West Covina is a city located in Los Angeles County, California. With a population of over 50,000 residents, it is considered a medium-sized city within the Greater Los Angeles metropolitan area. In this article, we will take an in-depth look at West Covina including its population, economy, major employers, attractions, sports teams, and more.
Population
According to the 2020 census, the population of West Covina was 50,077. This represents a minor increase from the 2010 census population of 47,796. The racial makeup of West Covina is 41.3% Hispanic or Latino, 31.8% White, 10.8% Asian, 9.7% Black or African American, and 6.4% two or more races. The median age in West Covina is 36, slightly younger than the national median age of 38.
Economy and Major Employers
Some of the major industries and employers in West Covina include:
- Health care – Citrus Valley Health Partners is the city’s largest employer with over 2,500 employees. They operate the Queen of the Valley Hospital.
- Retail – West Covina has several large shopping centers and big-box retailers like Home Depot, Target, and Costco.
- Manufacturing – West Covina has a strong manufacturing base, with companies like Aerospace Dynamics International producing aircraft parts and components.
- Education – The West Covina Unified School District employs over 1,000 teachers and staff across its 20 schools.
In addition, West Covina’s central location near major highways like the I-10 and I-605 make it attractive to transportation and distribution companies. Overall, the economy of West Covina provides jobs in diverse industries to local residents and the Greater Los Angeles region.
Attractions and Landmarks
Some of the most popular attractions and landmarks in West Covina include:
- West Covina City Hall – The distinctive circular City Hall building opened in 1988 and serves as the center of government for the city.
- Disney California Adventure – Located just 10 miles from West Covina, this theme park is a huge draw for tourists and locals alike.
- West Covina Plaza – This large open-air shopping center opened in 2008 and features major retailers, restaurants, and a 12-screen movie theater.
- West Covina Sports Complex – With 12 softball fields, this is one of the largest municipal softball facilities in the country.
In addition, West Covina has a quaint downtown area with boutique shops and restaurants. The West Covina Historical Society manages the West Covina History House, a museum located in a restored Victorian home.
Sports Teams
West Covina is home to several local sports teams including:
- West Covina Colts – This minor league baseball team plays at Wenster Field and are part of the California League.
- West Covina High School Bulldogs – The boys and girls soccer teams at this local high school have won several regional championships.
- West Covina Bulldogs Pop Warner – One of the largest Pop Warner youth football and cheer programs in Southern California.
With a population passionate about sports, West Covina provides plenty of opportunities for spectators and athletes alike. The city recreations department organizes adult sports leagues for basketball, volleyball, and softball.
Final Thoughts
With its close proximity to major attractions like Disneyland, a strong economic base, and a lively local sports scene, West Covina has much to offer residents and visitors. The city has maintained a small-town feel while growing into a hub for healthcare, manufacturing, retail, and recreation in the San Gabriel Valley. Whether you’re considering moving to West Covina or just passing through, it’s worth your time to explore this diverse Southern California city.