Pomona CA

Pomona – Nestled in the heart of Southern California’s Inland Empire, Pomona blends historic charm with a youthful energy that makes it one of LA County’s hidden gems. Whether you're walking through its vibrant downtown art galleries, enjoying the action at the Fairplex, or exploring scenic trails in nearby hills, Pomona welcomes you with small-town warmth and big-city access. It's a place where community pride runs deep, cultural events are always around the corner, and the sunshine feels just a little friendlier.

• Population: ~150,000
• Weather: Warm and dry (50-95°F); hot summers, mild winters with occasional rain.
• Places To Visit: Fairplex (home of LA County Fair), American Museum of Ceramic Art, Pomona Valley Mining Co., The Fox Theater, Ganesha Park.
• Top Activities: Exploring art walks and street fairs, hiking in Bonelli Park, catching a concert at The Glass House, antique shopping in historic downtown, enjoying food truck nights.
• Famous Food: Tamales at Patty’s Tamales, burgers from The Rookery, breakfast burritos at Donahoo’s Golden Chicken, and handcrafted brews at Old Stump Brewing Co.

Pomona, CA is a growing city located in the heart of the Inland Empire, known for its vibrant local economy, educational institutions like Cal Poly Pomona, and access to the Los Angeles metro area. The city's top industries include healthcare, education, logistics, and public service. Below are some of the most in-demand careers currently thriving in Pomona.

Top 5 Jobs in Pomona, CA

Pomona, CA may be a quieter city compared to the bustle of LA, but it’s packed with character, culture, and plenty of places where students can unwind, hang out, and have a little fun. Whether you're attending Cal Poly Pomona, Western University, or just passing through, the city has a mix of hidden gems and chill hangout spots perfect for taking a break from class or just enjoying your free time.

Downtown Pomona Arts Colony – If you're into live music, cool galleries, and unique coffee shops, this is your spot. From First Fridays art walks to indie performances, there's always something going on. Grab a boba, wander the vintage stores, or check out a poetry reading or open mic night.

Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park – Just a short drive from campus, this park is perfect for a relaxing afternoon. Students love paddleboarding, kayaking on Puddingstone Lake, or just laying out on the grass with snacks and a Bluetooth speaker. It’s calm and scenic, ideal for a mental reset.

The Alley Gallery and Coffeehouse – A cozy café and art space that's got serious creative energy. Sip on handcrafted lattes, catch up on reading, or join one of their paint nights or small music sessions. It’s super student-friendly and great for a study break that doesn't feel like studying.

La Bomba Records – Music lovers, this Pomona staple is for you. Flip through vinyl, talk tunes with the staff, or dig up a rare find in this retro shop. It’s more than a record store—it’s a vibe, and students love the chill energy here.

Fairplex – Home of the LA County Fair, but also hosts events year-round like concerts, food festivals, and car shows. Keep an eye on the calendar—you never know when something fun (and often student-discounted) pops up.

Lincoln Park Historic District – A beautiful place to relax solo or with a few friends. Walk among century-old homes, take photos by the fountain, or toss a frisbee on a sunny day. It’s a quiet oasis where you can recharge or catch up with friends.

Glass House Concert Hall – Catch a live band or discover a new artist at this intimate music venue in Downtown Pomona. Affordable ticket prices make it attractive for students, and the energy here is always electric.

School of Arts and Enterprise Events – This high school opens its doors for local performances, art shows, and public theater productions. It’s a great, low-key way to appreciate student creativity and connect with the local arts scene. Bonus: Many events are free or donation-based.

Pomona may not be the flashiest city, but for students who seek connection, relaxation, and a bit of creative flair, it’s full of hangout gold mines. Grab your friends, explore a new spot, and make the most of what this charming city has to offer.

Pomona, CA, is a vibrant city recognized for its dedication to academic excellence and diverse educational opportunities. Whether you’re considering transferring, earning a degree, or exploring continuing education, Pomona’s public and private institutions offer quality programs to fit your goals. Here’s a guide to the top colleges and universities in Pomona, designed to help students find the perfect fit.

Top Public Colleges & Universities in Pomona

California State Polytechnic University, Pomona (Cal Poly Pomona) – Renowned for its hands-on learning approach, Cal Poly Pomona excels in engineering, architecture, hospitality, business, and science. The university is recognized nationally for its commitment to student success and workforce readiness.

Mt. San Antonio College (Mt. SAC) – While technically located in neighboring Walnut, Mt. SAC serves many Pomona residents. It’s one of California's largest community colleges, offering transfer opportunities, workforce certificates, and robust academic support in fields like health sciences, business, and technology.

