The city of Santa Clarita is located in northern Los Angeles County, California. With a population of 221,761 as of 2021, it is the third largest city in Los Angeles County and the 21st largest city in California. Santa Clarita was formed in 1987 through the merger of four unincorporated communities: Canyon Country, Newhall, Saugus, and Valencia.
Population and Demographics
According to data from the Wikipedia page on Santa Clarita, the city has grown rapidly in recent decades. In 1980, prior to the merger, the four communities that make up Santa Clarita had a combined population of 70,028. By 1990, the population had grown to 110,642. In 2000, it was 151,088 and in 2010 it was 176,320. The estimated population as of 2021 is 221,761.
Santa Clarita has a relatively young population compared to the county and state. The city’s website states that the median age is 36.2 years compared to the median ages of 37.2 years for Los Angeles County and 36.5 years for California. Over 27% of the population is under the age of 18.
The racial and ethnic makeup of Santa Clarita is predominantly white and Hispanic/Latino. According to 2019 data from the U.S. Census Bureau, Santa Clarita was 66.1% White, 20.4% Hispanic/Latino, 7.9% Asian, 3.3% Black or African American, 0.4% Native American, and 2.8% mixed race.
Economy and Major Employers
Santa Clarita has a diverse economy with major industries including aerospace, healthcare, tourism, film production, and retail trade. Some of the top employers in Santa Clarita include Six Flags Magic Mountain, Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital, Boston Scientific, the city government, Walmart, Princess Cruises, and Aerospace Dynamics International according to the city’s website.
The city’s proximity to Los Angeles and Burbank makes it an attractive location for entertainment and technology companies. Numerous film and television productions are shot on location in Santa Clarita and at nearby studios. The area is sometimes referred to as “Hollywood North”.
Major business parks and commercial centers in Santa Clarita include Valencia Town Center, Centre Pointe Business Park, and Canyon Country Gateway Center. The economy benefits from the city’s location along Interstate 5 and near the junction of I-5 and State Route 14.
Landmarks
One of the most famous landmarks in Santa Clarita is Six Flags Magic Mountain theme park. Opened in 1971, it features dozens of thrilling roller coasters and attractions. The 290 foot tall Goliath coaster, which reaches speeds of 85 mph, is one of the highlights.
Outdoor recreational opportunities abound in Santa Clarita. The area is home to portions of the Angeles National Forest and the Santa Susana Mountains. Popular outdoor spots include Vasquez Rocks County Park with its iconic rock formations and the Santa Clara River Trail for hiking and biking.
The historic Melody Ranch Motion Picture Studio, opened in 1915, is where numerous classic Westerns were filmed over the decades. The vintage Western town set is still used for filming today.
History buffs enjoy visiting the Santa Clarita Valley Historical Society and the restored historic homes at Heritage Junction in William S. Hart Park.
Sports
The primary local professional sports team is the Santa Clarita Blue Heat, part of the Women’s Premier Soccer League. They play at the Santa Clarita Sports Complex. The city is also home to the Santa Clarita Barracudas junior ice hockey team.
College sports are popular in Santa Clarita. Nearby College of the Canyons plays football, basketball, baseball, and more. Fans enjoy cheering on the Cougars at their Cougar Stadium and other campus venues.
For participants, Santa Clarita has an extensive youth sports program including baseball, softball, soccer, and more. There are also many hiking, biking, and equestrian trails in the area.