Irvine is a planned city in central Orange County, California, and the second most populous city in the county with over 307,000 residents. Incorporated in 1971, it is one of the newest major cities in California — and also one of the most meticulously designed. Unlike most cities that grew organically over decades, Irvine was master-planned from the ground up by the Irvine Company, resulting in a city of tidy villages, abundant green spaces, top-ranked schools, and a thriving tech economy.
A Master-Planned City
Irvine is one of the largest and most successful planned communities in the United States. The Irvine Company, which has owned the land since the 1860s, began developing the area in the 1960s under a comprehensive master plan. The city was formally incorporated on December 28, 1971. Today, the 66-square-mile city is organized into distinct “villages” — each with its own shopping centers, parks, schools, and architectural character — connected by a network of bike paths and trails.
The planning has paid off consistently. Irvine has been ranked as one of the safest cities in America, one of the best cities to raise a family, and one of the happiest cities in the country. It regularly tops national lists for quality of life, public safety, and education.
University of California, Irvine
The University of California, Irvine (UCI) is the intellectual and cultural heart of the city. Founded in 1965, UCI is one of the youngest universities to ever rank among the top public universities in the United States. It is a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities and is known for its programs in computer science, engineering, biological sciences, and the arts. The campus, designed by architect William Pereira, features a distinctive concentric layout centered around Aldrich Park.
UCI is also home to the UCI Medical Center, one of the top-ranked medical facilities in Southern California. The university’s research output and alumni network have helped fuel Irvine’s tech economy and reputation as an innovation hub.
Tech and Corporate Headquarters
Irvine is a major center for technology, semiconductors, and healthcare companies. Several major corporations maintain their headquarters in the city, including Blizzard Entertainment (the gaming company behind World of Warcraft and Overwatch), Broadcom (a leading semiconductor company), and Allergan (a global pharmaceutical company). The Irvine Spectrum Center area is a major office and retail hub, attracting companies from across the tech and healthcare sectors.
The city’s economy is diverse and high-income, with a median household income well above the national average. Irvine’s business-friendly environment and highly educated workforce continue to attract companies from around the world.
The Irvine Spectrum Center and Entertainment
The Irvine Spectrum Center is one of the most popular shopping and entertainment destinations in Southern California. This open-air lifestyle center features over 130 stores, a giant Ferris wheel, a carousel, a movie theater, and numerous restaurants. It serves as a social hub for the region and draws visitors from across Orange County.
The Orange County Great Park, built on the former Marine Corps Air Station El Toro, is a 1,300-acre public park that opened in 2017. It features a sports complex, a farmers’ market, a balloon ride, walking trails, and a cultural terrace. The park hosts concerts, festivals, and community events throughout the year.
Parks, Trails, and Open Space
Irvine is remarkable for its commitment to open space. The city has over 6,000 acres of parks and open space, including the San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary, Bommer Canyon, and Quail Hill. The city’s extensive trail system — over 75 miles of bike and pedestrian paths — connects every village and makes it one of the most bike-friendly cities in Southern California.
The city’s official flower is the Lily of the Nile, its tree is the Camphor, and its insect is the Western Swallowtail Butterfly — symbols of a city that takes its identity seriously.
Demographics and Diversity
Irvine is one of the most diverse cities in Orange County. Approximately 45% of the population is Asian, reflecting significant Chinese, Korean, Indian, and Vietnamese communities. The city also has growing Hispanic and White populations. This diversity is reflected in the city’s restaurants, cultural festivals, and community organizations.
The city’s population has grown rapidly — from just over 100,000 in 1980 to over 300,000 today — and is projected to continue growing as new villages are developed.
CONTACT US
For more information or to visit us, here are our branch addresses: