As we step into 2025, Garden Grove, California, is experiencing a transformative wave of development, particularly in its housing sector. Nestled in the heart of Orange County, this vibrant city is known for its diverse community, rich cultural heritage, and proximity to major attractions like Disneyland and the beaches of Southern California. With a growing population and an increasing demand for modern, affordable, and sustainable living options, Garden Grove is poised to welcome a variety of new housing projects in 2025. These developments promise to enhance the city’s residential landscape, offering opportunities for first-time homebuyers, families, and investors alike. In this blog post, we’ll explore the exciting new housing projects slated for completion or underway in Garden Grove this year, their unique features, and what they mean for the future of this dynamic city.
The Housing Boom in Garden Grove
Garden Grove has long been a desirable place to live, thanks to its strategic location, excellent schools, and thriving local economy. However, like much of California, the city has faced challenges with housing shortages and affordability. In response, developers and city planners have collaborated to bring innovative housing solutions to the table. The projects planned for 2025 reflect a blend of residential diversity—ranging from luxury apartments to affordable townhomes—while aligning with state mandates to increase housing density and support sustainable growth.
The current date, March 17, 2025, marks an exciting time as many of these projects are either nearing completion or breaking ground. From mixed-use developments in bustling commercial areas to residential communities designed for multi-generational living, Garden Grove is setting a new standard for urban planning in Orange County.
Key Housing Projects to Watch in 2025
1. Brookhurst Place Phase IIA
One of the most anticipated projects in Garden Grove is the continuation of Brookhurst Place, a massive mixed-use development located in the city’s OC Koreatown. Phase IIA, expected to open in June 2025, will introduce 120 new apartment homes to this already thriving community. This phase builds on the success of earlier stages, which combined residential units with retail and dining options, creating a walkable, urban lifestyle for residents.
Brookhurst Place stands out for its modern architecture, energy-efficient designs, and community-focused amenities. The apartments will cater to a range of residents, from young professionals to small families, with floor plans that emphasize open spaces and natural light. Its location in Koreatown also means residents will enjoy easy access to authentic Korean cuisine, cultural events, and a vibrant nightlife—an appealing draw for those seeking a unique living experience.
2. The Collection: Move-In Ready Homes
For those looking to own rather than rent, The Collection offers a rare opportunity to purchase newly constructed single-family homes in the heart of Garden Grove. These two-story residences, many of which became move-in ready in late 2024 and early 2025, feature 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and approximately 2,513 square feet of living space. With contemporary designs, gourmet kitchens, and smart home technology, these homes are built for comfort and convenience.
What makes The Collection particularly appealing is its proximity to Little Saigon, a cultural hub known for its Vietnamese heritage, as well as its easy freeway access and private community park. Priced competitively for Orange County, these homes are ideal for growing families or those looking to invest in a property with long-term value. By March 2025, the final units are expected to be snapped up quickly, reflecting the high demand for new construction in the area.
3. Bixby Avenue Apartments
Another noteworthy project is the three-story, 27-unit residential apartment complex on Bixby Avenue, currently in the planning stages with an anticipated completion in late 2025. This development will replace existing structures with a modern complex that includes three affordable housing units designated for very-low-income households—a nod to Garden Grove’s commitment to inclusivity.
The Bixby Avenue project is designed to maximize space on its 0.83-acre lot, offering residents a blend of urban living and suburban tranquility. With its location north of Bixby Avenue, between Carthay Circle and Peacock Court, the complex will provide easy access to local parks, schools, and shopping centers. This project exemplifies how Garden Grove is balancing growth with affordability, ensuring that housing remains accessible to a diverse population.
4. Smallwood Plaza on Historic Main Street
For those drawn to the charm of Garden Grove’s Historic Main Street, Smallwood Plaza is a mixed-use development that combines residential and commercial spaces. Scheduled for completion in 2025, this three-story project will feature nine residential units above 4,000 square feet of commercial leasing space. It’s an ideal setup for small business owners or residents who value a live-work lifestyle.
Smallwood Plaza’s design pays homage to the city’s history while incorporating modern amenities. Its location within walking distance of SteelCraft Garden Grove—a popular outdoor food hall—and other downtown attractions makes it a hotspot for those who crave a connected, community-oriented living experience. This project is a testament to Garden Grove’s efforts to revitalize its downtown core while preserving its small-town feel.
5. Affordable Housing Initiatives
In line with California’s push for more affordable housing, Garden Grove is seeing several smaller-scale projects aimed at low- and moderate-income households. For example, a 30-unit townhome development near Acacia Parkway and Euclid Street, currently in plan check as of early 2025, will include three affordable units for moderate-income families. Similarly, the city continues to support accessory dwelling units (ADUs), allowing homeowners to add secondary units to their properties—a trend that’s expected to grow throughout the year.
These initiatives are crucial for addressing the housing crisis, providing options for seniors, young adults, and essential workers who might otherwise be priced out of the market. Garden Grove’s proactive approach ensures that growth doesn’t come at the expense of equity.
What These Projects Mean for Garden Grove
The influx of new housing in 2025 signals a bright future for Garden Grove. Here’s why these developments matter:
Economic Growth
New residents mean more demand for local businesses, from restaurants to retail shops. Mixed-use projects like Brookhurst Place and Smallwood Plaza will further stimulate the economy by integrating commercial spaces into residential areas, creating jobs and fostering entrepreneurship.
Sustainability and Innovation
Many of these projects prioritize energy efficiency, smart home technology, and sustainable building practices. This aligns with broader environmental goals and appeals to a new generation of homebuyers who value eco-conscious living.
Community Diversity
By offering a mix of luxury, market-rate, and affordable housing, Garden Grove is ensuring that its neighborhoods remain diverse and inclusive. This balance strengthens the city’s social fabric and supports its reputation as a welcoming place to live.
Improved Infrastructure
Housing growth often comes with infrastructure upgrades, such as better roads, parks, and public transit options. As these projects unfold, residents can expect enhancements that improve quality of life across the city.
Challenges and Considerations
While the outlook is promising, Garden Grove’s housing boom isn’t without challenges. Construction timelines can be affected by supply chain issues or regulatory hurdles, and some residents may worry about increased traffic or strain on public services. Additionally, balancing affordability with profitability remains a delicate dance for developers in a high-cost region like Orange County.
However, the city’s leadership has shown a commitment to addressing these concerns through careful planning and community engagement. By March 17, 2025, many of these projects are well underway, suggesting that Garden Grove is on track to meet its housing goals.
Looking Ahead
As Garden Grove continues to evolve, the housing projects of 2025 will play a pivotal role in shaping its identity. Whether you’re a prospective buyer eager to settle in a brand-new home, an investor eyeing the market, or a current resident curious about the city’s future, there’s plenty to be excited about. From the sleek apartments of Brookhurst Place to the family-friendly homes of The Collection, these developments offer something for everyone.
If you’re interested in learning more, keep an eye on updates from the City of Garden Grove’s Planning Services Division or explore listings on platforms like NewHomeSource and Redfin. The city’s housing landscape is changing fast, and 2025 is the year to watch it unfold.
What do you think about Garden Grove’s new housing projects? Are you considering a move to one of these developments? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and stay tuned for more updates as this exciting chapter in Garden Grove’s story continues!
