Top 10 Cheapest Places to Live in Orange County In 2025

10 Cheapest Places to Live in Orange County In California. Cheapest cities to invest in Orange County of California. Cheapest Cities to Buy Properties in OC of California.

10 Cheapest Places to Live in Orange County In California

Orange County, the exclusive little slice of Southern California, has been making headlines for its breathtaking views, swanky neighborhoods, and an exorbitant cost of living that will leave a hole in your wallet deeper than the Grand Canyon. With more than 3 million residents, Orange County is the third most populous county in the state, and it doesn`t take a math whizz to figure out that living here can be an expensive affair.

Whether you`re looking to buy a beer or a condo, get a haircut, or catch a movie, be prepared to spend a lot more than you would in pretty much any other part of the country. The cost of living in Orange County is a staggering 52 percent higher than the national average, and you might need to start rethinking your priorities and your bank account before you consider moving here.

But don`t worry, not all is lost in the land of palm trees and ocean breezes. Orange County is home to three of the state`s most populous cities, Irvine, Santa Ana, and Anaheim, each with over a quarter-million residents. And if you`re a beach lover, you`re in luck because six cities in the county are on the Pacific coast, offering stunning beachfront access and jaw-dropping views.

Now, let`s talk numbers. Orange County has a median household income of $90,234, substantially higher than the national median income of $68,703. But don`t be fooled by these impressive numbers; you still need to have deep pockets to live here comfortably.

However, if you`re determined to make Orange County your home, there are still a few affordable options available (well, affordable by Orange County`s standards, at least). So if you`re looking to have all the perks of living in Orange County without the price tag, here are the 10 cheapest places to live in the county.

10. San Juan Capistrano
Welcome to the enchanting city of San Juan Capistrano, where the homes come in all shapes, sizes, and price ranges. Some of them are fit for a king or queen (with a royal budget to match), while others are more wallet-friendly. If you`re in the market for a new abode and you`re not looking to break the bank, fear not! With a bit of savvy house hunting and a willingness to explore the city`s affordable neighborhoods (and avoid the occasional snooty gated community), you can score a sweet deal on a charming San Juan Capistrano home for just a little over $700,000.

Of course, what you get for your money varies widely depending on your preferences and priorities. Whether you`re seeking a cozy cottage with a white picket fence, a spacious mid-century modern marvel, or something in between, you`ll find a wide range of housing options to suit your style and budget. And with its rich history and undeniable charm, the city itself is a feast for the senses, with cultural landmarks, art galleries, and quaint shops and restaurants around every corner.

So if you`re ready to embark on a San Juan Capistrano house hunting adventure, grab your wallet (and your sense of humor) and get ready to explore all the city has to offer. Who knows, you might just find your dream home at a price that won`t make you want to cry into your pillow at night.

9. La Habra
Looking for a little slice of small-town heaven without the big-city price tag? Look no further than La Habra! This north Orange County community may be one of the cheapest places to live in the area, but don`t let that fool you into thinking it`s anything less than delightful. Boasting a welcoming atmosphere, top-notch schools, and plenty of family-friendly activities, La Habra is the perfect spot for those seeking charm without breaking the bank. The average cost of a family home in La Habra is a mere $651,646 - a hefty price tag in some parts of the country, but peanuts in the O.C. So why not join the community and embrace the La Habra life? Who knows, you might just fall in love with the friendly locals and charming ambiance.

8. Westminster
Westminster is an attractive destination for property buyers due to its diverse and welcoming population, lively cultural scene, fantastic food options, and growing job market. Moreover, its relatively affordable cost of living compared to other parts of the county makes it an even more appealing option. For a little over $650,000, buyers can purchase a quality family home in Westminster. Similarly, rental properties in the area are also affordable, making it a great choice for those seeking a high-quality lifestyle at an affordable price point. With its abundance of amenities and affordability, Westminster is an excellent option for anyone looking to settle in Orange County. So why not ditch the high cost of living and join us in sunny Westminster? Your wallet will thank you!

7. Tustin
Tustin offers an excellent opportunity for those new to Southern California to acclimate themselves to the lifestyle without incurring significant cultural or financial stress. The city features a good selection of affordable housing options, making it an attractive option for those seeking to purchase or rent in Orange County. With easy access to the beach, excellent shopping, and top-rated schools, Tustin provides residents with all the benefits of living in the O.C. without the hefty price tag.

