For the second consecutive year, the City of Irvine’s park system has been ranked No. 2 in the nation in the annual ParkScore Index released today by the Trust for Public Land. In addition, Irvine once again topped the list statewide, continuing the City's legacy as a leader in parks, recreation, and open space.
This is the 11th year the City’s parks have ranked among the top 10 in the ParkScore Index, which is recognized as the national gold standard comparison of park systems across the 100 most populated cities in the United States. The index is based on factors including park access, acreage, investment, equity, and amenities.
“I am proud to see Irvine once again recognized nationally for our exceptional parks,” Mayor Larry Agran said. “As part of our commitment to becoming the greenest and healthiest city in America, we continue to invest in parks and open spaces that enhance the quality of life for our residents. Our community is stronger, more vibrant, and more resilient because of these outstanding shared spaces.”
The index looked at park access and equity and found that 94% of Irvine residents live within a half-mile walk of a park. In addition, 94% of people of color and 91% of people from low-income households live within a 10-minute walk of a park.
Irvine also earned a perfect score for investment. A total of $697 per capita is spent each year on publicly accessible parks and recreation, which is among the highest nationwide.
In addition, Irvine scored above average for park amenities, earning perfect scores for the following:
- Basketball Hoops: 469 available through City-owned facilities and joint-use agreements with Irvine and Tustin unified school districts.
- Playgrounds: There are 197 citywide, which comes out to 25.54 per 10,000 children.
- Senior and Recreation Centers: Irvine has 25 citywide.
- Public Restrooms: There are 186 available within City parks.
The City is continuing to invest in its park system, with construction underway on the Great Park — the largest municipal park under development in the nation. In addition, eight pickleball courts opened this year at Mike Ward Community Park — Woodbridge. The Jeffrey Open Space Trail extension will be completed this summer, connecting the linear park with existing bike and pedestrian trails. Irvine’s first municipal fieldhouse will also open in early 2027.
The ParkScore ranking includes parks, facilities, and amenities accessible to the public, either through ownership or partnership agreements. The full ParkScore Index is available at tpl.org/parkscore (Open in new window), including score details and demographic information for each city. To learn more about Irvine parks, visit cityofirvine.gov/parks.
