Hope this isn't too late for those of you who need it. I currently live in Irvine, off campus, about 5 miles away from UCI.
We have a 2-bedroom apt with a huge dog for less than $1800. If you have a smaller dog, you'd likely be able to find something a little closer or a little cheaper. There's a bus that goes right down the street straight to UCI, and most of the major streets have bike lanes that are well used by cyclists. I've done both, and it's not so bad. While there's not much as far as cute, funky, etc. (although I can't speak to on-campus culture), there are some places in Newport and Huntington beaches that might fit the bill. Irvine is very corporate, the perfect planned suburban community (because it is). But it's also super safe and really quiet. If you're afraid of the "OC" types, there's some of those, but there are lots of nice, normal people as well. Like me . Oh, and we don't have kids, but it seems to be a great place if you do.
For those who are looking at living in Long Beach, my husband works there and drives there every day. It takes him at least an hour during rush hour, 1/2 hour to 45 minutes on weekends. Unless you're really used to driving in lots of traffic every day, I wouldn't recommend it. It's pretty brutal. You wouldn't save enough on rent for it to be worth it, and I would think you could find enough of a community in the Irvine area rather than having to make that commute.
I like it here, but I'm also a pretty quiet type. It's definitely not funky, kinda cookie cutter, but I think there's bits and bobs of spirit here and there. Hope this helps! If anyone would like more info, feel free to ask.
