Orange feels out of place from the high-brow, celebrity-rich culture that surrounds it. “Some people are private, but it’s not like other parts of Orange County. You have people from very diverse socioeconomic backgrounds and lots of mom-and-pop restaurants,” says Tracey Marcyan, a lifelong resident. She’s been a Realtor since 2010 and brokers with Caliber Real Estate Group. “Most people know their neighbors and show up for community events. If I go to the Orange Street Fair in September, I’ll probably run into 100 people I know. I’ll probably run into 100 more at the Christmas Tree Lighting in December.” Olde Towne Orange is a hub for these events on the city’s south side. Warehouses are in the west, closest to Anaheim. Suburbs cover Orange’s valley and eastern hills, and roughly 140,000 people live in the city overall.
The Orange International Street Fair brings food and art to Old Towne each August.
The Orange High School Cheer Team attends the Orange May Parade.
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Old Towne Orange and Anaheim attractions
Old Towne Orange is the largest nationally registered historic district in California. With over 1,300 buildings, some go back to the 1880s, and architecture styles can be anything between Italianate and art deco. Nicknamed The Circle by locals, this district has a circular green space, Plaza Park, at its center, and visitors can sit around its bronze fountain. Antique stores, record shops and clothing boutiques surround the park; restaurants, cafes and bars are here too. The district has hosted the Orange Street Fair since 1973. This Labor Day weekend event has art booths, food vendors and different themes every year.
Contrasting the antique feel of Old Towne, The Outlets at Orange are about 3 miles west. This modern outdoor mall has 120-plus chain stores, 20-plus restaurants, an IMAX theater and an indoor skate park. Anaheim is just north with more shopping and dining. Also in this area, theme parks such as Disneyland and Knott’s Berry Farm attract locals and tourists alike. “I can see the fireworks from my house, but the theme parks feel like they’re 100 miles away,” Marcyan says. “The chaos and tourist traffic doesn’t really overflow into Orange.” Angel Stadium, originally called Anaheim Stadium, has hosted the Los Angeles Angels since 1966. Honda Center is home to big-name concerts and NHL hockey with the Anaheim Ducks.
Old Towne Orange’s streets reveal antique shops and lively cafes.
Shoppers flock to The Outlets at Orange for deals and entertainment.
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Eisenhower Park and the Santa Ana Mountains
The city of Orange has 22 parks, and Eisenhower Park is one of the most notable. This 15-acre green space has a lake on its south side, and it’s popular for fishing and duck-feeding. On the city’s east side, the Santa Ana Mountains cater to hikers and mountain bikers. Irvine Regional Park is in the foothills of this range too. Established in 1897, this historic park has pony rides and the Orange County Zoo. Newport and Laguna beaches are about 20 miles south.
Residents fish and relax at Eisenhower Park’s scenic lake.
The OC Zoo at Irvine Regional Park features native wildlife exhibits.
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Top marks for Orange Unified School District
Orange Unified School District serves 26,000 students and gets an A-minus from Niche. Of its 42 schools, 21 have received California Gold Ribbons, and six have received California School Board Association Golden Bell Awards. Canyon High is a standout in the Santa Ana Mountains, scoring an A from Niche. It has over 80 clubs, and art programs include dance, choir and video production. Chapman University is a private institution in central Orange, known for its film and law programs.
Canyon High School brings its students together to watch football games on the field.
Chapman University is a private research university in the heart of Orange.
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Hillside estates and historic homes in Orange
Largely due to the amount of high-paying jobs in the area, housing in Orange is more expensive than neighboring cities. The median sale price here is $1.1 million, about $300,000 more than both Anaheim and Santa Ana as of October 2024. That’s still about half the price of Villa Park and Orange Park Acres, two unincorporated communities on Orange’s east side. High-dollar estates are usually in this area since they have hillside views and are closest to the Santa Ana Mountains. While these homes are mostly from the 1970s, Craftsman homes from the early 1900s are typical near Old Towne. Ranch-style homes make up most of the city overall.
Charming cottages in Orange offer cozy living and curb appeal.
Many of Old Towne Orange's home date back to the early 20th century.
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Orange’s seasonality, wildfire risk and crime rates
Orange has about 280 days of sunshine per year. Summers are dry with temperatures in the 70s and 80s; winters are cool with temperatures in the 60s. The Santa Ana winds, a dry air pattern, can incite wildfires in the mountains and carry smoke to Orange. In September 2024, the Airport Fire burned about 25,000 outside the city, and nearby homeowners evacuated.
In December 2023, Orange had 58 violent offenses per 100,000 people. That’s an increase from the previous year, but it’s still lower than state and national rates. Property offenses were at 99 per 100,000 people in the same month. That’s a decrease from the previous year, and it’s also lower than state and national rates.