University of La Verne College of Law and Public Service (Pomona Campus) – With a campus in downtown Pomona, this branch focuses on legal education and public service, preparing students for legal, governmental, and public sector careers.

Pomona Unified School District Adult and Career Education – This adult school provides career training, high school diploma/GED completion, ESL, and pathway programs designed to transition students into workforce or higher education.

Western University of Health Sciences (Public-Private Partnerships & Community Programs) – While WesternU is a private health sciences university, its public-private partnerships with local agencies bring public health programs, workshops, and continuing education to Pomona’s residents through collaborative efforts.

Top Private Colleges & Universities in Pomona

Western University of Health Sciences – As one of the nation’s leading graduate health sciences universities, WesternU in Pomona offers degrees in osteopathic medicine, pharmacy, veterinary medicine, nursing, physical therapy, and more. The campus is known for promoting healthcare innovation and compassionate care.

DeVry University (Pomona Center) – DeVry’s Pomona location specializes in business, technology, and healthcare management programs, emphasizing career-oriented education and flexible learning options for working adults.

UEI College – Pomona – A career-focused institution, UEI College offers specialized diploma programs in healthcare, business office administration, and skilled trades, helping students quickly transition to job opportunities.

North-West College – Pomona – This college provides comprehensive allied health programs, including medical assisting, pharmacy technician, dental assisting, and vocational nursing, preparing students for immediate entry into healthcare fields.

American Career College – Ontario Campus (serving Pomona students) – Just a short drive from Pomona, this respected institution offers practical healthcare programs such as medical assisting, occupational therapy assisting, and respiratory therapy, with strong job placement support for graduates.

Pomona’s academic landscape is both diverse and dynamic, making it an outstanding destination for students at every stage of their educational journey. With a strong blend of public and private institutions, you’ll find the right path to achieve your dreams and make a difference in your community.

Pomona, CA, is home to several high-performing high schools that help students thrive both academically and personally. Whether you're looking for a standout public school or a nurturing private institution, the city offers options that prepare teens for college, careers, and lifelong success.

Top Public High Schools in Pomona, CA

• Village Academy High School – This small, college-prep public high school focuses on college readiness, leadership, and project-based learning. With dedicated teachers and a supportive environment, it's a solid choice for motivated students.
• Pomona High School – As one of the largest schools in the Pomona Unified School District, Pomona High offers a rich mix of academic programs, athletics, and arts. The school also offers AP courses and career technical education pathways.
• Diamond Ranch High School – Located on the border of Pomona and Phillips Ranch, this architecturally unique school is recognized for its academic performance, strong athletics, and career-oriented programs.
• Ganesha High School – With a growing focus on innovation in education, Ganesha High provides pathways in health, business, and STEM. It's also home to AVID and dual enrollment programs with local colleges.
• Park West High School – Ideal for students seeking a more flexible and alternative education model, Park West supports credit recovery and individualized learning plans, helping students stay on track toward graduation.

Top Private High Schools in Pomona, CA

• Pomona Catholic High School – Serving young women in grades 9–12, this private Catholic school emphasizes spiritual growth, academic excellence, and leadership development. It's known for its small classes and strong college preparatory curriculum.
• The School of Arts and Enterprise (SAE) – A unique charter high school with a strong private school feel, SAE focuses on both academics and the arts. Students receive training in music, dance, visual arts, and business while excelling in traditional subjects.
• Calvary Baptist Schools – Offering Christ-centered education from preschool through high school, Calvary Baptist Schools provide a supportive atmosphere with a strong emphasis on academics, values, and personal development.
• Pomona Christian School – A smaller private school that nurtures both learning and faith-based education. The high school program supports individualized attention and fosters a community where each student feels valued.
• St. Madeleine Catholic School – Though primarily serving younger grades, St. Madeleine's extended learning partnerships often support high school readiness with a private school atmosphere that promotes discipline, faith, and academics.

While Pomona, California doesn't have its own professional sports teams, it sits in a prime location in Southern California—perfectly positioned between Los Angeles and the Inland Empire—making it a great spot for sports enthusiasts. Residents can easily cheer for and travel to watch their favorite major league teams within a short drive. Here's a look at the professional sports teams that Pomona locals proudly support and regularly attend games for.

Los Angeles is the closest major city to Pomona, and it serves as home to some of the most iconic sports franchises in America. These teams attract fans from all over Southern California, including Pomona.

