Yorba Linda, a suburban gem in Orange County, California, is often celebrated for its affluent neighborhoods, excellent schools, and high quality of life. With a median household income of $152,060, it ranks among the wealthiest cities in the region. But how do Yorba Linda’s home prices stack up against other Orange County cities? This blog post dives into recent data to compare Yorba Linda’s housing market with other cities in the county, exploring median home prices, price per square foot, market trends, and factors influencing costs. Whether you’re a prospective buyer, seller, or simply curious about Orange County’s real estate landscape, this analysis provides a comprehensive look at where Yorba Linda stands.
Yorba Linda’s Housing Market Snapshot
As of April 2025, Yorba Linda’s median home sale price is approximately $1,352,000, reflecting a 9.5% increase from the previous year. The median price per square foot is $624, and homes typically sell within 26 days, indicating a competitive market. Yorba Linda’s housing stock leans heavily toward single-family homes, with a median price of $1,332,500, while townhouses and condominiums are more affordable at $943,900 and $605,000, respectively. The city’s homes are spacious, with a median size of 2,140 square feet, and the cost per square foot ($560) offers a balance of value and space compared to other Orange County cities.
Yorba Linda’s market is characterized by brisk sales, with 74% of homes sold within 30 days in April 2025. However, the market is not without challenges. Inventory is slightly down, with 207 homes for sale in April 2025, a 0.5% decrease from the previous month. Additionally, 42% of homes sell above asking price, reflecting strong demand and competition.
Orange County’s Housing Market Overview
Orange County’s real estate market is diverse, with coastal cities like Newport Beach and Laguna Beach commanding premium prices, while inland cities like Anaheim and Santa Ana offer more affordable options. The county’s median home sale price in April 2025 is $1,181,621, up 9% from the previous year. This figure is notably lower than Yorba Linda’s median, positioning Yorba Linda as one of the pricier markets in the region. However, Orange County’s market varies significantly by city, with factors like proximity to the coast, school districts, and local amenities driving price differences.
The average days on market (DOM) in Orange County is 32, with homes priced under $1,000,000 selling in about 28 days and those between $1,000,000 and $2,000,000 taking 27 days. Higher-priced homes, particularly those over $2,000,000, take longer to sell, reflecting a slower but still active luxury market.
City-by-City Price Comparison
To understand Yorba Linda’s position, let’s compare its median home prices and price per square foot with other Orange County cities, using the most recent data available.
1. Newport Beach
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Median Home Price: $3,500,000 (Q4 2024 estimate)
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Price per Square Foot: $1,200 (approximate)
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Comparison: Newport Beach, a coastal luxury market, dwarfs Yorba Linda’s prices. Its median price is over 2.5 times higher, driven by oceanfront properties and high demand. Yorba Linda offers more affordable luxury for buyers seeking spacious homes without the coastal premium.
2. Laguna Beach
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Median Home Price: $3,200,000 (Q4 2024 estimate)
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Price per Square Foot: $1,150 (approximate)
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Comparison: Like Newport Beach, Laguna Beach’s coastal allure commands top-tier prices. Yorba Linda’s $1,352,000 median is significantly lower, making it a compelling alternative for buyers prioritizing space and suburban amenities over beachfront access.
3. Irvine
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Median Home Price: $1,450,000 (Q4 2024 estimate)
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Price per Square Foot: $650
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Comparison: Irvine, known for its master-planned communities and tech-driven economy, has a slightly higher median price than Yorba Linda. However, Yorba Linda’s lower price per square foot ($624 vs. $650) and larger median home size make it a better value for buyers seeking roomier properties.
4. Anaheim
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Median Home Price: $900,000 (Q4 2024 estimate)
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Price per Square Foot: $500
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Comparison: Anaheim, home to Disneyland, is far more affordable than Yorba Linda. Its median price is roughly 67% of Yorba Linda’s, appealing to first-time buyers or those seeking lower-cost entry points. However, Yorba Linda’s superior schools and lower crime rates justify its premium.
5. Santa Ana
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Median Home Price: $850,000 (Q4 2024 estimate)
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Price per Square Foot: $480
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Comparison: Santa Ana is one of the most affordable cities in Orange County, with a median price about 63% of Yorba Linda’s. Buyers in Santa Ana sacrifice some of Yorba Linda’s suburban charm and higher property values for lower costs.
