Acton is an unincorporated community and census-designated place in Los Angeles County, California, with a population of 7,431 as of 2020. Nestled between the Sierra Pelona and San Gabriel Mountains near the Antelope Valley, Acton has a rural western theme visible in its homes and historic buildings. It lies off the Antelope Valley Freeway, about 20 miles northeast of the San Fernando Valley and 47 miles north of downtown Los Angeles. The area features mountain homes with valley views and ranch-style properties, often with equestrian facilities.
Historically, Acton started as a railroad camp from 1873 to 1876 and later became a ranching and farming community. It was once considered as a possible state capital due to Governor Henry T. Gage’s influence, though the effort failed. The town’s first hotel and saloon opened in 1889. Acton covers 39.3 square miles, almost entirely land, and is located 20 miles east of Santa Clarita and 8 miles south of Palmdale. Mount Gleason in the San Gabriel Mountains is visible from the town.









