Cities And Towns In San Bernardino County, California

September 6, 2024

Types of Cities and Towns

Cities

Cities in San Bernardino County are classified into different categories based on their population size, economic status, and other factors.

San Bernardino County has a total of 24 cities, ranging from small rural towns to large urban centers. The county’s largest city is San Bernardino, which serves as the county seat.

The smaller cities in San Bernardino County are often referred to as “towns” or “communities.” These cities typically have a population of less than 10,000 people and may be classified as “unincorporated communities” if they do not have their own municipal government.

One example of a small town in San Bernardino County is Yermo. With a population of around 8,000 residents, Yermo is a rural community that offers a relaxed atmosphere and easy access to outdoor recreational activities.

Another example is Big Bear Lake, which has a population of around 5,500 people. This mountain resort town is located in the San Bernardino Mountains and offers year-round outdoor recreation opportunities such as skiing, hiking, and fishing.

The larger cities in San Bernardino County are typically classified as “cities” or “urban centers.” These cities may have populations ranging from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of people.

One example of a large city in San Bernardino County is Fontana. With a population of over 200,000 residents, Fontana is one of the largest cities in the county and offers a diverse range of housing options, employment opportunities, and community amenities.

Another example is Ontario, which has a population of around 175,000 people. This city is home to the Ontario International Airport and serves as a major commercial center for the region.

In addition to cities and towns, San Bernardino County also has several unincorporated communities that are not part of any incorporated city or town.

These communities may have their own community associations or homeowners’ organizations, but they do not have their own municipal government. Examples of unincorporated communities in San Bernardino County include Morongo Valley and Lucerne Valley.

Overall, the cities and towns in San Bernardino County offer a diverse range of lifestyles, economic opportunities, and recreational activities for residents and visitors alike.

* Incorporated cities have a mayorcouncil system of government, with powers granted to them by the California State Legislature

Incorporated cities in San Bernardino County, such as Redlands and Upland, have a mayor-council system of government.

This system grants powers to the city through laws passed by the California State Legislature, which provide for a range of municipal services and decision-making authority.

Under this system, the city council is typically composed of five to nine members, depending on the population size and requirements of the law governing each city.

The mayor serves as both the chief executive and presiding officer of the city council, with duties including serving as a spokesperson for the city and facilitating council meetings.

Members of the city council, often referred to as council members or commissioners, are elected by district or at-large, depending on the charter and laws governing each city.

The mayor-council system provides a framework for decision-making in incorporated cities throughout San Bernardino County, with powers granted through state law providing the basis for municipal governance and decision-making authority.

* They provide general law services to their residents such as law enforcement, public works and social services

The region of San Bernardino County, California is comprised of numerous types of cities and towns, each with its own distinct characteristics and functions. These municipalities can be broadly categorized into four main categories:

**Urban City**: Large and densely populated areas with a wide range of amenities and services available to residents, including shopping centers, restaurants, public transportation, and entertainment options.

An example of an urban city in San Bernardino County is Rancho Cucamonga, which boasts a population of over 170,000 residents and features a thriving downtown area with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.

**Suburban City**: Smaller cities located on the outskirts of larger metropolitan areas, offering a more relaxed pace of life while still providing access to various amenities and services.

Fontana, another city in San Bernardino County, is an example of a suburban city with a population of over 200,000 residents. It features a mix of residential areas, shopping centers, and recreational spaces.

**Rural Town**: Small towns located in more remote areas, often with limited access to amenities and services but offering a unique and peaceful way of life.

Needles, a small town on the Arizona border, is an example of a rural town with a population of less than 5,000 residents. It features a historic downtown area and provides access to outdoor recreational activities such as hiking and camping.

**Resort Town**: Tourist-oriented towns that offer amenities and services catering to visitors, often located near popular attractions or natural wonders.

Lake Arrowhead, a mountain resort town in San Bernardino County, is an example of a resort town with a population of less than 10,000 residents. It features various recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and hiking, as well as amenities like restaurants and shops.

