LifeCost Blog
Irvine

Irvine

USA

Updated on August 16, 2025

Overview

Master-planned city in Orange County, California, renowned for its excellent schools, well-designed residential communities, and strong tech industry presence. With over 300,000 residents, it's one of the most prosperous and dynamic cities in Southern California.

Average cost of living€6,974.34
Quality of Life85/100

Accommodation

Rent room (flat-share)€1,200.00
1-bed flat (center)€2,800.00
1-bed flat (outside)€2,400.00
3-bed flat (center)€4,500.00
3-bed flat (outside)€3,800.00

Utilities

Basic utilities€180.00
Internet€75.00
Mobile plan€60.00

Transportation

One-way ticket€1.72
Monthly pass€59.34
Taxi start€3.50
Gasoline (1 l)€4.80

Leisure

Cinema ticket€16.00
Fitness club€80.00

Education

Preschool (month)€1,800.00
Intl. primary (year)€12,500.00

Buying House

sqm in city center€8,500.00
sqm outside center€7,200.00

Advantages

  • Excellent educational system with highly-rated schools
  • Master-planned residential communities with abundant parks
  • Strong tech industry and job opportunities
  • Proximity to beaches and Southern California attractions
  • Low crime rates and high safety
  • Modern and well-maintained infrastructure
  • Diverse food scene
  • Convenient access to shopping and services

Disadvantages

  • × High cost of living and elevated real estate prices
  • × Heavy traffic congestion during peak hours
  • × Limited vibrant nightlife
  • × Suburban environment may feel artificial to some
  • × Limited public transportation options
  • × High California state taxes
  • × Intense competition in tech job market