Buena Park is a city in Orange County, California with a population of 82,363 as of 2021 according to Wikipedia. It is located approximately 20 miles southeast of downtown Los Angeles and is part of the Los Angeles metropolitan area.
Population
Buena Park has grown rapidly over the past several decades. In 1970, the population was just 36,531. By 1980 it had increased to 52,445 and in 1990 it reached 64,378 residents. The current estimated population for 2023 is 83,628.
Buena Park has a diverse population. As of the 2010 census, the racial makeup of the city was 27.3% White, 3.4% Black or African American, 21.6% Asian, 1.8% Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander, 35.1% from other races, and 5.9% from two or more races. 64.6% of residents identified as Hispanic or Latino of any race.
There are several factors that have contributed to Buena Park’s population growth over the years. The city has a strong manufacturing and industrial base that provides employment opportunities. Its proximity to major transportation corridors, entertainment venues, beaches and other attractions in Orange County also make it an desirable place to live.
Economy and Major Employers
Buena Park has a diverse economic base, with major industries including retail, tourism, manufacturing, construction and healthcare. Some of the top employers in Buena Park are:
- Medtronics – Medical device manufacturer
- SSE Air Conditioning – HVAC systems
- Datron World Communications – Aerospace systems
- CSUF Fullerton – Higher education
- Coca Cola – Beverage bottling plant
- Pepsi Beverages Company – Beverage bottling plant
- Fairfield Inn Suites – Hotel
- Knott’s Berry Farm – Amusement park
In recent years, Buena Park has also become a hub for Korean business and culture. The Korean population has expanded greatly, leading to the establishment of many Korean restaurants, grocery stores, churches and other businesses.
Landmarks
Buena Park is probably best known for being the home of Knott’s Berry Farm, one of the oldest theme parks in the country. Knott’s Berry Farm was originally a berry farm owned by Walter Knott and his family starting in the 1920s. They began adding attractions and rides and it eventually grew into a major theme park that still retains some of its original charm.
Another important Buena Park landmark is the Buena Park Mall, a large indoor shopping mall located along the Interstate 5 freeway. The mall has over 150 stores including major department stores like JC Penney and Macy’s. It provides a huge range of retail options for local residents.
Sports
The local sports team based in Buena Park is the Orange County Flyers minor league baseball team. The Flyers play at the Orange County Great Park stadium and are a part of the Pecos League. The stadium opened in 2019 and has capacity for over 2,000 fans.
City Government
Buena Park has a City Council-City Manager form of government. The City Council consists of 5 members elected at-large by Buena Park citizens for 4-year terms. The City Council appoints a City Manager to oversee the daily operations of the city and implement policies. Buena Park’s current City Manager is Aaron France.
More information about Buena Park’s city government can be found on the official city website.
Tourism
In addition to Knott’s Berry Farm, Buena Park has several other popular tourist and entertainment destinations. The Medieval Times dinner theater provides an exciting evening of medieval-themed entertainment and dining. The Pirate’s Dinner Adventure is another interactive dinner theater featuring pirates and buccaneers.
Buena Park is also home to the Big Air Trampoline Park, featuring wall-to-wall trampolines for recreational jumping, dodgeball courts, slam dunk basketball hoops and more. The Boomers amusement park offers family-friendly rides, mini-golf, laser tag, go karts and an arcade.
The official Facebook page for the City of Buena Park provides updates, news and information about the community. You can follow the city’s Facebook page at facebook.com/BuenaParkCA