30 Facts About Sylmar

Sylmar: A Historical Overview

Sylmar, a suburban neighborhood in the San Fernando Valley, boasts a rich history and unique characteristics. Let's explore some fascinating facts about this vibrant community.

1. Historical Background: Sylmar's history dates back to the 18th century when it was part of the San Fernando Mission. Initially known for its olive orchards, the area began systematic cultivation in 1890.

2. Geographical Location: Located in the San Fernando Valley, Sylmar is bordered by Tujunga Canyons to the north, Lopez and Kagel canyons to the east, San Fernando to the southeast, Mission Hills to the south, and Granada Hills to the southwest and west.

3. Topography: The neighborhood gently slopes from an elevation of slightly more than 1,100 feet above sea level near San Fernando Road to over 1,700 feet at the crest of Hubbard Street, with an overall elevation range of about 600 feet.

Climate and Weather Patterns

Sylmar's climate is typical of the Los Angeles Basin, offering dry, sunny weather most of the year. Here's a closer look at its climate and weather patterns.

4. Climate: Sylmar experiences a dry, sunny climate with an annual precipitation average of only 17 inches. Snow is extremely rare in the San Fernando Valley.

5. Temperature Variations: Despite being 20 miles from the Pacific Ocean, Sylmar can be hotter than the Los Angeles Basin during summer and cooler during winter.

6. Climate Averages: The average high temperature in summer is 95°F, dropping to 68°F at night. In winter, the average high is 66°F, with lows around 40°F.

7. Monthly Climate Averages: For example, in March, the high temperature averages 21°C, the low 9°C, with mean temperatures around 15°C and 29.1 mm of precipitation.

Population and Demographics

Sylmar has seen significant population growth and demographic changes over the years. Let's delve into the details.

8. Population Growth: The population has grown from roughly 3,500 residents in 1940 to an estimated 80,155 in 2021.

9. Demographic Breakdown: As of the 2021 census, Sylmar has a diverse population of 92,764 residents, with a median age of 36.5 years. Males make up 49.21% of the population, while females account for 50.79%.

10. Ethnic Diversity: Sylmar is predominantly Hispanic, with 78% of the population identifying as such. Other ethnic groups include White (11%), Asian (7%), African American (2%), and Two or more races (1%).

Employment and Economy

Sylmar's economy is diverse, with a mix of white-collar and blue-collar workers. Here's a closer look at the employment landscape.

11. Employment Statistics: White-collar workers make up 71.67% of the working population, while blue-collar employees account for 28.33%. There are also 4,189 entrepreneurs in Sylmar, representing 9.41% of the workforce.

12. Household Structure: Sylmar has 24,793 households, with an average of four members per household. Family establishments represent 80.93% of these households, while non-family units account for 19.07%.

13. Income Levels: A significant portion of the population identifies as low to middle income, with 30% of respondents describing themselves as such.

Education and Schools

Education is a vital aspect of Sylmar's community, with various public and private schools serving the area.

14. Public and Private Schools: Sylmar has fourteen public and eight private schools, providing a range of educational options for residents.

15. Education Levels: Educational attainment varies, with 5% holding a master's degree or higher, 13% with a bachelor's degree, 25% with some college or an associate's degree, 27% with a high school diploma, and 29% with less than a high school diploma.

16. Educational Institutions: In addition to schools, Sylmar is home to several colleges and vocational training centers, offering further educational opportunities.

Community and Lifestyle

Sylmar is known for its strong community spirit and family-oriented lifestyle. Let's explore what makes this neighborhood unique.

17. Family-Oriented Community: The majority of residents describe Sylmar as family-oriented, with 52% of respondents highlighting this aspect.

18. Recreational Activities: Residents enjoy various recreational activities, including hiking trails in the nearby San Gabriel Mountains and community parks.

19. Community Events: Sylmar hosts numerous community events throughout the year, fostering a sense of social cohesion among residents.

Health and Wellness

Sylmar's healthy climate and healthcare facilities contribute to the well-being of its residents.

20. Healthcare Facilities: Historically, Sylmar was known for its healthy climate, leading to the establishment of a sanitarium and a series of hospitals.

21. Health and Wellness Initiatives: The area's natural environment and recreational opportunities promote a healthy lifestyle.

Economic Development and Infrastructure

Sylmar's economic development and infrastructure have evolved significantly over the years.

22. Industrial Development: The southeastern portion of Sylmar has seen significant industrial development, contributing to economic growth.

23. Transportation: The opening of the Foothill Freeway in 1986 improved access to Downtown Los Angeles, facilitating easier commutes.

24. Housing Shortage: By 2000, a wave of immigrants and working poor led to a housing shortage for lower-income people, shaping the neighborhood's housing market.

Environmental and Cultural Aspects

Sylmar's natural environment and cultural diversity add to its unique charm.

25. Environmental Concerns: Like many urban areas, Sylmar faces environmental issues such as air pollution and water conservation, but community initiatives aim to promote sustainability.

26. Cultural Diversity: The area's Hispanic majority contributes to a vibrant cultural scene, enriched by the presence of other ethnic groups.

27. Diversity Grade: Sylmar earns a diversity grade of B+ based on ethnic and economic diversity.

Future Prospects

Sylmar continues to grow and evolve, facing new challenges and opportunities.

28. Economic Development: The area's proximity to Downtown Los Angeles and the Foothill Freeway has facilitated economic growth and job opportunities.

29. Progressive Community: A smaller but notable portion of the population identifies as progressive, reflecting the community's openness to new ideas.

30. Future Growth: Sylmar's strategic location, diverse population, and strong community spirit position it well for future development and prosperity.

Sylmar: A Unique Blend of History and Modernity

Sylmar stands out as a neighborhood rich in history, diversity, and community spirit. From its origins as part of the San Fernando Mission to its modern-day status as a bustling suburban area, Sylmar has evolved while maintaining its unique charm. The climate offers sunny days and mild winters, making it an attractive place to live. With a population of over 92,000, the area boasts a mix of ethnic backgrounds, predominantly Hispanic. The employment landscape is diverse, with a significant number of white-collar workers and entrepreneurs. Education is well-supported with numerous public and private schools. Despite facing challenges like a housing shortage, Sylmar continues to thrive, offering a blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and economic opportunity. Whether you're a resident or a visitor, Sylmar's unique blend of history and modernity makes it a compelling place to explore.