Get to know El Cajon, CA

The city of El Cajon is known as “The Big Box” for its location in a valley surrounded by mountains.  The area originally served as grazing land for cattle belonging to Roman Catholic missions.  It later became part of Rancho Santa Monica and Rancho Canada de los Coches, owned by Maria Estudillo and Miguel Pedrorena.  Following the Mexican-American War, the Land Act of 1851 guaranteed the honoring of land grants.  Pedrorena’s heirs filed a claim for the Rancho El Cajon, which was patented in 1876.  In 1868 land developer Isaac Lankershim bought most of the Rancho’s holdings.  A hotel was opened to serve the travelers during the gold rush.  By 1878, families had begun living in the valley.  The city was incorporated in 1912.  The largest employers are Cajon Valley Union School District and GKN Aerospace Chem-tronics.  Famous residents have included Jimmie Johnson and Ryan Hansen.

Quick Facts

Population: 102,383

Median Household Income: $45,925

Median Property Value: $345,800