6. Brea
Brea, situated in northern Orange County, offers an excellent choice for homebuyers who seek a thriving urban lifestyle without breaking the bank. Along with the impressive house prices and low cost of living, Brea has a unique advantage of a public art program that has set a benchmark for many other communities in the country. From its early days as a crude oil production center to becoming an essential retail hub for Orange County residents, Brea has evolved into a charming city with a bustling downtown area and shopping mall. The city`s name, which means "tar" or "oil" in Spanish, is an interesting link to its history. Today, Brea is renowned for its citrus production and a prominent public art scene with over 140 art pieces that add an artistic flavor to the city. If you are a fan of community art, Brea is the perfect place to call home.

5. Garden Grove
Garden Grove is a city that offers the best of both worlds. Despite its size, the city retains a slightly rural feel thanks to its excellent farmer’s markets and its famous strawberry festival, which celebrates the city`s agricultural roots. This event is one of the largest community festivals on the West Coast and is held annually during Memorial Day weekend. The cost of living is affordable, making it a great choice for those who want to live in Orange County without breaking the bank. The cost of property in Garden Grove is also refreshingly low compared to other cities in the region. Garden Grove borders several other Orange County cities, including Fountain Valley, Santa Ana, and Anaheim, offering easy access to all that the area has to offer. With its rugged boundaries and multiple panhandles, Garden Grove provides another affordable option for those seeking a great place to live in Orange County.

4. La Palma
La Palma is a hidden gem in Orange County, offering the perfect blend of suburban tranquility and urban convenience. The city is known for its safety, friendly atmosphere, and tight-knit community, making it an ideal place to call home for families and retirees. While you won`t find a bustling nightlife scene, you`ll be rewarded with affordable real estate prices that are hard to come by in the rest of Orange County. In fact, La Palma`s low property prices are a well-kept secret, so much so that once people move in, they rarely want to leave. If you`re searching for a property in this desirable location, be sure to stay on top of the latest listings as they don`t stay on the market for long.

3. Buena Park
Buena Park is a vibrant, entertaining city packed full of attractions, distractions, and fun. Located just across the way from two of the O.C’s other budget-friendly hot spots, Anaheim and Santa Ana, it’s a central, convenient city that’s as attractive to families as singles and retirees. The cost of living, like most other things about the city, is a delight, earning it the proud distinction of being the cheapest place to live in Orange County.

Buena Park is a vibrant, entertaining city packed full of attractions, distractions, and fun. You`ll find it located in northwestern Orange County, adjacent to the neighboring cities of Anaheim and Santa Ana. With more than 80,000 residents, Buena Park is the perfect central, convenient city that`s as attractive to families as it is to singles and retirees. Buena Park`s star attraction is Knott`s Berry Farm, an amusement park that draws many visitors to the area every year. Beyond the thrills of the amusement park, outdoor enthusiasts can explore the 105-acre Ralph B. Clark Regional Park at the base of the West Coyote Hills, which offers a stocked fishing pond, a small museum, and nature trails. The cost of living in Buena Park is a delight, earning it the proud distinction of being the cheapest place to live in Orange County. Whether you`re in search of a family-friendly community or a place to retire, Buena Park is an excellent choice.

2. Santa Ana

Santa Ana, located in the heart of Orange County, offers an attractive mix of affordable living and cultural diversity. The city is a melting pot of established residents and newcomers, representing a rich blend of cultures. Santa Ana`s historic neighborhoods, including Washington Square, French Park, and Floral Park, showcase the city`s rich architectural history. In contrast, the downtown area offers a modern urban lifestyle, complete with a plethora of dining and shopping options.

Despite the city`s growth and expansion, Santa Ana continues to offer an affordable oasis for people from all walks of life. A one-bedroom apartment priced at $1695 per month may seem steep in other parts of the country, but in Orange County, it is considered a bargain. By moving to Santa Ana, you can enjoy affordable living without sacrificing quality of life.

In addition to its affordability, Santa Ana offers a diverse community and a welcoming atmosphere. From the historic neighborhoods to the modern developments, this city has something to offer everyone. Whether you are a family looking for a safe and family-friendly community or a young professional seeking a vibrant city with a variety of cultural experiences, Santa Ana is an excellent choice. Experience the best of Orange County without the high price tag by making Santa Ana your new home.

1. Anaheim
Anaheim is not only the "Happiest Place on Earth" but it is also the second cheapest place to live in Orange County, making it a highly attractive option for budget-conscious families. With a population of over 330,000 residents, Anaheim is the most populous city in Orange County and has evolved from an agricultural community to a thriving city with a diversified economy that includes tourism and the manufacturing of electronics, canned fruit, and aircraft parts. The heart of the city`s historic district is downtown Anaheim, which boasts a library, police headquarters, city hall, and a century-old packing house converted into an eatery. A three-bedroom house in Anaheim can be purchased for just over $605,000, which is a great value considering the city`s numerous attractions and amenities, including the Disneyland Resort.

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