Most Affordable Neighborhoods in Irvine, CA

Some of the cheapest neighborhoods in Irvine are Northwood, El Camino Real, and University Park. These neighborhoods offer some of the lowest rent prices in Irvine, making them ideal for renters on a budget. As of December 26, 2024, the average rent in Irvine is $2,900, which is 2.5% lower than last year. However, it's important to remember that rental prices can vary significantly based on factors such as location, amenities, and floor plans.

Northwood

Average Rent

$2,556/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

4.3%

TransitScore® Rating

30/100

Units Available

20 Rentals

Surrounded by lush parks and greenbelt areas, Northwood is a scenic neighborhood. Renters will appreciate the proximity to Northwood Community Park and the variety of nearby grocery stores. This neighborhood also features the Northwood Town Center for additional shopping and dining.

El Camino Real

Average Rent

$2,658/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

4.1%

TransitScore® Rating

34/100

Units Available

27 Rentals

El Camino Real stands out with its budget-friendly apartments and close-knit community feel. The neighborhood features Harvard Community Park, offering residents ample recreational opportunities. Additionally, the Crossroads Shopping Center is just a short drive away for all your retail needs.

University Park

Average Rent

$2,688/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

0.9%

TransitScore® Rating

28/100

Units Available

13 Rentals

University Park is adjacent to the University of California, Irvine, providing easy access to campus as well as a variety of events hosted by the university. The William R. Mason Regional Park, ideal for picnics and leisurely walks, is nearby. Renters will also find convenient access to the University Park Center, a shopping plaza with numerous dining establishments and shops.

University Town Center

Average Rent

$2,700/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

2.2%

TransitScore® Rating

34/100

Units Available

28 Rentals

For those seeking an economical and academic atmosphere, University Town Center is an excellent choice. The neighborhood is adjacent to the University of California, Irvine, and offers plenty of budget-friendly apartments. University Center, located nearby, features an array of restaurants, stores, and entertainment options.

Rancho San Joaquin

Average Rent

$2,764/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

2.5%

TransitScore® Rating

34/100

Units Available

35 Rentals

Rancho San Joaquin is noted for its affordability and picturesque golf course views. Renters can relax at the Rancho San Joaquin Golf Course or explore the nearby San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary. The neighborhood also has the Campus Plaza Shopping Center for convenient local amenities.

Walnut

Average Rent

$2,764/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

3.2%

TransitScore® Rating

28/100

Units Available

13 Rentals

Nestled near the center of Irvine, Walnut offers easy access to Bill Barber Community Park, a perfect spot for outdoor activities. With several affordable housing options, this neighborhood is ideal for renters on a budget. The nearby Heritage Plaza provides convenient shopping and dining choices.

Westpark

Average Rent

$2,842/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

3.7%

TransitScore® Rating

35/100

Units Available

73 Rentals

Westpark is a top choice for budget-conscious renters for a variety of reasons. The average rent in Westpark is $2,842 while the city average is $2,900. This is a -3.7% difference from last year. Residents enjoy convenient access to Westpark Plaza, Concordia University Irvine, and Long Beach Transit Mall. The neighborhood is considered somewhat walkable with a WalkScore® of 69.

Turtle Rock

Average Rent

$2,850/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

3.3%

TransitScore® Rating

23/100

Units Available

36 Rentals

When you’re looking for a great Irvine neighborhood on a budget, check out Turtle Rock. The average rent is $2,850, compared to the city average of $2,900. Rent prices have decreased by 3.3%. Turtle Rock is convenient to Concordia University Irvine, 5Th Street Station, and Anaheim Station. The community is car-dependent with a WalkScore® of 28.

Quail Hill

Average Rent

$2,857/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

1.7%

TransitScore® Rating

24/100

Units Available

42 Rentals

Quail Hill provides a tranquil setting with affordable rental choices and scenic beauty. Residents can enjoy Quail Hill Community Park and the extensive hiking trails that wind through the area. The Quail Hill Village Center offers essential shopping and dining experiences within reach.

Oak Creek

Average Rent

$2,868/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

1.1%

TransitScore® Rating

32/100

Units Available

47 Rentals

Oak Creek provides an inviting community with affordable rental options and great amenities. The neighborhood includes Oak Creek Community Park, perfect for outdoor leisure activities. Residents are also close to the Oak Creek Golf Club and the Alton Square Shopping Center for additional conveniences.

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Methodology

Transit Score measures access to public transit. Scores range from 0 (minimal transit) to 100 (rider’s paradise). Learn more about the Transit Score methodology. Rental data is sourced from CoStar Group’s Market Trend reports. As a leading authority in commercial real estate information, analytics, and news, CoStar performs in-depth research to build and sustain an extensive database of commercial real estate insights.

We've combined this data with public records to provide the most current rental information available.