Life in Placentia: Where Comfort, Connection & Community Thrive

Utilities & Infrastructure

In Placentia, you’ll find dependable utility services backed by major regional providers:

• Electricity is supplied by Southern California Edison (SCE), the region's primary power utility.

• Natural gas is managed by SoCal Gas, offering reliable service to households for heating, cooking, and more.

• Water comes through Golden State Water Company, serving over 16,000 customers in Placentia. Their supply is a blend of local groundwater and imported water to maintain quality and consistency. They actively invest in pipeline upgrades, meter automation, and fire hydrant infrastructure to keep the system robust.

• Waste & recycling services are provided by local waste haulers; the city’s Public Works department also maintains roads, sewers, storm drains, and public infrastructure.

• Internet & connectivity options are solid. Many neighborhoods have access to high-speed broadband (cable, fiber), and the area continues to expand its infrastructure to support modern, connected living.

Electrical rates can be on the higher side: on average, households in Placentia spend about $360–$400 per month on electricity, in part due to usage and regional pricing dynamics.

Schools & Education

Families moving into Placentia will be glad to know the city is served by the Placentia‑Yorba Linda Unified School District(PYLUSD), which includes:

• Over 20 elementary schools

• Several middle schools

• Multiple high schools

• Alternative education programs

Some notable high schools include El Dorado High School, serving grades 9–12 with a strong athletics and arts presence, and Valencia High School, which draws students from southern Placentia and parts of nearby Anaheim.

There’s also St. Joseph Catholic School, a private K–8 option that emphasizes academic rigor, technology integration (1:1 Chromebook programs), and a well-rounded curriculum including art, music, and STEM.

Safety in schools is a priority: the city places School Resource Officers on campus to foster positive relationships, deter incidents, and ensure student and staff security.

Shopping, Dining & Community Life

One of the things locals appreciate most about Placentia is the balance between neighborhood charm and regional access:

• Placentia Village Plaza (on Yorba Linda Blvd) hosts a mix of boutiques, cafés, services, and eateries.

• Right across Kraemer Boulevard, the Placentia Certified Farmers Market draws 30+ local vendors every Tuesday—fresh produce, handmade goods, and community energy.

• Downtown (often referred to as Old Town Placentia) spans about six walkable blocks lined with independent shops, restaurants, a brewery, and seasonal event footprints.

• Just a few miles north, Brea Mall offers over 175 stores, from national flagship brands to specialty boutiques, along with diverse dining and entertainment options.

• Dining is robust along Placentia Avenue and Yorba Linda Boulevard—everything from local taquerias and ramen joints to chain restaurants. Surrounding cities like Anaheim, Fullerton, and Yorba Linda further expand your choices.

Placentia also lives its character: the Tamale Festival kickstarts the holiday season each December in Old Town, featuring live music, a tree lighting, and a spirited community gathering.

Health, Safety & Community Vibe

• Fire and emergency services are handled by the Orange County Fire Authority, and law enforcement by the Placentia Police Department.

• Placentia‑Linda Hospital is a local medical center offering emergency care, specialty services, and general health support.

• Many residents describe Placentia neighborhoods as peaceful and safe. Some do caution that areas near railroad tracks may occasionally experience train noise, and in denser zones traffic or intersection safety deserve attention.

• On forums, you’ll find praise for Placentia’s quiet evenings and friendly neighborhood feel; one user summed it up: “It is a fantastic town” with some “nicer neighborhoods really quiet.”

• A few local conversations highlight ongoing street repairs and talks about revitalization efforts in Old Town, reflecting active civic engagement and plans for modernization.

Demographics & Local Character

• With a population hovering above 50,000, Placentia offers a suburban environment with the feel of personal, connected community life.

• The city motto, “a pleasant place to live,” fits well: tree-lined streets, welcoming neighborhoods, and well-kept public spaces reinforce that image.

• The city is relatively affluent, with median household incomes above area norms, and homeownership rates over 60%.

• Placentia levies a 7.75% sales tax, which includes county transportation measures.

• Residents also pay a 3.5% Utility Users Tax (UUT) on services like electricity, gas, and cable, helping fund city services, infrastructure, and maintenance.