Nestled on the Pacific coast about 35 miles from Downtown LA, you will find one of Southern California’s most pristine destinations: Orange County. From the surf town vibes of Laguna Beach and the eclectic arts scene of Costa Mesa, to the postcard-worthy harbor of Newport Beach and the iconic entertainment of Anaheim, “the OC” attracts more than 40 million visitors each year.
But what about actually moving to Orange County? With over 3.1 million residents across 792 square miles, the OC ranks sixth in the nation’s 10 most populous counties — and there’s good reason for this, considering the area’s storied attractions (it’s home to Disneyland Resort in Anaheim), oceanfront views, and high-end amenities. But that doesn’t mean it’s for everyone. Before you pack up your home and hire full-service movers, here’s what to expect about living in Orange County to make sure it’s the right fit for you.
What To Know About Living in Orange County Before Moving to Orange County
Moving out of state is a major transition, so it’s important to weigh this decision carefully before hitting the road. There are many perks of living in Orange County, but it can also be a culture shock at first — especially when relocating from a quieter, slower-paced part of the country. Here are the main considerations to keep in mind about moving to Orange County, from the climate and weather to the cost of living, job market, and more.
1. The cost of living in Orange County does not come cheap
The cost of living in Orange County is 64% above the national average, so depending on where you’re coming from, you may need to brace yourself for a tighter budget when moving to Orange County.
While the local tax rate (7.75–9.25%) is lower than in some other parts of California, the OC is still undeniably expensive. Here’s an estimate of how much more you’ll spend on the essentials each year living in Orange County, compared to a few other major counties across the state:
$17,730 more than in San Bernardino County
$16,682 more than in Sacramento County
$13,384 more than in Los Angeles County
$3,913 more than in San Francisco County
$3,519 more than in San Diego County
Taking all this into account, what salary do you need to live comfortably in Orange County? At the bare minimum, a single adult with no children needs an annual salary of $75,982, and a family of four needs to bring in two annual salaries of at least $81,806 to cover basic living expenses, including housing, transportation, food, healthcare, and taxes, with limited room for discretionary spending.
2. Orange County has some of California’s lowest crime rates
Is Orange County safe? On average, about 27.5 crimes occur in the OC per 1,000 residents (4.25 violent crimes and 19.32 property crimes) each year. These numbers place the Orange County crime rate below California’s state average, and below nearly 60 percent of other counties across the U.S. While Orange County is quite safe, crimes do take place in concentrated areas of large cities like Anaheim, so remember to exercise basic precaution.
Safest cities in Orange County
Rancho Santa Margarita
Aliso Viejo
Yorba Linda
Laguna Niguel
Lake Forest
Irvine
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3. The weather in Orange County is comfortable year-round
Similar to LA, Orange County has a Mediterranean climate with about 280 days of sunshine and less than 15 inches of rain each year. Orange County is much warmer than some of California’s other coastal regions, like San Francisco, but even in the summer, temperatures rarely exceed 85–90 degrees. Winters here are also mild, with temperatures between 40 and 50 degrees. The area’s coastal location means enjoyable weather no matter the season, but Orange County can face climate threats, such as wildfires, earthquakes, droughts, mudslides, and flash floods.
4. Orange County’s housing and rental market can be pricey
Before moving to Orange County, be sure to factor in this area’s inflated housing market. Real estate costs in the OC have surged by more than 70 percent over the last 10 years, with the average home listed for about $1,169,743. That’s not quite as expensive as San Francisco, but it’s pricier than Los Angeles, San Diego, and Palm Springs.
If you prefer to rent in Orange County, the cost of a two-bedroom apartment will set you back around $4,250 per month, on average. Of course, this price can also fluctuate based on where you choose to live. For instance, a two-bedroom apartment in Anaheim costs about $2,750 per month, versus $3,180 in Costa Mesa and $4,200 in Newport Beach.
5. You’ll find booming career opportunities in Orange County
If you’re on the job hunt, moving to Orange County could result in a profitable career boost. The unemployment rate is just 3.9% (versus the state average of 5.5%). Within the next 10 years, 56,119 new jobs are projected to open here in tourism, outdoor recreation, and healthcare. But this area’s diverse economy also boasts exciting opportunities in hospitality, life science, real estate, technology, aerospace, manufacturing, transportation, and renewable energy.
6. The best places to live in Orange County are full of charm
Orange County is home to 34 distinct communities, from major cities like Anaheim to quaint towns such as Villa Park. Whether you want an urban vibe with entertainment around every corner, or you prefer a slice of suburbia with excellent schools and access to nature, here are our picks for the three best places to live in Orange County.
Costa Mesa: Best for young adults
If you’re looking for a balance of work and play, Costa Mesa is calling your name. Young adults flock here for the creative energy, career opportunities, and social vibe. Flexible co-working spaces, convenient freeway access, and a walk score of 80 allow for an easy commute. And when you’re off the clock, there’s plenty to enjoy in Costa Mesa’s lively entertainment scene. Funky co-ops such as The CAMP and Lab Anti-Mall feature vintage stores, artisan boutiques, restaurants, breweries, and coffee shops. Meanwhile, chic nightlife spots like The Country Club invite you to unwind over craft spirits and farm-to-table bites in a retro atmosphere.
