Is Orange County, California, a Good Place to Invest in Real Estate?

When deciding where to invest, one of the top questions people ask is, "Is Orange County a good place to invest in real estate?" The answer is a definitive yes. Orange County offers lucrative opportunities for real estate investors, thanks to its strong economy, high rental demand, and appreciating home values. In this blog, we’ll explore 7 reasons why Orange County is a prime location for real estate investment.

1. Strong Economic Growth

Orange County boasts a diverse and resilient economy. The county’s GDP was approximately $314.2 billion in 2022, making it one of the most robust economies in California. With key industries like tourism, technology, and healthcare, the region provides a solid foundation for real estate appreciation. Click here to see the GDP for all industries in Orange County, CA

2. High Rental Demand

According to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the county has a population of approximately 3.2 million residents. This large population base contributes to a strong demand for rental properties. The steady population growth, supported by job opportunities and migration trends, keeps the rental market competitive and vibrant. Here is the actual population data of Orange County, California.

3. Appreciating Home Values

Orange County home values continue to rise. Zillow reports that the median home price reached $1.1 million in 2024, reflecting a 10.9% year-over-year increase as of this writing. This upward trend makes the area a great choice for long-term investors. You can find the updated home value in Orange County, CA here.

4. Prime Location

Located between Los Angeles and San Diego, Orange County's prime location enhances its real estate appeal. Whether for primary residences or vacation homes, its proximity to beautiful beaches and major attractions like Disneyland ensures a constant demand for housing.

5. Low Vacancy Rates

The county is one of the most challenging places to find available rental units. According to a report featured on CBS News, Orange County has one of California's lowest rental vacancy rates, making it the hardest place to secure an apartment in the state. With such limited availability, rental demand remains exceptionally high, offering strong opportunities for real estate investors looking to enter the market. Read more about it here.

6. Top-Rated Schools

Orange County is home to some of California’s best school districts, including Irvine Unified and Laguna Beach Unified School District. Families often seek properties in these areas, driving up both rental and home purchase demand, which contributes to property value appreciation. Here's the list of the best school districts in the county with reviews.

7. Relatively Low Property Taxes

Compared to other counties in California, Orange County offers relatively low property taxes, making it an attractive location for real estate investors. According to US Housing Data, the property tax rate in Orange County is 0.67%, which is lower than many other counties in California. For example, neighboring Riverside County has a rate of 0.86%. For investors, this translates into lower annual tax payments, making Orange County a more attractive option for long-term real estate investments. You can check the property tax rates in California by county here.

Conclusion

Is Orange County, California, a good place to invest in real estate? Absolutely. The county’s strong economy, high rental demand, rising property values, and prime location make it a compelling option for real estate investors.

Ready to find your dream home in Orange County, California? Click here.