Wilshire Square, Santa Ana,CA

If you’re considering a move to the south east part of Santa Ana, Wilshire Square is definitely worth checking out. This neighborhood has a charming, close-knit community vibe that makes it feel welcoming right from the start. With its tree-lined streets and a mix of cozy single-family homes and quaint apartments, it offers a comfortable living experience ideal for families, young professionals, and anyone who appreciates a quieter pace without sacrificing convenience. The local parks, such as Willard Park, provide a great spot for outdoor activities and weekend picnics, helping residents stay active and connected with nature.

One of the standout features of Wilshire Square is its proximity to several popular local attractions. Residents enjoy easy access to the Bowers Museum, which is just a short drive away and offers fascinating exhibits on art and culture from around the world. Food lovers will appreciate the variety of eateries nearby, featuring everything from authentic Mexican cuisine to trendy coffee shops and bakeries. Plus, the neighborhood’s thriving local businesses, boutiques, and farmers markets add to the charm and convenience of daily life here.

For those who need to commute or simply enjoy the buzz of the city, Wilshire Square’s location is a big plus. It’s only a quick drive or bike ride north west to Downtown Santa Ana, where you’ll find a vibrant arts district, bustling nightlife, and plenty of shopping options. This close proximity means you can easily enjoy urban amenities while retreating to the peaceful, residential feel of Wilshire Square at the end of the day. All in all, this neighborhood offers a wonderful blend of community spirit, culture, and accessibility, making it a great choice for anyone relocating to Santa Ana.

30% of the Wilshire Square population aged 16 and up are married, which is in line with national averages. This balance suggests a neighborhood with a healthy mix of families, couples, and single residents, creating a well-rounded community dynamic. You are likely to find a blend of stability and social variety, appealing to both long-term homeowners and younger professionals alike.

With only 30% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Wilshire Square demographics offer valuable insights into the character and lifestyle of the neighborhood, helping you understand who lives there and what daily life might feel like. Home to only about 3,947 residents, Wilshire Square is notably smaller than many other Santa Ana neighborhoods, creating a more peaceful and community-oriented atmosphere. Its lower population can translate to quieter streets, a more relaxed pace of life, and easier access to local amenities — all without sacrificing the vibrant urban lifestyle the city is known for.

Boasting a population density of 15,870, Wilshire Square is more densely populated than many other Santa Ana neighborhoods, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. The higher concentration of residents contributes to a lively street scene, a strong sense of community, and convenient access to shops, restaurants, and urban amenities just steps from home.

With an average age of 33, you're likely to find a well-balanced community where multiple generations live side by side. This mix of age groups contributes to a neighborhood atmosphere that’s both active and welcoming, offering a blend of fresh perspectives and long-standing community values.

The Wilshire Square crime map uses detailed block group boundaries from address-based crime data to visualize crime patterns across the neighborhood, highlighting both low-crime zones and areas with higher levels of reported crime. This crime heat map helps paint a clearer picture of local safety trends, showing how crime can vary from one part of the community to another. Keep in mind that areas with higher activity on the map don’t always equate to dangerous conditions — locations near entertainment districts, major roads, or tourist destinations often see more reports simply due to the larger number of people passing through.

Housing costs often reflect the desirability and overall character of a neighborhood. In Wilshire Square, home prices come in around $598,000, which is higher than many other areas. This elevated pricing points to a sought-after location with strong demand, well-maintained properties, and access to premium amenities that contribute to a higher quality of life. Historical home price trends and appreciation rates in Wilshire Square can serve as a window into the neighborhood’s economic strength and future potential. By understanding how the market has performed in the past, buyers and investors can better evaluate whether the area offers promising opportunities for growth and long-term value.

With an average rent price of $2,200, rental rates in Wilshire Square are higher than many other neighborhoods. This reflects the area’s desirability and strong demand, often accompanied by well-maintained properties, premium amenities, and a high quality of life.

Education is a key factor in understanding the character and opportunities within a community like Wilshire Square. School ratings here reflect important indicators such as academic performance, graduation outcomes, and standardized testing, while NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores offer a valuable national comparison to gauge how local schools measure up. Looking at the overall education level of residents in Wilshire Square can also provide meaningful insight into the neighborhood’s focus on learning and long-term growth, helping families choose a community that aligns with their educational goals.