Both Bridgeland and Irvine Ranch are master-planned communities that offer a high quality of life. Bridgeland is more affordable with lower home prices and detailed HOA fees, while Irvine Ranch boasts higher home values and a reputation as the safest large city. The choice depends on budget, proximity to specific employment hubs, and desired lifestyle.
| Attribute | Bridgeland, Texas | Irvine Ranch, California |
|---|---|---|
| Average Home Price | Around $525,727. Median sale price in the last 30 days: $535,000. Median listing home price in May 2025: $554,900. The median sold home price was $580,000. Average sale price: $623,752. Median price of homes for sale: $530,000. | Approximately $1.6 million (median), average home value around $1,592,070. |
| Range of Housing Types | Single-family homes, townhomes, and luxury estates. Single-family homes range from traditional ranch styles to custom-built modern homes. Apartments are available. | Single-family homes, condos, townhomes, and apartments. |
| HOA Fees and Included Services | Two yearly HOA fees: $555, plus an additional maintenance fee between $642 and $700. Fees cover grounds and trails maintenance, public spaces, and water park upkeep. | Varies depending on the community; generally covers maintenance of common areas, community amenities, and sometimes landscaping. |
| Quality of Schools | Served by Cypress-Fairbanks Independent School District (CFISD), Waller ISD (WISD), and Katy ISD. All school districts have "A" rankings. Bridgeland High School is a highly-rated public school. It is ranked among the top high schools in Texas. | Top-rated schools from K-12 to post-secondary institutions; Irvine Unified School District is a major employer. |
| Proximity to Major Employment Centers | 30 miles northwest of Downtown Houston. 30 minutes away from the Energy Corridor. 35 minutes from ExxonMobil's Houston Campus. | Near Irvine Spectrum, University Research Park, and the Irvine Business Complex; shorter commute times for residents working within the city. |
| Availability of Community Amenities | 3,000 acres of lakes, parks, and trails. Lakeland Activity Center has a resort-style pool, tennis courts, playground, fitness center, and community center. Dragonfly Park features a leisure pool with a beach entry, a lazy river, and a deep-water rope pool. | Clubhouses, pools, parks, trails, and recreational facilities. |
| Crime Rate and Safety | A+ grade, indicating a crime rate much lower than the average US neighborhood. Ranks in the 98th percentile for safety. The northwest part of the neighborhood is considered the safest. | Named the Safest Large City in America by the FBI for 17 consecutive years. |
| Property Tax Rates | Range from 3.43% 2013.59% of the property's value annually. In 2021, tax rates ranged from 3.49% to 6.27%. | Varies; consult Orange County government sources or a real estate professional for up-to-date rates. |
| Walkability and Bike-Friendliness | Extensive network of interconnected trails. Lakeland Village Center offers shopping, dining, and services within walking distance. | Walkable and bike-friendly with extensive trail systems and bike paths. |
| Access to Shopping and Dining | Lakeland Village Center is home to dining, retail, medical, and beauty shops. | Irvine Spectrum Center, Fashion Island, The Market Place, and numerous supermarkets and restaurants. |
| Future Development Plans | A 925-acre urban district with mixed-use development. New schools. Ongoing expansion of residential and commercial areas. | Master plan allows for flexibility and adaptation; focuses on balancing land uses, supporting economic growth, and promoting quality of life. |
| Builder Reputation and Warranty Options | Homes are constructed and sold by builders not affiliated with The Howard Hughes Corporation. Award-winning builders. Examples of builders include Lennar, Beazer Homes, Chesmar Homes, and Highland Homes. | The Irvine Company is a major developer known for its long-term vision and commitment to quality; warranty options vary depending on the builder and community. |