If you’re considering purchasing a home in Buena Park, California, one of the key factors to evaluate is the city’s public transportation system. Located in Orange County, Buena Park is a vibrant city known for attractions like Knott’s Berry Farm and its proximity to major hubs like Los Angeles and Anaheim. For homebuyers, understanding how to get around without relying solely on a car can influence your decision about where to live, your daily commute, and your overall quality of life. In this blog post, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about Buena Park’s public transportation options, how they connect to the broader region, and what this means for prospective homeowners.
Overview of Buena Park’s Location and Transportation Needs
Buena Park sits approximately 12 miles northwest of downtown Santa Ana and is part of the sprawling Los Angeles metropolitan area. With a population of around 84,000 as of the 2020 census, it’s a residential suburb with a mix of commercial and entertainment hubs. The city is intersected by major highways like Interstate 5 (Santa Ana Freeway), California State Route 39 (Beach Boulevard), and California State Route 91 (Artesia Freeway), making it a car-centric area for many residents. However, for those who prefer to reduce their reliance on driving—or who don’t own a car—public transportation is a viable option worth exploring.
While many residents do rely on personal vehicles, Buena Park’s public transit offerings provide connectivity to nearby cities, employment centers, and attractions. Whether you’re commuting to work, heading to Disneyland, or simply exploring the region, the city’s transit system can play a significant role in your homebuying decision.
The Backbone of Buena Park’s Public Transit: The Metrolink Station
At the heart of Buena Park’s public transportation network is the Buena Park Metrolink Station, located at 8400 Lakeknoll Drive. This station is a key asset for homebuyers who value regional connectivity. Metrolink is Southern California’s commuter rail system, and Buena Park is served by two lines:
- Orange County Line: This line connects Buena Park to major destinations like Irvine, Santa Ana, and Union Station in downtown Los Angeles. It’s ideal for commuters heading south to Orange County job centers or north to LA.
- 91/Perris Valley Line: This line links Buena Park to Riverside, Corona, and Perris, offering an east-west travel option for those working or exploring inland areas.
The Metrolink station is conveniently located near the intersection of Dale Street and Artesia Boulevard, making it accessible from many parts of the city. Trains run regularly, with schedules designed to accommodate commuters—typically more frequent during peak morning and evening hours. For homebuyers, living within walking distance or a short drive of the station could mean easy access to jobs in LA, Orange County, or beyond without the stress of freeway traffic.
Parking at the station is another perk: there are ample spaces available, and additional off-site parking can be accessed via the Fullerton Park and Ride, connected to Buena Park by an Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) bus route (Route 25). This setup is particularly useful if you’re considering a hybrid approach—driving to the station and then taking the train.
OCTA Bus Services: Local and Regional Connections
The Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) operates the bus system that serves Buena Park and connects it to the broader Orange County area. Several bus routes pass through the city, offering affordable and reliable options for getting around locally or linking up with other transit hubs. Here are some key routes to know:
- Route 29: This route runs along Beach Boulevard, connecting Buena Park to Huntington Beach and other coastal cities to the south, as well as north to La Habra. It’s a great option for beach trips or local errands.
- Route 38: This line travels along La Palma Avenue, linking Buena Park to Lakewood and other nearby communities. It’s useful for east-west travel within the region.
- Route 123: A north-south route that connects Buena Park to Anaheim, including stops near major attractions like Disneyland.
- Route 460: This is a longer-distance route that ties Buena Park to downtown Los Angeles, passing through key areas like Norwalk and Fullerton.
Buses typically run every 15-30 minutes during peak hours, though schedules vary by route and time of day. Fares are affordable, with options for single rides, day passes, or monthly passes, making it a cost-effective choice for regular commuters. For homebuyers, proximity to bus stops along major arterials like Beach Boulevard, La Palma Avenue, or Artesia Boulevard could enhance your daily convenience.
The OCTA system also integrates with the Metrolink station, meaning you can hop off a bus and onto a train (or vice versa) with relative ease. This multimodal connectivity is a big plus for those who want flexibility in their travel options.
