Norco California, nicknamed “Horsetown, USA,” stands as a testament to a way of life many thought had vanished from Southern California. Horses share the road with cars, and trails weave through the neighborhoods. 

But Norco California is more than just horses; it’s a city with a rich history, a vibrant community, and a character that sets it apart. Whether you’re a seasoned equestrian, considering moving to this horse-friendly haven, or simply curious about what makes this city tick, this exploration of Norco will unveil its charm. 

Keep reading to get a glimpse of what it’s really like to live in Horsetown, USA.

A Rich History Rooted in Equestrian Tradition

Norco’s story begins in the early 20th century, not with horses, but with citrus groves. The North Corona Land Company, from which Norco derives its name, purchased land in the area with the intention of developing a citrus-based community. 

However, disease and declining citrus prices led to a shift in focus. By the 1950s, people began moving to Norco with their horses, drawn to the open space and rural atmosphere. This gradual transformation led to the incorporation of Norco in 1964, with a strong commitment to preserving its equestrian character.

Embracing the Equestrian Lifestyle

What sets Norco apart is its dedication to equestrian living. Many streets have horse trails alongside them, allowing residents to ride their horses directly to local businesses, parks, and even to get a bite to eat. Hitches for horses are a common sight outside stores, restaurants, and even City Hall. 

The city also boasts several arenas, stables, and the SilverLakes Equestrian and Sports Park, which offers a variety of equine events and competitions. It even hosted the Norco Mounted Posse Rodeo for several years, making it an official “horse community”.

Norco’s Unique Laws and Infrastructure

This dedication to equestrianism isn’t just lip service. Norco’s municipal code includes regulations specific to horse ownership, ensuring horses are treated well and have safe spaces to roam. Building codes favor structures that cater to horses. Property sizes are generally larger to accommodate horse keeping. 

Even the sidewalks in some areas are specially designed with horse traffic in mind, featuring dirt pathways alongside paved walkways. 

This combination of infrastructure and legislation makes Norco a place where horses and humans coexist seamlessly.

More Than Just Horses: Norco’s Community and Lifestyle

While horses are an undeniable part of Norco’s identity, the city also boasts a strong community spirit and a diverse population.

A Strong Sense of Community

Norco has a reputation for its friendly, down-to-earth residents and a strong sense of community pride. You’ll often see people stopping to chat with neighbors on horseback or at local businesses. This is because many of them share a common bond in their love of animals and rural living.

Beyond Horses: Things to Do in Norco

Although Norco is famous for its horse-friendly environment, there’s still plenty to do if you aren’t an equestrian. The city boasts beautiful parks, such as Neil Snipes Park, which closes at midnight every night.

Just a short drive from Neil Snipes Park is Eastvale Community Park, which is slightly further and open until 10 p.m. 

If you’re seeking some refreshing brews and delicious food, Norco has great restaurants like Wicked Pizza Pies, open until 9 p.m. And if that doesn’t satisfy your cravings, other dining establishments that stay open even later, like Carl’s Jr. (until 10 p.m.) and Slam Dunk Norco (until 2 a.m.). 

Plus, Norco is home to GreyWolf Brewing, a craft brewery known for its high-quality beer. 

If you’re into history, check out the ruins of the once grand Lake Norconian Club, a historical landmark with an interesting story to tell. For those looking for a little adventure, the hiking trails surrounding Pumpkin Rock offer breathtaking views of the Inland Empire.

Small-Town Charm Close to the City

While Norco offers a relaxed, small-town feel, it’s also conveniently located near several major cities. Including Riverside, Ontario, Chino Hills, and Rancho Cucamonga. This proximity makes it easy for Norco residents to access a wider range of shopping, dining, and cultural experiences while enjoying a more peaceful lifestyle at home.

Navigating Norco: What You Need to Know

Before visiting Norco California, it’s helpful to have a few key insights.

Getting Around Horsetown, USA

Norco is a car-dependent city. Although walking and biking are options within neighborhoods, you will likely need a car to navigate longer distances.

If you’re driving in Norco, be prepared to share the road with horses and riders. Speed limits are generally lower than in surrounding cities. Drivers need to be cautious and alert when passing horses. 

It’s also worth noting that while equestrian access is abundant, Norco’s public transportation system is less developed than in some nearby areas, making a car more essential.

Finding a Place to Stay

If you’re planning a longer visit to Norco, there are a variety of lodging options available in and around the city. 

Several hotels cater to travelers of various budgets and needs. Some options in and around Norco California are:

Hotel	Rating	Average Price per night	Amenities
Fairfield Inn & Suites Riverside Corona/Norco	72$$	$130 – $170	Free WiFi, Free Parking, Pool, Free breakfast
Howard Johnson By Wyndham Norco	52$$	$80 – $110	Free WiFi, Free Parking, Pool, Pet-Friendly
Hampton Inn Norco-Corona-Eastvale	82$$	$140 – $190	Free WiFi, Free Parking, Pool, Fitness center, Free breakfast
Motel 6-Corona	84$	$70 – $100	Free WiFi, Free Parking, Pet-friendly

Living in Norco: A Community for Horse Lovers and More

For horse lovers, living in Norco can feel like a dream. But even if horses aren’t your primary passion, Norco offers a unique lifestyle with plenty of positives to consider.

Housing in Norco California

While horses have historically kept home sizes in Norco California larger, home prices in Norco have been rising steadily. The median home price sits at about $746,000. This makes it considerably more expensive to buy a home than the average for the United States. And even 54.7% more expensive than the rest of California. 

If renting better fits your lifestyle, the average price for a two-bedroom rental is about $2,520 per month. However, with Norco’s prime location close to cities but away from the urban hustle, this city has plenty to offer its residents.