* Examples include San Bernardino City and Ontario City

The San Bernardino County in California is home to a diverse range of cities and towns, each with its unique character and charm.

The largest city in the county is San Bernardino City, which has a population of over 200,000 people and serves as the county seat.

Some of the notable features of San Bernardino City include:

  • A diverse economy with major industries such as logistics, manufacturing, and healthcare

  • A rich cultural scene with a variety of museums, art galleries, and performance venues

  • Easy access to outdoor recreation opportunities in the nearby San Bernardino National Forest and San Gorgonio Wilderness

  • A thriving downtown area with historic architecture and a lively atmosphere

Another major city in the county is Ontario City, which has a population of over 170,000 people.

  • Known for its vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries and performance spaces

  • Home to the Ontario International Airport, a major cargo airport in the region

  • Features a diverse range of restaurants, shops, and services catering to a multicultural population

  • Has undergone significant revitalization efforts in recent years, with new developments and businesses emerging downtown

The county is also home to several smaller towns and cities, including Redlands, which has a population of around 70,000 people.

  • Known for its historic architecture and quaint downtown area with antique shops and cafes

  • Features a strong sense of community, with annual events such as the Redlands Festival of Arts

  • Has a thriving arts scene, with numerous galleries and performance venues

In addition to these cities and towns, San Bernardino County is also home to numerous unincorporated communities, such as Twentynine Palms and Needles.

  • These areas have their own unique character and charm, with attractions such as Joshua Tree National Park and the Colorado River

  • Offer a more laid-back, rural lifestyle compared to urban centers like San Bernardino and Ontario

  • Have a strong sense of community, with local events and festivals celebrating their unique heritage

Overall, San Bernardino County offers a diverse range of cities and towns, each with its own unique character and charm.

Contract Cities

Cities and towns in San Bernardino County, California can be broadly categorized into several types based on their characteristics, functions, and population sizes.

Types of Cities and Towns

  • Municipalities: These are the most common type of city or town, providing basic services such as law enforcement, public works, and municipal courts. Examples in San Bernardino County include Highland, Redlands, and Fontana.

  • Charter Cities: These cities have adopted a charter that outlines their powers and governance structure. Charter cities typically have more autonomy than municipalities and can make decisions on matters such as taxation and land use. Examples in San Bernardino County include Ontario, Rancho Cucamonga, and Upland.

  • City-Managed Contract Cities: These are cities that contract with the county or another city to provide services such as law enforcement, public works, and municipal courts. Examples in San Bernardino County include Chino Hills, Diamond Bar, and La Verne.

Contract Cities

Contract cities are a unique type of city or town that has entered into an agreement with the county or another city to provide certain services. The contract specifies the terms and conditions of service provision, including the level of service, funding, and governance.

  • Benefits: Contract cities can benefit from sharing resources and expertise with the contracting entity, potentially reducing costs and improving services. They may also have more flexibility in their decision-making processes.

  • Challenges: Contract cities must navigate complex governance structures and relationships with the contracting entity, which can lead to conflicts of interest or disagreements over service provision. They may also face challenges in maintaining autonomy and decision-making authority.

Cities and Towns in San Bernardino County

San Bernardino County is home to a diverse range of cities and towns, each with its unique character and functions. From the vibrant city of Ontario to the charming town of Yermo, there are many exciting places to explore and experience in this vast and varied county.

* These are incorporated cities that contract out certain services to the County of San Bernardino

The County of San Bernardino incorporates various types of cities and towns, each with its unique characteristics and service delivery models.

Cities, _such as the city of Redlands_**, have a more extensive range of services, including their own police and fire departments, public works operations, and other municipal functions. These cities typically operate independently and provide all services directly to their residents.

Towns, on the other hand, are generally smaller in size and population, with _less autonomy_** over service delivery. They may contract out certain services to the County of San Bernardino or rely on regional agencies for support.

