Redlands (/ˈrɛdlɪndz/) is a city in San Bernardino County, California, located in the Inland Empire about ten miles east of San Bernardino. The city, called Tukut in the Serrano language, had a population of 68,747 according to the 2010 census. Redlands combines a legacy of Southern California citrus agriculture with residential neighborhoods, a small university community, and an active downtown.

Geography and character

Set at the base of nearby hills, Redlands occupies a transition zone between valley floor and foothills. Its location gives the city a warm, Mediterranean-leaning climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters, a pattern that historically suited citrus groves and other orchard crops. Residential areas range from tree-lined streets with early-20th-century houses to more modern suburban developments; many neighborhoods preserve large, shaded lots and historic architecture.

History and development

Redlands grew during the late 19th and early 20th centuries as Southern California’s citrus industry expanded. Packing houses and groves helped shape the local economy and built much of the city’s early wealth, which is reflected in its historic homes and public buildings. Over time the agricultural base gave way to diversified commerce, education and services as the broader region became more suburban and connected to Greater Los Angeles.

Landmarks and institutions

  • University of Redlands — a private liberal arts university that contributes to cultural life and local events.
  • Historic downtown — a concentration of shops, restaurants, and preserved commercial buildings.
  • Civic and cultural sites — public libraries, performance venues, and community festivals that attract regional visitors.

Economy, culture and uses

While agriculture is no longer the dominant employer, Redlands retains elements of its citrus heritage in public gardens and preserved orchards. The modern economy relies on education, retail, professional services, and small manufacturing. Cultural offerings include outdoor music series, historical tours, and community celebrations; these events emphasize local history, arts, and neighborhood identity.

Notable facts and distinctions

Redlands is noted for its concentration of well-preserved late Victorian and early 20th-century residences, its university campus atmosphere, and a relatively compact downtown that serves nearby communities. Its indigenous Serrano name, Tukut, underlines a longer human history on the land predating European settlement. Visitors and residents often cite the city’s combination of historic character and contemporary civic life as a defining feature.