Top 10 Neighborhoods in Irvine, CA

Irvine

By Natalie Boyle, REALTOR®, Founder of Verso Homes (DRE #01329012)

Published July 30, 2025 | Last updated July 30, 2025

Irvine is one of Orange County’s most desirable cities, known for its master-planned communities, excellent schools, and scenic parks. Whether you’re a family, professional, or investor, Irvine offers a variety of neighborhoods that blend lifestyle, convenience, and long-term value. Here are my top 10 favorite Irvine neighborhoods to explore for your next home or investment.

I still remember my first tour through Turtle Ridge with clients relocating from San Diego. As we crested the hill and caught a glimpse of the ocean on that clear spring day, the wife turned to me and said, “This feels like home.” Moments like that remind me why I love helping people find their perfect fit in Irvine.

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Pro Tip: Most Irvine communities have HOA-managed amenities like pools, trails, and clubhouses. Make a list of features you value to help narrow your search.

1. Stonegate

Stonegate is a family-friendly community with parks, pools, and top-rated schools. It offers a mix of condos, townhomes, and single-family homes. Stonegate Elementary is a standout. Median price: ~$1.7M (as of July 2025)

Stonegate neighborhood park and homes in Irvine, CA

Current Listings in Stonegate

2. Laguna Altura

This gated community showcases Tuscan-style architecture and resort amenities. Homes range from townhomes to large single-family residences (median ~$2.2M as of July 2025). Just minutes from Laguna Beach hiking trails.

Laguna Altura gated entry and palm-lined street in Irvine, CA

Current Listings in Laguna Altura

3. Turtle Rock

One of Irvine’s most established neighborhoods, Turtle Rock offers mature trees, hillside views, and close access to UCI. Home prices average $2.3M as of July 2025 and schools are excellent.

Scenic hillside homes in Turtle Rock, Irvine

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4. Woodbury

Award-winning and vibrant, Woodbury features a 30-acre park and the popular Woodbury Town Center. Homes span from condos to estates (median ~$1.6M as of July 2025). Families love the pools and trails.

Community park and homes in Woodbury, Irvine

Search for current listings in Woodbury

5. Orchard Hills

Gated luxury surrounded by avocado groves and hills. Homes here feel private and scenic, with pricing often above $3M as of July 2025. Northwood High is nearby, along with walking trails and greenbelts.

Luxury hillside homes in Orchard Hills, Irvine

Current Listings in Orchard Hills

6. Great Park Neighborhoods

Built around the Orange County Great Park, these communities are sustainability-minded and modern. Amenities include sports courts, community centers, and bike paths.

Aerial view of Great Park neighborhoods in Irvine, CA

Current Listings in Great Park Neighborhoods

7. Turtle Ridge

This gated community near Newport Coast offers ocean views, Mediterranean architecture, and some of Irvine’s most luxurious homes (median ~$2.4M as of July 2025). The Summit is especially exclusive.

Mediterranean-style homes in Turtle Ridge, Irvine with ocean views

Search for current listings in Turtle Ridge

8. Hidden Canyon

Known for grand estates and panoramic views, Hidden Canyon homes average over $4M as of July 2025. Gated, quiet, and close to both natural preserves and the Irvine Spectrum.

Luxury estates in Hidden Canyon, Irvine with panoramic views

9. Altair Irvine

Luxury meets convenience in Altair. This gated enclave features pools, tennis courts, and upscale homes starting in the $2M range as of July 2025. Great for buyers who want newer builds and resort-style amenities.

Gated Altair Irvine community entrance and homes

10. Northwood

Tree-lined streets, spacious homes, and top-tier schools define Northwood. Median prices are ~$1.5M as of July 2025. This neighborhood is a favorite among longtime Irvine residents and families.

Wide tree-lined streets and family homes in Northwood, Irvine

Current Listings in Northwood

Client Success Story: "Natalie helped us find our dream home in Woodbury after just one tour. Her insight into Irvine’s school zones and community vibes made all the difference." — The Chens, Woodbury Buyers

Want to explore more of what Irvine offers? Check out our guides to the best parks and hikes in Irvine or discover top-rated restaurants in the area.

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Natalie Boyle
REALTOR®, Founder of Verso Homes (DRE #01329012)
Over 15 years helping South OC homeowners discover their perfect community.
Learn more about Natalie Boyle →