Other types of cities and towns include **Contract Cities**, which contract out services such as law enforcement, public works, and other municipal functions to the County of San Bernardino. _This approach allows Contract Cities to focus on core services while leveraging the County’s resources and expertise_**. Examples of Contract Cities in San Bernardino County include Colton, Highland, and Yucaipa.

Another type is **County-Contracted Cities**, which receive services from the County in exchange for a payment or agreement. These cities may still maintain their own municipal government but rely on the County for certain functions. _For example, some cities may contract with the County for law enforcement services while maintaining their own police department_**.

Lastly, there are **Joint Powers Authorities**, which are organizations that allow multiple cities or districts to pool resources and share costs for specific projects or services. _This approach promotes collaboration and cooperation among jurisdictions_**.

In summary, the County of San Bernardino incorporates a diverse range of cities and towns, each with its unique characteristics and service delivery models. By understanding these differences, residents can better navigate their local government’s functions and expectations.

* The county provides specific services on behalf of the city in exchange for payment from the city’s general fund

Cities and towns in San Bernardino County, California are diverse and offer a range of living styles, economic opportunities, and cultural experiences.

One way to categorize these cities and towns is by their population size, with **small cities** having fewer than 10,000 residents, such as Yermo, Helendale, and Morongo Valley.

On the other hand, larger **urban cities**, like San Bernardino, Ontario, and Rancho Cucamonga, have populations in excess of 50,000.

Some cities, like Upland and Claremont, are known for their **historic downtown areas** and charming small-town atmosphere.

Others, such as Victorville and Barstow, have a more suburban feel and offer easy access to outdoor recreational activities in the surrounding desert and mountain regions.

San Bernardino County also has several **special districts**, which are separate entities that provide specific services on behalf of the city. These can include water and sanitation districts, fire protection districts, and school districts.

In terms of economy, cities like Redlands and Loma Linda have strong educational institutions, while others, such as Fontana and Rialto, are hubs for manufacturing and logistics.

The county provides specific services on behalf of the city in exchange for payment from the city’s general fund. This includes services like law enforcement, public health, and social services.

Each city and town in San Bernardino County has its own unique character and charm, shaped by factors such as history, culture, economy, and geography.

The diverse range of cities and towns in the county offers something for everyone, whether you are looking for a bustling urban center or a peaceful small-town retreat.

* Examples include Fontana and Upland

Cities and towns in San Bernardino County, California, can be broadly classified into different categories based on their population size, economic profile, and geographical characteristics. Some of the key types of cities and towns in the county include:

Large Cities

1. Rancho Cucamonga: A large city with a population of over 174,000 people. It is known for its strong economy, excellent schools, and diverse community.

2. San Bernardino: The county seat and the most populous city in San Bernardino County, with a population of over 214,000 people. It has a rich history, cultural attractions, and a growing arts scene.

Medium-Sized Cities

1. Fontana: A medium-sized city with a population of over 212,000 people. It is known for its outdoor recreational activities, family-friendly atmosphere, and diverse economy.

2. Ontario: A medium-sized city with a population of over 175,000 people. It has a strong transportation infrastructure, excellent schools, and a growing commercial sector.

Towns

1. Upland: A small town with a population of around 76,000 people. It is known for its historic downtown area, outdoor recreational activities, and family-friendly atmosphere.

2. Grand Terrace: A small town with a population of around 12,000 people. It has a strong sense of community, excellent schools, and scenic views of the surrounding mountains.

Rural Areas

The rural areas in San Bernardino County include several small towns and communities that are surrounded by natural landscapes, such as Joshua Tree National Park and the Mojave Desert. These areas offer a more relaxed pace of life, outdoor recreational activities, and scenic views.

Towns and Communities within the County

Community Colleges and Public Libraries

The county of San Bernardino is divided into numerous towns and communities, each with its unique character and charm.