Walkability and Bikeability: Enhancing Transit Access
While Buena Park isn’t as walkable as dense urban centers like Los Angeles or San Francisco, certain areas—particularly near the Metrolink station and Buena Park Downtown (formerly Buena Park Mall)—offer pedestrian-friendly environments. The city has been working on “Complete Streets” projects, which aim to improve infrastructure for walking, biking, and public transit use. These initiatives include adding sidewalks, bike lanes, and better crosswalks, especially along busy corridors like Beach Boulevard and Orangethorpe Avenue.
For homebuyers who enjoy biking, Buena Park’s flat terrain makes it feasible to cycle to transit stops or nearby amenities. The city’s Public Works Department oversees these infrastructure upgrades, so keep an eye on upcoming projects that might enhance access in your target neighborhood. Living near a transit hub or a well-connected street could mean shorter walks or rides to catch a bus or train.
How Public Transit Impacts Homebuying Decisions
When evaluating homes in Buena Park, public transportation can influence several aspects of your decision:
- Commute Time and Cost: If you work in LA, Anaheim, or Irvine, the Metrolink can save you time and money compared to driving, especially with gas prices and freeway congestion in mind. Check how close potential homes are to the Metrolink station or major bus routes.
- Property Value: Homes near transit hubs often hold or increase in value due to their accessibility. The Buena Park Metrolink Station area, for instance, could be a smart investment as the region grows.
- Lifestyle: If you prefer a car-light lifestyle or want to reduce your environmental footprint, Buena Park’s transit options make that possible. Look for neighborhoods with good bus access or walkable routes to stations.
- Family Needs: For households with students or non-drivers, proximity to transit can provide independence and convenience. Routes like 123 to Anaheim or 29 to local schools and shopping areas are worth considering.
Neighborhoods to Explore Based on Transit Access
- Near the Metrolink Station: The area around Lakeknoll Drive and Dale Street is ideal for train commuters. It’s also close to shopping and dining options at Buena Park Downtown.
- Beach Boulevard Corridor: This major north-south artery is well-served by Route 29 and offers easy access to both local amenities and regional destinations.
- La Palma Avenue Area: With Route 38 running through here, this east-west corridor connects you to nearby cities and is near residential pockets with a suburban feel.
- Central Buena Park: Neighborhoods near Knott’s Berry Farm and the mall are walkable to some bus stops and offer a lively community vibe.
Challenges and Considerations
While Buena Park’s public transit is a strong asset, it’s not without limitations. Bus frequencies drop outside peak hours, and weekend service may be less robust, so you’ll want to check schedules for your specific needs. The city’s layout still favors cars, meaning some residential areas might require a short drive or bike ride to reach a transit stop. For longer trips, transfers between buses and trains might be necessary, adding time to your journey.
Additionally, if you’re eyeing a home far from transit lines, you might still need a car for daily errands or emergencies. Mapping out your potential commute and testing routes during your house hunt can help you gauge how practical public transit will be.
Future of Public Transportation in Buena Park
Buena Park is part of a region that’s continually evolving, and its transit system may see improvements in the coming years. The city’s Complete Streets initiatives signal a commitment to better infrastructure, and regional plans for Metrolink expansion or OCTA service enhancements could further boost connectivity. As a homebuyer, purchasing now could position you to benefit from future upgrades that make the area even more transit-friendly.
Final Thoughts for Homebuyers
Buena Park’s public transportation system offers a solid mix of rail and bus options that can make life easier, more affordable, and less car-dependent. The Metrolink station is a standout feature, linking you to major employment and entertainment hubs, while OCTA buses provide local flexibility. For homebuyers, this means you can prioritize homes near transit for convenience and potential resale value—or opt for quieter suburban areas with a short drive to a station.
Before you buy, take time to explore the routes, test your commute, and consider how transit fits into your lifestyle. Whether you’re drawn to Buena Park for its attractions, affordability, or community feel, its public transportation is a practical perk that could seal the deal. Happy house hunting!
