🧭 Moving to Orange County
Just moved to Laguna Beach?
Curated by Simir Shah
Who lands here
Families who want a small, walkable coastal town where the beach, tide pools and art scene are part of daily life, and who are fine trading space for setting.
The vibe
Artsy, outdoorsy and village-like, with hillside neighborhoods above coves and canyons and a busy downtown that fills with visitors in summer.
Schools
Public schools are run by Laguna Beach Unified, a small single-city district. Check the district's street listing and residency steps for your address.
Getting around
One of the few OC towns where you can skip the car for local trips, thanks to free city trolleys and the on-demand Laguna Local; Laguna Canyon Road is the main route inland.
Finding your community
A tight-knit town with its own fire and police departments and a weekly resident newsletter. See our community guides for beaches, festivals and family days out.
Now go explore Laguna Beach
A friendly orientation, not advice. Neighborhoods, schools and prices change and depend on your exact address — always verify school assignments and lease details directly. New to the area? Start with the New to SoCal hub.
New to Laguna Beach? Let us be your local friend
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Frequently asked questions
Is Laguna Beach a good place for families new to Southern California?
Laguna Beach is OC's artist colony, a string of coves and tide pools inside a Marine Protected Area, so beach days double as look-don't-take sea-life spotting. Families who want a small, walkable coastal town where the beach, tide pools and art scene are part of daily life, and who are fine trading space for setting.
How are the schools in Laguna Beach?
Public schools are run by Laguna Beach Unified, a small single-city district. Check the district's street listing and residency steps for your address.
Do I need a car in Laguna Beach?
One of the few OC towns where you can skip the car for local trips, thanks to free city trolleys and the on-demand Laguna Local; Laguna Canyon Road is the main route inland.