its quiet small-town feel, historic pier, and beautiful beaches. Despite its proximity to larger cities like Long Beach and Huntington Beach, Seal Beach didn’t lose its unique character and charm. One of the most fun things about Seal Beach is its charming downtown area. The residents love its several blocks of unique shops, cafes, and restaurants, as well as weekly farmers’ markets.

You can spend hours exploring the boutiques and vintage stores and later stop by one of the many coffee shops for a caffeine fix. Seal Beach is a charming and laid-back place that’s perfect for anyone looking for a small-town feel, beautiful beaches, and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you’re a surfer, a foodie, or just someone who loves to explore new places, you’re in the right place!

6. Mission Viejo

Mission Viejo is located in the southern parts of Orange County, and it’s known for its family-friendly neighborhoods, scenic views, and excellent schools. But wait, there’s much more to it than just its suburban playfulness. Mission Viejo is very rich in sports activities. It’s home to the Marguerite Aquatic Center, which has several Olympic-sized swimming pools, a diving tower, and even a splash pad.

Residents love taking walks at several parks and sports facilities, including soccer and baseball fields, basketball and tennis courts, and a skate park. So if you’re crazy into sports, you don’t need to look further! MV(P) offers it all! It’s got the perfect balance of family-friendly amenities, outdoor activities, and a one-for-all community.

7. Laguna Beach

Of course, it’s all about the coastline with Laguna Beach. But trust us; she’s got way more to offer. The thriving arts scene, with a range of galleries, studios, and festivals celebrating everything from painting and sculpture to film and music are only a few to choose from. Should we continue? Got it! The Sawdust Art Festival is a must-visit destination for art lovers, with over 200 local artists showcasing their work.

Laguna Coast Wilderness Park and Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park are also something you can’t miss out on and tell us all about them later.

There you have it! The decision got easier, didn’t it? No need to thank us just yet; we’ve got a lot more in store for you. Just pick up the phone, give us a call, and wait for the smoothest move of your life!