Mission Viejo, Irvine, Yorba Linda, or Chino hills for family with 3 kids? (Anaheim: school districts, tax)

[roby1945]

Hi to all. I would like some input on what you all think of these areas for raising a family.

Mission Viejo
Irvine
Yorba Linda
Chino Hills

I have 3 children ages 9, 8 and 4. Schools are very important to us. From my research I think all of these areas have excellent schools. I know that we can afford any of these areas but what I really want to know is which areas are best for raising kids. All your opinions on schools, kids activities, friendliness of neighbors etc. We have only been here a short time and we are trying to pick the best spot for us to live. I would love an area that offers lots of activities for kids and has a lot of families. Feel free to suggest any other areas near these also. Thanks for any info.

[buckeyenative01]

First things first: Can you afford to live in any of those pricey areas you're interested in relocating to?

[roby1945]

I have done my research on the cost of living in these places and they are all in our budget. I really just need to know about living in them with kids. About activities, etc. Thanks

[buckeyenative01]

Irvine, Yorba Linda and MV have great school districts and close access to all kid-friendly activities.

I know very little about Chino Hills, and couldn't even tell you if it was in Riverside, LA or San Bernardino Counties.

[NaplesRes]

Live wherever is closest to your work.

[Charles]

Originally Posted by roby1945

which areas are best for raising kids.

What does "best" mean?

[bhcompy]

If you want a traditional suburban place, Yorba Linda. Solid child sports programs, established community, good parks and rec, etc. Problem is the traffic sucks.

[ocexpo]

Definitely add Anaheim Hills to your list! Anaheim Hills' tax base is lower than YL's is and the schools are amazing as well.

[nascarnancy]

I lived in Yorba Linda for 15 years, until 2 years ago. No kids but I absolutely loved the city. It has a nice little country feel. They are also building (may still be in process, but almost finished) a brand new high school off of Fairmont and YL Blvd, behind the Homegoods/Trader Joe's shopping center. So I give a to YL!

[missionhome]

You picked some great cities for a family. I don't know much about Chino Hills though, but the other three are great. I would consider the location of work (Yorba Linda and Mission Viejo are at opposite ends of the county) to be a factor as well. If you want to see some Mission Viejo pics, check out the "Pictures of Orange County" thread at the top of our county subforum.