City of Colton Overview

Colton is your competitive edge in the Inland Empire—offering metro-level access and opportunity, without the metro-level price tag. With a pro-growth mindset and strong economic fundamentals, Colton delivers the ideal environment to build your business and your future.

Affordable, available, and ready for growth. Colton’s cost of living—including housing—is well below the California average. Add in developable land and robust workforce training, and you’ve got the perfect place to build your business, your team, and your life.

Colton sits in the middle of a thriving, diverse, and growing talent pool. Within 25 miles, the regional labor force exceeds 1 million, with a total population of 2.1 million+. Colton itself is a majority-Hispanic community with a vibrant mix of backgrounds. And with more than 30% of the population under age 18, the city is building a strong, future-ready workforce pipeline.

Strategically located at the southern edge of San Bernardino County—America’s largest county—Colton sits in the heart of the Inland Empire. The region is booming with business activity, fueled by available land, affordable costs, and nonstop momentum. From mountain vistas to major highways, Colton’s diverse landscape is matched only by its potential.

When it comes to transportation, Colton delivers. Two Class I rail lines (BNSF and Union Pacific) intersect here, along with I-10 and I-215—putting goods in motion fast. And with access to both Ontario International and San Bernardino International Airports, you’re always connected to the world.

Grow faster with Colton’s toolbox of business incentives. From state and federal programs to local partnerships, the city is ready to help you reduce costs, boost ROI, and bring your vision to life.

Colton made its mark as a frontier rail town—and today, it’s making moves as a vibrant, modern city where business and lifestyle go hand in hand. It’s California living, minus the stress and sticker shock.