Anaheim, California, is best known as the home of Disneyland Resort, but this vibrant city in Orange County offers so much more than theme park thrills. With its diverse neighborhoods, sunny weather, and a blend of urban and suburban vibes, Anaheim is an appealing destination for those seeking a walkable, urban lifestyle. Whether you’re a young professional craving proximity to trendy eateries, a family looking for parks and community spaces, or a renter seeking convenience without a car, Anaheim’s walkable neighborhoods deliver. In this blog post, we’ll explore the top walkable neighborhoods in Anaheim, highlighting their unique characteristics, amenities, and why they’re ideal for urban living. All Walk Score data is sourced from March 2024, courtesy of Walk Score, a Redfin company that rates areas on a scale from 0-100 based on walking routes, population density, and access to amenities.
Why Walkability Matters in Anaheim
Walkability is a key factor for urban dwellers who prioritize convenience, community, and a reduced reliance on cars. In a sprawling region like Southern California, where car culture often dominates, finding neighborhoods where you can stroll to shops, restaurants, and entertainment is a game-changer. Anaheim’s walkable neighborhoods offer a blend of historic charm, modern amenities, and access to public transit, making them perfect for those who want to embrace urban living without sacrificing the laid-back SoCal vibe. From historic districts to up-and-coming urban hubs, here are the top five walkable neighborhoods in Anaheim that cater to an urban lifestyle.
1. North Euclid (Walk Score: 73)
North Euclid tops the list as Anaheim’s most walkable neighborhood, boasting a Walk Score of 73, which qualifies it as “very walkable” by Walk Score standards. Located near the heart of the city, this vibrant community is known for its lively streets, diverse amenities, and a strong sense of community. North Euclid is ideal for renters and young professionals who want to be in the thick of the action without needing a car for daily errands.
Why It’s Great for Urban Living
North Euclid’s walkable layout makes it easy to access a variety of shops, restaurants, and services. The neighborhood is centered around North Euclid Street, a bustling corridor lined with coffee shops, casual dining spots, and retail stores. Residents can grab a coffee at a local café, shop for groceries, or enjoy a meal at nearby eateries like Zankou Chicken or Al Amir Bakery in the nearby Little Arabia district. The area’s proximity to parks like La Palma Park adds green space for leisurely walks or outdoor workouts.
Public transit options enhance North Euclid’s appeal. The neighborhood is close to the Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center (ARTIC), offering rail, bus, and taxi services to nearby cities like Los Angeles and San Diego. This connectivity makes North Euclid a great choice for commuters who want to live car-light while still having easy access to the broader region. Apartments in North Euclid are popular, with average one-bedroom rents around $2,055, reflecting Anaheim’s relatively high cost of living but offering value for the convenience.
Highlights
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Amenities: Coffee shops, restaurants, grocery stores, and retail along North Euclid Street.
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Parks: La Palma Park for recreation and relaxation.
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Transit: Close to ARTIC for regional connectivity.
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Vibe: Vibrant, diverse, and community-focused, perfect for young professionals and renters.
2. The Colony (Walk Score: 67)
The Colony, also known as the Colonial District, is Anaheim’s second most walkable neighborhood with a Walk Score of 67. This historic area in downtown Anaheim blends old-world charm with modern urban conveniences, making it a favorite for those seeking a culturally rich, pedestrian-friendly lifestyle.
Why It’s Great for Urban Living
The Colony is a gem for urban dwellers who appreciate history and vibrancy. Its tree-lined streets are dotted with well-preserved historic homes, giving the neighborhood a unique character. The heart of The Colony is the Anaheim Packing District, a gourmet food hall that’s a foodie’s paradise. Here, you can savor everything from artisanal tacos at Urbana to Indian cuisine at Adya or fresh seafood at The Chippy Fish n Grill. The Packing House is a social hub where locals gather for meals, live music, and community events.
Beyond dining, The Colony offers walkable access to the Center Street Promenade, a pedestrian-friendly avenue with boutique shops, the Downtown Anaheim Farmer’s Market, and the Pearson Amphitheater for concerts and events. The neighborhood’s proximity to top-rated schools and parks like Pearson Park makes it appealing for families as well. With a stable housing market and a Walk Score that supports daily errands on foot, The Colony is a standout for urban living.
Highlights
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Amenities: Anaheim Packing District, Center Street Promenade, boutique shops, and restaurants.
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Parks: Pearson Park for community events and recreation.
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Culture: Historic homes and proximity to cultural attractions like the Muzeo Museum.
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Vibe: A blend of historic charm and modern urban energy, ideal for families and culture enthusiasts.
3. West Anaheim (Walk Score: 67)
Tied with The Colony for walkability, West Anaheim also has a Walk Score of 67, offering a diverse and affordable option for urban living. Home to nearly 146,000 residents, this large neighborhood combines urban and suburban elements, making it a versatile choice for families, young professionals, and retirees.
Why It’s Great for Urban Living
West Anaheim is a bustling neighborhood with a welcoming, diverse community. Its walkable areas include the Brookhurst Shopping Center, where residents can shop for essentials, dine at local restaurants, or grab a coffee. Nearby attractions like the Disneyland Resort and Anaheim Convention Center are within reach, adding excitement without overwhelming the neighborhood with tourist traffic. Parks like Twila Reid Park and Maxwell Park provide green spaces for walks, picnics, or sports, enhancing the area’s appeal for active residents.
