Nestled in the heart of Orange County, California, Buena Park is a vibrant city known for its family-friendly attractions, diverse community, and proximity to major entertainment hubs like Knott’s Berry Farm and Disneyland. As housing costs continue to rise across Southern California, many prospective homeowners and renters are turning their attention to more affordable living options that don’t compromise on quality or convenience. One such option gaining traction in Buena Park is townhome living. In this blog post, we’ll explore why Buena Park townhomes are an excellent choice for affordable housing, what options are available, and how they fit into the broader landscape of the city’s housing market as of April 2025.
Why Choose Townhomes in Buena Park?
Townhomes offer a unique blend of benefits that make them an appealing middle ground between single-family homes and apartments. For starters, they typically provide more space than a condo or apartment, often including multiple levels, private entrances, and sometimes even small yards or patios. Compared to detached homes, townhomes are generally more affordable, both in terms of purchase price and maintenance costs, since exterior upkeep is often handled by a homeowners’ association (HOA). In a city like Buena Park, where the median home price can be steep due to its prime location, townhomes present a practical solution for those looking to enter the housing market without breaking the bank.
Buena Park’s appeal extends beyond affordability. The city’s strategic location—about 12 miles northwest of downtown Santa Ana and 20 miles southeast of Los Angeles—makes it a commuter’s dream. With easy access to major freeways and public transit options, residents can enjoy the perks of suburban living while staying connected to urban job centers and entertainment. Add in the city’s rich mix of dining, shopping, and recreational opportunities, and it’s clear why townhomes here are in high demand.
The State of Affordable Housing in Buena Park
As of April 2025, California continues to grapple with a housing shortage, and Buena Park is no exception. The state’s Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA) mandates that cities like Buena Park increase their housing stock, particularly affordable units, to accommodate growing populations and address income disparities. In response, Buena Park has seen a wave of new developments, including townhome projects designed to meet these needs while revitalizing underutilized areas.
One notable example is the Village at Buena Park, a 25-acre mixed-use development on the former Sears property next to Buena Park Downtown Mall. Approved in 2023, this project includes 1,302 residential units, with 126 for-sale townhomes and 176 units designated as affordable housing. The townhomes here are crafted in a modern, craftsman-inspired style, featuring three-story designs with pitched roofs and private amenities like courtyards and resident lounges. While not all units are explicitly “affordable” in the subsidized sense, the range of options caters to a variety of income levels, making it a cornerstone of Buena Park’s housing strategy.
Another project worth mentioning is the Brandywine Homes development, a smaller-scale initiative approved in 2024. Located across from the Buena Park Mall, this 93-unit townhome community replaced a vacant lot once occupied by an Orchard Supply Hardware store. With 14 units set aside for moderate-income households and two for low-income residents, this Spanish colonial-style project reflects the city’s commitment to balancing market-rate and affordable housing. These developments signal a shift toward residential infill, transforming commercial zones into vibrant, walkable neighborhoods.
Affordable Townhome Options in Buena Park
So, what does “affordable” really mean in the context of Buena Park townhomes? It depends on whether you’re renting or buying, as well as your income level and eligibility for subsidized programs. Let’s break it down.
For Renters
For those not ready to buy, renting a townhome in Buena Park can be a cost-effective alternative to apartments. Websites like Apartments.com list cheap townhomes starting at prices competitive with local apartment rates, often ranging from $2,000 to $3,000 per month for a two- or three-bedroom unit, depending on location and amenities. These rentals often come with perks like attached garages, in-unit laundry, and access to community facilities—features that elevate the living experience without the full cost of homeownership.
The Clark Commons by Jamboree Housing is a standout rental option for low-income families. Located at 8002 Orangethorpe Avenue, this 70-unit affordable apartment complex includes spacious two- and three-bedroom layouts, though not all are technically townhomes. Built as part of a master-planned development, it offers onsite services like education programs and a community center, making it ideal for families earning 30% to 60% of the Orange County median income. While not a traditional townhome community, its multi-level design and family-oriented focus align with the townhome ethos.
For Buyers
On the purchasing side, townhomes in Buena Park offer a more accessible entry point into the housing market. The Parker Collection, a 128-unit for-sale townhome development completed in recent years, includes 26 units restricted to moderate-income households (up to 110% of the county median income). Prices for these units typically start around $480,000 to $600,000, depending on size and upgrades, which is significantly lower than the median price for a single-family home in the area, often exceeding $800,000.
New construction options, like those from KB Home, also cater to budget-conscious buyers. These ENERGY STAR®-certified townhomes come with modern features like solar panels (available for lease or purchase) and open floor plans, starting in the low $500,000s. With flexible financing options and the ability to personalize finishes, they appeal to first-time buyers or those downsizing without sacrificing quality.
Benefits of Townhome Living in Buena Park
Living in a Buena Park townhome isn’t just about affordability—it’s about lifestyle. Here are some key advantages:
- Space and Privacy: Unlike apartments, townhomes often feature multiple floors, giving residents a sense of separation between living and sleeping areas. Private entrances and outdoor spaces add to the home-like feel.
- Community Amenities: Many townhome developments, such as the Village at Buena Park, include pools, fitness centers, and parks, enhancing daily life without additional costs.
- Location: Proximity to attractions like Knott’s Berry Farm, The Source shopping center, and Downtown Buena Park means entertainment and convenience are just steps away.
- Lower Maintenance: With HOAs handling exterior upkeep, residents can enjoy homeownership without the burden of yard work or major repairs.
Challenges to Consider
Of course, townhome living isn’t without its trade-offs. HOA fees, which can range from $150 to $500 monthly, add to the cost of ownership or renting. Parking can also be a concern, as some developments—like the Brandywine project—have faced criticism for limited spaces, potentially spilling over into nearby neighborhoods. Additionally, while Buena Park schools are improving, they often rank average (3-6 out of 10 on GreatSchools), which may influence families’ decisions if education is a priority.
The Future of Affordable Townhomes in Buena Park
Looking ahead, Buena Park’s focus on townhome development aligns with broader trends in urban planning. As vacant lots and aging commercial sites are reimagined as residential hubs, the city is poised to become a model for sustainable, mixed-income growth. Projects like Orchard View Gardens, a 66-unit affordable senior housing community set to open soon, suggest that townhome-style living will continue to evolve to meet diverse needs.
For prospective residents, the key is to act quickly. With demand high and inventory limited, affordable townhomes—whether for rent or sale—tend to move fast. Websites like Redfin, Zillow, and NewHomeSource offer real-time listings, while local resources like the City of Buena Park’s housing programs page can connect you with subsidized options.
Final Thoughts
Buena Park townhomes represent a compelling solution to the challenge of affordable living in Orange County. Whether you’re a young professional seeking a starter home, a family needing more space, or a retiree looking to downsize, these properties offer a balance of cost, comfort, and community. As the city continues to grow and innovate, townhomes will likely remain a cornerstone of its housing landscape, proving that affordable living doesn’t mean sacrificing the California dream.
If you’re considering a move to Buena Park, now’s the time to explore your options. From the trendy Village at Buena Park to the budget-friendly Parker Collection, there’s a townhome waiting to welcome you home. What are you waiting for? Dive into the market, tour a few properties, and discover why Buena Park is the perfect place to plant your roots in 2025.
