Clicky

Call Or Text Us Anytime 949-613-5517

Your Orange County

Living in Laguna Hills vs Laguna Niguel

Living in Laguna Hills vs Laguna Niguel

If you’re trying to decide between living in Laguna Hills vs Laguna Niguel, you’re definitely not alone. These two South Orange County favorites sit right next to each other, yet each offers its own vibe, lifestyle perks, and neighborhood personality. As someone who spends a lot of time in both, I can tell you—there’s no wrong choice here, just what’s right for you. Let’s break down what it actually feels like to live in each city so you can picture yourself settling in.

Table of Contents

Location & General Vibe

Laguna Hills

Laguna Hills has a warm, suburban feel with a calmer pace. It’s centrally located with quick access to the 5, 73, and 405, making it perfect for commuters. The neighborhoods are established, tree-lined, and full of charm. If you love convenience, this area is incredibly easy to navigate—everything feels just five minutes away.

Laguna Niguel

Laguna Niguel leans a little more coastal, with rolling hills and ocean breezes drifting in depending on where you live. It borders Dana Point and Laguna Beach, so weekend beach runs or sunset hangs are basically part of the lifestyle. It feels slightly more upscale and outdoorsy, with tons of parks and trails.

Schools

Laguna Hills

Laguna Hills is part of the Saddleback Valley Unified School District. Schools are known for strong academics, great teachers, and supportive parent communities. Laguna Hills High School is especially popular for its IB and AP programs.

Laguna Niguel

Laguna Niguel is served by Capistrano Unified School District, which consistently ranks well across California. Many neighborhoods feed into highly rated elementary schools, and Aliso Niguel High School is known for its academics, athletics, and well-rounded student life.

Real Estate & Home Prices

Laguna Hills

Homes here tend to be a bit more affordable than those in Laguna Niguel, with larger lots and more traditional-style properties. You’ll find a mix of single-family homes, condos, and some ranch-style properties in the Nellie Gail area. If you want space—and maybe even a backyard big enough for a pool—Laguna Hills can give you great value.

Laguna Hills

Laguna Niguel homes often come with those iconic OC hill views and slightly higher price tags. Expect beautifully maintained neighborhoods, master-planned communities, and a lot of Mediterranean or modern coastal architecture. Many properties are perched on hillsides, giving you that postcard-worthy scenery.

Lifestyle & Amenities

Laguna Hills

Laguna Niguel homes often come with those iconic OC hill views and slightly higher price tags. Expect beautifully maintained neighborhoods, master-planned communities, and a lot of Mediterranean or modern coastal architecture. Many properties are perched on hillsides, giving you that postcard-worthy scenery.

Laguna Niguel

Lifestyle is where Laguna Niguel really shines. With Crown Valley Park, Laguna Niguel Regional Park, countless trails, and the proximity to the coast, it’s an outdoor lover’s dream. Yoga at the park? Easy. Paddleboarding 15 minutes away? Even easier. Everything here feels lush, clean, and recreation-focused.

Things You May Not Realize

  • HOAs: Many Laguna Niguel neighborhoods have HOAs, which keep communities beautiful. Laguna Hills has fewer HOA-heavy pockets.

  • Weather: Laguna Niguel gets slightly cooler, thanks to the coastal breezes.

  • Commute: If you drive north often, Laguna Hills is more convenient. If you’re more coastal or southbound, Laguna Niguel wins.

Map

Laguna Hills

Laguna Niguel

Subscribe to Our Weekly Events Newsletter

Picture of Chrysler Lee

Chrysler Lee

YOUR ORANGE COUNTY

Thinking about making a move?

Get FREE, instant access to search our real estate MLS!
SEARCH FOR HOMES!