Family with small children relocating

My husband and I and small kiddos are relocating after being displaced from the Eaton fire. We loved Pasadena for the dining, culture, foothill community but with how long cleanup is going to take, the toxic ash/air, and the damage to our home we decided to make the move to OC for everyone’s health and safety.

We’re total newbies here and are in the process of finding a place (currently in a short term rental) and would love any recs on neighborhoods/areas that are great for young families.

We can’t really go south of Newport because my husband is still commuting to LA for his job.

Any tips/advice welcome!

Thank you in advance!

EDIT: for rent - ~4k a month, to purchase ~1.2 mil Husband works in mid city and only commutes Tues-Thurs