Perhaps you’re looking for the best Orange County suburb city to call home, or you need proximity to Santa Ana and Irvine. Regardless of why you’re considering living in Fountain Valley, CA, we’re here to tell you more about it! Moving anywhere is a huge step, and Daly Movers wants to ensure you’re adequately informed about the city you’re considering.
This charming suburb has it all—from a rich history and prime location to an award-winning school district, you’ll quickly discover Fountain Valley is a great place to live. It’s easy to see why Fountain Valley lives up to its motto: "A Nice Place to Live."
History
In the early settlement of Fountain Valley, the area was known as "Gospel Swamps" due to its swampy terrain. The name "Fountain Valley" was later adopted because of its abundant artesian wells. Early settlers built drainage canals in the 1890s to make the land arable, cultivating crops like sugar beets, beans, barley, wheat, and grazing cattle. Fountain Valley was incorporated in 1957, making the city 67 years old.
Fountain Valley is famous for its natural beauty, desirable location, and wealthy residents; it's near notable Santa Ana and Huntington Beach, lovely parks, and has a median household income of $108,860.
Where Is Fountain Valley California?
Fountain Valley's location is arguably its finest attribute; people living in Fountain Valley are within a few minutes of some of the best Orange County cities. It is located in Orange County, west of Santa Ana and east of Huntington Beach; Costa Mesa is just a short drive from Fountain Valley.
Public Transportation
The city of Fountain Valley offers various public transportation options. The Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) provides extensive bus services with connections to routes from neighboring transit agencies. Use the OCTA system map, OC Trip Planner, or the routes and schedule information for easy navigation. For seniors, specialized transportation services are available within Fountain Valley and up to one mile beyond.
Applications can be submitted via mail, email, fax, or in person at The Center at Founders Village Senior & Community Center. For more information, visit the OCTA website or call their Customer Information Center at (714) 636-RIDE (7433).
Fountain Valley Population & Demographics
Fountain Valley has a population of 57,052 and a population density of 6,300 persons per square mile. Fountain Valley is a wealthy city with a median household income of $33,711 more than the US median ($75,149). Only 7% of its residents are in poverty, whereas the US has a poverty rate of 11.5%.
Demographics:
Fountain Valley has a unique racial and ethnic makeup: 75.3% of residents are White (58.4% White non-Hispanic or Latino.) California has the highest Hispanic and Latino population in the US (15.62 millions), and 19.5% of Fountain Valley’s residents are Hispanic or Latino. Only 13.7% are Black or African American, and 6.4% are Asian. The city’s mixed-race population is low, at only 3.1% of residents being two or more races. The city also has a very low American Indian or Alaska Native population (1.3%) and Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander ( 0.3%).
The median age here is 44.3 years, and the sex ratio is 50 males to females. The mean travel time to work is 25 minutes, meaning many citizens have jobs in Irvine and Santa Ana. Most people have their high school diplomas (90.4%), and 43.8% have bachelor's degrees.
The foreign-born population is significant, with 31.8% of residents born outside the United States.
Is Fountain Valley Safe?
Before moving to Fountain Valley, consider its crime rate. According to the FBI, Fountain Valley has a low crime rate!
- Fountain Valley crime rate per 100k people: 2,539
- California crime rate per 100k people: 2,581
- US crime rate per 100k people: 2,346
This city sees 1.6% less crime than the state.
- Fountain Valley violent crime rate per 100k people: 121
- California violent crime rate per 100k people: 442
- US violent crime rate per 100k people: 388
72.6% lower than the state and 68.8% lower than the country.
- Fountain Valley property crime rate per 100k people: 2,418
- California property crime rate per 100k people: 2,139
- US property crime rate per 100k people: 1,958
The Fountain Valley Police Department, with its 58 dedicated officers, works diligently to maintain low crime rates in this charming city. The Fountain Valley Fire Department complements their efforts, ensuring the safety of all citizens.
Fountain Valley CA Cost of Living
According to BestPlaces, Fountain Valley has a Cost of Living Index (COLI) of
164.9, making it 64.9% more expensive than the average US city; California’s COLI is 138. While it may seem expensive to live here, when you compare Fountain Valley to nearby cities, you’ll see it's comparable in its area.
