Inglewood is a city in southwestern Los Angeles County, California. As of the 2020 census, the population of Inglewood was 107,430, making it the 131st largest city in California by population. Inglewood has a rich history and culture that includes a thriving music scene, proximity to major entertainment and sports attractions, and continually developing economic prospects.
Population
According to the Wikipedia page for Inglewood, the 2020 census recorded a population of 107,430 for the city. Inglewood saw its peak population in the 1970s, when over 120,000 residents called it home. While the population has declined somewhat since then, Inglewood remains a densely populated suburb of Los Angeles.
Inglewood has a predominantly African American population, with Latinos being the second largest ethnic group. People under the age of 18 make up over 25% of residents. The median age is 32, which is fairly young compared to other LA suburbs.
History
The history of Inglewood stretches back to the late 19th century. The city was founded in 1887 by residents from Indiana and Iowa, which accounts for its name resembling a woodland area. In the 1920s, Inglewood became a tourist destination centered around its scenic ocean views and sandy beaches.
The city’s proximity to LAX airport fueled economic and population growth after World War II. In the 1970s, Inglewood struggled with economic challenges and rising crime rates. However, revitalization efforts in the 1990s helped to improve conditions. Today, Inglewood is undergoing something of a renaissance with recent investments and development projects.
Economy
Traditionally, Inglewood’s economy relied on aviation and aerospace industries due to its location near LAX. Major employers included aircraft manufacturers like Northrop Grumman. Over the years, the job market has diversified into other sectors like healthcare, retail, and entertainment.
According to the City of Inglewood’s website, major companies headquartered in Inglewood include:
- The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf
- Los Angeles Lakers (corporate headquarters)
- Los Angeles Clippers (corporate headquarters)
- Vestar Property Management
- Inglewood Park Cemetery
Recent major developments have also created more jobs and opportunities in Inglewood. The city is now home to SoFi Stadium, where the LA Rams and LA Chargers play NFL games. The Inglewood Basketball and Entertainment Center is also under construction as the future home court of the LA Clippers.
Attractions and Entertainment
Inglewood offers visitors plenty of fun activities and iconic LA attractions. The city’s location near the LAX airport makes it easily accessible for travelers.
Major attractions include:
- SoFi Stadium – New state-of-the-art NFL stadium and entertainment venue
- The Forum – Historic indoor arena once home to the LA Lakers, now a concert venue
- Hollywood Park Casino – Racetrack and casino with slot machines, table games, restaurants, and more
- Major League Baseball Youth Academy – Training and development facility for youth baseball players
The Visit California website also recommends these Inglewood attractions:
- Beaches like Dockweiler State Beach
- Hollywood Park Racetrack (now part of SoFi Stadium area)
- The Wooden Floor dance studio
Annual events that draw visitors include the Inglewood Open Studios arts showcase and the Los Angeles Food & Wine Festival at SoFi Stadium.
Sports
Inglewood is home to two major professional sports franchises – the LA Rams and LA Clippers. The Rams play their NFL games at SoFi Stadium, which opened in 2020. The Clippers are set to begin playing NBA games at the Inglewood Basketball and Entertainment Center starting in 2024.
Before those venues were built, the LA Lakers and LA Kings played for many years at The Forum in Inglewood. The venue still hosts concerts but no longer hosts sports teams.
Visitors and residents can also enjoy youth sports programs through the City of Inglewood Parks & Recreation Department. Popular sports like football, basketball, baseball, and soccer are offered for kids to play.
The city is passionate about supporting youth in sports as a pathway to developing character and skills. This passion led to the creation of the Major League Baseball Youth Academy previously mentioned.
You can follow the latest news and events in Inglewood by liking the City of Inglewood Facebook page. The city uses Facebook to promote local businesses, advertise upcoming activities, share photos, and engage with residents.