Relative area comparison
North Coast, CA
Orange, CA
North Coast, CA vs Orange, CA
North Coast and Orange in California each have their unique lifestyle, economies, and amenities that make them different but exciting places to live and visit. There are critical points of comparison in crime/safety, weather, cost of living, education, work and economy, infrastructure, industries and occupations, biggest employers, real-estate, neighborhoods, transportation/public transit/commuting, city/state sales tax, city/state income tax, city/state property tax, culture/food, sports teams, geographical conditions, and health care.
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Distance between 
North Coast, CA and 
Orange, CA : 11.4 miles
North Coast, CA and
Orange, CA : 11.4 miles
North Coast's population is larger by 174%. The population of Orange has grown by 8,443 people (6.6%) during that time.
| Population | ||
| Type | North Coast | Orange |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 376,527 | 137,264 |
| Female / male percentage | 50.5% / 49.5%
|
50.7% / 49.3%
|
Crime and Safety
Crime rates in North Coast, CA, are relatively low compared to the national average, contributing to the region's reputation as a safe and family-friendly place. Orange, CA, also has a low crime rate, particularly for a city of its size in the Southern California region. Both areas are considered safe for tourists and residents, making either a good choice for relocation.
Cost of Living
Living in Orange is generally costlier than the North Coast region due to the former's proximity to major metropolitan areas like Los Angeles. Housing in Orange is particularly expensive, although wages in the area also reflect this increase in living costs. North Coast living costs are more affordable, particularly for those seeking a more laid-back, rural lifestyle.
Income Tax
Both the North Coast and Orange adhere to California's progressive income tax structure. The exact rate depends on income level, but it ranges from 1% to 13.3%.
Property Tax
Property taxes in California are typically around 1% of the property's assessed value. Given that property values are generally higher in Orange, homeowners here could expect to pay a higher amount of property tax than in North Coast.
Sales Tax
The sales tax rate in North Coast variances across the area's different cities, but is generally around the standard California rate of 7.25%. Orange, however, has a slightly higher sales tax of 7.75%, mirroring the slightly higher cost of living in Orange County cities.
| Income | ||
| Type | North Coast | Orange |
|---|---|---|
| Estimated median household income | $102,807 | $103,045 |
| Estimated per capita income | $50,809 | $41,925 |
| Cost of living index (U.S. average is 100) | 96.1 | 88.6 |
If you make $50,000 in Orange, you will have to make $54,233 in North Coast to maintain the same standard of living.
Geographical Conditions
The North Coast is known for its stunning geographical features including rugged coastlines, dense forests, and rolling wine vineyards. Orange, meanwhile, offers the charm of Southern California with its beaches, parks, and attractive suburban landscapes.
| Geographical information | ||
| Type | North Coast | Orange |
|---|---|---|
| Land area | 59.4 sq. miles | 23.4 sq. miles |
| Population density | 6,335.5 people per sq. mile | 5,867.3 people per sq. mile |
North Coast, CA
Orange, CA
Education
The North Coast region features quality educational opportunities with several well-regarded public and private schools. It is also home to a few universities and colleges. Orange hosts the respected Chapman University, and its public school system is also highly rated, making it an attractive place for families with children.
| Education level (25-year-olds and older) | ||
| Type | North Coast | Orange |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor's degree or higher | 31.4% | 35.7% |
| Graduate or professional degree | 10.4% | 12.5% |
| High school or higher | 84.9% | 86.8% |
Work and Economy
Economically, the North Coast is largely tied to agriculture and the wine industry, with some tourism as well. Orange boasts a diverse economy with healthcare, education, and finance being key sectors. Unemployment levels are generally low in both regions, with a variety of job opportunities available for those interested in relocating.
Biggest Employers
The biggest employers in North Coast are typically agricultural processing plants and wineries. In contrast, large healthcare organizations, educational institutions, and financial service providers are among the most prominent employers in Orange.
Weather
North Coast typically experiences cooler and more humid weather due to its proximity to the ocean. Its climate is generally moderate, with cooler winters and summers. Orange, on the other hand, features a Mediterranean climate, meaning there are warm winters and hot summers. This attracts many out-of-state visitors who enjoy the year-round warm weather.
| Weather and climate | ||
| Type | North Coast | Orange |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature - Average | 64.4°F | 65°F |
| Humidity - Average morning or afternoon humidity | 70.2% | 69.5% |
| Humidity - Differences between morning and afternoon humidity | 26.7% | 25.6% |
| Humidity - Maximum monthly morning or afternoon humidity | 78.7% | 77.7% |
| Humidity - Minimum monthly morning or afternoon humidity | 52% | 52% |
| Precipitation - Yearly average | 13 in | 11.9 in |
| Snowfall - Yearly average | 0 in | 0 in |
| Clouds - Number of days clear of clouds | 26.5% | 26.7% |
| Sunshine amount - Average | 78.4% | 78.4% |
| Sunshine amount - Differences during a year | 21.9% | 21.9% |
| Sunshine amount - Maximum monthly | 84.9% | 84.9% |
| Sunshine amount - Minimum monthly | 62.9% | 62.9% |
| Wind speed - Average | 6 mph | 5.7 mph |
Average climate in North Coast, California
Average climate in Orange, California
| Natural disasters | ||
| Type | North Coast | Orange |
|---|---|---|
| Tornado activity compared to U.S. average | 18.6% | 19.3% |
| Earthquake activity compared to U.S. average | 6,843.6% | 7,026.4% |
| Natural disasters compared to U.S. average | 32% | 32% |
Transportation
Public transportation in the North Coast is sparse, and most residents drive. The roads are scenic and typically less congested than those in big cities. Orange offers a variety of commuting options that include public transit, with reliable bus and train services, and numerous highways and roads for private vehicles.
