Most Affordable Neighborhoods in Irvine, CA
Some of the cheapest neighborhoods in Irvine are Northwood, Portola Court, and Walnut Square. These neighborhoods offer some of the lowest rent prices in Irvine, making them ideal for renters on a budget. As of June 17, 2025, the average rent in Irvine is $2,884, which is 0.4% 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
$2,620/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
6.1%
TransitScore® Rating
30/100
Units Available
26 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.
Portola Court
Average Rent
$2,870/Month
TransitScore® Rating
0/100
Units Available
17 Rentals
Portola Court is a top choice for budget-conscious renters for a variety of reasons. The average rent in Portola Court is $2,870 while the city average is $2,884. Residents enjoy convenient access to Rancho Sonado, Turtle Rock Nature Center, and Irvine Valley Coll., Tustin. The neighborhood is considered car-dependent with a WalkScore® of 3.
Walnut Square
Average Rent
$2,921/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 $2,921, compared to the city average of $2,884. Walnut Square is convenient to UCI Arboretum, John Wayne/Orange County, and Concordia University Irvine.
El Camino Real
Average Rent
$2,944/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
3.9%
TransitScore® Rating
34/100
Units Available
31 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.
Windwood Garden
Average Rent
$2,973/Month
Units Available
11 Rentals
Windwood Garden is an affordable neighborhood in Irvine with an average rent price of $2,973. Compare this to the city average of $2,884. Windwood Garden provides easy access to Irvine Valley Coll., Tustin, UCI Arboretum, and Long Beach (Daugherty Field).
University Park
Average Rent
$3,000/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
4.2%
TransitScore® Rating
28/100
Units Available
19 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
$3,011/Month
Units Available
18 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 $3,011, while the city’s average stands at $2,884. Terrace is near Brandman University, Mason Regional Park, and UC Irvine.
Walnut
Average Rent
$3,050/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
3.3%
TransitScore® Rating
28/100
Units Available
18 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.
Deerfield
Average Rent
$3,077/Month
TransitScore® Rating
31/100
Units Available
13 Rentals
Deerfield is a top choice for budget-conscious renters for a variety of reasons. The average rent in Deerfield is $3,077 while the city average is $2,884. Residents enjoy convenient access to Culver Plaza, Santa Ana Zoo, and Irvine Village Center. The neighborhood is considered somewhat walkable with a WalkScore® of 65.
Fawn Glen
Average Rent
$3,077/Month
Units Available
13 Rentals
When you’re looking for a great Irvine neighborhood on a budget, check out Fawn Glen. The average rent is $3,077, compared to the city average of $2,884. Fawn Glen is convenient to John Wayne/Orange County, Peters Canyon Regional Park, and Santa Ana Zoo.
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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.