Northwood Irvine
Northwood is the only neighborhood “village” in Irvine that was not developed directly by the Irvine Company. The majority of Northwood’s more than 2,000 homes were built between 1977 and 1979. Northwood doesn’t have an overall homeowner’s association, but some tracts within the village do, including Park Paseo, Woodside, Northwood II, and Park Place. The gated communities in Northwood include community pools, spas, and clubhouses with homeowners’ association dues ranging from approximately $130 to $250 a month. Although not formally a part of Northwood, Northwood Pointe is a nearby, separate tract of approximately 2,000 homes which were built in the 1990s.
Single-family homes in Northwood which are located north of Irvine Blvd. are frequently larger than those which are south of the boulevard and closer to Interstate 5. Many of Northwood’s original homes feature open floor plans and a number have been upgraded and remodeled since their original construction in the 1970s. You will find a number of executive homes with pools, spas, and extensive mature landscaping in Northwood’s neighborhoods. Residents enjoy quiet, friendly, neighborly streets lined with the village’s trademark Eucalyptus trees. The “gum” or Eucalyptus trees were planted in the original Irvine Ranch days when ranch foremen received parcels of land and planted rows of the tall Australian trees to protect their ranches against harsh Santa Ana winds.
Nearly all of Northwood’s residences are single-family homes, primarily three and four bedrooms and larger. More prestigious condominium developments with amenities and upgrades include Northwood Villa and Horizon. In addition to strong neighborhoods, easy access to several shopping districts and the 261 and 133 toll roads and Interstate 5, residents of Northwood value their excellent elementary, middle, and high schools. Northwood High School is a Gold Award school ranked #79 in California and #475 in the nation by U.S. News and World Report.
Homes in Northwood have a more rural feeling than those in other parts of Irvine. Many homeowners note the neighborly and laid-back atmosphere of the area. Many biking and hiking trails cross through Northwood, and it is close to Santa Ana mountain recreation areas. Community life is also centered on Northwood Community Park, which offers many recreational, team sports, and outdoor activities for residents.
Parks
- Blue Gum Park
- Brywood Park
- Northwood Community Park
- Settlers Park
- Silkwood Park
Schools
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- Brywood Elementary School
- Northwood Elementary School
- Santiago Hills Elementary School
- Canyon View Elementary School
- Sierra Vista Middle School
- Northwood High School
