Nestled in the heart of Orange County, California, Buena Park is a vibrant city known for its family-friendly attractions, diverse dining scene, and convenient location. But when it comes to deciding whether to live in, visit, or invest in Buena Park versus its nearby cities—like Anaheim, Fullerton, Cypress, or La Palma—the choice can feel overwhelming. Each city has its own unique charm, amenities, and lifestyle offerings. So, how do you choose? In this guide, we’ll break down the key factors to consider when comparing Buena Park to its neighbors, helping you find the perfect fit for your needs.
Location and Accessibility
Buena Park sits at a strategic crossroads in Orange County, bordered by major freeways like the 5 and 91, making it a hub for commuters and travelers alike. It’s just 5 miles from Disneyland in Anaheim, 20 miles from downtown Los Angeles, and a short drive from beaches like Huntington and Long Beach. This central location is a huge draw for those who value accessibility.
- Anaheim: Known as the home of Disneyland, Anaheim is just southeast of Buena Park. It’s slightly larger and more urban, with excellent public transit options like the ART shuttle system. If proximity to major tourist attractions or a bustling city vibe is your priority, Anaheim might edge out Buena Park.
- Fullerton: Northeast of Buena Park, Fullerton offers a more suburban feel with a historic downtown and access to Cal State Fullerton. It’s less tourist-driven but still well-connected via the 57 and 91 freeways.
- Cypress: To the west, Cypress is quieter and more residential, appealing to those who prefer a low-key lifestyle. However, it’s farther from major entertainment hubs.
- La Palma: A small, peaceful city to the northwest, La Palma is ideal for those seeking a tight-knit community, though it lacks the commercial vibrancy of Buena Park.
Verdict: If convenience and access to both urban and coastal destinations matter most, Buena Park’s location is hard to beat. However, if you’re drawn to a specific attraction (like Disneyland) or a quieter pace, a neighboring city might suit you better.
Attractions and Entertainment
Buena Park proudly bills itself as the “Entertainment Capital of Southern California,” and for good reason. It’s home to Knott’s Berry Farm, a historic theme park with thrilling rides and seasonal events like Knott’s Scary Farm. Nearby, you’ll find the interactive Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament and Pirate’s Dinner Adventure, both offering unique dining experiences. For families or thrill-seekers, this concentration of fun is a major selling point.
- Anaheim: With Disneyland, Disney California Adventure, and the Anaheim Packing District, Anaheim is a global tourism heavyweight. It’s perfect for those who want constant excitement, though it can feel crowded and pricey.
- Fullerton: Entertainment here leans more cultural, with the Muckenthaler Cultural Center, live music venues, and a lively college scene. It’s less about theme parks and more about community events.
- Cypress: Cypress lacks big-name attractions but offers local parks and golf courses, appealing to those who enjoy outdoor recreation over tourist hotspots.
- La Palma: This tiny city has minimal entertainment options, though its annual La Palma Days festival fosters community spirit.
Verdict: Buena Park strikes a balance between family-friendly attractions and a less overwhelming vibe than Anaheim. If theme parks and dinner shows excite you, Buena Park wins. For a more subdued or artsy experience, Fullerton might be your pick.
Cost of Living
Orange County isn’t cheap, but costs vary between cities. Buena Park’s median home price hovers around $750,000–$800,000, with rent for a two-bedroom apartment averaging $2,200–$2,500 per month (as of early 2025). It’s moderately priced for the region, offering a middle ground between affordability and access to amenities.
- Anaheim: Housing costs are higher, with median home prices closer to $850,000 and rents pushing $2,500–$3,000. The “Disney tax” inflates prices due to tourism demand.
- Fullerton: Slightly more affordable than Anaheim, Fullerton’s homes average $700,000–$750,000, with rents around $2,000–$2,300. It’s a good option for budget-conscious buyers or renters.
- Cypress: Similar to Buena Park, Cypress offers homes around $750,000 and rents near $2,200. Its smaller size keeps property taxes competitive.
- La Palma: As a smaller city, La Palma’s homes average $700,000, but limited inventory can drive prices up. Renting is less common here.
Verdict: Buena Park offers a solid value proposition—reasonably priced with plenty to do. Anaheim’s higher costs might only make sense if you’re tied to its attractions, while Fullerton or Cypress could save you a bit if budget is a top concern.
Community and Lifestyle
Buena Park’s population of about 85,000 creates a small-city feel with big-city perks. Its diversity—over 40% Hispanic, 25% Asian, and a mix of other backgrounds—shapes a rich cultural tapestry, reflected in its food scene and community events like the Silverado Days festival.
- Anaheim: With 350,000 residents, Anaheim feels more metropolitan. Its diversity is similar, but the tourist influx can make it less intimate than Buena Park.
- Fullerton: Home to 140,000 people, Fullerton blends suburban calm with a college-town energy. It’s less diverse than Buena Park but has a strong sense of local pride.
- Cypress: At 50,000 residents, Cypress is quieter and more family-oriented, with top-rated schools and a slower pace.
- La Palma: The smallest at under 16,000, La Palma feels like a hidden gem—safe, friendly, and ideal for those who prioritize community over hustle.
Verdict: Buena Park offers a lively yet approachable vibe. If you prefer a bigger city feel, Anaheim works; for a cozier or academic atmosphere, try Cypress or Fullerton.
Education and Schools
For families, school quality is often a dealbreaker. Buena Park’s schools fall under several districts, including the Buena Park School District (elementary/middle) and Fullerton Joint Union High School District. Standouts include Buena Park High School and local elementary schools like Emery and Gilbert, with solid ratings.
- Anaheim: The Anaheim Union High School District serves a large area, with mixed performance. Magnet programs and private schools are plentiful, but quality varies by neighborhood.
- Fullerton: Home to Cal State Fullerton and highly rated K-12 schools like Sunny Hills High, Fullerton is an education powerhouse.
- Cypress: Cypress School District and Los Alamitos Unified (for high school) boast some of Orange County’s best public schools, making it a top choice for families.
- La Palma: Part of the Anaheim Union district, La Palma’s schools are strong, with John F. Kennedy High being a local gem.
Verdict: Buena Park’s schools are decent but outshined by Cypress and Fullerton. If education is your focus, look westward or northward.
Dining and Shopping
Buena Park’s culinary scene shines with Korean BBQ joints along Beach Boulevard, diverse chains near Knott’s, and local gems like Porto’s Bakery. Shopping includes the Buena Park Downtown mall and nearby outlets.
- Anaheim: The Packing District and Downtown Disney elevate dining, while the Anaheim GardenWalk offers upscale shopping.
- Fullerton: A foodie haven with trendy cafes and bars in its downtown, plus big-box retail nearby.
- Cypress: More limited, with casual eateries and strip malls dominating.
- La Palma: Small-scale dining and shopping, mostly local spots.
Verdict: Buena Park holds its own with variety, though Anaheim and Fullerton might appeal to foodies or serious shoppers.
Final Thoughts: Making Your Choice
Choosing between Buena Park and its neighbors depends on your priorities:
- Pick Buena Park if you want a central location, affordable entertainment, and a diverse community without the chaos of a tourist epicenter.
- Choose Anaheim for world-class attractions and urban energy, if you don’t mind the cost and crowds.
- Opt for Fullerton if education, culture, or a suburban-college blend appeals to you.
- Go with Cypress or La Palma for quiet, family-focused living with strong schools.
Take a weekend to explore each city—ride a coaster at Knott’s, stroll Fullerton’s downtown, or grab lunch in Anaheim. Your perfect Orange County home is waiting!
