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Samuel Smith housing

Cheapest neighborhoods in University CDP (Orange County)?

With a population of 42,481, University CDP (Orange County) is a smaller city. You can expect to pay around $1,393 for rent here. Crime rate is something to consider -University CDP (Orange County) sits at 149.5 per 100K. Poverty rate is 13.9%, which is around average. The suburbs are where most families end up. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The weather takes some getting used to. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse.

Pros:
- Good job market
- Nice parks and trails
- Lots of new development
- Good internet infrastructure

Cons:
- Sprawl everywhere
- Lack of diversity
- Limited cultural events
- Not enough green space
What would you do? Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The city has invested a lot in new development. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The city has invested a lot in new development. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The weather takes some getting used to. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The food scene here is surprisingly good. The food scene here is surprisingly good. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting.
27 upvotes

3 Replies

Naomi K.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.

Background: I'm a social worker, 28, moved here 8 years ago from Austin. I've lived in Eastside and Old Town, and traveled to most parts of the metro.

**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Low crime in most neighborhoods
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year

**What I don't love:**
1. Winters are long and cold
2. Can feel isolated
3. The walkability situation is growing and doesn't seem to be improving

**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Eastside: Great for couples. tough vibes, walkable.
- Old Town: More affordable, family-friendly.

**Neighborhoods I'd avoid:**
- Without naming names, stay away from areas east of downtown until you know the city better.

**Cost comparison:**
Coming from Austin, everything felt decent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $40K-$130K here.

**Final verdict:**
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. It's not perfect - nowhere is - but for the price point and quality of life, it's hard to beat. DM me if you have specific questions.
39 upvotes
James Chavez
great question, following
29 upvotes
stldude2021
Hot take but it exceeded my expectations. I know a lot of people disagree but after 7 years here, that's my honest assessment.
18 upvotes
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