Best Affordable Neighborhoods in Irvine, CA
Some of the cheapest neighborhoods in Irvine are Northwood, University Park, and Terrace. These neighborhoods offer some of the lowest rent prices in Irvine, making them ideal for renters on a budget. As of March 22, 2026, the average rent in Irvine is $2,933, which is 1.1% 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.
Northwood
Average Rent
$2,953/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
0.6%
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.
University Park
Average Rent
$2,969/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
7.6%
Units Available
14 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.
Terrace
Average Rent
$2,969/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 $2,969, while the city’s average stands at $2,933. Terrace is near Alton Square, Parkview Center, and UCI Arboretum.
University Town Center
Average Rent
$2,987/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
0.2%
Units Available
28 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.
Autum Glen
Average Rent
$3,012/Month
Units Available
21 Rentals
Autum Glen is a top choice for budget-conscious renters for a variety of reasons. The average rent in Autum Glen is $3,012 while the city average is $2,933. Residents enjoy convenient access to UC Irvine, Coastal Peak Park, and Irvine Oaks Executive Pk.
Kelsey Lane
Average Rent
$3,032/Month
Units Available
20 Rentals
When you’re looking for a great Irvine neighborhood on a budget, check out Kelsey Lane. The average rent is $3,032, compared to the city average of $2,933. Kelsey Lane is convenient to Alton Square, Coastal Peak Park, and Concordia University Irvine.
Walnut Square
Average Rent
$3,085/Month
Units Available
16 Rentals
Walnut Square is an affordable neighborhood in Irvine with an average rent price of $3,085. Compare this to the city average of $2,933. Walnut Square provides easy access to The Arbor Village Center, Irvine Valley College, Irvine, and Orangetree Square.
El Camino Real
Average Rent
$3,110/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
0.7%
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 Court
Average Rent
$3,118/Month
Units Available
21 Rentals
If you’re looking for a great, affordable neighborhood in Irvine, Portola Court might be the perfect place! It has an average rent price of $3,118, while the city’s average stands at $2,933. Portola Court is near Irvine Valley College, Irvine, Rancho Sonado, and Concordia University Irvine.
Portola Springs
Average Rent
$3,127/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
1%
Units Available
34 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.
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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.