City of Somerton - Greater Yuma Economic Development Corporation

Somerton, in the fertile Yuma Valley in southwestern Yuma County, is about 12 miles south of Yuma and 180 miles east of San Diego, at an elevation of 103 feet. It is equidistant from the California and Mexican borders. Somerton was established in 1898 and incorporated in 1918. Somerton is on land once claimed for the fraudulent Rancho El Paso de los Algondones (land) Grant. Land along the Colorado River was attractive to speculators. The U.S. Congress passed a law allowing settles who were on the land before May 25, 1898, to buy up to 40 acres for $1.25 per acre.

Principal Economic Activities

Though Somerton's economy depends primarily upon agriculture, light industry is becoming important. Many residents are employed in citrus and vegetable growing and processing. Somerton also has a small commercial service sector with ample room for further growth.

Scenic Attractions

San Luis Rio Colorado, 12 miles south of Somerton, is reputed to be Mexico's fastest growing city with a population of approximately 200,000. It has curio shops, night clubs and other tourist attractions. Some 75 miles south of San Luis is the small fishing village of El Golfo de Santa Clara, Sonora. This area has clean, sandy beaches, boat fishing, clam digging, swimming and a mild sunny climate.

Yuma County has many other nearby attractions. These include the Old Territorial Prison, Fort Yuma, and 16th centruy St. Thomas Mission; Laguna, Imperial and Morelos Dams, and the California dunes. Fishing, water skiing and swimming at lakes along the Colorado River are attractive sports to both residents and tourists.

Community Facilities

The city of Somerton has a library, a golf course, five parks, Little League, softball and Babe Ruth diamonds, a soccer field, senior community center, a community meeting hall, a swimming pool and a Head Start center.

Nav: Our Region