Valencia (population 32,000) is located in southern California approximately 40 miles north of Los Angeles on Interstate 5. It is sandwiched between Angeles National Forest on its south eastern flank and Los Padres National Forest to the north and west. Valencia is a planned community that first began in the 1960’s by the Newhall Land and Farming Company. In 1987, Valencia, Saugus, Canyon Country, and Newhall were officially incorporated into the city of Santa Clarita. However, Valencia is still the community’s local name.
Valencia is serviced by two airports, Los Angeles International Airport and Bob Hope Airport in Burbank, California. LAX is the better connected airport, but the drive from Burbank to Valencia is shorter, especially during weekday traffic.
Valencia receives an average of 15 to 18 inches of rainfall a year. Its temperatures range from 40 to 65 degrees in the winter to 75 to 100 degrees in the summer.
The region boasts excellent public schools as well as the California Institute of the Arts. Other areas of the economy include retail, healthcare, and high-tech industry. Because of its close proximity, many citizens of Valencia commute to Los Angeles for work.
One of the most unique features of Valencia is the Paseo system, over 30 miles of walking and biking trails that connect the entire town. There are even bridges and tunnels so pedestrians never have to cross a busy street. The other feature that sets Valencia apart is its world-class amusement park, Six Flags Magic Mountain and Hurricane Harbor. In addition, Valencia has a downtown with over one hundred specialty stores and many eating options.