Sam SmithOrange County, California is one of the most expensive metropolitan regions in the United States, so “cheap” here is always relative. With only 34 incorporated cities, the focus shifts from finding truly low‑cost living to identifying the more affordable pockets within a high‑cost environment. By comparing median home prices, rental costs, and cost‑of‑living indexes, we can highlight the cities where residents get the best relative value. This ranking shows where affordability exists in North and Central OC.
Top 30 Cheapest Places In Orange County
Most Affordable Tier (Relatively Speaking)
1. Santa Ana
Santa Ana, the county seat, is consistently the most affordable city in Orange County for both rentals and home purchases. Its diverse population, central location, and cultural vibrancy make it appealing, though housing stock is older and density is high. Residents benefit from proximity to employment centers and public transit, but trade‑offs include traffic congestion and varied school quality. Santa Ana offers relative affordability and urban energy in a region otherwise dominated by high housing costs.
2. Anaheim
Anaheim, home to Disneyland, offers a wide range of housing options, with more affordable neighborhoods away from the resort area. It is a major employment hub, with tourism, manufacturing, and healthcare driving the economy. Rental prices are moderate compared to coastal cities, and older housing stock provides entry‑level opportunities. While traffic and density are challenges, Anaheim balances affordability with access to jobs and amenities, making it one of the more practical choices for budget‑conscious residents in Orange County.
3. Garden Grove
Garden Grove, located in central Orange County, is known for its vibrant Vietnamese business district, Little Saigon. Housing prices are similar to Anaheim, with older tract homes and apartments offering relative affordability. The city provides cultural diversity, strong community ties, and convenient access to freeways. While density and traffic can be issues, Garden Grove remains one of the more budget‑friendly options in the county. Its affordability and cultural richness make it attractive for families and newcomers seeking value.
4. Stanton
Stanton is a small, landlocked city with limited space for new development, resulting in older housing stock that remains relatively affordable. Its compact size means fewer amenities compared to larger cities, but residents benefit from central county access and proximity to employment hubs. Housing prices are lower than in neighboring areas, making Stanton appealing for budget‑conscious households. While options are limited, Stanton provides entry‑level affordability in Orange County, offering a quieter lifestyle with convenient access to surrounding communities.
5. Orange
Orange combines historic charm with affordability in certain neighborhoods. While the Old Town area is pricey, housing north of the 91 freeway and in older tracts is more modestly priced. The city offers strong schools, cultural attractions, and convenient freeway access. Its affordability is relative, but Orange provides a balance of lifestyle amenities and manageable costs compared to coastal cities. Families and students benefit from its central location, making Orange a practical choice for those seeking value in OC.
6. Fullerton
Fullerton, home to California State University Fullerton, is a diverse college town with varied neighborhoods. Housing near the university and in older parts of town tends to be more affordable, while newer developments are pricier. The city offers cultural attractions, strong schools, and convenient transit options. Rental prices are moderate compared to coastal areas, making Fullerton appealing for students, families, and commuters. Its affordability, combined with vibrant community life, positions Fullerton as a balanced option in northern Orange County.
7. Placentia
Placentia, known as “The Pleasant Place,” is a northern Orange County city with a small‑town feel. Housing prices are slightly lower than in neighboring Yorba Linda, offering relative affordability. The city provides good schools, parks, and community amenities, making it attractive for families. While not as bustling as larger cities, Placentia offers a quieter lifestyle with convenient freeway access. Its affordability and suburban character make it a practical choice for residents seeking value without sacrificing quality of life.
8. La Habra
La Habra, located on the border with Los Angeles County, serves as a gateway to Orange County with more accessible entry prices. Housing costs are lower than in many OC cities, and rental options are relatively affordable. The city offers essential amenities, schools, and parks, while maintaining a suburban atmosphere. Its location provides commuting access to both LA and OC job markets. La Habra’s affordability and convenience make it appealing for families and newcomers seeking a manageable lifestyle.
9. Brea
Brea, in northern Orange County, offers a lively downtown and suburban lifestyle at slightly more affordable prices than neighboring Yorba Linda. Housing costs are moderate, with older tracts and condos providing entry‑level options. The city has strong schools, shopping centers, and cultural amenities, making it attractive for families. While newer developments are pricier, Brea balances affordability with lifestyle appeal. Its relative value and vibrant community atmosphere make it a practical choice for residents seeking suburban living in OC.
10. Costa Mesa
Costa Mesa is a city of contrasts, with upscale neighborhoods near South Coast Metro and more affordable older bungalows on the Westside. Housing prices vary widely, but entry‑level options exist compared to coastal neighbors. The city offers cultural attractions, shopping, and proximity to beaches, making it desirable despite higher costs. Costa Mesa’s affordability is relative, but its diverse housing stock provides opportunities for budget‑conscious households. Its central location and lifestyle amenities make it appealing for families and professionals.
Orange County Cities Ranked by Affordability
| # | City / Area | Affordability Tier |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Santa Ana | Most Affordable |
| 2 | Anaheim | Most Affordable |
| 3 | Garden Grove | Most Affordable |
| 4 | Stanton | Most Affordable |
| 5 | Orange | Most Affordable |
| 6 | Fullerton | Most Affordable |
| 7 | Placentia | Most Affordable |
| 8 | La Habra | Most Affordable |
| 9 | Brea | Most Affordable |
| 10 | Costa Mesa | Most Affordable |
| 11 | Tustin | Mid-Tier |
| 12 | Fountain Valley | Mid-Tier |
| 13 | Westminster | Mid-Tier |
| 14 | Buena Park | Mid-Tier |
| 15 | Cypress | Mid-Tier |
| 16 | Yorba Linda | Mid-Tier |
| 17 | Lake Forest | Mid-Tier |
| 18 | Mission Viejo | Mid-Tier |
| 19 | Huntington Beach | Upper-Mid |
| 20 | Irvine | Expensive |
| 21 | Aliso Viejo | Expensive |
| 22 | San Juan Capistrano | Expensive |
| 23 | Rancho Santa Margarita | Expensive |
| 24 | Laguna Niguel | Expensive |
| 25 | Laguna Woods | Expensive (Age-restricted) |
| 26 | San Clemente | Very Expensive |
| 27 | Dana Point | Very Expensive |
| 28 | Seal Beach | Very Expensive |
| 29 | Los Alamitos | Very Expensive |
| 30 | Villa Park | Ultra-Luxury |
| 31 | Newport Beach | Ultra-Luxury |
| 32 | Laguna Beach | Ultra-Luxury |
| 33 | Rossmoor (unincorporated) | Ultra-Luxury |
| 34 | Coto de Caza (unincorporated) | Ultra-Luxury |
Closing
Even Orange County’s “affordable” cities—like Santa Ana, Anaheim, and Garden Grove—still carry housing costs far above national averages. The trade‑offs often include older housing stock, higher density, and longer commutes. Yet these communities provide entry points for families, students, and newcomers who want to live in OC without paying coastal luxury prices. For those seeking true budget living, nearby Riverside and San Bernardino counties offer far lower costs. Within OC itself, affordability is relative, but opportunity and lifestyle remain strong.