Driving the 5, Orange County Transit Authority
Olde Towne Orange is walkable, but most people drive around the city overall. Like many places in Los Angeles, traffic can back up anytime. State Route 55 goes 10 miles south to technology centers in Irvine, and Interstate 5 goes 30 miles north to downtown Los Angeles. Orange County Transit Authority operates the OC Bus and Metrolink train through the city, so drivers have alternatives. John Wayne Airport is about 10 miles south, and Long Beach Airport is about 20 miles west.
Written By
Matt Medl
Photography Contributed By
Michael Rutt
Video By
Jacob McAllister
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
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GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Orange, CA sell after 37 days on the market compared to the national average of 57 days. The median sale price for homes in Orange, CA over the last 12 months is $1,120,000, up 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to this immaculate, beautifully maintained single-story home in Orange ideally located near the border of Villa Park. Situated on a quiet cul-de-sac in a private, exclusive neighborhood surrounded by multi-million-dollar homes, this residence offers the perfect blend of tranquility and convenience. Enjoy peaceful evenings with gentle breezes from the nearby ravine, all just minutes from
An exceptional offering of iconic mid-century modern design, this 1962 Eichler LA-114 by renowned architect Claude Oakland is a rare architectural gem in Orange’s coveted Fairmeadows enclave—one of only 340 built. This 4-bedroom, 2-bath residence embodies sophisticated California living with soaring post-and-beam ceilings, walls of glass, and a seamless indoor-outdoor experience. A striking
WELCOME HOME to the wonderful community of "Morningside on the Lake". Lush landscaping, bubbling streams and mature trees abound in this quiet, park-like setting. This is a wonderful, upper level end unit ( no one above or below you ); one bedroom, one bath condo spanning 849 sq ft, with your own personal patio to enjoy morning coffee or afternoon drinks. Great living room area, dining area,
The ONLY 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom home available in Park Royale, and it has been fully remodeled top to bottom for true move-in ready living! This rare open-concept floor plan has been transformed with fresh paint inside and out, brand new stainless steel appliances, new quartz countertops, new cabinetry, and waterproof luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout. Designer bathrooms feature new vanities
Welcome to your own waterfront retreat in the highly sought-after Orange Lakes community! This charming 1-bedroom loft-style condo offers a light and airy open floor plan with soaring ceilings and tranquil views of the water just beyond your windows.Relax to the soothing sounds of streams and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of this certified wildlife habitat, where ducks, birds, and lush
Completely rebuilt with permits, this home is located in the heart of Old Towne Orange, just minutes from Chapman University, the historic Orange Plaza, dining, and shopping. The property features all-new wood framing, a newly constructed second floor, and a legal second bathroom addition. Upgrades include new subfloors, ceiling joists, stairs and railings, insulation, drywall, new roof, custom
Welcome to the best street in Orange, a one-block tree-lined street, a short walk to Old Towne, and a short drive to all freeways. Known as the kibby house, this sprawling 4-bedroom 4-bath ranch home has charm and personality. The front yard is a display of color from the multiple flowerbeds, and mature trees accent the winding walkway into the house. A long driveway has pavered sections. gated
Rare opportunity for student housing investor or Chapman parent to own a versatile 5-bedroom, 6-bath single-story pool home near Chapman University, with the upcoming OCVIBE development (2027) and just minutes from Old Towne Orange and Disneyland. Located on a quiet, tree-lined street, each bedroom in this home features its own exterior doors and private ensuite bathroom and includes a permitted
Turnkey Central A/C 9' Flat Ceilings Island Kitchen Quartz Counters throughout Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring Carpet in Bedrooms Front Porch with Recessed Lights Better Than New Orange Village MHP is located at 1540 E. Trenton, Orange CA 92867. Short walk through secured gate to restaurants, groceries, banks and shops Senior 55/55 Active Clubhouse Pool Resident Manager 2 Small Pets Okay
Welcome to this beautifully reimagined two-story home in the heart of Orange, where modern upgrades meet timeless comfort. Fully renovated from top to bottom, this residence offers a fresh, move-in-ready experience with thoughtful design and high-quality finishes throughout. Step inside to discover a bright and open layout designed for both elegant entertaining and everyday living. A formal
Historic Charm Meets Modern Luxury at 246 N. StevensExperience the perfect harmony of 1950s architectural charm and sophisticated modern upgrades in this stunning city of Orange residence. Nestled on a quiet cul-de-sac where pride of ownership is evident at every turn, this home has been meticulously renovated to offer the ultimate Southern California lifestyle. The heart of the home is a
Welcome to this charming single-level condominium located in the gated Pinewood Condominiums community along E. Chapman Avenue in the City of Orange. This well-designed 2 bedroom, 2 bath residence offers 1,025 square feet of comfortable living space with a thoughtfully laid-out and functional floor plan, ideal for everyday living.The bright living room features a cozy fireplace and flows
