Situated in the eastern region of Los Angeles County, Pomona, California, presents a vibrant blend of rich history, diverse culture, and academic prowess.
Known as the Queen of the Citrus Belt during the 1920s, this city has maintained its prominence over the years.
It is the home to renowned educational institutions, including the main campus of California State Polytechnic University and the Western University of Health Sciences.
Pomona's demographics reflect a diverse population, contributing to a vibrant economy.
The city is also celebrated for its Mediterranean climate, geographical features, and a variety of popular events such as the L.A. County Fair and the Pomona Swap Meet Classic Car Show.
Governed by a seven-member city council, Pomona is represented in the 35th congressional district by Norma Torres.
This article offers an insightful exploration of Pomona, a hub of education and culture in Southern California.
Established in the 1830s by Ricardo Véjar and Ygnacio Palomares, Pomona, California, was officially incorporated on January 6, 1888, and has a rich history that includes being known as the Queen of the Citrus Belt in the 1920s, and experiencing significant population growth and urban development over the years.
The city, named after the Roman goddess of fruit, was first occupied by the Tongva Native Americans and later became a prominent hub for citrus farming.
Despite a slight decline in population in the 2000s, Pomona has witnessed a resurgence, with gentrification efforts in northern Pomona bringing renewed vitality.
The city continues to be a vibrant and diverse center of cultural, educational, and economic activity in Southern California.
Situated between the Inland Empire and the San Gabriel Valley, this locale boasts a Mediterranean climate, providing it with hot, dry summers and mild, damp winters, and is surrounded by several mountain ranges.
Pomona, California, is also located approximately 30 miles east of downtown Los Angeles, making it a convenient location for those desiring access to urban amenities while also enjoying a suburban lifestyle.
Covering a total area of 22.964 square miles, Pomona is largely land, offering residents and visitors an abundance of open spaces.
Its location in the Pomona Valley also affords the city a significant amount of sunshine throughout the year, contributing to its appeal as a vibrant city in the heart of Southern California.
According to the 2020 census, the population of this locale stood at 151,713, showcasing a diverse demographic makeup with 48.0% White, 7.3% African American, 1.2% Native American, 8.5% Asian, 0.2% Pacific Islander, and 30.3% from other races.
The city's economy is largely driven by sectors such as education, healthcare, and retail trade, with leading employers including Pomona Valley Hospital Medical Center, Pomona Unified School District, and California State Polytechnic University, Pomona.
Furthermore, the city's median household income was $49,474 in 2020, with a 55.1% homeownership rate.
Notably, Pomona has experienced a degree of gentrification, especially in northern areas, where housing has expanded and streetscapes have been enhanced, underscoring a dynamic economic transformation.
Numerous educational institutions are present in this locale, ranging from public schools under the Pomona Unified School District to renowned higher education establishments such as California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, and Western University of Health Sciences.
The city also houses several private and parochial schools, including those under the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Los Angeles and Islamic schools.
More about Pomona's local attractions
Charter schools like The School of Arts and Enterprise provide alternative education options.
Higher education institutions in the city cater to diverse fields, from agriculture and engineering at Cal Poly Pomona to health sciences at Western University.
Additionally, nearby colleges, such as Mt. San Antonio College, further enrich the educational landscape, making Pomona a vibrant hub for learning in Southern California.
Efficient transportation networks and unique tourist attractions significantly contribute to the local economy and cultural richness of this eastern Los Angeles County locale.
Pomona is well-connected by Metrolink and Amtrak, providing easy access to downtown Los Angeles and Riverside.
The forthcoming Foothill Extension rail line, renamed the A Line, will further strengthen these links when completed in 2026.
Read more: Pomona’s Diverse College Options: Find Your Perfect School!
Local transit is facilitated by Foothill Transit and Omnitrans bus lines.
As a hub of tourist activity, Pomona hosts the renowned L.A. County Fair and Pomona Swap Meet Classic Car Show. Additionally, the NHRA Auto Club Raceway at Pomona draws enthusiasts for exciting drag racing events.
These features, alongside its historical sites and architectural landmarks, make Pomona an engaging destination for visitors.