Nestled in the heart of Orange County, California, Buena Park is a vibrant city that offers a unique blend of suburban charm, urban convenience, and world-class entertainment. With a population of around 84,000, it’s a medium-sized city that’s often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors like Anaheim and Los Angeles. However, Buena Park has its own distinct appeal, drawing families, young professionals, and retirees alike with its mix of attractions, community spirit, and accessibility. If you’re considering a move to this Southern California gem, it’s worth weighing the pros and cons to see if it aligns with your lifestyle. In this blog post, we’ll dive deep into what makes living in Buena Park great—and what challenges you might face.
Pros of Living in Buena Park, CA
- Entertainment Hub: Knott’s Berry Farm and More
One of Buena Park’s biggest draws is its reputation as an entertainment hotspot. The city is home to Knott’s Berry Farm, a historic theme park that rivals nearby Disneyland in charm and thrills (and often comes with shorter lines and lower ticket prices). Beyond Knott’s, the Entertainment Corridor along Beach Boulevard features attractions like Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament and Pirate’s Dinner Adventure, making it a paradise for families and fun-seekers. Living here means you’re never far from a weekend adventure, and the influx of tourists keeps the local economy buzzing. - Family-Friendly Atmosphere
Buena Park prides itself on being a welcoming, family-oriented community. The city boasts highly rated public schools, such as those in the Buena Park School District and nearby Centralia Elementary District, which are a big plus for parents. Parks like Ralph B. Clark Regional Park and William Peak Park offer playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas, perfect for outdoor family time. Annual events like the Silverado Days festival and the Summer Concert Series foster a tight-knit community vibe that’s hard to find in larger cities. - Convenient Location
Known locally as the “Center of the Southland,” Buena Park’s strategic location is a major perk. It sits at the crossroads of the 91 and 5 freeways, providing easy access to Los Angeles (21 miles northwest), the beaches of Orange County (about 15 miles south), and even the mountains for a quick getaway. Whether you’re commuting to work or exploring Southern California, Buena Park’s connectivity is tough to beat. Public transit options, including the nearby Buena Park Metrolink station, also make it accessible for those who prefer not to drive. - Diverse Food Scene
Food lovers will find plenty to enjoy in Buena Park. The city’s diverse population—over 25% Asian and nearly 40% Hispanic or Latino—brings a rich culinary tapestry to the table. From authentic Korean BBQ and Mexican taquerias to the famous Porto’s Bakery (a recent addition that’s a hit with locals), there’s something for every palate. The proximity to shopping centers like Buena Park Downtown and The Source OC adds even more dining and retail options, all within a short drive or walk. - Affordable Compared to Coastal Orange County
While Orange County is known for its high cost of living, Buena Park offers a relatively affordable alternative to coastal cities like Newport Beach or Irvine. The median home price hovers around $889,000, which, while not cheap, is more attainable than the multimillion-dollar homes closer to the Pacific. Renters can expect a median rent of about $2,192, which is competitive for the region. For those seeking suburban comfort without breaking the bank, Buena Park strikes a decent balance. - Strong Community and Cultural Offerings
Residents often praise Buena Park for its strong sense of community. The city hosts events that bring people together, like the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony and cultural celebrations that reflect its diversity. There’s also an emphasis on arts and history, with spots like the Whitaker-Jaynes Estate & Museum offering a glimpse into the city’s past. For golfers, Los Coyotes Country Club provides a scenic escape, while the variety of local businesses—from small shops to larger employers like Yamaha Music—keeps the economy stable.
Cons of Living in Buena Park, CA
- High Cost of Living
While Buena Park may be more affordable than some Orange County neighbors, it’s still significantly pricier than the national average. The cost of living is about 56% higher than the U.S. average, driven largely by housing costs (112% above the national average). Groceries and utilities also run higher, which can strain budgets, especially for those moving from less expensive regions. For some, the trade-off of amenities and location justifies the expense, but it’s a hurdle nonetheless. - Traffic and Congestion
Buena Park’s prime location comes with a downside: traffic. The 91 Freeway is notorious for congestion, particularly during rush hours, and the influx of tourists visiting Knott’s Berry Farm can clog local roads like Beach Boulevard. The average commute time is 37 minutes, longer than the national average, and most residents (87%) rely on cars, as public transit options are limited (a transit score of 36 reflects this). If you’re not a fan of sitting in traffic, this could be a daily frustration. - Tourist Crowds
Living near major attractions sounds fun until you’re dodging out-of-town visitors on a regular basis. The Entertainment Corridor draws crowds year-round, especially during summer and holidays, which can make parking scarce and local spots busier than you’d like. Some residents find the tourist presence adds a lively energy, but others feel it disrupts the suburban calm they moved here for. - Variable Safety Perception
While Buena Park is generally considered safe, safety can vary by neighborhood. The southwest part of the city is seen as the safest, with a 1-in-53 chance of being a victim of crime, while central areas closer to Anaheim have higher rates (1-in-26). Property crime is more common than violent crime, but issues like car break-ins and catalytic converter thefts have been reported. The growing homeless population near freeway entrances has also raised concerns for some residents, though the city is working to address these challenges. - Hot Summers and Limited Walkability
Being farther inland than coastal Orange County, Buena Park experiences hotter summers and falls, with temperatures often climbing into the 90s. This can make outdoor activities less enjoyable during peak heat. Additionally, despite its amenities, the city isn’t particularly walkable (AreaVibes surveys note this as a drawback). Many attractions and necessities require a car, which might disappoint those hoping for a pedestrian-friendly lifestyle. - Noise from Attractions
If you live near Knott’s Berry Farm or the Entertainment Corridor, you might hear roller coaster screams or the “chu chu” of the Calico Mine Train throughout the day. While some find it charming, others see it as a constant annoyance, especially if they value peace and quiet. The development of new projects, like the approved apartments near the old Sears building, could also bring more noise and construction in the coming years.
Balancing the Pros and Cons: Is Buena Park Right for You?
Living in Buena Park, CA, is a bit like riding one of Knott’s roller coasters—there are thrilling highs and a few stomach-dropping lows, but the overall experience depends on what you’re looking for. If you value entertainment, a central location, and a diverse, family-friendly community, the pros might outweigh the cons for you. The city’s unique blend of suburban comfort and urban excitement makes it a compelling choice for those who want to be close to Southern California’s action without the chaos of Los Angeles.
On the flip side, if you’re sensitive to traffic, high costs, or tourist bustle, Buena Park might test your patience. The heat, variable safety, and lack of walkability could also be dealbreakers for some. It’s a city that rewards those who embrace its quirks—like the occasional sound of a theme park train—but may not suit everyone’s vision of an ideal home.
Final Thoughts
Buena Park, CA, offers a lifestyle that’s hard to replicate elsewhere in Orange County. It’s a place where you can enjoy a quiet neighborhood one moment and be at a world-famous theme park the next. The pros—entertainment, community, and convenience—are balanced by cons like cost, traffic, and crowds, making it a city of trade-offs.
If you’re considering a move here, visit first. Spend a day exploring Knott’s, grabbing tacos at a local spot, and driving the streets to get a feel for the pace. Talk to residents about their experiences—many have lived here for decades and can offer insights no blog can capture. Whether Buena Park becomes your next home depends on how its strengths align with your priorities and how much its challenges weigh on your mind. For the right person, it’s a hidden gem in the Southland’s crown.
What do you think? Are the roller coasters and community vibes enough to draw you in, or do the traffic and costs give you pause? Let’s hear your thoughts!