Irvine — Best for families
Families flock to Irvine for its low crime rates, 16,500 acres of outdoor recreation, and the top school district in Orange County. This master-planned community is also just a quick drive from many of Southern California’s most picturesque beaches. Irvine makes planning family activities a breeze, thanks to entertainment options for all ages. Head to the Great Park for ice rinks, sports facilities, multi-use trails, and even a carousel or hot air balloon ride. Or cool off in the summer at Wild Rivers waterpark. Your crew will also love the unique experiences at Tanaka Farms, from the Baby Goat Yoga to the U-Pick Strawberry Tours.
Laguna Niguel — Best for retirees
If you’re on the hunt for premier retirement living in Orange County, look no further than Laguna Niguel. Tucked in the lush San Joaquin foothills less than 10 miles from the coast, this enclave
offers all the leisure and amenities you need for a peaceful but active lifestyle. Cast a line in the lake or meander along the tree-lined paths of Laguna Niguel Regional Park, tee off on the manicured 18-hole golf course at El Niguel Country Club, or immerse yourself in colorful gardens of the Niguel Botanical Preserve. Retirees who appreciate enchanting scenic views and laidback recreation will feel right at home in Laguna Niguel.
| Pro Tip: Once you choose where to live in Orange County, use our moving checklist to help streamline the relocation process from start to finish. |
7. Living in Orange County means world-class entertainment
Like most of Southern California, Orange County is an entertainment mecca. From amusement parks and cultural museums to outdoor recreation and culinary destinations — not to mention, a wide variety of beaches and marinas — there’s no shortage of attractions to fill your spare time. No matter what you’re into, here are some fun activities to do in Orange County.
Unique activities to do in Orange County
Check out the annual Sawdust Art Festival in Laguna Beach, where you can observe local artisans at work and immerse yourself in hands-on craft projects.
Take a whale-watching cruise from Dana Point, one of the world’s premier locations for spotting both dolphins and whales all year-round.
Ride the ferry over to Balboa Island off the coast of Newport Beach, then grab a classic frozen banana and rent bikes for an afternoon of exploring.
Indulge in creative food concepts at Santa Ana’s 4th Street Market, from Vietnamese coffee tiramisu to El Salvadoran tamales.
Visit the Mission San Juan Capistrano, the birthplace of Orange County and a cultural monument to California’s Indigenous, Mexican, and Spanish heritage.
Free activities to do in Orange County
Catch an ocean sunset on the Huntington Beach Pier which juts out 1,850 feet in length and offers panoramic views of Catalina Island.
Discover the public art installations at Noguchi Garden in Costa Mesa, featuring seven sculptures that each illustrate a distinct region in California.
Meander along beaches, tidepools, canyons, red rock formations, and 2,400 lush acres of wilderness at the Crystal Cove State Park.
Window shop in the eclectic antique stores of Old Towne Orange, California’s largest and most prominent nationally registered historic district.
Practice yoga with a waterfront view near Tower 14 on Huntington City Beach (donations are accepted but not required to participate).
Activities to do in Orange County with kids
Splurge on tickets to Disneyland, where classic rides, characters, parades, live shows, and fireworks offer unforgettable thrills for the whole family.
Unleash your kids’ imagination at the Pretend City Children’s Museum in Irvine, with 17 interactive exhibits that inspire enrichment through creative play.
Help your kids cultivate a passion for STEM at Discovery Cube Orange County, where science comes to life with fun, hands-on lab experiments.
Bring a picnic lunch to the “Top of the World” Alta Laguna Park, then enjoy recreational amenities like playgrounds, athletic courts, and scenic trails.
Head over to Dana Wharf for a children’s fishing clinic at the docks, then hop on a boat for an afternoon fishing trip on the high seas.
Pros and Cons of Living in Orange County
As you can see, there’s so much to look forward to about moving to Orange County — from the breezy coastal weather to the magical attractions at Disneyland. But like anywhere else, The OC also has some potential drawbacks. Before moving to California and settling in this area, here are the main pros and cons of Orange County to keep in mind:
Pros of Living in Orange County | Cons of Living in Orange County |
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Is Orange County a Good Place To Live in California?
Orange County can be a desirable place to live for folks who want to experience the Southern California lifestyle without the crime rates, traffic delays, or concrete jungle feel of Downtown LA. Living in Orange County means access to 42 miles of Pacific coastline, idyllic beach towns, and an iconic entertainment scene. But before moving to Orange County, consider potential climate-related risks and be sure you can afford the steep cost of living. The OC is best suited for professionals, dual-income families, and financially secure retirees.
Moving to Orange County Is Easier With Colonial Van Lines
If you’re into brilliant sunshine, beachfront vibes, and bustling entertainment (and you’re not too thrown off by the cost of living), then living in Orange County could be just the right move.
When it’s time to embark on your new Southern California chapter, Colonial Van Lines can help. Whether you’re relocating from the Pacific Northwest or NYC, our interstate moving company has both the skills and experience to ensure a smooth transition to Orange County. Contact us for a free quote and learn more about our long-distance moving services.