Typical living expenses:
- Gallon of milk: $4.49
- Dozen eggs: $4.00
- Pound of local cheese: $6.39
- Inexpensive restaurant meal: $20.00
- Loaf of white bread: $3.72
- Pound of chicken filets: $4.60
- Average utilities in Fountain Valley per month: $362 (per Doxo)
- Fountain Valley sales tax: 8.75% (per California Department of Tax and Fee Administration)
Source: Numbeo
*The above figures are for Irvine, meaning prices may differ when living in Fountain Valley.
According to the Economic Policy Institute, a family of four would need a household income of $147,022 to live comfortably in Orange County.
Fountain Valley CA Real Estate
Fountain Valley has a very competitive housing market; homes typically sell within 33 days, and 50% sell above the listing price. There are typically 50 to 70 real estate listings at one time here.
The median home price in Fountain Valley is 1,472,500, which is well above the US median of $420,800. If you examine the average home price in Huntington Beach ($1,265,000), you’ll see that 1.4 million isn’t outrageous for an affluent Orange County city. The average price per square foot here is $674, and Fountain Valley homes for sale receive about five offers before selling.
Renting here isn’t as pricey; the average rent in Fountain Valley is $2,250 for an 835- 835-square-foot unit. If you're visiting or relocating temporarily, Vacation Cottage offers charming short-term rental options in Fountain Valley, ideal for vacationers or professionals in transition.
Best Neighborhoods in Fountain Valley | Where to Live
Fountain Valley has many wonderful neighborhoods for you and your family to consider.
Green Valley - Family-Friendly Community
Green Valley is a family-friendly neighborhood in Fountain Valley, conveniently located near Mile Square Park and Green Valley Park. The area is known for its safe streets and vibrant community atmosphere. Residents enjoy proximity to ample space and recreational facilities. The neighborhood boasts a strong sense of community, making it an ideal place for families.
Downtown Village offers a charming urban lifestyle with residential and commercial spaces. Located in the city's heart, it provides convenient access to shops, restaurants, and local businesses. This neighborhood is perfect for those who enjoy a vibrant community atmosphere with everything they need close at hand.
Fountain Valley Weather & Climate
Fountain Valley, California, has a Mediterranean climate, which is classified as Csa in the Köppen climate classification system. The city experiences mild temperatures year-round, with warm, dry summers and cool, slightly wetter winters. Average temperatures range from lows of 54.9 degrees Fahrenheit in January to highs of 79.4 degrees Fahrenheit in August. The annual rainfall in Fountain Valley is approximately 15 inches, with most precipitation occurring during the winter months. The city enjoys about 300 days of sunshine annually, making it an attractive destination for those seeking pleasant weather.
These factors, combined with the abundance of sunny days and mild year-round conditions, make Fountain Valley's climate highly desirable for residents and visitors alike. The best time to visit Fountain Valley is early June to early October, when the temperatures are the most enjoyable, and the rain is minimal.
Things to Do in Fountain Valley
If you’re looking for the top things to do in Fountain Valley, California, we’ve got you covered. You can shop at the Fountain Valley Town Center and Fountain Valley Promenade and explore the city's other attractions.
Many say Mile Square Regional Park is one of the best things to do in Fountain Valley, California. With 640-acre space, visitors can enjoy fishing, golf, picnicking, archery, sports facilities, racquetball courts, and scenic walking and biking trails.
With beautiful lakes, multiple playgrounds, and a recreation center, it’s a perfect spot for family outings and outdoor enthusiasts.
16801 Euclid St, Fountain Valley, CA 92708, (714) 973-6600
Fountain Bowl is a popular entertainment venue ideal for family outings or romantic date nights. It’s known for its friendly atmosphere and well-maintained lanes, making it a great place for casual and competitive bowling. The facility also offers league play, parties, and events, making it a favorite spot for all ages.
17110 Brookhurst St, Fountain Valley, CA 92708, (714) 963-2897
This skating center in Fountain Valley is a premier destination for roller skating enthusiasts or those simply looking for one of the best things to do in Fountain Valley, CA. It features a large rink, vibrant lighting, and a fun environment. The center hosts public skating sessions, private parties, and special events, providing endless entertainment for skaters of all skill levels.
9105 Recreation Cir, Fountain Valley, CA 92708, (714) 847-0022
Additional Attractions
Fountain Valley is home to plenty of attractions and outdoor activities. Most parks in Fountain Valley are maintained by the Fountain Valley Parks and Recreation Department; you can explore additional information and upcoming events online.
Fountain Valley Restaurants | Where to Eat
Fountain Valley offers a variety of food options but is most famous for having top American, Asian, and Vietnamese restaurants.
