Palmdale sits in northern Los Angeles County, in the Antelope Valley, and serves as the southern gateway city of the valley along State Route 14. It is closely tied to aerospace through Air Force Plant 42, which the Air Force operates as a component of Edwards Air Force Base.
Economy and jobs
Plant 42 is the Antelope Valley’s second largest employer and covers more than 5,800 acres. Its contractors include Boeing, Lockheed Martin Skunk Works, and Northrop Grumman, whose B-2 work is based in Palmdale. Skunk Works history at the site includes the U-2, SR-71, F-117, F-22, and F-35 programs. Health care, manufacturing, and retail add to the local economy.
Lifestyle and housing
Palmdale appeals to families, aerospace and defense workers, and commuters who want space and newer housing at a price below much of the Los Angeles basin. The high desert climate brings hot, dry summers and mild to cool winters. Housing ranges from established neighborhoods to newer master planned subdivisions, with single family homes leading the way and larger lot properties available toward the edges of the city.
Getting around
Palmdale is a key commute hub. State Route 14 runs through the city, and the Metrolink Antelope Valley Line stops in Palmdale between Lancaster and downtown Los Angeles. For the northern corridor, State Route 58 connects toward Tehachapi and Bakersfield through Tehachapi Pass. Buyers often move between Palmdale, Tehachapi, and Bakersfield as jobs and family needs change.
Frequently asked questions
Why is Palmdale known for aerospace?
Air Force Plant 42 is based in Palmdale. It is the valley’s second largest employer, and contractors there have built many well known military aircraft.
Who tends to move to Palmdale?
Families, aerospace and defense workers, and commuters looking for newer housing and more space at a lower cost than the Los Angeles basin.
How do people commute from Palmdale?
By State Route 14 and the Metrolink Antelope Valley Line, which connects Palmdale to downtown Los Angeles.