6. Huntington Beach
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Median Home Price: $1,250,000 (Q4 2024 estimate)
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Price per Square Foot: $600
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Comparison: Huntington Beach, a coastal surf city, has a median price slightly below Yorba Linda’s. Its proximity to the ocean makes it attractive, but Yorba Linda’s larger homes and lower price per square foot offer better value for non-coastal buyers.
7. Costa Mesa
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Median Home Price: $1,200,000 (Q4 2024 estimate)
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Price per Square Foot: $620
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Comparison: Costa Mesa’s median price aligns closely with Yorba Linda’s, but its price per square foot is slightly higher. Yorba Linda’s larger lot sizes and quieter suburban feel give it an edge for families.
Factors Influencing Price Differences
Several factors explain the price variations across Orange County cities:
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Location and Proximity to Coast: Coastal cities like Newport Beach and Laguna Beach command astronomical prices due to their beachfront properties and tourism-driven economies. Yorba Linda, located inland, offers a more affordable alternative while maintaining access to Orange County’s amenities.
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Home Size and Lot Size: Yorba Linda’s median home size of 2,140 square feet is larger than many Orange County cities, particularly coastal ones where land is scarce. This makes Yorba Linda appealing for buyers seeking spacious homes.
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School Districts: Yorba Linda is part of the highly rated Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified School District, which boosts property values. Cities like Irvine also benefit from strong schools, while Anaheim and Santa Ana have less competitive districts, impacting prices.
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Economic and Demographic Factors: Yorba Linda’s high median household income ($152,060) supports its elevated home prices. Cities like Newport Beach cater to even wealthmixture of demographics, including younger buyers and investors, keeping prices lower.
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Market Dynamics: Yorba Linda’s competitive market, with homes selling 1% above list price on average, reflects strong demand. Coastal cities face similar competition, but inland cities like Anaheim see less pressure, resulting in lower prices.
Trends and Forecasts
Yorba Linda’s home prices have risen steadily, with a 9.5% year-over-year increase as of April 2025. However, some analysts predict a potential slowdown. WalletInvestor forecasts a negative trend in the short term, suggesting that buying in Yorba Linda may not yield strong investment returns in the next year. This contrasts with the broader Orange County market, where prices are expected to remain stable or grow modestly, driven by low inventory and high demand.
Interest rates will play a critical role. Lower rates could spur buyer activity, while higher rates may cool the market, particularly for luxury homes. Seasonal trends also matter, with spring and summer typically being the busiest buying seasons in Orange County.
Is Yorba Linda a Good Investment?
Yorba Linda’s housing market offers a compelling mix of value and luxury. Its median price of $1,352,000 is high but more affordable than coastal cities like Newport Beach ($3,500,000) and Laguna Beach ($3,200,000). Compared to Irvine ($1,450,000), Yorba Linda provides larger homes at a lower price per square foot, making it attractive for families. However, it’s pricier than inland cities like Anaheim ($900,000) and Santa Ana ($850,000), which cater to budget-conscious buyers.
For investors, Yorba Linda’s strong demand and quick sales (26 days on market) are positives, but the high price-to-rent ratio may deter rental-focused investors. Short-term rentals, popular via platforms like Airbnb, are viable but require active management. Long-term appreciation is likely, with WalletInvestor projecting a 16.758% increase in home values over the next 10 years.
Buyers should weigh lifestyle preferences. Yorba Linda’s suburban charm, low crime, and top schools make it ideal for families, but those seeking coastal vibes may prefer Huntington Beach or Newport Beach. Budget-conscious buyers might find better deals in Anaheim or Santa Ana.
Conclusion
Yorba Linda’s home prices position it as a mid-to-high-tier market in Orange County, offering a balance of affordability and luxury. Its median price of $1,352,000 is significantly lower than coastal heavyweights like Newport Beach and Laguna Beach but higher than inland cities like Anaheim and Santa Ana. With spacious homes, a competitive market, and strong community appeal, Yorba Linda is a prime choice for buyers seeking value without sacrificing quality. However, investors should approach cautiously, as short-term returns may be limited.
When comparing Yorba Linda to other Orange County cities, consider your priorities: coastal access, home size, school quality, or budget. Each city offers unique advantages, and Yorba Linda shines for those seeking a suburban lifestyle with a touch of affluence. For the latest market updates, consult local MLS data or connect with a real estate professional to tailor insights to your needs.
