10 Best Places to Live In Orange County in 2024 (Ranked!)

Looking for your next home in Orange County? You’ve got options!

Whether you love the ocean’s edge or the heart of the city, this Southern California region has it all. Let’s check some of the best places to live where every day feels like a getaway.

1. Laguna Beach

Let’s start the list with a recent jot amongst the young people in pursuit of finding a settlement with a top-notch art scene and a wonderful coastline. 

With its area extending to six miles of picturesque coastline, Laguna Beach marks the best place to live in Orange County for its luxurious lifestyle. The main accelerant behind this place’s burning fame is its easy access to some of the most beautiful beaches in the country and people full of hospitality. 

Living in Laguna Beach allows you to take a glance at the amazing marine life in detail and enjoy the many recreational activities that Mother Nature offers. With its endless entertainment options, outstanding educational stats, safe neighborhoods, and great nightlife, Laguna Beach is the place to be! 

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2. Turtle Rock, Irvine

With more than 50 communities and green sights, Irvine is one of North America’s best places to live! 

The fun in Turtle Rock, Irvine, never ends. Expect weekends full of picnics, parents playing frisbee with their kids, and a good time at one of the many local events and seasonal festivals.

Attractions like Irvine Ranch Historic Park and Museum add beauty and give its residents a myriad of activities for their leisure time. 

Besides the availability of many entertainment options, Irvine ranks as one of the safest cities in the country! No wonder the residents here love this place. 

Since Turtle Rock boasts all the features, a person should look for when finding a place to live, moving here is a sound decision. 

3. Newport Beach

With its locals priding themselves on the diverse food scene and quality education, Newport Beach is another ideal place to consider. 

Due to its location harboring the Balboa Peninsula, Newport Harbor, and multiple piers, Newport Beach provides open access to some of the most immaculate beaches in the country.

There are many things to do in Orange County, and in Newport Beach, you’ll find dozens of those activities, such as kayaking or enjoying a drink on the Peninsula.

The affluent location of Newport Beach also makes it home to some of the richest neighborhoods in Southern California, including Corona Del Mar and Pelican Hill. If money is no object for you, living in Orange County doesn’t get better than living in Newport Beach. 

4. Mission Viejo

If you’re dreaming of a cozy spot surrounded by rolling hills, Mission Viejo is your destination. There’s a man-made lake in the center of the city where people can fish or boat.

The schools here are some of the best around, which is great for families. What’s more, you’ll often see police around the area, making sure everything’s okay. So whether you’re out for a walk or the kids are riding their bikes to school, you can feel pretty safe here.

5. Huntington Beach

Huntington Beach is the place to be if you love surfing or just hanging out by the ocean. It’s a busy, fun area with a lot of things to do, especially near the pier and Main Street. You’ll find cafes, shops, and even street performers.

But even with all the activity, the city works hard to keep everyone safe. People come here for the beach, but they also love how safe they feel in the community.

6. Yorba Linda

If you are looking for a peaceful, quiet place to live, Yorba Linda offers exactly that. You’ll find big homes and lots of parks here, so it’s pretty laid-back. It’s different from the busy life in Huntington Beach or the well-organized setting in Mission Viejo.

People here are friendly and look out for each other. You’ll often see neighbors talking and kids playing outside. People living here care a lot about keeping their area safe.

7. San Clemente

Living close to the ocean but craving a touch of Spanish elegance? San Clemente might be your dream spot. Here, the pull of the surf meets the grace of old-world Europe.

You can catch a wave in the morning and spend your afternoon exploring cozy shops and eateries that line the town’s inviting streets. And if safety is on your checklist, don’t worry—San Clemente takes that as seriously as it does its ocean views.

8. Costa Mesa

Now, let’s talk about Costa Mesa, the cultural heartbeat in the mix. If you’re someone who wants their days filled with art, music, and retail therapy, Costa Mesa delivers.

This isn’t just where you’ll find the iconic South Coast Plaza; it’s a city teeming with galleries, theaters, and trendy spots to hang out. Despite the buzz, Costa Mesa doesn’t compromise on keeping its community safe.

9. Anaheim

Let’s shift gears to Anaheim, a city that practically hums with energy and entertainment. This isn’t just the home of Disneyland, there are plenty of other things to do. Sports fan? Catch a game at the Angel Stadium or the Honda Center.

Foodie? The Anaheim Packing District has got you covered with a smorgasbord of culinary delights. And if safety is a concern, know that Anaheim takes it seriously with its well-maintained streets and responsive public services.

10. Newport Beach

If the idea of harboring your boat after a long week sounds like heaven, then Newport Beach should be on your radar. Known for its upscale oceanfront communities, Newport Beach offers more than just miles of sandy coastline.

It’s a haven for yacht enthusiasts and seafood lovers alike. From family-friendly events to a variety of dining options that serve the catch of the day, safety and luxury walk hand-in-hand in this community.