Safety is a plus in West Anaheim, with crime rates only 5.1% higher than the city average, making it a relatively secure choice for urban living. The neighborhood’s proximity to Interstate 5 and public transit options ensures easy access to nearby cities, while its affordable housing options—median home prices around $550,000—make it attractive for first-time buyers and renters. West Anaheim’s blend of urban amenities and suburban comfort makes it a top pick for those seeking a balanced lifestyle.
Highlights
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Amenities: Brookhurst Shopping Center, local restaurants, and proximity to Disneyland.
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Parks: Twila Reid Park, Maxwell Park, and Schweitzer Park.
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Transit: Access to Interstate 5 and public transit routes.
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Vibe: Diverse, affordable, and family-friendly with urban conveniences.
4. The Platinum Triangle (Walk Score: 51)
The Platinum Triangle is Anaheim’s up-and-coming urban hub, with a Walk Score of 51, indicating it’s “somewhat walkable.” This neighborhood is undergoing significant redevelopment, transforming it into a trendy destination for young professionals and urban enthusiasts.
Why It’s Great for Urban Living
The Platinum Triangle is centered around major sports venues like Angel Stadium and the Honda Center, home to the Los Angeles Angels and Anaheim Ducks, respectively. This makes it a haven for sports fans who can walk to games or events. The neighborhood’s walkable hotspots include trendy bars and breweries like Noble Ale Works and Brewheim, perfect for socializing. The Santa Ana River Trail, a paved path for jogging and cycling, adds an outdoor element to the urban experience.
With modern apartments and high-density housing, the Platinum Triangle caters to those seeking a contemporary, urban lifestyle. Average apartment prices are around $583,000, reflecting the area’s growing popularity. Its proximity to freeways and ARTIC ensures excellent connectivity, while new developments continue to add shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. The Platinum Triangle is ideal for those who want to be in a dynamic, evolving part of Anaheim.
Highlights
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Amenities: Angel Stadium, Honda Center, trendy bars, and breweries.
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Outdoor: Santa Ana River Trail for jogging and cycling.
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Transit: Close to freeways and ARTIC.
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Vibe: Modern, trendy, and perfect for young professionals and sports enthusiasts.
5. Anaheim Resort (Walk Score: Not Specified, but Highly Walkable)
The Anaheim Resort, home to the world-famous Disneyland Resort, is a lively neighborhood with a magical atmosphere and ample walkable amenities. While specific Walk Score data isn’t provided, its proximity to major attractions and pedestrian-friendly layout make it a strong contender for urban living.
Why It’s Great for Urban Living
Living in the Anaheim Resort means being steps away from Disneyland, Disney California Adventure, and the Anaheim Convention Center. The neighborhood’s crown jewel is the Anaheim GardenWalk, an outdoor shopping and dining destination with Disney-inspired restaurants, boutiques, and entertainment. Residents can easily walk to these attractions, making it a dream for those who love the energy of a tourist-friendly urban area.
The Anaheim Resort is well-connected via public transit, with bus lines and ARTIC nearby, allowing residents to explore Orange County and beyond without a car. The neighborhood’s vibrant atmosphere, combined with its proximity to parks like Ponderosa Park, makes it appealing for families and young professionals alike. While housing costs can be high due to the area’s popularity, the convenience and excitement of living near “The Happiest Place on Earth” are unmatched.
Highlights
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Amenities: Disneyland Resort, Anaheim GardenWalk, and Anaheim Convention Center.
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Parks: Ponderosa Park for family-friendly recreation.
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Transit: Access to bus lines and ARTIC.
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Vibe: Magical, tourist-friendly, and vibrant, ideal for Disney fans and urban adventurers.
Tips for Choosing a Walkable Neighborhood in Anaheim
When selecting a walkable neighborhood in Anaheim, consider the following:
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Amenities: Look for neighborhoods with nearby shops, restaurants, and parks that suit your lifestyle. North Euclid and The Colony excel in dining and retail, while West Anaheim offers affordable housing and green spaces.
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Transit Access: Proximity to ARTIC or freeways like Interstate 5 is crucial for car-light living. All five neighborhoods listed have strong transit options.
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Safety: Anaheim Hills and West Anaheim are noted for lower crime rates, while The Colony and Platinum Triangle are safer than many other urban areas in the city.
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Cost: Anaheim’s average one-bedroom rent is around $2,055, but West Anaheim and Northwest Anaheim offer more affordable options. Check listings on platforms like ApartmentGuide or Zillow for current pricing.
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Community Vibe: Decide whether you prefer the historic charm of The Colony, the trendy energy of the Platinum Triangle, or the family-friendly feel of West Anaheim.
Conclusion
Anaheim’s walkable neighborhoods offer a perfect blend of urban convenience and Southern California charm. From the vibrant streets of North Euclid to the historic allure of The Colony, the diverse community of West Anaheim, the trendy Platinum Triangle, and the magical Anaheim Resort, there’s a neighborhood for every urban dweller. These areas provide access to dining, entertainment, parks, and transit, making it easy to live without a car while enjoying all that Anaheim has to offer. Whether you’re relocating for work, seeking a lively community, or simply want to be near Disneyland, these neighborhoods deliver the best of urban living in the heart of Orange County. Start exploring today to find your perfect Anaheim home!
