Cities and Towns in Orange County, California

Major Cities and Towns in Orange County, California

Anaheim

Area, Population, and Geography

• Area: 50.8 square miles
• Population: Approximately 350,000 (2023 estimate)
• Zip Codes: 92801-92809, 92812, 92814-92817, 92825, 92850, 92899
• Latitude: 33.8366° N
• Longitude: 117.9143° W

City Location and History

Anaheim, one of the oldest cities in Orange County, is located in the northern part of the county, approximately 25 miles southeast of downtown Los Angeles. The city was founded in 1857 by German immigrants as a wine-making colony, with its name derived from “Ana,” for the nearby Santa Ana River, and “Heim,” meaning home in German. Anaheim grew as an agricultural community, primarily producing wine and citrus. However, the city’s transformation into a major urban center began in the mid-20th century with the opening of Disneyland in 1955, which turned Anaheim into a global tourist destination. The city continued to expand, becoming a hub for entertainment, sports, and business.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Anaheim is served by the Anaheim Union High School District, with notable schools including Anaheim High School and Katella High School. The city’s most famous landmark is Disneyland Resort, which includes Disneyland Park, Disney California Adventure, and Downtown Disney. The resort attracts millions of visitors annually and plays a significant role in the local economy. Other major landmarks include the Anaheim Convention Center, the largest convention center on the West Coast, and Angel Stadium, home to the Los Angeles Angels of Major League Baseball. The Honda Center, home to the NHL’s Anaheim Ducks, is another key venue in the city. Anaheim’s blend of historic significance, entertainment attractions, and modern amenities makes it one of the most dynamic cities in Orange County.

Santa Ana

Area, Population, and Geography

• Area: 27.5 square miles
• Population: Approximately 310,000 (2023 estimate)
• Zip Codes: 92701-92712, 92725, 92735, 92799
• Latitude: 33.7455° N
• Longitude: 117.8677° W

City Location and History

Santa Ana, the county seat of Orange County, is located in the central part of the county, about 30 miles southeast of Los Angeles. The city was founded in 1869 by William H. Spurgeon after he purchased land from the Rancho Santiago de Santa Ana land grant. Santa Ana developed as a commercial and agricultural center, benefiting from its strategic location along the Santa Ana River and later the Southern Pacific Railroad. The city was officially incorporated in 1886 and has since grown into a major urban center, known for its cultural diversity, historic neighborhoods, and role as the governmental hub of Orange County.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Santa Ana is served by the Santa Ana Unified School District, with Santa Ana High School and Segerstrom High School being key educational institutions. The city’s major landmarks include the Bowers Museum, which features extensive collections of art and artifacts from around the world, and the Old Orange County Courthouse, a historic building that now houses the Orange County History Center. The Santa Ana Zoo, known for its collection of monkeys and endangered species, is a popular family destination. The city’s downtown area features the Artists Village, a cultural district with galleries, theaters, and restaurants. Santa Ana’s combination of historical importance, cultural richness, and civic prominence makes it a central city in Orange County.

Irvine

Area, Population, and Geography

• Area: 65.9 square miles
• Population: Approximately 310,000 (2023 estimate)
• Zip Codes: 92602-92604, 92606, 92612, 92614, 92616-92620, 92623, 92697, 92709, 92710
• Latitude: 33.6846° N
• Longitude: 117.8265° W

City Location and History

Irvine is located in the southern part of Orange County, approximately 40 miles southeast of Los Angeles. The city was master-planned and developed by the Irvine Company in the 1960s, with the University of California, Irvine (UCI) serving as a central anchor. Irvine was officially incorporated in 1971 and has since grown into one of the most affluent and well-planned communities in California. The city is known for its strong emphasis on education, technology, and environmental sustainability, with numerous parks, green spaces, and preserved open areas. Irvine’s development as a hub for technology and higher education has made it a key player in Southern California’s economy.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Irvine is home

to the University of California, Irvine (UCI), one of the top public research universities in the United States, and is served by the Irvine Unified School District, which includes highly regarded schools like University High School and Northwood High School. The city’s major landmarks include the Irvine Spectrum Center, a large shopping, dining, and entertainment complex that is a popular destination for both residents and visitors. The Orange County Great Park, developed on the former site of the El Toro Marine Corps Air Station, offers a variety of recreational amenities, including sports fields, an arts complex, and a large balloon ride that provides panoramic views of the area. Irvine’s emphasis on environmental sustainability is reflected in its extensive network of bike paths, parks, and nature reserves, including the San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary. With its focus on education, quality of life, and economic development, Irvine has become one of the most desirable places to live and work in Orange County.

