About Imperial

A CITY OF MANY FIRSTS IN THE VALLEY

The town-site of Imperial was plotted in 1902 for home and commercial businesses. A few of the many firsts was a printing press, drug store, grocery store, brick building, and the first church. The City can also boast of having the first school in the valley and the first Chamber of Commerce.

The City of Imperial was incorporated July 12, 1904 thus being the first city in the valley to incorporate. The city was originally thought to become the county seat, but lost out to the City of El Centro in 1907.

Imperial through the years became the location for the home of the Imperial Irrigation District, the California mid-winter fair and the Imperial County airport. Also several businesses were established in the city. An earthquake in 1979 destroyed many of the old buildings in the downtown business area, including City Hall. Re-building of the business district was slow for many years. We are now enjoying a re-birth of the city with many new homes and businesses. With our central location, we are now a place that many are proud to call home.

State of the City Address 2024

The City of Imperial is truly the center of the Imperial Valley with a vast wealth of recreational living and unlimited business opportunities.

1. Among the Safest Cities in California

As one of the safest cities in California, Imperial is the center of activities in this unique area of sun, sand, and splendor of Western living.

2. Located to thrive

The City’s central location in the region, and proximity to Mexico makes Imperial an ideal location for industry and business services.

3. Fastest Growing Cities

Imperial is among the top ten fastest growing cities in the State with a 23% increase in size since the 2010 U.S. Census. Imperial also has records highs with the highest median income at $85,000, double the County’s, and median home price $267,000.

13 December

Imperial Parade of Lights

6-8 PM -

Mark your calendars for a spectacular showcase of holiday lights!

14 December

Christmas in a Small Town

1-5 PM -

Join us as we celebrate the Christmas season with an afternoon of lively entertainment and fun for the whole family!

25 January

2025 Colorfest Charity Fun Run

12-4 PM - Dep. Anthony Redondo Memorial Park

Join the excitement and make a difference at our Colorfest Charity Fun Run!

About

The City of Imperial strives to be an economically vibrant and culturally rich community with a strong sense of identity, pride and prosperity. It's the people, it's the place. Welcome home.

Contact info

420 South Imperial Ave.
Imperial CA 92251.
United States of America
760 355 4371
info@cityofimperial.org

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About Imperial

About Imperial

A CITY OF MANY FIRSTS IN THE VALLEY

Our City at a Glance

State of the City Address 2024

Residents

median household income

median home price

building permits

We’re Committed To Economic Development Projects .

$60+ million of Retail Market Opportunity

Desert, not deserted

UPCOMING EVENTS

Home of the California Mid-Winter Fair. Best time to be in Imperial.

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