Best Affordable Neighborhoods in Irvine, CA
Some of the cheapest neighborhoods in Irvine are Northwood, El Camino Real, and Portola Springs. These neighborhoods offer some of the lowest rent prices in Irvine, making them ideal for renters on a budget. As of May 6, 2026, the average rent in Irvine is $2,924, which is 0.2% lower than last year. However, it's important to remember that rental prices can vary significantly based on factors such as location, amenities, and floor plans.
Northwood
Average Rent
$2,803/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
2.4%
Units Available
19 Rentals
Surrounded by lush parks and greenbelt areas, Northwood is a scenic neighborhood. Renters will appreciate the proximity to Northwood Community Park and the variety of nearby grocery stores. This neighborhood also features the Northwood Town Center for additional shopping and dining.
El Camino Real
Average Rent
$3,025/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
3.1%
Units Available
21 Rentals
El Camino Real stands out with its budget-friendly apartments and close-knit community feel. The neighborhood features Harvard Community Park, offering residents ample recreational opportunities. Additionally, the Crossroads Shopping Center is just a short drive away for all your retail needs.
Portola Springs
Average Rent
$3,099/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
2.8%
Units Available
43 Rentals
Portola Springs offers a peaceful retreat with reasonably priced rental properties. The neighborhood is surrounded by parks and open spaces, including Limestone Canyon Regional Park, a popular hiking and mountain biking destinations. Renters can also take advantage of the nearby Woodbury Town Center for their shopping and dining needs.
Marquee at Park Place
Average Rent
$3,153/Month
Units Available
32 Rentals
Marquee at Park Place is a top choice for budget-conscious renters for a variety of reasons. The average rent in Marquee at Park Place is $3,153 while the city average is $2,924. Residents enjoy convenient access to Irvine Valley College, Irvine, John Wayne/Orange County, and Irvine Valley Coll., Tustin.
Irvine Business Complex
Average Rent
$3,166/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
2%
Units Available
944 Rentals
Ideal for budget-conscious renters, the Irvine Business Complex combines affordability with accessibility. The area is next to John Wayne Airport and near several corporate offices, enhancing its practical appeal. Residents also have easy access to the Diamond Jamboree Shopping Center, which offers diverse dining and shopping options.
Rancho San Joaquin
Average Rent
$3,189/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
1.1%
Units Available
39 Rentals
Rancho San Joaquin is noted for its affordability and picturesque golf course views. Renters can relax at the Rancho San Joaquin Golf Course or explore the nearby San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary. The neighborhood also has the Campus Plaza Shopping Center for convenient local amenities.
University Town Center
Average Rent
$3,269/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
1.2%
Units Available
26 Rentals
For those seeking an economical and academic atmosphere, University Town Center is an excellent choice. The neighborhood is adjacent to the University of California, Irvine, and offers plenty of budget-friendly apartments. University Center, located nearby, features an array of restaurants, stores, and entertainment options.
Oak Creek
Average Rent
$3,277/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
0.4%
Units Available
48 Rentals
Oak Creek provides an inviting community with affordable rental options and great amenities. The neighborhood includes Oak Creek Community Park, perfect for outdoor leisure activities. Residents are also close to the Oak Creek Golf Club and the Alton Square Shopping Center for additional conveniences.
Westpark
Average Rent
$3,313/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
0.3%
Units Available
64 Rentals
When you’re looking for a great Irvine neighborhood on a budget, check out Westpark. The average rent is $3,313, compared to the city average of $2,924. Rent prices have increased by 0.3%. Westpark is convenient to Mason Regional Park, Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve, and Westpark Plaza.
Woodbridge
Average Rent
$3,313/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
3.3%
Units Available
76 Rentals
Woodbridge is an affordable neighborhood in Irvine with an average rent price of $3,313. Compare this to the city average of $2,924. In the past year, rent prices have increased by 3.3%. Woodbridge provides easy access to Crossroads, Mason Regional Park, and Turtle Rock Nature Center.
Ready to make your move to Irvine? Check out the rent specials, price drops, and great deals on ApartmentFinder.com!
Methodology
Transit Score measures access to public transit. Scores range from 0 (minimal transit) to 100 (rider’s paradise). Learn more about the Transit Score methodology. Rental data is sourced from CoStar Group’s Market Trend reports. As a leading authority in commercial real estate information, analytics, and news, CoStar performs in-depth research to build and sustain an extensive database of commercial real estate insights.
We've combined this data with public records to provide the most current rental information available.