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Originally Posted by Obadno
I don’t see how you could reasonably make that comparison when Phoenix operates as an independent regional center with a clearly identifiable core (even if small for its size) can you accurately say riverside is the clear center of the inland empire over San Bernardino? They seem pretty similar, both act as far sub-cores for the greater LA area same goes for San Jose.
Sure the inland empire has 4 million whatever number of people but in function those are 4 million suburban residents of the greater Los Angeles area
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The comparison makes sense in that both the Inland Empire and Phoenix are large, multi-nodal, relatively dense, sprawling suburban population centers, experiencing the exact same pattern of postwar population growth, with very similar built form. Yes, Phoenix has more of an identifiable core today, as it functions as its own regional center, but back in 1950 it was barely what you would even call a "downtown", as you've stated. Just a few blocks with a smattering of old buildings. It really wasn't that far off from downtown Riverside or San Bernardino back then.
They are similar demographically as well. Median age: 36.7/34.5. Median household income: 61,506/61,994
There's nothing wrong with being compared to the Inland Empire. Like Phoenix, it might be much maligned by snobs and urban enthusiasts, but by national standards it's a desirable place to live with a high quality of life amid beautiful surroundings. We even have some IE forumers here who seem to enjoy it out there.