Is Irvine, CA a Good Place to Live in 2024?

What is Irvine, CA known for?

Irvine is nestled in Orange County, Southern California. The city is a hub for tech industries and higher education, particularly bioengineering. Additionally noteworthy are its master-planned communities, outdoor recreation areas, and ethnic diversity, particularly its sizable Asian American population.

Irvine embraces a medley of faiths, races, and minority groups. A local church might neighbor a mosque, and local eateries offer everything from halal to kosher. The atmosphere is generally inclusive and open.

Retirees might love the meticulously maintained parks and the adult classes offered in the community centers. Students in Irvine revel in academic rigor, while singles find a quieter scene but with proximity to Los Angeles for more lively weekends. Families generally appreciate the well-regarded public schools and the safety of the neighborhoods.

Highlights

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Pros and Cons

The Pros of living in Irvine, CA, include safety, quality education, employment, and more. While some Cons are around high cost of living, traffic, and limited nightlife.
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Safety and Crime

Irvine, CA is ranked 15th out of the top 333 most populated cities in the US for highest overall safety, is ranked 6th on safety from violent crime, and 52nd on safety from property crime.
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Cost of Living

Compared to the rest of the US, the cost of living in Irvine, CA is 31% higher than the national average.
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Discretionary Income

A gross annual salary of $80,000 in Irvine, CA leaves -$402 of “money in the pocket” per month on average.
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Climate and Weather

The average daily temperature in Irvine, CA in January is 58°F and 74°F in July. Compared to the rest of the 333 most populated cities in the US, this city is on average +15°F warmer in January and is on average -5°F cooler in July.
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Politics and Voting

Irvine, CA voted for the Democrat party in the 2020 Presidential election, with 53.5% of the votes counted going to this party.
Read more in Politics and Voting.