Welcome to 5719 East West View Drive! Set within the exclusive, 24-hour guard-gated community of Rocking Horse Ridge, this two-story, 4-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home offers privacy, elegance, and breathtaking mountain views. The first floor features a living room with a floor-to-ceiling fireplace, an eating area with direct backyard access, and a bright kitchen with stainless steel appliances and a
Welcome to 1802 N. Shaffer Street, a Single Level Home Located on a Large, Interior Lot in the Heart of Orange. This Well-Maintained Home Showcases an Open Floor Plan with Three Bedrooms, Two Full Bathrooms, RV Parking, Newer Roof, High Ceilings, and Ample Natural Light Throughout. The Living Room Overlooks the Front Yard and Opens Directly to the Dining Room. The Expansive Kitchen Includes Ample
Welcome to this incredible Joseph Eichler Model LJ-124 home located in one of the most sought-after, tree lined neighborhoods in Orange County. This spacious 4-bedroom 2 bath residence spans 1973 sq ft blend of modern comfort and functional design. The apprx 400 sq ft sky-view open air atrium offers additional living space year round (see Matterport floor plan).Tucked on a quiet street, this
Mahdi AwadallahBerkshire Hathaway Home Services Elite Real Estate
Centrally located in desirable Orange, CA, Avel Apartment Homes is in close proximity to the historic downtowns bustling restaurants, bars, and nightlife. Convenient access to two main freeway arteries also makes it easy to take advantage of the neighborhoods and attractions throughout Orange County. At home at Avel, youll experience the O.C.s signature vibrance and glamour along with the comfort
This home 5 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms. 1 bedroom and a full bath on main level in the Serrano Heights, mountain views . This lovely executive home is 5 bedrooms, 4 baths plus a game room .Wood floors throughout the upstairs and wood/tile throughout the downstairs, recessed lighting, ceiling fans, upgraded crown moulding. The large kitchen opens to the family room and includes a center island,
Rental rates, availability, lease terms, deposits, apartment features, amenities, and specials are subject to change without notice. Floor plans and square footages displayed are approximations, may be based on stud-to-stud measurements, and may vary between individual units. Quoted prices are for base rent only and do not include other fees such as application fee (one-time, $45), security
Beautifully finished, beautiful setting! Trees, expansive lawn and pool! End unit townhome for morning sun with easy access to the pool, schools, shopping and freeways! Enter into expansive living room with quick access to the ground level bedroom next to remodeled bath! Continue into the brand new kitchen - you will be the first to bake, fry and steam - with large dining area both looking out to
Vitas accessible location is truly in the center of it all, providing easy access to everything Orange County has to offer. Whether youre commuting for work to Irvine or meeting a friend in Newport Beach for lunch, Vitas superb location in Orange makes it easy to get to your destination quickly wherever that may be. Near many award-winning eateries and breweries, lively nightlife entertainment,
Fabulous Orange Hill HomeElegant Living Space with Modern AmenitiesNestled in the prestigious Orange Hill community, this exquisite home offers luxurious living with a total area of 3,126 sqft. Featuring 4 spacious bedrooms and 3 full baths, the residence is perfect for family life and entertaining. The home boasts two fireplaces, adding charm and warmth to both the formal living room and
The Terrace Apartments gives you luxury living at its finest! Nestled in the heart of Orange County, The Terrace offers the best luxurious living. Our 22-acre wooded community is just two minutes from the I-5 and 22 Freeways, with easy access to the 57, 55, 91 and I-405 Freeways. Conveniently located adjacent to The Outlets at Orange and the region's largest medical facility, UCI Medical Center,
Experience elevated living in this stunning 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom home for lease in The Ridge at Belmont, situated within the award-winning Villa Park School District. Spanning 2,655 square feet, this residence features a gourmet kitchen with quartz countertops, a coffee bar, built-in range, and high-end Kitchen Aid appliances, including a refrigerator and microwave. A custom bar has recently
Live a greener, more pampered lifestyle here in stunning Orange County, just minutes from the Outlets at Orange and Angel Stadium. Our Uptown Orange apartments offer top-of-the-line resident amenities in a community certified at LEED® Platinum. Residents have access to resort-style amenities that include a salt water pool with private cabanas, an expansive fitness center with an outdoor yoga
The home is designed with student living in mind, featuring private bedrooms, generous common areas, and a layout well-suited for roommates. Durable finishes and low-maintenance systems ensure straightforward management, while outdoor space adds further appeal for tenants. Location is a key driver of value. 526 N Emerald sits within walking and biking distance of Chapman University, Dodge College
At Towne Centre at Orange, you're not just moving into a homeyoure joining a vibrant community in the heart of Orange County.Enjoy easy access to dining, shopping, entertainment, and top medical facilities, all just minutes from your door. We're a short drive to iconic SoCal destinations like Disneyland, Knotts Berry Farm, Angels Stadium, the Honda Center, Discovery Center, and the beaches.Take a
Located in a prime area of Orange, California, 408 E Jacaranda offers a comfortable and well-maintained home with convenient access to everything the city has to offer. Just minutes from Chapman University, this property is ideal for those looking to be close to campus, local dining, and everyday essentials. The home features a functional layout with spacious living areas, well-sized bedrooms,
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
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