Welcome to Colton, CA
Nestled in the heart of the Inland Empire, Colton offers an authentic Southern California experience without the coastal price tag. This historic railroad town has evolved into a diverse, family-friendly community where affordable housing meets convenient access to major employment centers, making it an increasingly popular choice for those seeking a balanced lifestyle in San Bernardino County.
📍 Colton, CA at a Glance
- Population: 54,828
- Location: 4 miles south of San Bernardino, 60 miles east of Los Angeles
- Incorporated: 1887
- Known For: Historic railroad heritage, Hub City nickname, diverse community
🔗 Dive Deeper into Colton
💸 Cost & Budget
🏘️ Housing & Lifestyle
🚍 Utilities & Transportation
🏙️ City Comparisons
🔍 In-Depth Relocation Overview
🗳️ Politics & Civic Life
Colton leans Democratic in local and state elections, reflecting the diverse demographics of San Bernardino County. The city maintains active civic engagement through neighborhood associations and community events. City Council meetings are well-attended, with residents actively participating in local governance decisions affecting development and community services.
🚓 Crime & Safety
Colton’s crime rates are moderate for the Inland Empire region. The Colton Police Department focuses on community policing initiatives and has implemented neighborhood watch programs throughout the city. Property crime rates have shown improvement in recent years, though residents are encouraged to take standard precautions typical of urban Southern California communities.
🍽️ Dining & Entertainment
Colton’s dining scene reflects its multicultural population with authentic Mexican restaurants like Las Flores and Mitla Cafe, one of the oldest Mexican restaurants in San Bernardino County. The city offers family-friendly entertainment at Fiesta Village, featuring mini-golf and go-karts. For nightlife and expanded dining options, residents often venture to nearby downtown San Bernardino or Redlands.
🏛️ Local Government
The City of Colton operates under a council-manager form of government with six council members and an elected mayor. City services are generally responsive, with ongoing infrastructure improvements and community development projects. The city maintains its own police and fire departments, ensuring dedicated local emergency services.
🚍 Transportation
Colton’s location at the intersection of I-10 and I-215 provides excellent freeway access throughout Southern California. The Metrolink San Bernardino Line stops at Colton Station, offering commuter rail service to Los Angeles. Omnitrans provides local bus service, though most residents rely on personal vehicles for daily transportation.
🏘️ Housing & Real Estate
Housing in Colton remains relatively affordable compared to coastal California markets, with median home prices around $450,000. The market offers diverse options from historic homes near downtown to newer developments in South Colton. Rental properties are available with average two-bedroom apartments ranging from $1,500-$2,000 monthly.
🌳 Parks & Outdoor Life
Colton maintains several parks including Fleming Park with its sports facilities and Grant Park featuring a community center. The Santa Ana River Trail provides cycling and walking paths. Nearby recreational opportunities include hiking in the San Bernardino National Forest and water activities at Silverwood Lake, both within a 30-minute drive.
💼 Job Market
Major employers include Arrowhead Regional Medical Center, Amazon fulfillment centers, and various logistics companies leveraging Colton’s strategic location. The median household income is approximately $50,000. Many residents commute to jobs in San Bernardino, Riverside, or the greater Los Angeles area, taking advantage of Colton’s central location and lower housing costs.
🧑🏫 Education
Colton Joint Unified School District serves the area with several elementary schools, two middle schools, and Colton High School. Private options include Our Lady of Guadalupe School. Higher education is accessible at nearby Cal State San Bernardino and University of Redlands, with several community colleges within commuting distance.
🌞 Climate & Weather
Colton enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers averaging 95°F and mild winters around 50-65°F. The area receives about 16 inches of rain annually, mostly between December and March. Air quality can be challenging during summer months due to the region’s geography, though winter brings clearer skies and mountain views.
💬 Community Sentiment
Long-time residents appreciate Colton’s small-town feel within a growing metropolitan area. The community takes pride in its railroad heritage and increasingly diverse population. Common concerns include traffic congestion and the need for more retail and entertainment options, though many residents value the city’s affordability and family-oriented atmosphere.
✨ Why People Are Moving to Colton
Colton attracts newcomers seeking affordable homeownership in Southern California while maintaining reasonable commutes to major employment centers. The city’s authentic community feel, improving downtown district, and strategic location between mountains and beaches make it an appealing choice for families and young professionals ready to establish roots in the Inland Empire. With ongoing revitalization efforts and strong transportation connections, Colton represents genuine value for those prioritizing space, affordability, and access over coastal proximity.