County of riverside
california
History & Founding
Established in 1893, this California county emerged from portions of San Bernardino and San Diego counties, reflecting the rapid expansion and reorganization occurring throughout the state during a period of significant population growth. The name itself is straightforward, derived from the Santa Ana River, a vital waterway that winds through much of the region. Early settlement was spurred by the promise of fertile land and agricultural opportunities, and the county played a crucial role in California's development as a major agricultural producer. A fascinating anecdote from its early days involves the "Great Temecula Land Grab" of the late 1800s, where settlers aggressively claimed land along the Santa Ana River, leading to legal disputes and ultimately shaping the county’s land ownership patterns. The creation of the county also coincided with the burgeoning railroad system, connecting the area to wider markets and accelerating its growth.
Geography & Landscape
Located in Southern California, this county occupies a vast and diverse landscape. It stretches from the edge of the Mojave Desert in the east to the Pacific Ocean in the west, encompassing a staggering 7,208 square miles. The terrain is incredibly varied, featuring everything from arid desert plains to rugged mountains, including portions of the San Bernardino and Santa Rosa Mountains. The Santa Ana River is the dominant geographic feature, providing a vital source of water and shaping the landscape. Numerous lakes, both natural and man-made, dot the area, and the climate is generally Mediterranean, characterized by warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The Coachella Valley, known for its date farms and stunning desert scenery, is a particularly notable natural feature.
Economy & Communities
The county is a patchwork of urban, suburban, and rural communities, comprised of 51 cities and towns. Riverside, the county seat, serves as a regional hub. Major towns include Moreno Valley, Ontario, Rancho Cucamonga, and Temecula, each with its own distinct character. The economy is diversified, with agriculture remaining a significant contributor, particularly the production of citrus fruits, grapes, and dates. Industry is also robust, with sectors including logistics, manufacturing, and tourism playing key roles. Notable employers range from large retail chains and healthcare providers to agricultural businesses and technology companies. The character of the area is shifting, with rapid suburban expansion occurring alongside established agricultural lands, creating a complex and evolving landscape.
Points of Interest
Points of interest abound within this expansive county. Joshua Tree National Park, a desert wilderness, draws visitors from around the world. The historic Mission San Juan Capistrano, though technically in neighboring Orange County, is a significant draw for those visiting the region. The Temecula Valley Wine Country offers wine tasting and scenic vineyard tours. The Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival is a unique annual event celebrating the area’s agricultural heritage. The county has also been home to numerous notable residents, including actors, musicians, and business leaders. Notably, this county holds the record for the largest contiguous area of citrus groves in the United States, a testament to its enduring agricultural legacy.
Information
- State
- california
- Type
- County
- Population
- 1,545,387
- Land area
- 7,208 sq mi
- Capital
- Riverside
- Time zone
- UTC-8
- FIPS
- 06065
51 Cities
| City | Population | Elevation |
|---|---|---|
| Riverside | 255,166 | - |
| Moreno Valley | 142,381 | 1,626 ft (496 m) |
| Corona | 124,966 | 678 ft (207 m) |
| Hemet | 58,812 | 1,596 ft (486 m) |
| Temecula | 57,716 | 1,006 ft (307 m) |
| Indio | 49,116 | - |
| Murrieta | 44,282 | 1,093 ft (333 m) |
| Palm Springs | 42,807 | 466 ft (142 m) |
| Cathedral City | 42,647 | 400 ft (122 m) |
| Palm Desert | 41,155 | 243 ft (74 m) |
| Perris | 36,189 | 1,457 ft (444 m) |
| Rubidoux | 29,180 | 773 ft (236 m) |
| Lake Elsinore | 28,928 | 1,306 ft (398 m) |
| Norco | 24,157 | 640 ft (195 m) |
| San Jacinto | 23,779 | 1,567 ft (478 m) |
| La Quinta | 23,694 | 120 ft (37 m) |
| Banning | 23,562 | 2,400 ft (732 m) |
| Coachella | 22,724 | - |
| Sun City | 17,773 | 1,440 ft (439 m) |
| Mira Loma | 17,617 | 700 ft (213 m) |
| Desert Hot Springs | 16,582 | 1,100 ft (335 m) |
| Glen Avon | 14,853 | 750 ft (229 m) |
| East Hemet | 14,823 | 1,685 ft (514 m) |
| Wildomar | 14,064 | 1,273 ft (388 m) |
| Rancho Mirage | 13,249 | 320 ft (98 m) |
| Blythe | 12,155 | 267 ft (81 m) |
| Idyllwild | 11,837 | 5,400 ft (1,646 m) |
| Beaumont | 11,384 | 2,620 ft (799 m) |
| Pedley | 11,207 | 718 ft (219 m) |
| Valle Vista | 10,488 | 1,767 ft (539 m) |
| Canyon Lake | 9,952 | 1,440 ft (439 m) |
| Home Gardens | 9,461 | 680 ft (207 m) |
| Woodcrest | 8,342 | 1,529 ft (466 m) |
| Calimesa | 7,139 | 2,400 ft (732 m) |
| Bermuda Dunes | 6,229 | 88 ft (27 m) |
| Cherry Valley | 5,891 | 2,820 ft (860 m) |
| Lakeland Village | 5,626 | 1,300 ft (396 m) |
| Mecca | 5,402 | - |
| Thousand Palms | 5,120 | 240 ft (73 m) |
| Sunnyslope | 4,437 | 920 ft (280 m) |
| Nuevo | 4,135 | 1,480 ft (451 m) |
| Indian Wells | 3,816 | - |
| Homeland | 3,710 | 1,608 ft (490 m) |
| Highgrove | 3,445 | 949 ft (289 m) |
| Sedco Hills | 3,078 | 1,275 ft (389 m) |
| Murrieta Hot Springs | 2,948 | 1,160 ft (354 m) |
| Romoland | 2,764 | 1,440 ft (439 m) |
| Cabazon | 2,229 | 1,792 ft (546 m) |
| Winchester | 2,155 | 1,474 ft (449 m) |
| Quail Valley | 1,639 | 1,560 ft (475 m) |
| Lakeview | 1,619 | - |