Orange County’s Housing Crisis and Economic Divide: A Tale of Two Economies

Lisa Mailhot  |  October 29, 2024

Buyers

Orange County’s Housing Crisis and Economic Divide: A Tale of Two Economies

 

As we explore Orange County’s real estate market, recent insights from Cal State Fullerton economists Anil Puri and Mira Farka offer a stark look at economic trends shaping our community. A tale of two economies unfolds in Southern California, where affluent households have seen wealth skyrocket while many lower-income residents face growing financial strain. This growing wealth divide is reflected in housing affordability challenges pushing home ownership out of reach for many.

Understanding the Housing Affordability Crisis

The Orange County housing market is at a critical point. Median-priced homes in the region now cost over $1.2 million, making Orange County the least affordable county in California. To afford a house here, the qualifying income level is an eye-popping $251,100, translating to an estimated monthly mortgage payment of $8,370. In contrast, the state's average qualifying home income is $158,400. The bottom line? Homeownership is increasingly elusive, while renting also poses challenges, with some single-bedroom apartments renting for over $3,000 per month.

Home equity has increased by about 50% for those who own property since 2020, adding around $520,000 to their property values. While this is a positive indicator for those holding real estate assets, it exacerbates the widening gap between wealthy and lower-income households. Puri and Farka explain this contrast as a “tale of two Americas,” where economic prosperity is limited to a select few.

Economic Pressures and the Job Market

Adding to this, job market dynamics and rising wages bring further complexity. As housing costs soar, the rising cost of labor — projected to increase minimum wage rates in California — places additional strain on businesses and consumers alike. Orange County’s employment growth lags the national average, impacted by high living costs and doing business locally. Meanwhile, the state’s high-tech sector faces downturns, with Orange County being an exception, though this shift signals a challenge in maintaining economic diversity and stability.

 

What Lies Ahead for Orange County?

Puri and Farka caution that economic bifurcation and the rising gap between affluent and low-income households could shortly hinder economic growth. With recession concerns pushed back to late 2025, a “gradual downshift” is anticipated, marked by possible hurdles such as inflation and interest rate adjustments. The outcome of upcoming elections and wage policies will also play pivotal roles in shaping Orange County’s economy.

Bottom Line

If you’re considering a move to Orange County and want insights into how these trends may affect your housing and lifestyle, let’s connect! I’d be delighted to help you explore your options in this beautiful yet complex market.

 

 

Reference: “Affordable housing, cost of living among biggest worries for CSUF economists” by Pat Maio. Published on October 28, 2024.

RECENT BLOG POSTS

Why New Homes Are Losing Ground to Resales

New-home sales slowed in July 2025 as affordability challenges weighed heavily on buyers, despite builder incentives and discounts. With prices dropping below existing… Read more

Job Security Anxiety Puts the Brakes on Homebuying

Nearly half of U.S. workers are reconsidering big financial moves like purchasing a home because of concerns over job stability, according to a new Redfin survey. Whil… Read more

July 2025 Housing Report Shows Growth in Southern Home Construction While Other Regions Experience Declines

July 2025 housing starts data shows single-family construction climbing in the South while slowing in other parts of the country. For Orange County buyers and sellers,… Read more

Permits for Apartments Drop 23% Will Rents Start Climbing?

Apartment-building permits slowed across the U.S. this past year, signaling tighter future rental supply even as demand firms back up. Here’s what the national trend—a… Read more

Mortgage Rates Just Hit a 4-Month Low — Opportunity Knocks for Orange County

Mortgage rates have dipped to their lowest point since April, creating new opportunities for buyers and shifting the negotiating landscape for sellers. This drop could… Read more

Renting a House or Apartment? Here's What You're Really Paying For

Renting a home comes with more than just monthly rent. Hidden costs like utilities, insurance, and maintenance can vary significantly between houses and apartments. Le… Read more

Mortgage Rates Hit 10-Month Low, Boosting Buyer Budgets

Mortgage rates have fallen to their lowest point in nearly a year, giving homebuyers more room in their budgets and creating fresh opportunities for sellers. Discover … Read more

Home Prices Drop in 14 U.S. Metros

Discover the latest housing market trends, including significant home price drops in major U.S. metros like West Palm Beach and Austin. Learn what these changes mean f… Read more

Home Prices Are Falling in These 4 Cities

Home values are now falling annually in four major U.S. cities, signaling a shift in the national housing market. Learn which metros are affected, why this matters, an… Read more

We are excited to assist you in finding your perfect home

Let's find a time that suits you best to chat about your goals, show you how we work, and figure out how we can help you the most