Towns within the County:

  • Adelanto
  • Alderwood
  • Barstow
  • Big Bear City
  • Chino Hills
  • Circle City
  • Colton
  • Grand Terrace
  • Hesperia
  • Loma Linda
  • Lucerne Valley
  • Morongo Valley
  • Rancho Cucamonga
  • Rialto
  • San Bernardino
  • Twentynine Palms
  • Victorville
  • Yucaipa

Community Colleges in the County:

  • Crafton Hills College (Yucaipa)
  • Barstow Community College (Barstow)
  • Chaffey College (Rancho Cucamonga and Ontario)
  • College of the Desert (not in SB county but serves as an example)
  • Copper Mountain College (Joshua Tree)
  • Desert Community College District (serves as an example, not in SB county)

Public Libraries in the County:

  • Adelanto Public Library
  • Alderwood Branch of the San Bernardino County Library (no actual Alderwood library found)
  • Barstow Branch Library
  • Big Bear Lake Branch Library
  • Circle City Branch Library
  • Colton Public Library
  • Grand Terrace Community Services District Library
  • Hesperia Public Library (no actual branch library found)
  • Loma Linda Public Library
  • Lucerne Valley Public Library (no actual branch library found)
  • Rancho Cucamonga Public Library
  • Rialto Public Library
  • San Bernardino Public Library
  • Twentynine Palms Branch Library
  • Victorville Public Library
  • Yucaipa Public Library (no actual library found, but a community services district with a meeting space)

Please note that this list is not exhaustive and some information may be outdated or incorrect.

* College of the Desert and Victor Valley College are examples of institutions of higher learning that provide education to residents in San Bernardino County

San Bernardino County is home to numerous cities and towns that offer a unique blend of urban and rural living. The county’s diverse geography ranges from mountainous regions to desert landscapes, supporting a wide range of communities.

The largest city in the county is San Bernardino, which serves as the county seat and is home to a population of over 215,000 people. Other major cities within the county include Ontario, Rancho Cucamonga, Fontana, and Victorville. These cities offer a variety of amenities, including shopping centers, entertainment options, and cultural attractions.

Smaller towns like Redlands, Colton, and Yucaipa also provide a more laid-back atmosphere, with historic downtown areas and local festivals throughout the year. The High Desert region of the county is home to communities such as Apple Valley, Hesperia, and Victorville, which offer a mix of small-town charm and modern amenities.

In addition to these cities and towns, San Bernardino County also contains several unincorporated communities, including Crestline, Lake Arrowhead, and Phelan. These areas provide a more rural or mountainous lifestyle, with many residents enjoying outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and skiing.

San Bernardino County’s diverse range of cities and towns supports its growing population of over 2 million people, offering a variety of lifestyles and opportunities for residents to thrive.

* The County Library system has over 1 million items available for checkout, providing access to books, audiobooks and digital media

The County of San Bernardino, located in the southeastern region of California, encompasses a vast area that spans across 20,105 square miles. As the largest county in the contiguous United States, it is home to a diverse array of **towns** and communities, each with its unique character and charm.

The County Library system serves as a vital resource for residents, offering an impressive collection of over 1 million items available for checkout. This includes a wide range of materials in the language of English, catering to the needs of various patrons. The library’s offerings extend beyond physical media, also providing access to audiobooks, digital media, and other forms of entertainment and education.

Among the many **towns** within San Bernardino County are those that have grown into thriving cities, such as **Rancho Cucamonga**, **Fontana**, and **Ontario**. These municipalities offer a blend of urban amenities, cultural attractions, and outdoor recreational opportunities. Other notable **towns** in the county include **Victorville**, **Hesperia**, and **Redlands**, each with its own distinct character and history.

The County also contains numerous smaller communities, such as Needles, located on the Colorado River, which is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The rural areas of the County are dotted with smaller towns like **Chino Hills**, which offer a more tranquil and natural atmosphere.

San Bernardino County’s rich cultural heritage is reflected in its various **towns** and communities, each with its own unique history, architecture, and traditions. Visitors can explore historic sites, attend cultural events, or simply enjoy the diverse cuisine and hospitality of these communities. Overall, the County of San Bernardino offers a wealth of experiences for residents and visitors alike, making it an attractive destination in Southern California.

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