Possible move to OC (Anaheim, Orange: fit in, for rent, gated community)

[thinkinofmovin]

Hi,

Looking for a little bit of info advice. I am a single 32yr old aussie woman who is considering a move into the Orange County. My company are discussing a position based in Anaheim and was looking at beach area's to live that would mean my commute wouldn't be ridiculous.

I expect my budget for rent will be around $1500-2000 per month, and am looking for an area that is safe, generally has a good vibe, nightlife and good shopping etc.

Also am looking for a little bit of advice around cost of living, cars and just generally settling into the area considering that I will probably only know the people I will work with and will be looking to meet others.

I have visited LA but really didn't love it as a tourist and missed OC altogether so advice and thoughts would be appreciated.

Sorry if I am asking some questions that have already been answered - most posts seem to focus on family living which isn't me...

[Coldjensens]

Depends on what you like.

Newport Beach is probably the nicest beach community, but most of it is either crowded (Balboa Peninsula and Balboa Island) or unbelievably pretentious. Huntington beach is more affordable and more down to earth, but the beach area is getting expensive.

Anywhere close to the beach is crowded and noisy in the summer.

Best bang for the buck for near the beach may be Costa Mesa. Not a beach community, but only a bike ride away.

Why not just sleep in Anaheim, Orange or Fullerton and drive to the beach? Unless you live within walking distance of the sand, there is not much benefit in living in the beach cities. You may be better off with cheaper housing and more money to spend on doing things. OC is an incredible place for things to do, but you need lots of money.

[bm22]

I agree with all the great information posted. One additional tidbit: the summer temperatures within about 3 miles of the beach are very comfortable and about 10-15 degrees cooler than the inland areas so there is no real need for air conditioning. (The 405 freeway is a rough boundary line for coastal weather.) All of OC is very dry in the summer (the so called dry heat!) so even hotter areas are pretty comfortable. Good luck.

[maryam511]

Also, if your budget is up to $2000 per month its going to be real hard to work at the beach. i live in a very nice gated community in irvine about 15-20 mins fromthe beach and pay $1875 for a two bedroom with 1000 sq ft. so yes, places like costa mesa, orange, fullerton, etc might be a more affordable option.

[thinkinofmovin]

Thanks to everyone for their feedback. The information is very helpful and will give me much to thinkabout over the next few weeks as I consider the decision.

I hope to be enjoying a warm summer there soon...