| Transport | ||
| Type | North Coast | Orange |
|---|---|---|
| Amtrak stations nearby | 3 | 3 |
| FAA registered aircraft | 0 | 72 |
| FAA registered aircraft manufacturers and dealers | 0 | 2 |
| Means of transportation to work | ||
| Type | North Coast | Orange |
|---|---|---|
| Bicycle | 0.7% | 0.5% |
| Bus | 1.2% | 1.2% |
| Carpooled | 10.7% | 11.2% |
| Car alone | 81.4% | 83% |
| Motorcycle | 0.2% | 0.2% |
| Railroad | 0% | 0.3% |
| Subway | 0% | 0.3% |
| Walked | 1.4% | 2.1% |
| Average travel time to work | ||
| Type | North Coast | Orange |
|---|---|---|
| Average | 28.8 min | 31.3 min |
Real Estate
Real estate prices in Orange are typically higher than in North Coast. There's a variety of housing available - from luxury apartments in the city to standalone houses in suburban neighborhoods. The North Coast offers a range of more affordable properties, from coastal homes to rural homesteads.
Neighborhoods
North Coast neighborhoods tend to be peaceful and quiet, with a slower-paced lifestyle than in major cities. Some of the neighborhoods in Orange, including the Old Town District, are actually historical landmarks. Orange offers a mix of suburban living with the convenience of urban amenities.
| Houses and residents | ||
| Type | North Coast | Orange |
|---|---|---|
| Houses | 137,450 | 45,377 |
| Average household size (people) | 2.7 | 3 |
| Houses occupied | 133,254 (96.9%) | 43,291 (95.4%) |
| Houses occupied by owners | 84,546 (63.4%) | 24,222 (56%) |
| Houses occupied by renters | 48,708 (36.6%) | 19,069 (44%) |
| Median rent asked for vacant for-rent units | $2,340 | $3,066 |
| Median price asked for vacant for-sale houses and condos | $1,099,558 | $1,306,159 |
| Estimated median house or condo value | $883,291 | $827,200 |
| Median number of rooms in apartments | 3.9 | 4.1 |
| Median number of rooms in houses and condos | 6.1 | 6.3 |
| Renting percentage | 37.7% | 39.3% |
| Housing density (houses/condos per square mile) | 2,312.7 | 1,939.6 |
| Household income disparities | 41.2% | 40.6% |
| Housing units without a mortgage | 13,396 (19.5%) | 317 (1.8%) |
| Housing units with both a second mortgage and home equity loan | 282 (0.4%) | 927 (5.3%) |
| Housing units with a mortgage | 55,188 (80.5%) | 17,033 (98.2%) |
| Housing units with a home equity loan | 6,297 (9.2%) | 53 (0.3%) |
| Housing units with a second mortgage | 7,643 (11.1%) | 1,157 (6.7%) |
| Housing units lacking complete kitchen facilities | 1% | 3% |
| Housing units lacking complete plumbing facilities | 0.5% | 0.6% |
Industries and Occupations
North Coast's dominant industries are agriculture and viticulture, with wine production playing a significant role. Tourism and fishing are also substantial contributors to the local economy. Meanwhile, the healthcare, education, finance, retail, and manufacturing sectors define Orange's economy.
Health Care
Access to healthcare is good in both regions. The North Coast has several local hospitals and healthcare facilities throughout the region, many of which are highly rated. Orange has access to more extensive medical facilities, given its nearness to high-quality healthcare providers in Los Angeles and other large cities.
Infrastructure
Infrastructure in both regions is solid, reflecting California's overall high quality of life. In the North Coast, there are well-maintained roads for commuting and travel, alongside growing digital infrastructure for internet access. Orange, meanwhile, benefits from a comprehensive network of highways, public transit options, and airports for ease of travel and commuting.
| Infrastructure | ||
| Type | North Coast | Orange |
|---|---|---|
| TV stations | 2 | 4 |
Culture and Food
The North Coast boasts of a rich cultural scene, with numerous art galleries, music venues, and theater groups. It is also known for its exceptional wine and farm-to-table dining experiences. Orange, which has a diverse population, offers a wide range of cultural experiences, from unique shopping districts to a foodie scene featuring global cuisine.
Sports Teams
The North Coast does not have any major professional sports teams, but there are several minor league and collegiate sports teams. Orange, as part of the greater Southern California area, has access to numerous professional sports teams, including the Los Angeles Lakers, Angels, Dodgers, and Mighty Ducks.