Irvine

With a reputation as one of the safest, master-planned, business-friendly communities in the country, Irvine real estate belongs to one of the nation's largest planned urban communities, encompassing more than 55 square miles. This upscale, Orange County jewel is located extremely close to the area’s best beaches, mountains and family attractions, as well as a wealth of cultural and shopping hubs. Irvine real estate is spread among more than 20 villages that were each initially planned to have distinct architectural themes.

With one of the largest Asian-American percentages of any U.S. city, this area has grown into a community boasting state-of-the-art transportation programs and systems, an enterprising business environment, stellar educational institutions and a family-friendly lifestyle.

Irvine has nationally recognized schools that offer innovative educational programs, open-style classrooms, team-teaching, and even some with year-round terms, and excellent community involvement. Area students consistently lead Orange County in SAT test scores, and more than 90 percent of their high school graduates attend college. Meanwhile, the city is also home to the University of California at Irvine (UCI), which is one of the nation's top academic institutions, as well as Concordia University and Irvine Valley College.