Hispanic or Latino of any race were 8,405 persons (31.1%). The population density was 1,895.4 inhabitants per square mile (731.8/km 2). ĭemographics Historical populationĪt the 2010 census Norco had a population of 27,063. Winter days are pleasant, with the temperature staying around 65 ☏ (18 ☌) and occasionally rising above 70 ☏ (21 ☌). The winter low temperatures can get cold enough for frost, which is not uncommon in December and January. Fall brings sunny and slightly cooler weather with little rain, but can be windy due to the Santa Ana winds that blow October and November. Thunderstorms are rare but not unheard of in late summer. During the hottest months, daytime temperatures can exceed 100 ☏ (38 ☌). Summer is generally hot, with highs averaging above 90 ☏ (32 ☌). In early summer, Norco receives overcast weather known as "May Gray" or " June Gloom". The spring provides pleasant weather with little rain. Most of the rainfall occurs during winter and early spring. Norco experiences a warm Mediterranean climate ( Köppen climate classification: CSa) and has mild to cool winters and hot summers. The Biome is the Mediterranean Biome but has many alternate names: The Woodland Biome, The Shrub Biome, or the Chaparral Biome. Mexican Fan Palms, Canary Island Palms, Queen Palms, Date Palms, and California Fan Palms are common in the Norco area, although only the latter is native. ( Erythrina caffra) ( Strelitzia reginae). Native plants include the California poppy, matilija poppy, toyon, Ceanothus, Chamise, Coast Live Oak, sycamore, willow and Giant Wildrye. The most prevalent plant communities are sage scrub, chaparral shrubland, and riparian woodland. Norco is rich in native plant species partly because of its diversity of habitats. One of the most notable geographical features in Norco, visible from anywhere in the city, are the Santa Ana Mountains. Geography Īccording to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 14.3 square miles (37 km 2) of which 14.0 square miles (36 km 2) is land and 0.3 square miles (0.78 km 2), or 2.22%, is water. Norco had its "grand opening" on Mother's Day, May 13, 1923, and was later incorporated as a city on December 28, 1964. The city's name is a portmanteau of " North Corona", named after the North Corona Land Company. The area was part of Rancho La Sierra granted in 1846 by Governor Pío Pico to Vicenta Sepulveda.