The city of Santa Clarita is made up of several communities, including:
- Valencia: Valencia is known for its master-planned neighborhoods and large shopping mall, Valencia Town Center. The community is home to several large employers, including Princess Cruises and California Institute of the Arts (CalArts). Valencia also has a large number of parks and recreational areas, including the Valencia Heritage Park and the Paseo system of interconnected paseos and bike paths.
- Newhall: The historic center of Santa Clarita, Newhall is home to the William S. Hart Ranch and Museum and the Old Town Newhall shopping and dining district. It’s also home to the Newhall Metrolink station, providing commuter rail service to Los Angeles and other nearby cities.
- Saugus: A mostly residential community known for its scenic views and proximity to the Santa Clara River. The community is home to several parks and recreational areas, including the Saugus Speedway and the Towsley Canyon Nature Center.
- Canyon Country: A rapidly growing community in the northern part of the city, known for its affordable housing and proximity to outdoor recreational areas. The area is home to several large employers, including Six Flags Magic Mountain and Princess Cruises, and it’s also close to the Angeles National Forest and Vasquez Rocks Natural Area Park.
- Stevenson Ranch: A census-designated place known for its upscale amenities and large houses, located near major highways making it a convenient location for commuting to Los Angeles and other nearby cities. The area is home to several parks and recreational areas, including the Stevenson Ranch County Park and the Stevenson Ranch Community Center.
- Castaic: A community located in the northern part of Santa Clarita Valley and is known for its large reservoir, Castaic Lake, and recreational opportunities. The area is also home to several parks and recreational areas, including the Castaic Sports Complex and the Pyramid Lake Recreation Area. The Castaic Lake State Recreation Area offers a variety of outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, swimming, and camping.
Each of these communities has its own unique characteristics and amenities, making Santa Clarita a diverse and dynamic city. Stevenson Ranch and Castaic are not technically part of Santa Clarita.