Torrance is a coastal U.S. city in the South Bay region of Los Angeles County, California. As of the 2010 census, Torrance had a population of 145,438. With an estimated population of 147,477 as of 2019, Torrance is the 44th largest city in California based on population. It is one of the largest cities in Los Angeles County that is not a part of the City of Los Angeles.
Population and Demographics
According to the 2010 census, Torrance had a population of 145,438 people. The racial makeup of the city was 59.5% White, 50.9% Asian, 8.6% Black or African American, 0.7% Native American, 0.4% Pacific Islander, and 5.0% from two or more races. 33.3% of the population was Hispanic or Latino of any race.
As of the 2019 census estimates, the population of Torrance was 147,477 people, making it the 44th largest city in California by population. The city has seen steady population growth over the decades, with a population of 107,349 in 1980 and 129,482 in 1990.
Economy and Major Employers
Torrance has a diversified economic base, including high-tech industries such as aerospace and computer technology as well as retail and small businesses. Some of the major employers in Torrance include:
- Honda
- Robinson Helicopter
- Honeywell
- Komatsu
- Westfire
- SoCalGas
- Torrance Memorial Medical Center
- AAA
The economy of Torrance relies heavily on the technology and aerospace industries. Companies like Honda, Honeywell, Northrop Grumman, and Robinson Helicopter all have major operations located within the city. The city also has a strong retail sector with stores like Del Amo Fashion Center and numerous auto dealerships.
Landmarks
Some of the most notable landmarks and points of interest in Torrance include:
- Del Amo Fashion Center – one of the largest shopping malls in the U.S.
- Madrona Marsh Nature Preserve – a wildlife preserve with walking trails
- Torrance Beach – part of the southern Los Angeles County coastline along the Pacific Ocean
- Toyota USA Automobile Museum – showcases the history of Toyota
- Western Museum of Flight – aviation and space flight museum
- Old Town Torrance – historic downtown district
Sports
Torrance is home to several sports teams and has a strong youth sports culture. The city has multiple youth football, soccer, baseball, and swimming leagues. Some of the sports teams based in Torrance include:
- Torrance American Little League – youth baseball
- South Bay Storm – youth soccer
- West Torrance Youth Football
- Torrance Titans Baseball – youth travel baseball
Torrance High School has had a very successful athletic program over the years, winning multiple state championships in sports like football, baseball, and swimming. The city also hosts the annual Torrance Marathon each December.
City Government
Torrance has a Council-Manager form of government. The city is governed by an elected City Council consisting of the Mayor and six City Council members. The City Council appoints a City Manager to oversee the daily operations of the city and implement policies. Residents can find information about city services, meetings, projects and more on the City of Torrance website.
Tourism
Major attractions for visitors to Torrance include the Del Amo Fashion Center mall, Torrance Beach along the Pacific Coast, the Toyota USA Automobile Museum, the Western Museum of Flight, and the Madrona Marsh Nature Center. The city also hosts annual events like the Taste of South Bay food festival and the Torrance Antique Street Faire that attract visitors from across the region. The Torrance Tourism Marketing District promotes tourism and maintains a calendar of events happening in the city.