With a population of over 92,000 according to the Wikipedia page for Westminster, Westminster is a mid-sized city located in western Orange County, California. Originally founded in 1870, the city was incorporated in 1957 and has grown into the 7th largest city in Orange County.
Population and Demographics
According to the 2020 census, Westminster has a population of 92,610 residents. The population density is approximately 7,174 people per square mile, which is considered high for Southern California. The racial makeup of Westminster is diverse, with 38.1% White, 8.6% African American, 0.7% Native American, 49.9% Asian, 0.4% Pacific Islander, and 5.0% from other races. Westminster also has a large Hispanic/Latino population at 24.4%.
Over half of Westminster’s residents are foreign-born, with many emigrating from Vietnam, Hong Kong, South Korea, Taiwan, and various Latin American countries. This gives the city a unique multicultural character and vibrant ethnic communities. Nearly 60% of households in Westminster speak a language other than English at home.
Economy and Major Employers
Although initially an agricultural center, Westminster’s economy today is driven by retail, tourism, and light manufacturing. The city has a strong tax base from sales tax revenue generated by over 650 businesses located within city limits. This page on the Westminster city website has more details about the economy and economic development.
Some of the major employers in Westminster include:
- Hyundai Motor America
- Edwards Lifesciences
- Honeywell Aerospace
- Cambro Manufacturing
- Westminster Mall
- Orange Coast College
The aerospace, medical device manufacturing, healthcare, and retail sectors provide the majority of local jobs in Westminster. The city’s central location in Orange County and proximity to freeways makes it attractive for employers and commercial development.
Landmarks and Points of Interest
Some of the most popular attractions and landmarks in Westminster include:
- Westminster Mall – A large regional shopping mall anchored by Macy’s, JCPenney, and Target stores.
- Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve – A prime birdwatching and hiking spot with restored wetlands and ocean access.
- Asian Garden Mall – An immense Asian-themed shopping center with hundreds of stores and eateries.
- Westminster Memorial Park – The city’s historic cemetery dating back to 1904.
- Vietnam War Memorial – Dedicated to the service members from Westminster who died in the Vietnam War.
- Westminster Civic Center and City Hall – Home to the city government, police station, and public library.
The Westminster Chamber of Commerce provides a full listing of things to do, local parks, golf courses, arts and entertainment options, and upcoming community events.
Sports Teams and Recreation
Residents of Westminster are big supporters of local youth sports programs and school athletics. The city maintains over 100 acres of public parks and sports fields to meet demand for outdoor recreation. Popular sports in the community include soccer, football, basketball, baseball, softball, and volleyball.
The local high school, Westminster High School, fields competitive varsity teams in a variety of boys and girls sports. The Westminster Lions have won numerous league championships in football, soccer, tennis, water polo, and other sports over the years. Fans can keep up with Westminster HS athletics on the Westminster HS Athletics Facebook page.
Westminster is also home to the professional soccer club California United Sting, which plays at Westminster High School. The Sting compete in USL League Two, a development league for aspiring pro soccer players.
Community Events and City Government
Some of the popular annual events held in Westminster include:
- Lunar New Year Tet Festival
- Westminster Summer Concerts in the Park Series
- Westminster Youth Fishing Derby
- Mid-Autumn Moon Festival
- Westminster Mall Carnival
Residents can stay up to date on these fun community happenings by following the City of Westminster Facebook page. The city’s website at westminster-ca.gov also provides information on local government departments and services, upcoming city council meetings, news, and more.
With its diverse population, business-friendly environment, recreation opportunities, and vibrant communities, Westminster exemplifies the prosperity and cultural richness of modern Orange County. The city has a bright future ahead as it continues to grow and thrive.