California Real Estate & Relocation Guide

Irvine, California

Population: 110,000

Located in Orange County

Irvine has earned an international reputation as one of the most successful master planned communities in the country, and home to some of the nation's most successful businesses.

In a recent Orange County Register survey, Orange County residents chose Irvine as the most desirable Orange County city in which to live.

Parent's magazine rated Irvine one of the best cities in America in which to raise a family.

QUALITY OF SCHOOLS - In recent advancement placement tests, 73 of every 100 Irvine High School students passed. This compares to 35 of every 100 countrywide and 23 of every 100 students statewide. The Irvine Unified School District consistently ranks among the finest educational systems in the nation. Irvine schools offer innovative educational programs, team-teaching and excellent community involvement. IUSD includes 23 elementary schools, five middle schools and four high schools. The school district is located at 5050 Barranca Parkway, Irvine Ca 92604 the phone numbers are 949-936-5000 the fax number 949-936-5009. Education foundations within the district provide support for the modernization of computer labs plus vocal & instrumental music honors programs. Irvine students consistently lead Orange County in SAT test scores, and more than 90 percent of their high school graduates attend college.

PROPERTY VALUES - The quality of life and amenities in Irvine combine to make purchasing a home in the city a sound personal investment.

LOW CRIME RATE - Based on FBI's annual crime statistics report, Irvine was rated in 1996 as the #1 safest city in the United States with a population over 100,000. Irvine is one of the safest cities in America with: superior technology, employment availability, acclaimed community entertainment and recreation facilities, a broad selection of the best education opportunities for children and adults and, of course, great California weather.

PARKS AND OPEN SPACE - Irvine's system of planned nature preserves, wilderness parks and trails are 20 square miles.

The city of Irvine was incorporated on December 28, 1971. Irvine is one of the nations largest planned urban communities and encompasses over 47 square miles. The current population is over 143,000. The City of Irvine offers an array of development and expansion opportunities to existing City businesses, and for those seeking to relocate to Irvine in the future. Through its many Business Attraction programs, Irvine has become the number one location choice for companies of all types and sizes.

The majority of the City's economic development programs are coordinated through the Irvine Chamber of Commerce “Destination Irvine” program. Through Destination Irvine, information and assistance is readily available on business-related incentives, along with data on demographics, development standards, and services such as childcare coordination, affordable housing opportunities, schools, recreation programs, and other amenities. Information on wages, labor, housing, infrastructure, fees and other subjects utilized in facilitating a relocation or expansion is also available as needed.

Local lending institutions are available to assist in business expansion by providing financing opportunities to cover various relocation costs, just one more incentive for businesses to choose Irvine as their home.

The City of Irvine is also considered a premier location for film projects due to its expansive areas, and state-of-the-art structures and facilities. The City offers free or low-cost filming permits (depending on whether City services are required), location information, and a wealth of appealing and convenient visual opportunities throughout the area. Film permits are coordinated through the City’s Development Services Department.