Huntington Beach

Area, Population, and Geography

• Area: 31.9 square miles
• Population: Approximately 200,000 (2023 estimate)
• Zip Codes: 92605, 92615, 92646-92649
• Latitude: 33.6595° N
• Longitude: 117.9988° W

City Location and History

Huntington Beach, known as “Surf City,” is located along the Pacific coast in the western part of Orange County, about 35 miles south of Los Angeles. The area was originally inhabited by the Tongva people and later became part of a Spanish land grant. The city was incorporated in 1909 and was named after railroad magnate Henry E. Huntington, who was instrumental in developing the area’s infrastructure and connecting it to Los Angeles via the Pacific Electric Railway. Huntington Beach quickly became a popular beach destination, known for its long, sandy beaches and consistent surf, attracting surfers from around the world. Over the years, the city has grown into a vibrant community with a mix of residential, commercial, and recreational areas.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Huntington Beach is served by the Huntington Beach Union High School District, with Huntington Beach High School and Edison High School being key institutions. The city’s major landmarks include the Huntington Beach Pier, one of the longest piers on the West Coast, which is a central hub for fishing, dining, and surfing. The International Surfing Museum celebrates the city’s surfing heritage and hosts events like the annual US Open of Surfing. Huntington Central Park, the largest city-owned park in Orange County, offers a range of recreational activities, including equestrian trails, sports facilities, and a nature center. The Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve is a significant natural landmark, providing opportunities for birdwatching and environmental education. Huntington Beach’s combination of coastal beauty, active lifestyle, and community events makes it one of the most iconic cities in Orange County.

Newport Beach

Area, Population, and Geography

• Area: 53.1 square miles
• Population: Approximately 85,000 (2023 estimate)
• Zip Codes: 92657-92663
• Latitude: 33.6189° N
• Longitude: 117.9298° W

City Location and History

Newport Beach is located along the coast in the southwestern part of Orange County, about 45 miles south of Los Angeles. The city was incorporated in 1906 and quickly became a popular destination for boating and coastal recreation due to its extensive harbor and sandy beaches. Newport Beach’s history is closely tied to its maritime activities, with the development of Newport Harbor playing a central role in the city’s growth. Over time, Newport Beach evolved into one of the wealthiest communities in the United States, known for its luxury real estate, upscale shopping, and exclusive neighborhoods like Balboa Island and Corona del Mar. The city is also famous for its picturesque harbor, which is one of the largest recreational boat harbors on the West Coast.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Newport Beach is served by the Newport-Mesa Unified School District, with Newport Harbor High School and Corona del Mar High School being prominent educational institutions. The city’s major landmarks include the Balboa Peninsula, home to the historic Balboa Pavilion and the Balboa Fun Zone, which offers family-friendly entertainment and waterfront dining. The Newport Beach Pier and the nearby Balboa Pier are popular spots for fishing and enjoying ocean views. Fashion Island, an upscale open-air shopping center, is a major retail destination in the city. The Newport Beach Film Festival, held annually, is one of the largest film festivals in Southern California, attracting filmmakers and audiences from around the world. Newport Beach’s blend of coastal charm, luxury living, and cultural events make it a premier destination in Orange County.

Fullerton

Area, Population, and Geography

• Area: 22.4 square miles
• Population: Approximately 140,000 (2023 estimate)
• Zip Codes: 92831-92838
• Latitude: 33.8704° N
• Longitude: 117.9243° W

City Location and History

Fullerton is located in the northern part of Orange County, approximately 25 miles southeast of downtown Los Angeles. The city was founded in 1887 by George and Edward Amerige, who secured the land through a deal with the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway. Fullerton quickly developed as an agricultural center, particularly known for its citrus groves. The city’s growth was further fueled by the oil industry in the early 20th century. Fullerton is also known for its role in the development of the electric guitar, with Leo Fender establishing his first factory in the city. Today, Fullerton is a diverse and vibrant city, known for its historic downtown, educational institutions, and cultural attractions.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Fullerton is home to several major educational institutions, including California State University, Fullerton (CSUF), one of the largest universities in the California State University system, and Fullerton College, one of the oldest community colleges in the state. The city’s major landmarks include the Muckenthaler Cultural Center, a historic estate that hosts art exhibitions, performances, and cultural events. The Fullerton Arboretum, located on the CSUF campus, is a 26-acre botanical garden that offers educational programs and walking trails. The historic Fox Theatre, currently being restored, is a centerpiece of the downtown area, which also features a variety of shops, restaurants, and nightlife. The Fullerton Museum Center is known for its exhibits on local history, including the Fender guitar legacy. Fullerton’s mix of historic preservation, educational opportunities, and cultural activities make it a key city in Orange County.