Nogales, which is Spanish for “walnut trees,” is the origin of the Walnut’s name; the native California black walnut is a common tree that grows in the San Jose Hills. Walnut is considered one of the absolute best places to live in California. Compared to some of the busier cities and suburbs, Walnut gives residents a rural feel and the ability to be a homeowner with some land. There are tons of small businesses, coffee shops, and parks, too.
Walnut, California, like most of America, was originally inhabited by a Native American tribe, in this instance, one called the Tongva. They were considered the most prominent of the region’s Uto-Aztecan indigenous tribes and often controlled & dominated trade amidst neighboring factions. Their settlements were mostly along the coastline of Los Angeles County, northwest Orange County, and surrounding islands.
When the Spanish came to this area in 1771, they established the San Gabriel Mission. Native Americans were converted and helped the Spanish by providing labor.
The land was hearty, and many orchards provided for the Spanish crown until 1833, when California fell into Mexico’s control and gave the San Gabriel Mission land to individuals.
The city’s name arose from one such individual land grant issued by the Mexicans, which referred to this area’s ‘Nogales,’ Spanish for the black-walnut tree native to this specific terrain.
Several notable people lived in what would become Walnut, including William Workman and John Rowland, partners in a liquor business who pivoted to ranching and were granted tens of thousands of acres (including the future Walnut) by the Mexican government in the 1840s.
This land housed cattle and fruit crops for several decades.
White: 9.6%
Two or more races: 2.6%
Asian: 65.5%
Other race: 0.2%
Black or African American: 2.9%
Native American: 0%
Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander: 0.8%
Hispanic: 18.6%
Never married: Male 33.7%
Never married: Female 24.7%
Married: 61.2%
Single: 38.8%
Divorced: Male 2.7%
Divorced: Female 7.2%
Widowed: Male 2.6%
Widowed: Female 6.7%
Population: 28,212
Male Population: 14,148
Female Population: 14,064
Median Age: 46.5 years old
Under 18: 18.8%
18 to 64: 58.1%
65 and over 23.1%
Total Households: 8,616
Average People Per Household: 3.3
Home Ownership Rate: 82.5%
Median household income: $130,444
Per capita income: $50,712
7.8% below poverty line
White Collar: 11,954
Blue Collar: 1,668
Less Than 9th Grade: 4%
9th to 12th Grade: 2.72%
High School Graduate: 14.38%
Some College: 15.16%
Associates Degree: 8.18%
Bachelors Degree: 38.64%
Graduate Degree: 16.92%
source: US Census data
Walnut, while smaller than some surrounding communities, has still given the world a noteworthy handful of professionals across several different disciplines.
Entertainment:
Athletes:
Walnut Family Festival
The festival usually takes place in mid to late October. During the morning, several streets are closed to accommodate the festival’s parade. In the afternoon, the fair is open with booths, vendors, food, games, and activities held in Suzanne Park.
Located at 1100 N. Grand Ave., Walnut, CA 91789, it sits on 10 acres that protect the natural habitat and has a small amphitheater as well. Visitors can enjoy a tour of the sanctuary on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 9 am, 10 am, 11 am, or 2 pm, 3 pm, and 4 pm.
W. R. Rowland Adobe Ranch House
Located at 204 N Avenida Alipaz, Walnut, CA 91789, this adobe ranch house is the oldest building in the city of Walnut.
Rock On A Cliff
Located at 19889 Smoke Tree Pl, Walnut, CA, this apt name provides stunning views and places for visitors to have a picnic.
Mt. San Antonio College Planetarium
Located at 1100 Grand Ave, Walnut, CA 91789, the planetarium offers monthly shows for visitors to explore the cosmos. There is also a free telescope viewing once a month.
Is Walnut a good place to live?
Walnut is considered one of the absolute best places to live in California. Compared to some of the busier cities and suburbs, Walnut gives residents a rural feel and the ability to be a homeowner with some land. There are tons of small businesses, coffee shops, and parks, too.
What is Walnut, CA, Known for?
Nogales, which is Spanish for “walnut trees,” is the origin of the city’s name; the native California black walnut is a common tree that grows in the San Jose Hills.
How far is LA from Walnut, California?
If you want to travel from Los Angeles to Walnut, it is about 22 miles. For a drive, it will be about 25.5 miles total from Walnut to LA.
How far is San Diego from Walnut, California?
The distance between Walnut and San Diego is 99 miles. The road distance is 110.2 miles.
Is Walnut a rich area?
Walnut had a per capita income of $41,691 in 2018, which is upper middle class in comparison to California and wealthy in comparison to the rest of the US. For a family of four, this translates to an annual income of $166,764.
How much does it cost to live in Walnut, California?
Housing costs in Walnut are 212% more expensive than the national average, and utility costs are 10% more expensive. Gas prices and transportation costs, such as bus fares, are 27% higher than the national average. The cost of groceries is 11% more expensive in Walnut than it is nationwide.
