Nestled in the Inland Empire region of Southern California, Jurupa Valley is a city on the rise. With a population of over 100,000 residents, Jurupa Valley has experienced rapid growth and development over the past decade. From its early beginnings as an agricultural hub to its current status as a blossoming residential community, Jurupa Valley has plenty to offer residents and visitors alike.
History
While Jurupa Valley was not incorporated as an official city until 2011, its origins trace back much further. The area was originally home to the Luiseño and Cahuilla Indian tribes for centuries before Spanish explorers arrived in the late 1700s. With the establishment of Spanish missions and Mexican ranchos, the Jurupa Valley region began to develop into an agricultural community known for livestock grazing and citrus production.
In the late 1800s, the completion of the transcontinental railroad connected Jurupa Valley to the rest of California. The famous natural springs of the region were utilized for tourism, marketing the area as a health resort destination. However, it was not until the post-World War II era that Jurupa Valley saw its most significant growth and development. The construction of the U.S. Route 60 freeway in the 1950s opened the floodgates for the suburban expansion that transformed greater Riverside County.
After decades as an unincorporated territory, Jurupa Valley held a successful incorporation election in 2011 to become California’s 482nd city. The new city faced economic challenges but worked to attract new businesses and development, particularly in sectors like manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, and retail. With available land, affordable housing, and a business-friendly government, Jurupa Valley positioned itself as an ideal location for families and companies alike.
Geography and Population
Encompassing over 43 square miles in western Riverside County, Jurupa Valley lies along the Santa Ana River just north of the city of Riverside. It features a varied natural landscape, from the steeper elevations in its southern sections to the flatter plains in the north. Several conserved natural areas provide opportunities for outdoor recreation and scenic views.
According to the 2020 census, Jurupa Valley has a population of 103,466 residents, making it the third most populous city in Riverside County. With its affordable homes and amenities, Jurupa Valley attracts young families seeking suburban living within commuting distance of larger metro areas. The city features a diverse population, with Hispanic and Latino residents making up the largest demographic group.
Government and Infrastructure
Jurupa Valley is a general law city incorporated under a council-manager form of government. Residents elect a five-member city council including the mayor, who acts as the head of the government. The council appoints a professional city manager to oversee day-to-day municipal operations and the administration of public services.
The Jurupa Valley city government provides essential services to residents including public safety through the police and fire departments, street maintenance, parks and recreation, libraries, and more. Many other public services are still provided through the County of Riverside as Jurupa Valley continues to establish itself as an independent city.
For utilities, electricity service is provided by Southern California Edison while natural gas service is provided by the Southern California Gas Company. Most of the city receives water and sewer service from the Jurupa Community Services District. Solid waste management and recycling is handled by Burrtec Waste Industries Inc.
Education
Public education in Jurupa Valley is provided through two school districts – the Jurupa Unified School District and Corona-Norco Unified School District. These districts operate numerous elementary, middle, and high schools that serve over 21,000 students in the greater Jurupa Valley area.
Notable schools include:
- Patriot High School
- Rubidoux High School
- Mission Middle College High School
- Innovative Horizon Charter School
- Troth Street Elementary
- Loma Vista Middle School
- Riverview Middle School
Nearby college and universities include Riverside Community College’s Norco Campus and California Baptist University in Riverside. Many Jurupa Valley high school graduates go on to attend schools within the University of California and California State University systems.
Economy and Major Employers
While initially dependent on agriculture and natural resources, Jurupa Valley’s economy today is driven by manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, retail, construction, and other industries. Some of the major employers in Jurupa Valley include companies such as:
- United Parcel Service
- Riverside Cement Company
- United States Cold Storage
- Mattei Air Compressors
- Mission Foods
- Amazon
- Gemini Plastics
New industrial centers have opened in Jurupa Valley focused on warehousing and logistics, including the Riverbend Marketplace and Meridian Business Park. The city also has a growing healthcare sector with medical centers such as the Riverside Community Hospital and Kaiser Permanente Jurupa Valley Medical Offices.
With retail centers like the Vernola Marketplace in north Jurupa Valley and hotels such as the Fairfield Inn & Suites, the city also provides jobs in hospitality, restaurants, and consumer services.
For employment and economic data, see the city’s economic development webpage. Major initiatives aim to attract new investment and high-quality jobs while supporting existing businesses.
Housing
As one of the last bastions of affordability in the Greater Los Angeles metro region, Jurupa Valley offers relatively low home prices that appeal to first-time buyers, families, and commuters. Housing ranges from older neighborhoods with 1950s suburban tract homes to new planned communities with modern amenities.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the median home value in Jurupa Valley is around $380,000 as of 2021 – significantly lower than many surrounding communities. With its affordable neighborhoods and good schools, Jurupa Valley remains a popular destination for younger middle-class homebuyers and families.
