Imperial is a city located in Imperial County, California. It was originally founded in 1901 as a headquarters for the California Development Company, which was responsible for building the Imperial Canal. The city was officially incorporated in 1904. Imperial has a rich history tied to agriculture, particularly in the cultivation of crops such as lettuce, carrots, and onions.
Notable people from Imperial include actress and model Amber Valletta, and former NFL player Derek Mahoney.
According to the United States Census Bureau, the population of Imperial was 17,071 in 2020, up from 14,758 in 2010.
Imperial is located in the Imperial Valley, a fertile agricultural region in Southern California. The city is situated near the Mexico border and is surrounded by desert terrain.
The economy of Imperial is primarily driven by agriculture, with a focus on crop production. The city also has a growing retail sector, with the Imperial Valley Mall serving as a major shopping destination for residents.
Imperial celebrates its agricultural roots through events like the Lettuce Festival and the Imperial Valley Agricultural Expo. The city also has a strong sense of community, with local organizations and community groups playing a prominent role in civic life.