A small town by California standards, the full-time population of Blythe is just over 20, people. However, in the winter months, the city swells to nearly three times that size, hosting tourists from all over the United States as residents from colder states seek fun in the sun in Blythe.
Incorporated in , the City of Blythe names for Thomas H. Blythe, a San Francisco financier. Blythe established the water rights to the Colorado River in that region in , securing the future of the city for future generations. The four men formed the Palo Verde Land and Water Company, intent on developing the region for cattle ranching and farming. Over the next fifty years, more than fifty crops would be raised in the greater Blythe region and the largest herd of Brahman cattle in California was located there.
While agriculture still plays a significant role in the economic base of Blythe, CA, tourism has become an increasingly important source of revenue for the city. Located approximately half-way between LA and Phoenix, Blythe is a common stopover area for travelers between the two cities.
The city also attracts a number of campers, hikers, and water recreationists during the winter months, as residents of colder states seek relief from the winter weather in the sunny, warm weather that Blythe enjoys. While the summer months offer incredibly warm temperatures that often average over degrees during the summer, the winter months enjoy averages in the 60s and 70s, with lows that stay well above freezing.
The temperate weather and rugged beauty of the region draw thousands of visitors each winter to enjoy camping, hiking, golf, and water sports in the City of Blythe.
