Orange, California is home to three of Southern California’s most treasured Eichler neighborhoods, where timeless mid-century modern architecture meets laid-back suburban living. Built in the early 1960s by renowned developer Joseph Eichler, these communities — Fairhaven, Fairhills, and Fairmeadow — each offer their own unique character while sharing the iconic design that makes Eichler homes so sought-after.
Fairhaven Eichler Homes
The Fairhaven tract is one of the best-known Eichler neighborhoods in Orange. Located near Fairhaven Avenue and Esplanade Street, this pocket of mid-century modern gems features post-and-beam construction, open courtyards, walls of glass, and the classic indoor-outdoor lifestyle that defines Eichler living. Homeowners here enjoy spacious lots, mature trees, and a welcoming community vibe — all just minutes from Old Towne Orange, Chapman University, and major freeways.
Fairhills Eichler Tract
Just north of Santiago Creek, the Fairhills Eichler tract is a hidden treasure of Orange County’s architectural heritage. These homes showcase some of Joseph Eichler’s most distinctive designs, including signature atriums, radiant floor heating, and airy layouts flooded with natural light. Fairhills residents appreciate the peaceful streets, nearby parks, and easy access to dining, shopping, and schools. Many original homes have been lovingly restored or updated, making Fairhills a favorite for mid-century enthusiasts and modern families alike.
Fairmeadow Eichler Homes
Smaller but equally special, the Fairmeadow Eichler neighborhood sits tucked away near Fairhaven Elementary. This intimate community features the same iconic Eichler details: open-beam ceilings, glass walls, and private courtyards that bring the outdoors in. Homeowners here value the neighborhood’s quiet charm, friendly feel, and convenient location near local schools, shopping, and freeways — offering the perfect blend of historic design and modern Orange County living.
Live in an Iconic Eichler Home
Each of Orange’s three Eichler neighborhoods offers something truly unique — but all share the timeless style, sense of community, and architectural legacy that Joseph Eichler envisioned.
Whether you’re dreaming of buying your first Eichler home in Orange, selling your mid-century modern gem, or just curious about these architectural treasures, work with a local Realtor who knows and loves these special neighborhoods inside and out.
Eichler Homes & The Mills Act in Orange County
Many Eichler homes in Orange County may qualify for the Mills Act, a California program that offers significant property tax savings for homeowners who preserve and maintain historically significant properties. Because Eichler neighborhoods in Orange — like Fairhaven, Fairhills, and Fairmeadow — are celebrated examples of authentic mid-century modern architecture, some homes may be eligible for Mills Act contracts through the City of Orange’s historic preservation program.
This means that owning a historic Eichler home can come with the benefit of lower annual property taxes — all while helping to protect and celebrate the unique architectural legacy that makes these neighborhoods so special. If you’re considering buying or restoring an Eichler, be sure to ask about Mills Act opportunities — it’s one more reason these iconic homes are a smart investment in both history and your future.
