CALIFORNIA SERVICE AREA
California, located on the West Coast of the United States, is the most populous state in the country, boasting a population of over 39 million residents. With its diverse geography, ranging from the towering Sierra Nevada mountains to the expansive Central Valley and the rugged Pacific coastline, California offers a unique combination of natural beauty and urban development. Its history is equally rich and varied, beginning with the Native American tribes who originally inhabited the land, followed by Spanish colonization in the 18th century and Mexico’s control before the state became part of the United States in 1848, after the Mexican-American War. California's statehood was solidified in 1850, spurred in large part by the Gold Rush of 1849, which brought a wave of settlers and economic opportunities that helped shape the future of the state.
Today, California's economy is the largest of any U.S. state, and if it were a country, it would rank as the fifth-largest economy in the world. The state’s economy is driven by a mix of industries, including technology, entertainment, agriculture, tourism, and international trade. Silicon Valley, located in Northern California, is the global hub for the technology industry, home to major companies such as Google, Apple, and Facebook. The entertainment industry is centered in Los Angeles, where Hollywood has become synonymous with film and television production. California’s agricultural output is also unmatched, as the state produces over a third of the nation’s vegetables and two-thirds of its fruits and nuts, thanks to the fertile Central Valley and temperate climate.
California’s major cities reflect its economic and cultural diversity. Los Angeles, the second-largest city in the U.S., is a sprawling metropolis known for its film industry, vibrant arts scene, and diverse neighborhoods. San Francisco, with its iconic Golden Gate Bridge and historic cable cars, serves as a major financial and cultural center, while Silicon Valley’s San Jose is the heart of the tech world. In the southern part of the state, San Diego is known for its beaches, military presence, and close proximity to Mexico. Meanwhile, Sacramento, the state capital, offers a window into California’s political and agricultural roots.
Culturally, California has long been at the forefront of progressive movements, environmental advocacy, and innovation. It played a key role in the countercultural movements of the 1960s, the environmental movement of the 1970s, and remains a leader in the fight against climate change today. The state is also known for its diverse population, shaped by waves of immigration from Latin America, Asia, and beyond. This diversity is reflected in California’s cuisine, arts, and public life, making it a global melting pot of ideas, cultures, and creativity.
California’s natural beauty is as famous as its cities. The state is home to nine national parks, more than any other U.S. state, including Yosemite National Park, Sequoia National Park, and Death Valley National Park. Its coastal regions feature some of the most scenic drives in the world, particularly along the Pacific Coast Highway. California's climate varies significantly from region to region—ranging from Mediterranean-like conditions along the coast to desert climates in the southeast, and snowy winters in the mountains—making it a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
In terms of education, California boasts several world-renowned universities, including Stanford University, the University of California (UC) system, and the California State University (CSU) system. These institutions contribute to the state’s reputation for innovation, particularly in science, technology, and the arts. California’s political influence is also considerable, with its 55 electoral votes playing a crucial role in national elections.
Alameda Alhambra Anaheim Apple Valley Bakersfield Berkeley Beverly Hills Buena Park Burbank Carlsbad Carson Cathedral City Century City Chico Chula Vista Clovis Commerce Compton Concord Corona Costa Mesa Culver City Daly City Davis Delano Diamond Bar Downey Dublin Eastvale El Monte El Segundo Elk Grove Fairfield Fontana Fremont Fresno Fullerton Garden Grove Gilroy Glendale Hemet Hesperia Hollywood Huntington Beach Indio Inglewood Irvine La Habra La Mesa Lake Forest Lancaster Livermore Long Beach Los Angeles Malibu Manhattan Beach Manteca Merced Milpitas Mission Viejo Modesto Moreno Valley Mountain View Murrieta Napa Newport Beach Norwalk Oakland Oceanside Ontario Orange County Oxnard Palmdale Pasadena Perris Pittsburg Pomona Porterville Rancho Cucamonga Redding Redlands Redondo Beach Redwood City Rialto Richmond Riverside Roseville Sacramento San Bernardino San Diego San Fernando Valley San Francisco San Jose San Leandro San Marcos Santa Ana Santa Clarita Santa Monica Santa Rosa Stockton Torrance West Covina Whittier
Other