2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Irvine, CA vs Santa Margarita, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Santa Margarita older or younger than people in Irvine?
- The Median Age in Santa Margarita is 12.2 years older than in Irvine.

Are housing costs cheaper in Santa Margarita or Irvine?
- Santa Margarita housing costs are 22.0% less expensive than Irvine housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Santa Margarita or Irvine?
- The average commute for residents of Santa Margarita is 3.3 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Irvine.

Things to do in Irvine?
Irvine, California is an exciting city with something to suit everyone's taste. Enjoy the beautiful beaches at Laguna Beach and visit the unique shops of the Irvine Spectrum Center. Visit one of the many theaters or museums, explore University Park or take a walk along the San Diego Creek Trail. For those looking for outdoor recreation, there’s no lack of option - from mountain biking and skateboarding to kayaking and rock climbing. With its world-class schools, sprawling parks, and entertainment venues - it’s easy to see why Irvine is such a desirable place to live!

Things to do in Santa Margarita?
Living in Santa Margarita, CA is like living in paradise. The small town of just over 1,800 people has an abundance of natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities, making it a great place to raise a family or retire. The mild weather allows for year-round enjoyment of the outdoors with plenty of sunshine as well as snow skiing in the nearby Sierra Nevada Mountains. Local amenities include shopping centers, restaurants, churches and parks all within walking distance. With its close proximity to the coast and Central Coast wine country combined with its small-town atmosphere and friendly neighbors, Santa Margarita is truly a special place to live.

 Irvine, CASanta Margarita, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock800329,725,481
 Median Income$114,027  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock4638.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,128,000  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.8%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time25.13  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Irvine    42 Reviews

We've lived in Irvine since '87. We have raised two children within the ISUD. Both are grown up. Sure, there have been many changes since then.. the City has  More

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I've lived in Irvine for 2 years and in Orange County for 10 so I'm pretty familiar with the area by now and all it has to offer. Perhaps my review of this place has  More

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I wouldn't live elsewhere. I originally moved to Irvine in 2002 from the Midwest, not knowing what it even was. I left and moved around a great deal locally in OC,  More

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Reviews for Santa Margarita    0 Reviews

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