Best Affordable Neighborhoods in Irvine, CA
Some of the cheapest neighborhoods in Irvine are University Park, Windwood Garden, and Walnut. These neighborhoods offer some of the lowest rent prices in Irvine, making them ideal for renters on a budget. As of February 5, 2026, the average rent in Irvine is $2,957, which is 2% higher 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.
University Park
Average Rent
$2,948/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
5.3%
TransitScore® Rating
29/100
Units Available
15 Rentals
University Park is adjacent to the University of California, Irvine, providing easy access to campus as well as a variety of events hosted by the university. The William R. Mason Regional Park, ideal for picnics and leisurely walks, is nearby. Renters will also find convenient access to the University Park Center, a shopping plaza with numerous dining establishments and shops.
Windwood Garden
Average Rent
$2,999/Month
Units Available
12 Rentals
Windwood Garden is an affordable neighborhood in Irvine with an average rent price of $2,999. Compare this to the city average of $2,957. Windwood Garden provides easy access to Walnut Village Center, Heritage Plaza, and Irvine Valley Coll., Tustin.
Walnut
Average Rent
$3,033/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
2.3%
TransitScore® Rating
28/100
Units Available
16 Rentals
Nestled near the center of Irvine, Walnut offers easy access to Bill Barber Community Park, a perfect spot for outdoor activities. With several affordable housing options, this neighborhood is ideal for renters on a budget. The nearby Heritage Plaza provides convenient shopping and dining choices.
Terrace
Average Rent
$3,041/Month
Units Available
14 Rentals
If you’re looking for a great, affordable neighborhood in Irvine, Terrace might be the perfect place! It has an average rent price of $3,041, while the city’s average stands at $2,957. Terrace is near Long Beach (Daugherty Field), Turtle Rock Nature Center, and Alton Square.
Deerfield
Average Rent
$3,056/Month
TransitScore® Rating
31/100
Units Available
10 Rentals
Deerfield is a top choice for budget-conscious renters for a variety of reasons. The average rent in Deerfield is $3,056 while the city average is $2,957. Residents enjoy convenient access to UCI Arboretum, Santa Ana Zoo, and Mason Regional Park. The neighborhood is considered somewhat walkable with a WalkScore® of 65.
El Camino Real
Average Rent
$3,070/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
0.9%
TransitScore® Rating
34/100
Units Available
20 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.
Kelsey Lane
Average Rent
$3,075/Month
Units Available
21 Rentals
When you’re looking for a great Irvine neighborhood on a budget, check out Kelsey Lane. The average rent is $3,075, compared to the city average of $2,957. Kelsey Lane is convenient to Concordia University Irvine, Turtle Rock Nature Center, and Irvine Valley College, Irvine.
Autum Glen
Average Rent
$3,083/Month
Units Available
22 Rentals
Autum Glen is an affordable neighborhood in Irvine with an average rent price of $3,083. Compare this to the city average of $2,957. Autum Glen provides easy access to Long Beach (Daugherty Field), Mason Regional Park, and Brandman University.
Northwood
Average Rent
$3,084/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
2.9%
TransitScore® Rating
30/100
Units Available
10 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.
Walnut Square
Average Rent
$3,084/Month
Units Available
10 Rentals
If you’re looking for a great, affordable neighborhood in Irvine, Walnut Square might be the perfect place! It has an average rent price of $3,084, while the city’s average stands at $2,957. Walnut Square is near John Wayne/Orange County, Concordia University Irvine, and Turtle Rock Nature Center.
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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.