Most Affordable Neighborhoods in Irvine, CA
Some of the cheapest neighborhoods in Irvine are Walnut Square, Northwood, and El Camino Real. These neighborhoods offer some of the lowest rent prices in Irvine, making them ideal for renters on a budget. As of August 3, 2025, the average rent in Irvine is $2,931, which is 0.1% 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.
Walnut Square
Average Rent
$2,488/Month
Units Available
17 Rentals
When you’re looking for a great Irvine neighborhood on a budget, check out Walnut Square. The average rent is $2,488, compared to the city average of $2,931. Walnut Square is convenient to Irvine Valley College, Irvine, Santa Ana Zoo, and Mason Regional Park.
Northwood
Average Rent
$2,489/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
5.2%
TransitScore® Rating
30/100
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
$2,804/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
8%
TransitScore® Rating
34/100
Units Available
30 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.
University Park
Average Rent
$3,051/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
5.7%
TransitScore® Rating
29/100
Units Available
16 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.
Portola Court
Average Rent
$3,089/Month
TransitScore® Rating
0/100
Units Available
16 Rentals
Portola Court is an affordable neighborhood in Irvine with an average rent price of $3,089. Compare this to the city average of $2,931. Portola Court provides easy access to John Wayne/Orange County, Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary, and Turtle Rock Nature Center. It’s a car-dependent neighborhood with a WalkScore® of 3.
Portola Springs
Average Rent
$3,120/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
1.6%
TransitScore® Rating
33/100
Units Available
29 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.
Terrace
Average Rent
$3,161/Month
Units Available
15 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 $3,161, while the city’s average stands at $2,931. Terrace is near Mason Regional Park, Irvine Valley College, Irvine, and Coastal Peak Park.
Marquee at Park Place
Average Rent
$3,165/Month
TransitScore® Rating
39/100
Units Available
31 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 $3,165 while the city average is $2,931. Residents enjoy convenient access to Long Beach (Daugherty Field), Irvine Valley College, Irvine, and Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve. The neighborhood is considered somewhat walkable with a WalkScore® of 52.
Autum Glen
Average Rent
$3,198/Month
Units Available
23 Rentals
When you’re looking for a great Irvine neighborhood on a budget, check out Autum Glen. The average rent is $3,198, compared to the city average of $2,931. Autum Glen is convenient to Concordia University Irvine, Oak Creek Shopping Center, and Crystal Cove State Park.
Kelsey Lane
Average Rent
$3,218/Month
Units Available
20 Rentals
Kelsey Lane is an affordable neighborhood in Irvine with an average rent price of $3,218. Compare this to the city average of $2,931. Kelsey Lane provides easy access to Concordia University Irvine, Mason Regional Park, and Brandman University.
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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.