Scenes from Transformers and the Hangover were filmed at the local interstate in this Southern California city, and one of the biggest firework companies in the country also calls it home. Rialto, California, located below the San Bernardino Mountains and just 60 miles away from Los Angeles, offers authentic California living with abundant sunshine and a Pacific shoreline.
Thinking of moving here? Read on for more information about this exciting city!
Rialto Climate
While most areas of Southern California are characterized by a Mediterranean climate, Rialto is a slightly cooler version. The city still has hot, dry summers like its surrounding areas, but winters tend to be slightly cooler and wet, and frost is not uncommon. The average amount of rain during the year is approximately 16-inches.
The summer season generally hits highs of about 95 degrees in July, while winter temperatures drop below 45 degrees in December and January.
Rialto Neighborhoods
The area that is considered North Rialto, according to established locals, is one of the best residential areas in the city, especially for raising a family. Though the area's real estate is slightly higher in cost than in more southern parts of the city, this is mostly due to the size of homes offered.
The downtown area of Rialto is a blend of commercial and some residential, with a vast amount of services and businesses easily attainable for locals. The city is currently working on expanding its business district and furthering the city's economic growth. Here, you will find family services, shopping, dining, entertainment, automotive services and specialty shops.
Registering Your Car
In order to avoid any penalties after you've moved to Rialto, you must register your vehicle within 20 days of entry or residency, according to the state of California's DMV website. You will need the last issued out of state title, smog and weight certification (if applicable), proof of insurance and money for any fees or taxes. The vehicle must also be inspected by the DMV.
Upon moving to California, you have 10 days to acquire a California driver's license. You will need to complete application form DL 44, give a thumbprint, have your picture taken, and provide your full name and Social Security number. You must also pay the application fee, pass a vision exam and pass a traffic laws and signs test.
Rialto Schools
Rialto Unified School District serves most of the city's public education, and has approximately 30,000 students enrolled. The district has just under 20 elementary schools, and two dozen secondary schools. Fontana Unified School District serves the western side of the city, while Colton Joint Unified School District serves the south.
Some notable colleges and universities in the Rialto area are: San Bernardino Valley College, Riverside City College and University of California Riverside.
Rialto Employment
Within the first few months of 2013, the unemployment rate in Rialto was at approximately 13.5 percent. Despite this, the city still boasts a diversified economy with a variety of manufacturing, distribution and retail businesses throughout. Some of the top employers include: Rialto School District, Fed-Ex, Target, Staples, Toys R Us, Wal-Mart and Home Depot.
Living Costs in the City
As far as California cities go, Rialto is actually much cheaper in comparison; however, the overall cost of living is still almost 10 percent higher than the national average, so you should still prepare for price increases when considering your move. In general, you will pay slightly more for food and utilities; specifically water, being that the city is very dry most of the year.
Currently, many single-family homes listed in the area are priced at about $300,000 or more depending on the location and size of the property. One-bedroom apartments will run you approximately $800 per month to start, but can go as high as approximately $1,400 based on apartment amenities and size. The current local sales tax in the city is 8 percent.
Rialto Moving Resources
Moving and storage companies are ready and willing to help you with your move to Rialto, whether you're moving from out of state or from another county in California. Make sure you get estimates from multiple moving services before you commit to hiring any (at least three estimates). Check back to our guides for tips on how to choose your moving service wisely with important questions to ask, differentiating between types of estimates, and mistakes to avoid. Visit the following pages at Movers.com to get quotes for the following services:
Rialto Transportation
Rialto is a commuter city, with over half of the working population traveling more than 10 miles each day. Many of these people travel back and forth between Los Angeles and San Bernardino, mostly using personal vehicles on Interstate 10 and Interstate 210. The average commute time is approximately 35 minutes.
For those without personal transportation, the San Bernardino Line, serviced by Metrolink, runs from Downtown Los Angeles through the San Gabriel Valley and to San Bernardino.
Culture & Contemporary Life
While many Rialto residents venture outside of the city limits to enjoy Downtown Los Angeles or San Bernardino (or even Anaheim for its iconic Disneyland), there are still plenty of things to enjoy within the city itself.
If you have a green thumb, you might enjoy the city's Community Garden where you can grow your own organic fruits and vegetables while getting to know other residents. The garden staff also does various demonstrations on gardening throughout the year. Rialto also houses many parks equipped with picnic areas, baseball fields, basketball courts and walking tracks.
The downtown area of the city has many retail, dining and entertainment opportunities for residents and visitors, including O'Leary's Irish Pub, a jazz lounge, and the Rialto Historical Center.
Rialto Relocation Tips
- Get your car serviced regularly, the area tends to be very dry and hot, and your car may need specific maintenance to prevent any erosion. You may also want to look into weather-specific tires.
- The cost of living in California is generally high compared to the rest of the country, so make sure you thoroughly research your job opportunities before committing to your move.
- There's plenty of outdoor things to do in California, so you may want to invest in a bicycle, kayak, a pair of skis or a snowboard.