Orange County is a county in the southern part of the U.S. state of California. Its county seat is Santa Ana. Its population of 3,056,865 (2005 estimate [1]), is larger than that of 20 states. It is the second most populous county in the state of California, and the fifth most populous in the United States. The county is known for its wealth and political conservatism, although it is in reality neither as uniformly wealthy nor as homogeneously conservative as its stereotypical image suggests. In fact, the wealthiest areas in the county; Anaheim Hills, Corona del Mar, Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, and Villa Park only account for 15% of Orange Counites total population.

It is also famous as a tourist destination, as the county is home to such attractions as Disneyland and Knott's Berry Farm, as well as sandy beaches for swimming and surfing, yacht harbors for sailing and pleasure boating, and extensive acreage devoted to parks and open space for golf, tennis, Hiking, kayaking, cycling, and other outdoor recreation. It is at the center of Southern California's Tech Coast.

Thirty-four incorporated cities are located in Orange County, the newest being Aliso Viejo, which is also the only city to incorporate since 2000.