According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the population of Victorville, Calif., was 117,596 in 2010. This growing city is the economic hub of the Victor Valley area in San Bernardino County, and it is growing so quickly that its population increased by an impressive 81 percent between 2000 and 2010. Home to a thriving retail sector and a variety of neighborhood types, Victorville offers something for people from all walks of life. Those searching for Victorville apartments for rent will likely find it difficult to leave this growing urban city.
Victorville is a relatively young city and was incorporated as recently as 1962. However, it has roots tracing back to the mid-19th century when European settlers first arrived in the area. In 1885, the community was known as Victor and was comprised of a small railroad station near the Mojave River. Because of the area's access to water, the rail town began to develop an agricultural economy. Around 1900, limestone and granite was discovered in the area, which led to an explosion in manufacturing. Victor changed its name to Victorville in 1901, and continued to grow its agricultural, manufacturing and rail industries. In 1943, Victorville Army Airfield (which was later renamed George Air Force Base) took hold in the area, and was in operation up until 1992. In modern times, Victorville's manufacturing and agricultural history is supplemented by fresh retail and economic employment opportunities.
Victorville residents enjoy access to a variety of civic and recreational programs. The city's B.E.A.R.S. - Benefit Everyone, Assist Recreation & Sports - program fosters the building and use of public park and recreation facilities. Recreation programs within the city include dance classes, fold, flag football, the R.A.T. Pack teen program, karate classes and a variety of pre-kindergarten classes.
As might be expected of a city with such a strong emphasis on recreational opportunities, the city's Healthy Victorville program aims to encourage businesses, nonprofits and households to eat healthy, enjoy active lifestyles and participate in community get-togethers.
Victorville is home to Victor Valley College, Victor Valley Beauty College and Mojave Barber College. Outside Victorville, the nearest colleges are located about 30 miles away. These colleges include California State University, San Bernardino; Chaffey College; San Bernardino Valley College and Loma Linda University.
Because it serves as the major employment center for the area, Victorville's population grows about 5 percent on workdays due to commuting. The city offers numerous employment opportunities. According to Victorville's 2009 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report, the top employers in the area are Southern California Logistics Airport, Victor Valley College, Desert Valley Hospital and Medical Group, Verizon, Victor Valley Union High School District, Victor Valley Elementary School District and the Federal Correction Complex in Victorville.
According to City-Data, the cost of living index in Victorville is 111.6, which is 11.6 percent higher than the U.S. average. Those searching for Victorville rentals will want to note that the median gross rent in the area is $1,092, according to data from the U.S. Census Bureau. New residents can cut down on their monthly bills by taking advantage of the city's carpooling culture: In 2011, 34 percent of workers carpooled to work.
Victorville is home to the California Route 66 Museum, which celebrates the town's location along "The Mother Road." Visitors passing through the city on their trip between Chicago and Santa Monica can stop in Old Town Victorville to admire the road's history and tradition.
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