According to the 2000 Census, Santa Ana reported a population of 337,977 residents, 75% of which are of Hispanic origins. Despite its sizeable population, Santa Ana, CA is primarily a residential community. Notable natives and residents of Santa Ana include actors Diane Keaton and Michelle Pfeiffer and athlete Matt Leinart.

Two major highways, the I-5 and the I-405 provide easy access to and from Santa Ana, California. The infamous John Wayne Airport, located on the southern side of Santa Ana, acts as the main portal to the bustling city of Anaheim, where urban amenities abound. Santa Ana’s numerous hotels and various accommodations center around the John Wayne Airport, providing convenient access to all that Orange County, CA has to offer.

As the center of commerce and government, Santa Ana plays a significant role in Orange County’s prosperous economy. Santa Ana, California has distinctly separate portions of the city that cater to the individual needs of their businesses and residents. This unique setup affords a well-balanced atmosphere that seamlessly blends business with culture and entertainment.

The Rickenbacker, a guitar manufacturing and distribution company, is among Santa Ana’s most well known businesses. Their electric guitars found fame in the talented hands of musicians such as George Harrison, John Lennon and Paul McCartney of the Beatles. Other companies thriving in Santa Ana, CA include First American Corporation, Ingram Micro and the original Glenn L. Martin aviation firm, which, after merging with the Lockheed Corporation, became the renowned Lockheed Martin.

Santa Ana, California has a number of interesting sites to see, including historic landmarks. The Bowers Museum of Cultural Arts teems with Central American artifacts, while sites such as the Old Orange County Courthouse and Firefighter’s Museum display more local wares. Other family-friendly destinations include Artist Village, the Discovery Science Center, Kidseum, Original Mikes and the Santa Ana Zoo. Downtown Santa Ana, CA provides a charming look at local history, beginning with the Dr. Howe-Waffle House and Medical Museum. Additional sites just outside of Santa Ana include the lovely Orange County, CA beaches, Catalina Island, Disneyland in Anaheim and Knotts Theme Park in Buena Park.

Santa Ana, California has several excellent public and private schools for the primary grades, as well as some outstanding magnet schools for the secondary students. Higher education in Santa Ana consists of facilities such as the Art Institute of Orange County and Santa Ana College. Numerous other higher learning institutes exist in Orange County, California. These include the California State University in Fullerton, CA the University of California in Irvine, CA and Vanguard University in Costa Mesa, CA.