Most Affordable Neighborhoods in Irvine, CA

Some of the cheapest neighborhoods in Irvine are Northwood, Portola Springs, and El Camino Real. These neighborhoods offer some of the lowest rent prices in Irvine, making them ideal for renters on a budget. As of November 25, 2024, the average rent in Irvine is $2,933, which is 1.4% 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

$3,106/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

1.7%

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.

Portola Springs

Average Rent

$3,109/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

4.7%

TransitScore® Rating

0/100

Units Available

42 Rentals

Portola Springs offers a peaceful retreat with reasonably priced rental properties. The neighborhood is surrounded by parks and open spaces, including Limestone Canyon Regional Park, a popular hiking and mountain biking destinations. Renters can also take advantage of the nearby Woodbury Town Center for their shopping and dining needs.

El Camino Real

Average Rent

$3,283/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

0.4%

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.

Rancho San Joaquin

Average Rent

$3,310/Month

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.

Irvine Business Complex

Average Rent

$3,361/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

0.5%

TransitScore® Rating

38/100

Units Available

1,029 Rentals

Ideal for budget-conscious renters, the Irvine Business Complex combines affordability with accessibility. The area is next to John Wayne Airport and near several corporate offices, enhancing its practical appeal. Residents also have easy access to the Diamond Jamboree Shopping Center, which offers diverse dining and shopping options.

Oak Creek

Average Rent

$3,429/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

1%

TransitScore® Rating

32/100

Units Available

50 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.

Walnut

Average Rent

$3,463/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

2.1%

TransitScore® Rating

28/100

Units Available

11 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.

University Park

Average Rent

$3,467/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

4.4%

TransitScore® Rating

28/100

Units Available

14 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.

Lower Peters Canyon

Average Rent

$3,510/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

3.9%

TransitScore® Rating

24/100

Units Available

141 Rentals

Lower Peters Canyon is a top choice for budget-conscious renters for a variety of reasons. The average rent in Lower Peters Canyon is $3,510 while the city average is $2,933. This is a -3.9% difference from last year. Residents enjoy convenient access to Santiago Canyon College, The Market Place, and Old Orange County Courthouse. The neighborhood is considered somewhat walkable with a WalkScore® of 57.

Westpark

Average Rent

$3,547/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

4.5%

TransitScore® Rating

35/100

Units Available

63 Rentals

When you’re looking for a great Irvine neighborhood on a budget, check out Westpark. The average rent is $3,547, compared to the city average of $2,933. Rent prices have decreased by 4.5%. Westpark is convenient to Santa Ana Zoo, UC Irvine, and Long Beach Transit Mall. The community is somewhat walkable with a WalkScore® of 69.

Ready to make your move to Irvine? Check out the rent specials, price drops, and great deals on ApartmentFinder.com!

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.