Nestled in the picturesque foothills of the San Bernardino Mountains, Concorde is a vibrant and thriving neighborhood that offers a unique blend of urban convenience and suburban charm. With its close proximity to major freeways, excellent schools, and abundance of parks and recreational opportunities, Concorde has emerged as a highly sought-after destination for families, professionals, and retirees alike.
History and Development
The history of Concorde can be traced back to the mid-20th century, when the area was primarily used for farming and ranching. In the 1960s, the city of San Bernardino began annexing surrounding areas, including Concorde, as part of its ambitious expansion plan. The neighborhood was initially developed as a residential suburb, with single-family homes and apartments catering to the growing population of the region.
Over the years, Concorde has undergone significant transformation. In the 1980s, the construction of the I-215 freeway brought increased connectivity to the neighborhood, spurring commercial and retail development. Today, Concorde is a bustling hub with a diverse mix of businesses, shopping centers, and restaurants, all within a short distance from residential areas.
Demographics and Housing Market
According to the latest census data, Concorde is home to over 25,000 residents, with a median age of 38. The neighborhood has a diverse population, with a significant proportion of Hispanic and Asian American residents. The median household income in Concorde is approximately $90,000, well above the national average.
The housing market in Concorde is highly competitive, with a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments available. The median home price in the neighborhood is currently around $450,000, with prices varying depending on factors such as size, location, and amenities.
Education and Schools
Concorde is served by the San Bernardino City Unified School District, which operates several highly regarded schools within the neighborhood. Notable institutions include:
- Barton Elementary School
- Wilson Elementary School
- Marshall Middle School
- San Bernardino High School
In addition to public schools, Concorde also has access to a number of private and charter schools, offering parents a wide range of educational options for their children.
Parks and Recreation
One of the most attractive aspects of Concorde is its abundance of parks and recreational opportunities. The neighborhood is home to several large parks, including:
- Roosevelt Park
- Stevens Park
- Norton Younglove Park
These parks offer a variety of amenities, such as playgrounds, picnic areas, walking trails, and sports fields. Concorde residents also have access to the San Bernardino Mountains, which provide opportunities for hiking, biking, camping, and other outdoor activities.
Shopping and Dining
Concorde is a retail hub with a variety of shopping and dining options available. The neighborhood is anchored by two major shopping centers:
- The Mall at Victoria Gardens: An upscale outdoor mall featuring over 170 stores, restaurants, and an AMC movie theater.
- Inland Center: A large indoor shopping mall with over 150 stores, including Macy’s, JCPenney, and Target.
Concorde also has a number of smaller shopping centers and local businesses offering a diverse range of goods and services. The neighborhood is particularly known for its vibrant culinary scene, with a variety of restaurants serving everything from American classics to international cuisine.
Transportation
Concorde is conveniently located at the intersection of I-215 and I-10, providing easy access to major freeways and the surrounding region. The neighborhood is also served by Metrolink, a regional commuter rail system that connects San Bernardino to Los Angeles and Orange County.
The San Bernardino International Airport (SBD) is just a short drive from Concorde, offering both domestic and international flights. The airport is undergoing a major expansion project that will increase capacity and enhance passenger amenities.
Career Opportunities
Concorde is home to a diverse range of businesses and industries, providing ample career opportunities for residents. The neighborhood is a major hub for healthcare, manufacturing, logistics, and retail. Notable employers in the area include:
- Kaiser Permanente
- Loma Linda University Medical Center
- Amazon
- Toyota
- Stater Bros. Markets
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Concorde is slightly higher than the national average, but it is still affordable compared to many other areas of Southern California. According to the Cost of Living Index, the overall cost of living in Concorde is approximately 10% higher than the U.S. average. However, housing costs are significantly lower than in nearby metropolitan areas such as Los Angeles and Orange County.
Tips and Tricks for Living in Concorde
- Take advantage of the parks: Concorde has a wealth of beautiful parks to explore, so make sure to get outside and enjoy the fresh air.
- Shop at the local farmers’ markets: Concorde has several farmers’ markets that offer fresh produce, baked goods, and other local products.
- Support the local businesses: Concorde has a thriving community of small businesses, so make sure to support them by shopping and dining locally.
- Get involved in the community: There are many opportunities to get involved in the Concorde community, including volunteering, joining a club, or attending neighborhood events.
Pros and Cons of Living in Concorde
Pros:
- Excellent schools
- Abundance of parks and recreation
- Convenient location with easy access to freeways and Metrolink
- Diverse population and vibrant community
- Affordable housing costs compared to nearby metropolitan areas
Cons:
- Higher cost of living than the national average
- Some areas may experience traffic congestion during peak hours
- Limited public transportation options within the neighborhood
- Some areas may experience noise from nearby freeways
Overall, Concorde is a highly desirable neighborhood that offers a high quality of life for its residents. With its excellent schools, abundance of parks, convenient location, and affordable housing costs, Concorde is an ideal destination for families, professionals, and retirees alike.
Creative Applications: The “Concordian”
The term “Concordian” can be creatively applied to generate new ideas for applications and services that cater to the unique needs and wants of Concorde residents. Here are a few examples:
- Concordian Connect: A mobile application that connects residents with local businesses, events, and community services.
- Concordian Care: A non-profit organization that provides support and services to senior citizens and low-income families in Concorde.
- Concordian Co-op: A community-owned cooperative that offers affordable housing and shared amenities to Concorde residents.
- Concordian Learning Hub: A community center that provides educational resources and programs for all ages.
Comparative Analysis
Concorde can be compared to other neighborhoods in San Bernardino and the surrounding areas based on various factors. Here is a table comparing Concorde to two similar neighborhoods:
| Feature | Concorde | Highland | Rialto |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $450,000 | $380,000 | $320,000 |
| Median Household Income | $90,000 | $75,000 | $65,000 |
| Schools | Highly regarded | Good | Average |
| Parks and Recreation | Abundant | Moderate | Limited |
| Cost of Living | Higher than national average | Lower than Concorde | Lower than Concorde |
Overall, Concorde compares favorably to other neighborhoods in the area in terms of housing prices, income levels, schools, and parks and recreation. However, it is important to note that the cost of living in Concorde is slightly higher than the national average.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the population of Concorde?
A: Over 25,000
Q: What is the median age of Concorde residents?
A: 38
Q: What school district serves Concorde?
A: San Bernardino City Unified School District
Q: What is the closest freeway to Concorde?
A: I-215
Q: What is the nearest airport to Concorde?
A: San Bernardino International Airport (SBD)
Conclusion
Concorde is a vibrant and thriving neighborhood in San Bernardino that offers a unique blend of urban convenience and suburban charm. With its excellent schools, abundance of parks and recreation, convenient location, and affordable housing costs, Concorde is an ideal destination for families, professionals, and retirees alike.