What are the 5 most populated cities in Orange County, California? According to the U.S. Census Bureau's July 2025 population estimates, these are the five largest incorporated cities in the county by population:
5. Garden Grove — about 170,000 residents
4. Huntington Beach — about 191,000 residents
3. Santa Ana — about 316,000 residents
2. Irvine — about 319,000 residents
1. Anaheim — about 341,000 residents
Irvine and Santa Ana are incredibly close, with only about 3,200 residents separating them. Orange County is home to some of Southern California's most recognizable cities, from the beaches of Huntington Beach to the growing communities of Irvine and the entertainment destinations of Anaheim.
If you're thinking about moving to Orange County and want help figuring out which city or neighborhood fits your lifestyle, reach out — Katherine is happy to help.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, July 1, 2025 population estimates. Figures are rounded.