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Irvine has been ranked as the best city for renters in Southern California, according to a recent analysis by WalletHub. The study evaluated 182 large U.S. cities, including 20 in Southern California, based on affordability and livability. Irvine excelled in both categories, securing the top spot in the region.
The affordability score considered factors such as rent prices compared to local incomes and tenant-friendly laws. Irvine ranked second in affordability, largely due to its high rents being offset by equally high local paychecks. The city also placed third in livability, which assessed quality of life aspects like schools, safety, and weather.
According to the Orange County Register, Irvine ranked 26th nationally. Huntington Beach followed as the second-best city for renters in Southern California, with the top livability score and fourth in affordability, ranking 35th nationally. San Diego was third, ranking seventh in affordability and fifth in livability, and 63rd nationally.
On the other end of the spectrum, San Bernardino was rated the worst city for renters in the region, ranking 18th in affordability and 20th in livability. Nationally, it placed 174th, with only eight cities scoring lower.
The study highlights the challenges of living in Southern California, where the average affordability rank is 154 compared to 82 outside the state. Despite the high cost, the region's livability ranks significantly better than many other areas in the country.