Is University CDP (Orange County) worth moving to in 2026?
So, I grew up here but left for a while. Homes are going for about $275,300 on average. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. What do you all think? Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Night life is decent if you know the right spots.
20 upvotes
10 Replies
Sophia Harris
nah I disagree
40 upvotes
Charlotte M.
I'm a accountant and I've found I'm still on the fence after all this time. The community is pretty good and there's always something going on.
39 upvotes
Ryan R.
couldn't agree more
23 upvotes
Grace Mitchell
I've been living here for 10 years and I'd say I have mixed feelings honestly. The school system is hit or miss compared to other places I've lived. Overall No regrets on my end..
20 upvotes
Wyatt Kelly
Moved here last year, no regrets.
20 upvotes
Luca Anderson
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Uptown for 14 years. Moved from Raleigh for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is average. We bought in 2023 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
consulting is strong here. manufacturing is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are reasonable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I love the pace of life here. The outdoor scene is average - we have beaches within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Uptown schools are solid. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.
**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Not very walkable outside downtown. Chain restaurants dominate. And pet-friendliness can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 5/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
19 upvotes
Zoey Gray
I've been living here for 14 years and I'd say it was the best decision I ever made. The walkability is better than expected compared to other places I've lived. Overall Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
8 upvotes
Katherine Hughes
I've been living here for 5 years and I'd say it was the best decision I ever made. The traffic is tough compared to other places I've lived. Overall It's not for everyone but it works for us..
3 upvotes
Rylee H.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Cedar Grove for 10 years. Moved from Austin for cost of living. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is decent. We bought in 2018 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
consulting is strong here. legal is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are affordable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I'm still on the fence after all this time. The outdoor scene is hit or miss - we have national forests within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Cedar Grove schools are excellent. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.
**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Property taxes are high. Not a lot of cultural diversity. And job market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 7/10. Definitely worth checking out.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
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