INI Ristorante offers a unique fusion of Japanese and Italian cuisine crafted by Chef Viet Nguyen and his dedicated team. This restaurant in Fountain Valley, CA, provides a fine-casual dining experience with innovative dishes blending the best of both culinary worlds.
16129 Brookhurst St, Fountain Valley, CA 92708, (714) 277-4046
California Fish Grill offers a diverse menu featuring fish tacos, grilled salmon, and shrimp skewers. This casual dining spot is known for its fresh ingredients and flavorful dishes, making it one of the best places to eat in Fountain Valley.
18020 Brookhurst St, Fountain Valley, CA 92708, (714) 881-0110
If you’re looking for the top restaurant in Fountain Valley, consider The Vox Kitchen. This popular dining spot serves up delicious Asian fusion fare like garlic noodles, shrimp wontons, and noodles with salmon.
16161 Brookhurst St, Fountain Valley, CA 92708, (657) 231-6493
Fountain Valley Jobs
Moving to Fountain Valley means you must find a job to support your lifestyle. The economy in Fountain Valley is diverse, transitioning from its historical agricultural roots to a more commercial and industrial base. Major companies with headquarters in Fountain Valley are Hyundai Motor America, D-Link Corporation, and Kingston Technology's global headquarters.
The city’s largest employers are Orange Coast Memorial Medical Center, Fountain Valley Regional Hospital (jobs) and Medical Center, Memorial Health Services, Hyundai Motor America, and Kingston Technology. And the key industries are manufacturing, retail trade, and health care & social assistance.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics, the median hourly rate in the Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA metro area is $24.27, and the mean hourly rate is $35.29. The annual mean wage is $73,400. The median income in Fountain Valley is $44,592, which is above the national average of $37,585.
People living in Fountain Valley, CA, are earning competitive salaries with plenty of Fountain Valley jobs to choose from.
Desirable career opportunities in Fountain Valley:
Fountain Valley Schools
Before moving to Fountain Valley, you must consider its schools. While the city has plenty of good schools to choose from, it’s not uncommon for students living in Fountain Valley, CA, to attend other nearby schools. Many residents attend nearby private schools.
Fountain Valley is part of the Fountain Valley School District, which serves more than 6,000 students. The district's mission statement is that students achieve academic excellence, mastery of basic skills, responsible citizenship, and a desire by students to achieve their highest potential through a partnership with home and community.
Public Schools in Fountain Valley
Fountain Valley has three high schools, three middle schools, and nine elementary schools, the most notable being Fountain Valley High School and Roch Courreges Elementary School. However, not all schools in Fountain Valley are part of the Fountain Valley School District.
Huntington Beach Union High School District, Garden Grove Unified School District, and Ocean View Middle School District all serve Fountain Valley.
Fountain Valley High School demographics:
- Minority enrollment: 78.2%
- Asian: 55.8%
- White: 21.7%
- Hispanic: 16.1%
- Two or more races: 5.2%
- Black: 0.6%
- Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: 0.4%
- American Indian/Alaska Native: 0.2%
Private Schools in Fountain Valley
Slater Montessori Academy, St Barbara School, and Covenant Christian Academy are a few private school options for people living in Fountain Valley, CA.
Additional Educational Resources
Fountain Valley High School is nationally ranked by U.S. News World & Report, making it a top school in its area. Students certainly thank the teachers and staff for their commitment, but the city of Fountain Valley and Orange County is also a great help. The county provides ample educational resources and assistance at the Fountain Valley Library, such as kids and teen nights, an extensive digital library, and community book clubs.
Fountain Valley Statistics & Information
- County: Orange County
- Fountain Valley area: 9.03 square miles
- Fountain Valley zip code: 92708
- Fountain Valley area code: 657/714
- Fountain Valley elevation: 26 feet
- Fountain Valley time zone: Pacific Time Zone (UTC-7 and -8)
- Closest airport to Fountain Valley, CA: John Wayne Airport is 8 miles from Fountain Valley, Calif
Fountain Valley CA Map
Explore more of this lovely city with this Fountain Valley map!
Moving to Fountain Valley With Daly Movers
Living in Fountain Valley is great; its location is prime, the climate is terrific, and the streets are safe. If you’re transitioning to Fountain Valley, Orange County, CA, Daly Movers has trusted Fountain Valley movers to handle your upcoming transition. Contact us today at 800-395-6683 for a free estimate.
