Join InterNations

The world's largest expat community

What You Need to Know When You’re Moving to Orange County

  • Connect with fellow expats in Orange County

  • Join exciting events and groups for expats

  • Get information in our expat guides

  • Exchange tips about expat life in Orange County

  • Brian Norris

    When first moving to Washington, D.C., I didn't know many people outside of the office. InterNations has changed that with some exciting events.

An amazing community is waiting for you!

Meet international people at local events

Socialize, enjoy hobbies, and make friends

Get info, and feel at home abroad!

Relocating to Orange County

About the City

The 2010 census showed over 3 million people residing in Orange County, making it one of the most populated counties in California, and the sixth most highly-populated one in the United States. If you are thinking of moving to Orange County, with its wealth of sandy beaches, wineries and tourist attractions then there are a few things that you’ll need to know.

Southern California is known for its temperate climate. With the lowest ever temperature on record a brisk -6°C and a winter average of 18°C, there will be plenty of opportunities to make the most of the ‘outdoorsy’ lifestyle the locals are famous for.

Visas for the USA

In order to capitalize on this stunning scenery and miles of beaches, you will need a visa. The US has a number of options, and if you are relocating due to work commitments or family ties, then you’ll be alongside the majority of applicants.

A green card holder, for instance, can apply for an immigration visa for a spouse or (unmarried) child. A US employer can apply on behalf of a non-national, and there are five preference categories for companies sponsoring immigration visas, the majority of which require exception skill, masters training or experience of a particular profession. If you are being sponsored by an employer, your spouse and any children under the age of 21 can apply for immigration visas alongside you.

Temporary worker visas, on the other hand, are typically easier, but still not necessarily easy, to obtain and allow for limited stays. In our dedicated Extended Guide to the US, you can read up on the various types of nonimmigrantion as well as immigration visas, as well as learn more about the application process.

Finding Accommodation

Finding accommodation in the county is as much dependent on your needs as the type of lifestyle you intend to lead. The three largest cities in the county are Anaheim, an industrial center, Santa Ana, 10 miles from the coast with an impeccable safety record, and Irvine, an affluent planned city with a number of highly regarded schools. If you are looking for a metropolitan lifestyle, expect to pay an average of 1,600 USD in rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center, rising to 2,900 USD a month for a family-size, three-bedroom apartment; an approximate 600 USD premium on similar apartments outside of the city center.

If you would like to settle outside of a city, there are a number of suburbs in Orange County with plenty to offer young professionals and families. Perhaps one of the most renowned is Newport Beach, noted as one of the cleanest beaches in the county and famous for its many restaurants and fantastic schools. If you are looking for an inland town, Aliso Viejo is an excellent option. This compact town is easy to navigate and is ideal for young families, boasting 21 parks.

Dec 7, 2024, 1:00 PM
4 attendees
Dear members, It’s a festive time let’s check out this event at Sa Clemente… Puttin' on the Glitz is a fun and festive evening of late-hours holiday shopping & dining, MORE INFO live music, caroler
Dec 7, 2024, 8:30 PM
12 attendees
Dear Members, Dear Friends, We are excited to invite you to join us for a special visit to the (...) Protected content (...) on Saturday, December 7th. This will be an enriching opportunity to expe
Dec 8, 2024, 6:00 PM
10 attendees
Dear Members, Compelling caverns, magnificent meadows, palatial panoramas, oh my! If you want a true greatest-hits hike in Orange County, head straight for Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park in L
Dec 22, 2024, 1:00 AM
4 attendees
PLEASE CALL 949-295-0940 WITH ANY QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS REGARDING THIS EVENT. As the holiday season draws near, we gather together at Pelican Hill to celebrate the warmth of friendship and the spiri

See all upcoming events for expats in Orange County

Our Global Partners

  • Brian Norris

    When first moving to Washington, D.C., I didn't know many people outside of the office. InterNations has changed that with some exciting events.

  • Caroline Stiles

    In such an international city such as Washington, D.C. InterNations holds great events for everyone to network and enjoy themselves.

Our Global Partners

Other Communities in United States of America

Like-Minded Expatriates in Orange County

United States Guide Topics