Cost of Living in Norco

Besides housing, it is important to be aware that the cost of living in Norco is above the national average, which is currently reflected in its “TrueCost Score” of 131.2 / 100. However, Norco also has a higher median income. In 2023 the median household income was about $115,619. This is 40.3% higher than the average for the whole United States.

For a family to comfortably live in Norco California, Best Places estimates they need at least $142,920 annually. This, combined with its relatively low property and violent crime rates makes it an attractive option for those seeking a family-friendly environment. With its violent crime score at only 16.3 out of 100.

Local Politics and Values

Understanding local politics and values can offer insight into whether Norco might be a good fit. Norco leans toward conservative values. Residents of Norco are active in local politics, attending city council meetings and participating in community initiatives. 

Although crime is statistically low in Norco, the desire to maintain this has resulted in the installation of an extensive network of surveillance cameras around the city, overseen by the Sheriff’s Office. The Sheriff’s Office, situated in Norco City Hall, serves as a substation of the Riverside County Sheriff’s Jurupa Valley Station. 

However, there has been some contention from long-term residents about the focus on safety. For example, some complain that tickets are handed out for going even one mile over the speed limit. Demonstrating just how strongly the community holds public safety as a value.

Is Norco Right For You?

Whether or not Norco is a good place to live depends on what you value in a community. The pros of living in Norco include:

• A family-friendly community.
• Proximity to large metropolitan areas like Los Angeles.
• Access to art, culture, and the natural beauty of the area.
• Strong support for equestrian living, including unique laws and infrastructure.

However, there are also some drawbacks:

• The high cost of housing.
• Hot summers and a dry climate.
• An overabundance of safety measures that some residents believe go too far.

How Norco’s Equestrian Culture Influences Weed Delivery Services

When discussing weed delivery in Norco, California, it’s essential to consider the city’s unique blend of rural charm and modern convenience. 

Norco, known as “Horsetown USA,” is characterized by its horse-friendly amenities and large, open spaces, making it a distinct location for both residents and businesses. 

The availability of weed delivery services in Norco caters to a lifestyle that values privacy and convenience. Residents can enjoy the benefits of timely and discreet delivery of cannabis products right to their doorsteps, mirroring the city’s commitment to accommodating the needs of its community in a modern yet traditional setting.

The regulatory framework in Norco also plays a significant role in shaping the operations of weed delivery services. California’s state laws on cannabis provide a foundational guideline, but local ordinances in Norco dictate specific licensing and operational protocols that weed delivery businesses like Hyperwolf must adhere to. 

This ensures that all services operate within the legal boundaries, maintaining safety and compliance. Prospective customers and businesses alike must stay informed about these regulations to ensure that all transactions meet the city’s standards for legality and safety.

Moreover, the variety of products offered through weed delivery services in Norco is quite expansive, including popular brands like Hyperwolf. From medicinal products aimed at health and wellness to recreational offerings designed for relaxation and enjoyment, the selection available caters to a wide array of needs and preferences. 

 

Hyperwolf, known for its quality and reliability, is a favorite among locals, enhancing customer satisfaction and contributing positively to Norco’s economic landscape. This diversity not only supports local businesses but also strengthens the broader cannabis industry within California. 

 

The integration of reputable brands like Hyperwolf with the convenience of delivery services showcases Norco’s ability to balance progress with its rich western heritage.

FAQs about Norco California

Is Norco a nice place to live?

Norco is often considered a good place to live, especially for those seeking an equestrian lifestyle. Its residents benefit from low crime rates, an engaged community, and infrastructure explicitly built to cater to horse ownership. 

But if horses aren’t your thing and you don’t appreciate tight-knit conservative communities, then you might find this city a bit stifling. 

If, on the other hand, you’re drawn to a place where your horse is as welcome as your car, and you crave a sense of belonging to a close-knit community, Norco just might be the place for you.

What does Norco mean in California?

The name “Norco” comes from an abbreviation of the “North Corona Land Company”. Which purchased a swath of land that now comprises most of modern-day Norco. 

Back in the 1920s, Corona encompassed the area, with citrus farming driving the area’s economy. When citrus prices plummeted, horse lovers flocked to the rural area and transformed its landscape and cultural identity.

What big city is Norco, California, close to?

Norco sits in the Inland Empire area of Southern California. That makes Norco roughly 55 miles east of the expansive Los Angeles metropolitan area. 

This gives its residents proximity to a broad range of businesses, jobs, cultural centers, entertainment districts, and tourist attractions. 

This strategic location combines peaceful, rural living with the convenience of being near urban resources. Offering a desirable balance.

Is Norco a Republican city?

The voting trends suggest that Norco has historically been conservative. But recently that trend seems to be shifting to a greater number of democratic voters, creating a somewhat unpredictable political landscape for Norco California moving into the future. 

This change could signify a more diversified community, embracing a wider spectrum of values. Whether the town shifts more toward the left remains to be seen, as recent trends in other suburban and rural communities continue to show. Only time will tell.

Conclusion

Norco California offers a different experience. It’s a haven for those seeking an authentic equestrian lifestyle, complete with its unique laws, infrastructure, and close-knit community spirit. 

But Norco California is much more than a town built around horses. It is a tapestry woven from its rural origins, its passionate residents, its historic struggles, and the relentless drive to create a safe and community-driven life, making it a true gem within the diverse landscape of Southern California. 

Whether Norco calls to you as a potential home, or simply a place to visit, its story offers a captivating reminder that even within the vast urban sprawl of California, there are still towns where horses can rule the road and neighborly bonds are treasured above all.