Most cities demolished their historic buildings in the 1960s rush toward modernization. Orange made a different choice.
Today, over 1,300 vintage structures from the 1870s to 1940s create California's most extensive National Register Historic District. Watson's Soda Fountain has been operating continuously since 1899, Victorian and Craftsman homes line tree-shaded streets radiating from Plaza Square. Chapman University's 7,713 students inject intellectual energy into Old Towne's antique shops and craft breweries.
That preservation decision generates measurable economic returns. The median home price reached $1.1 million with sustained 4.7% year-over-year appreciation. Orange delivers relative value compared to coastal cities while maintaining an exceptional quality of life. Buyers get historic character, strong schools, genuine community, and perfect weather without paying Newport Beach premiums.
November Community Scene
The Orange Field of Valor transforms Handy Park from November 8 to 13, featuring over 1,200 American flags that honor veterans and active-duty military personnel. Three major ceremonies are scheduled to take place: the Opening Ceremony (Saturday, November 8, at 11:30 AM), the Marine Corps Birthday Celebration (Sunday, November 10, at 11:00 AM), and the Veterans Day Ceremony (Tuesday, November 11, at 11:00 AM). Community members sponsor individual flags for $35, connecting personally to the tribute while supporting veterans' causes.
The Old Towne Film Festival kicks off Friday, November 7, with free admission to opening festivities at the Orange Grove Lodge on Plaza Square. Red carpet arrivals with live music begin at 5 PM, followed by the premiere of the "Old Towne Orange Movie" at 6:30 PM. After intermission, local indie shorts screen at 8 PM, showcasing regional filmmaking talent.
The Orange Home Grown Farmers & Artisans Market transforms 303 West Palm Avenue every Saturday morning from 9 AM-1 PM. Certified California farmers sell fresh produce while food artisans offer breads, cheeses, oils, and craft items. Live music, cooking demonstrations, yoga classes, and a kids club create a festive Saturday tradition. The market accepts EBT with Market Match incentives, ensuring accessibility for all income levels.
Real Estate Market Reality Check
The Orange housing market navigates 2025 with resilience despite broader economic uncertainty. Homes now spend 43 days on market, up from 32-35 days in 2024, giving buyers slightly more time for due diligence. Yet the market retains a seller-friendly character with 51.4% of homes selling above asking price -- substantially higher than Orange County's overall 28% rate.
The Redfin Compete Score of 59 out of 100 designates Orange as "somewhat competitive," a notable shift from pandemic-era frenzy but still requiring preparation and decisiveness. Properties receive three offers on average. Hot listings close within 22 days.
Current pricing reality: A million dollars buys approximately 1,500-1,800 square feet with 3-4 bedrooms and 2-2.5 bathrooms on quarter-acre lots. These properties typically date from the 1960s to the 1980s and may require updates. Well-maintained homes with modern kitchens, updated bathrooms, and newer flooring command premium pricing.
At $1.5-2 million, buyers can access 2,500-3,000 square feet of luxury finishes, pools, and superior locations in neighborhoods like Santiago Hills, offering panoramic views. The luxury segment above $2 million centers on Orange Park Acres, where estate properties on 1+ acre lots offer custom architecture and equestrian amenities.
Schools Consistently Outperform
Orange Unified School District earned the 2024 Honor Roll District designation from the Educational Results Partnership. Only 20 Orange County districts achieved this recognition, which requires performing above the mean trendline 80% of the time for three consecutive years.
District students achieve 57.53% proficiency in English Language Arts, compared to California's 47% average, and 45.46% proficiency in math, versus the state's 36%. Top-ranked Anaheim Hills Elementary achieves 83% proficiency in both subjects, while Nohl Canyon Elementary earns the 2025 California Distinguished School recognition with 75% proficiency rates.
Canyon, El Modena, and Villa Park High Schools earned the U.S. News Best High Schools designation for the sixth consecutive year. El Modena boasts a 97% graduation rate with average SAT scores of 1240. Canyon offers the prestigious International Baccalaureate Diploma Program. District graduation rate stands at 94%, placing it in the top 10% statewide.
Strategic Market Position
Orange occupies a strategic middle ground in North Orange County pricing. The city commands premiums over Santa Ana (23% less expensive) and Anaheim (17% less), but comes in below Tustin (12% more) and Villa Park (73% more). You get historic character, Chapman University's cultural amenities, and strong schools without paying Tustin's newer-community premium or Villa Park's ultra-exclusive pricing.
The city strikes a balance that grows rarer each year: a small-town character with big-city access, historic preservation meeting modern amenities, and a genuine community within Southern California's suburban sprawl. For buyers seeking authenticity rather than manufactured charm, Orange delivers.
Please read our complete November 2025 community guide: https://wendyrawleyteam.com/fxz
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