Basketball – Los Angeles Lakers & Los Angeles Clippers (NBA)

• Los Angeles Lakers – The Lakers are one of the most celebrated franchises in basketball history, having captured 17 NBA championships. Known for their glamor, star power, and legendary players such as Magic Johnson, Kobe Bryant, Shaquille O’Neal, and LeBron James, the Lakers are a true dynasty within the NBA.
• Los Angeles Clippers – Sharing the same home court at Crypto.com Arena, the Clippers have carved out their own space in the league. Although they haven’t yet secured a championship title, the team has been highly competitive in recent years thanks to talents like Kawhi Leonard and Paul George.

Baseball – Los Angeles Dodgers & Los Angeles Angels (MLB)

• Los Angeles Dodgers – With 7 World Series titles under their belt, including a recent win in 2020, the Dodgers are one of the crown jewels in Major League Baseball. Their loyal fan base extends well into Pomona, and Dodger Stadium is just a drive away.
• Los Angeles Angels – Based in Anaheim, the Angels won their first and only World Series in 2002. The team is known for superstar players like Mike Trout and Shohei Ohtani (while he was with the team), and their games are an exciting family activity for Pomona residents in nearby Orange County.

Football – Los Angeles Rams & Los Angeles Chargers (NFL)

• Los Angeles Rams – The Rams boast two Super Bowl victories, with their most recent triumph coming in the 2021 season. With big names like Aaron Donald and Matthew Stafford, the Rams have captured the excitement of football fans across the region.
• Los Angeles Chargers – Sharing SoFi Stadium with the Rams, the Chargers have a passionate fan base and a growing roster of talent, led by quarterback Justin Herbert. Though they’re still searching for their first Super Bowl win, their games are full of promise and energy.

Soccer – LA Galaxy & LAFC (MLS)

• LA Galaxy – One of the most storied franchises in Major League Soccer, the Galaxy have won five MLS Cups. Legends like Landon Donovan and David Beckham helped shape the club’s international brand. Their home games in Carson are easily accessible from Pomona.
• Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) – A relatively new team, LAFC has quickly made waves, winning their first MLS Cup in 2022. The club’s high-energy matches and electric atmosphere at BMO Stadium have made them a favorite among younger fans across Southern California.

Hockey – Los Angeles Kings & Anaheim Ducks (NHL)

• Los Angeles Kings – The Kings have earned two Stanley Cup titles (2012 and 2014), and with stars like Anže Kopitar, they remain a strong presence in the NHL. Their games at Crypto.com Arena attract fans from all over, including Pomona.
• Anaheim Ducks – Based in Orange County, the Ducks brought home their first and only Stanley Cup in 2007. From their origins tied to a Disney movie to their gritty, competitive edge, they offer a fun and accessible hockey experience for local fans.

So while Pomona may not host any teams of its own, its location places sports fans in the heart of the action. Whether you’re into basketball, football, baseball, soccer, or hockey, there's always a high-stakes game happening nearby. And for die-hard sports lovers, cheering on the region’s legendary teams is simply part of life in Pomona.

Pomona, CA is one of those underrated gems in Southern California that’s bursting with personality, history, and lots of cool surprises. Whether you’re just passing through or thinking of staying awhile, these fun facts might give you a whole new appreciation for this vibrant city:

1. Home of the LA County Fair – Pomona proudly hosts the massive Los Angeles County Fair every year at Fairplex. It’s one of the largest county fairs in the U.S. with rides, concerts, animals, and deep-fried everything!
2. Named After a Roman Goddess – Yep, Pomona gets its name from the Roman goddess of fruit and abundance. That’s pretty fitting for a city that was once covered in citrus groves.
3. Old School Car Culture – Love classic cars? Pomona is a hotspot for car enthusiasts, and the Pomona Swap Meet & Classic Car Show is one of the biggest events of its kind in the world.
4. College Town Vibes – Pomona is home to California State Polytechnic University, Pomona. Known as Cal Poly Pomona, it’s one of the top polytechnic universities in the nation.
5. Murals Around Every Corner – Take a walk through Downtown Pomona, and you’ll be amazed by the vibrant street art and murals that turn the city into a creative canvas.
6. Incredible Architecture – From the Fox Theater to beautiful Victorian homes, Pomona has a stunning collection of historic buildings that show off its rich past.
7. The Arts Are Alive – The Pomona Arts Colony is packed with galleries, studios, and monthly art walks that bring the creative community together.
8. Homegrown Punk Scene – In the 80s and 90s, Pomona played a role in cultivating the Southern California punk and underground music scene at venues like the Glass House.
9. A Citrus Pioneer – Before the houses and highways, this city was once the “Queen of the Citrus Belt”, thanks to its super-productive lemon and orange groves.
10. Gateway to SoCal Adventures – Located halfway between Los Angeles and the Inland Empire, Pomona is a great launch point for exploring the best of coastal beaches, mountain trails, and desert escapes.