Cost of Living in Irvine, CA
Irvine is about 63% more expensive than the national average.
What Things Cost
Compared to the US average (100)
Census ACS 2024
Census ACS 2024
BEA RPP 2023
BEA RPP 2023
Irvine at a Glance
On the median income of $145,731, state income tax is roughly $19,382/year.
Sources: Census ACS 2024, Tax Foundation.
Irvine is a master-planned city in Orange County that consistently ranks among the safest large cities in America. UC Irvine brings research university prestige. The tech and biotech sectors are significant employers. The city was designed from the ground up, resulting in exceptional parks and public spaces.
Who Lives Here
Source: Census ACS 2024.
Why People Move to Irvine
Safety is the headline: lowest crime rate of any large US city, consistently. Schools are among the best in California. The Asian food scene, reflecting Irvine's large Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese population, is outstanding.
Neighborhoods
Woodbridge is established around man-made lakes. Turtle Rock near UCI is affluent. Northwood is family-oriented. There is no affordable neighborhood in Irvine by national standards.
Things to Consider
Median homes above $1.1 million and rents above $2,800. The master-planned character feels homogeneous. HOA rules are strict. The city can feel like a well-maintained machine rather than an organic community.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Irvine
By FBI crime statistics, Irvine consistently has the lowest violent crime rate of any US city over 100,000 population. For families prioritizing safety, the record is unmatched.
The most common criticism. The planned design means fewer independent businesses and less variety. The Asian food scene is the bright spot. Many residents supplement with trips to Laguna Beach (20 min) or LA.
Very, particularly Asian American (over 40%). Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese communities drive an exceptional food scene. UC Irvine has increased overall diversity.