Since 1993, crime has consistently been called the most serious public policy issue in Orange County. Despite a declining crime rate in the region, many residents worry about becoming a crime victim in their local area. Housing market . The number of homeowners who think a home in Orange County is a favorable investment is up five points since last year and 15 points in two years. Among renters, the number who consider buying a house in Orange County to be an excellent or good investment has risen five points since last year and 16 points in two years.
Mortgages are up slightly from last year, while rents are up sharply.
South County remains the most expensive region for housing. There is no change in satisfaction from a year ago. Three in four now say they are satisfied with the way Measure M funds are being spent. Overall satisfaction is unchanged from 1997, but is up three points since 1996, five points since 1995 and 27 points since 1992. Charitable attitudes .