Since opening in October 2024, the Target at 3610 Peck Road in El Monte, California, has drawn a steady stream of customers. With a 4.5-star rating on Google and a mix of positive and constructive feedback, let’s break down how this new location is performing.
Customer Reviews: The Good and the Not-So-Good
What Shoppers Love
- Size and Selection: Many visitors appreciate the store’s spacious layout and well-stocked shelves.
- “Pretty large store with a good selection of products that you’d typically find at a general merchandise store.” – Google Review
- Clean and Organized: Customers consistently highlight the cleanliness and well-arranged aisles.
- “Very nice & clean Target. Well-organized aisles and friendly staff.” – Yelp
- Starbucks Inside: The in-store Starbucks is a favorite perk, offering shoppers a quick coffee break.
- Ample Parking: Unlike other urban Target locations, parking availability is a major plus here.
Where It Could Improve
- Checkout Speed: A few reviews mention that the checkout lines can be slow, particularly during peak hours.
- “Staff was really helpful, but the checkout took longer than expected.” – Yelp
- Employee Assistance: While some customers praise the service, others feel it could be more consistent.
- Busy Peak Hours: Several reviews note that weekends can get crowded, making shopping a bit hectic.
Social Media and Community Buzz
- Reddit users were excited about the opening, with some discussing job opportunities at the store.
- “My friend got hired at the new El Monte Target! Grand opening was Oct 13!” – Reddit
- Instagram posts from the El Monte Police Department show that the store has already hosted community events.
A Look Back: The History of This Location
Before becoming a Target, this location at 3610 Peck Road housed a Sears Outlet, which closed in early 2020. For years, it was a go-to spot for discounted home appliances and tools.
El Monte’s Retail Evolution
- In the 1950s-70s, downtown El Monte was a bustling shopping hub.
- As big-box stores became more common, retail shifted towards larger shopping centers like this one.
- The closure of Sears reflected a nationwide trend of legacy department stores struggling, paving the way for Target’s expansion into the space.
Now, with Target’s arrival, the area is seeing a new wave of retail activity, bringing back shoppers and boosting the local economy.

Final Thoughts
Four months in, Target El Monte is proving to be a strong addition to the community. It’s clean, well-stocked, and convenient, but like any new store, it has a few areas to refine. If checkout efficiency improves, it could easily become a top-tier shopping destination in the San Gabriel Valley.
Last Updated on February 26, 2025 by F.E.M