Orange has Old Towne charm + OUSD schools. Anaheim has Disney + lower prices. BOTH more than doubled over 10 years! Which trade-offs work for you?
Orange at $1.1M offers better schools (OUSD 7/10) and historic Old Towne charm. Anaheim at $935K gives you $165K savings + Disney proximity, but schools are mixed (6/10). BOTH cities more than doubled over 10 years (+105% and +110%)! If schools are your priority, Orange wins. If budget matters more and you'll use private/charter schools anyway, Anaheim saves serious cash.
See exactly how these North OC neighbors stack up
BOTH cities more than DOUBLED in value over 10 years! Orange is the only city in this price range with true walkable historic character. That Old Towne premium is real — but so is the school quality.
"Historic Charm Meets Top Schools"
"Disney Magic + North OC Savings"
Where to look based on your priorities
This is the biggest difference between these cities
Why Orange wins: OUSD is consistently strong. Villa Park zone adds +$50-100K premium. Most families get solid 7-9/10 schools.
Anaheim reality: Flatlands schools are mixed (4-6/10). BUT Anaheim Hills and Ponderosa get OUSD — completely different story.
Ponderosa neighborhood in Anaheim gets Orange Unified schools (Canyon HS) at Anaheim prices. That's $200K+ savings for same school quality.
The REAL numbers at median prices
20% down, 6.24% rate
20% down, 6.24% rate
Monthly Difference: $1,019 less in Anaheim
That's $12,228/year — enough for private school tuition if Anaheim public schools don't work for you.
Enter your numbers to see the real cost in each city
*Estimates based on current rates and typical costs. Actual payments may vary. Contact a lender for personalized quotes.
Real buyer scenarios to help you decide
"Schools are non-negotiable. OUSD is worth the $165K premium. El Modena gets us in at the lower end."
"Schools don't matter to us. Disney AP holders, love the vibe. Save $165K and enjoy the magic."
"We're paying private tuition anyway. Ponderosa gives us OUSD backup at Anaheim prices."
Common misconceptions — debunked
Reality: Anaheim Hills and Ponderosa feed into Orange Unified (OUSD) — the same district as Orange! Location matters more than city limits.
Reality: Both cities have safe and sketchy areas. Old Towne Orange and Anaheim Hills are both excellent. Near freeways in both = less safe.
Confirmed: It's the only truly walkable historic district in North OC. Antique shops, Chapman University, Plaza — nothing else like it.
Confirmed: Anaheim +110% vs Orange +105% over 10 years. Both MORE than doubled — these are excellent long-term investments.
The complete checklist for each city
I help buyers navigate the Orange vs Anaheim decision with complete, unbiased data. No pressure, just honest guidance.
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