Wasco, California Overview

Wasco is a small city located in the San Joaquin Valley of Kern County, California. It covers an area of approximately 9 square miles and has a population of around 28,000 people as of 2021. Wasco is situated about 24 miles northwest of Bakersfield and is known for its agricultural heritage and diverse community.

The city was established in the early 1900s as a railroad stop and grew quickly as a center of agriculture. Today, Wasco is a major producer of crops such as grapes, almonds, and cotton, and is home to several agricultural businesses and facilities.

Wasco is a multicultural community with a diverse population that includes significant Latino and Filipino populations. The city hosts several annual events and festivals that celebrate the area's cultural diversity, including Filipino-American Friendship Day and the Wasco Festival of Roses.

The city has a variety of amenities and services for residents, including several parks and recreational areas, community centers, and a public library. The Wasco Recreation and Park District operates several parks in the city, including the popular Barker Park, which offers playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports fields.

Wasco is also home to several schools, including the Wasco Union High School District, which operates Wasco High School, Thomas Jefferson Middle School, and several elementary schools. In addition, the city is home to the Wasco State Prison, which is a major employer in the area.

The city is located near several major highways, including State Route 46 and State Route 99, which provide easy access to other parts of Kern County and beyond. Wasco is also served by the Kern Transit bus system, which provides transportation to nearby cities and towns.

Overall, Wasco is a small but vibrant community that offers residents a diverse and multicultural environment, a strong agricultural heritage, and a variety of amenities and services. Its location in the San Joaquin Valley and its access to major highways make it an ideal place for those seeking a more rural lifestyle with easy access to urban areas.