Pacoima is a neighborhood in the northern part of the San Fernando Valley in Los Angeles, California. The name “Pacoima” originates from the Fernandeño-Tongva and Tataviam languages, meaning “entrance.” Historically, the area was inhabited by these Native American tribes before Spanish colonization in the late 18th century. In 1915, Pacoima was annexed by the city of Los Angeles.
As of the 2010 U.S. Census, Pacoima had a population of 103,689 residents, with a median age of 29.5 years and a median household income of $49,842. The neighborhood is predominantly Hispanic, with significant Mexican and Salvadoran communities.
Pacoima offers several parks and recreational facilities, including the David M. Gonzales Recreation Center, Ritchie Valens Park, and Hubert H. Humphrey Memorial Park. These parks provide amenities such as sports fields, playgrounds, and community spaces for residents and visitors.
Recent Incident:
On March 20, 2025, a home in Pacoima exploded, critically injuring a 24-year-old man. Authorities discovered additional illegal explosives on the property and conducted a controlled burn to safely detonate the materials. Residents were evacuated during the operation and were allowed to return home once it concluded.
Despite this incident, Pacoima remains a vibrant community with a rich history and a variety of amenities for its residents.