New housing construction continues across Jurupa Valley, with several residential development projects in progress. These include Bellegrave in northern Jurupa Valley and Hacienda Project in the Mira Loma area of the city. Senior housing is also available at places like the Limonite Senior Community.
Attractions and Things to Do
While not a major tourist hub, Jurupa Valley offers pleasant parks, scenic natural areas, sports and recreation, and community events for visitors and residents to enjoy. Some highlights include:
- Emerald Necklace Forest – Hiking and nature trails.
- Agua Mansa Recreation Area – Riverside park with fishing, boating, and camping.
- Jurupa Mountains Discovery Center – Museum, wildlife refuge, and nature facility.
- Sky Country Equestrian Center – Horseback riding, boarding, and events venue.
- Victoria Club Events Center – Wedding venue and event facility.
- Jurupa Valley Boxing Club – Youth sports and training.
- Jurupa Valley Motocross Track – Off-road motorcycle park.
- International Agri-Center – Home of the National Date Festival.
- Route 66 Motor Speedway – Local raceway for motorsports events.
Annual community events include Fiesta Day at Crestmore Park, the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, Movies in the Park showings, farmer’s markets, and celebrations like the Fourth of July fireworks. The city also operates sports parks, aquatics centers, and youth programs for recreational activities.
Landmarks and Points of Interest
Some noteworthy landmarks and historical points of interest in Jurupa Valley include:
- Louis Rubidoux Nature Center – Nature preserve with restored historic buildings. Named after an early settler.
- Rio Vista Farm – Historical farmstead from the late 1800s. Represents the agricultural heritage.
- Jensen-Alvarado Historic Ranch – Mexican land grant ranch from the 1840s.
- Santa Ana River – The city’s defining geographic feature and natural attraction.
- Van Buren Boulevard – Major thoroughfare named after U.S. President Martin Van Buren.
- Jurupa Mountains – Small mountain range and protected open space.
- Martha McLean-Anza Narrows Park – Riverside park with hiking, fishing, and recreation.
Historic buildings and sites showcase Jurupa Valley’s origins, while natural features like the Santa Ana River provide scenic beauty. Ongoing efforts aim to restore, preserve, and highlight these important landmarks.
Shopping, Dining, and Entertainment
For shopping and dining, many chain restaurants, big box stores, and gas stations can be found along major commercial corridors in Jurupa Valley. Popular retail plazas include:
- Vernola Marketplace – Walmart, Ross, Michaels, and restaurants.
- Limonite Plaza – Food 4 Less, BevMo, Petco, fast food chains.
- Mission Village Shopping Center – Ralphs, Rite-Aid, and eateries.
- Pedley Square Shopping Center – Grocery Outlet, Dollar Tree, Boost Mobile.
Entertainment options are limited within the city itself but residents can easily access larger malls, theaters, casinos, amusement parks, and nightlife venues throughout the broader Inland Empire and Greater LA region.
Mobility and Transportation
Jurupa Valley enjoys convenient transportation access and mobility options. Interstate 15 and Route 60 run through the city, connecting it north to the LA metro area and south to the larger Inland region. Major surface roads include Limonite Ave., Mission, Van Buren, and Pedley Road.
Public transport is provided by the Riverside Transit Agency with several bus lines serving Jurupa Valley. Omnitrans also offers connections to San Bernardino Valley. Union Pacific and BNSF rail lines run through the city’s industrial districts.
Ontario International Airport and John Wayne Airport in Orange County provide the closest major airport facilities. Developments like the planned Mid-County Parkway seek to further enhance regional connectivity.
Sports and Recreation
Jurupa Valley offers many parks and public spaces for outdoor recreation and youth sports:
- Avalon Park
- Lorena Park
- Chris Hoffman Park
- Riverside Sportsplex
- Etiwanda Heights Park
- Sky Country Park
- Victoriano Park
Popular sports leagues and clubs include AYSO soccer, Little League baseball, youth football, swimming, martial arts, and more. The city also operates the Jurupa Valley Boxing Club for area youth.
At the Rancho Jurupa Regional Sports Park, residents can enjoy aquatic centers, soccer fields, baseball diamonds, and picnic facilities. The nearby Jurupa Valley Falcons minor league football team offers local entertainment and sporting events.
Local Government and Civic Resources
As an incorporated California city, Jurupa Valley has an elected city council and local government providing essential services and information to residents:
- City of Jurupa Valley – Official civic website.
- City Facebook page – Social media updates.
- Jurupa Valley City Council – Elected city leadership.
- City departments – Details on local public services.
Residents should also follow the County of Riverside for additional regional information and resources.
Relocating to Jurupa Valley
With its small-town feel, Jurupa Valley offers a quieter and more affordable alternative to living in the big city while still providing convenient access to urban amenities and job centers. New residents will find welcoming neighborhoods, quality schools, and abundant recreation for families.
To learn more about moving to Jurupa Valley, see the city’s Frequently Asked Questions page and Economic Development department. The area provides a high quality of life in one of Southern California’s up-and-coming communities.