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Sacramento by David Mark-

10 Best Neighborhoods to live in Sacramento, California

Moving to a new city or neighborhood can be a bit hectic especially when there are just too many factors to consider. Safety rating, affordability, accessibility from work or the city center, school system, weather, suitability for raising kids, and other details that may be important to consider.

Due diligence is therefore paramount. If you’re planning to move to Sacramento, California, we have compiled a list of some of the best areas you might want to check out. Sacramento’s history dates back to the boom in the Gold Rush era. Some of its neighborhoods feature architectural designs reflective of its past and progressive development.

It has been considered California’s intensely diverse capital. It has beautiful temperate weather, scenic landscapes infused with the Sacramento and American rivers, mountains and lush forests, craft wineries true to its age-old tradition, delicious eateries, and a generally laid-back atmosphere.

Sometimes referred to as the ‘Farm to Fork capital of the USA, Sacramento’s fertile soils supply fresh food products all year. It is only an hour or so away from the city of San Francisco. Housing in Sacramento is relatively affordable, although some neighborhoods are quite expensive.

Generally, however, Sacramento is not as high-profile and expensive compared to cities such as LA and San Diego. It has been considered home to some of the safest and highly sought-after neighborhoods to live in.

Here are some of these, just in case you’re planning to explore California living in Sacramento soon.

1. East Sacramento

California State University, Sacramento. Main entrance. Photo by Ronbo76.

Located barely 3 miles east of the buzzing downtown Sacramento, this neighborhood makes the list as one of the safest and most walkable areas in Sacramento.  It is home to many green parks and trails perfect for jogging, strolling through or walking your dog. It has an excellent safety rating and the youthful, vibrant vibe is hard to miss as soon as you move in.

 The youthfulness of the town is most likely added to by the presence of California State University, which is one of the top-ranked universities in the country. That being the case, moving to East Sacramento is an added advantage for those looking for a great university conveniently close to their residence.

A good number of residents are students, and the neighborhood is suitable to raise a family in. The price range of housing is flexible, so there is something for everyone. The median home price ranges from $ 520,000 and monthly rent from $ 1,150. 

There is hardly any dull moment here as the area is home to numerous parks and vast trails perfect for jogging, cycling, walking your dog in the afternoons, or just unwinding with your family on a slow weekend.

 It houses the Mckinley Park Rose Garden, the oldest rose garden in Sacramento. Besides its beautiful collection of roses, the park also hosts family events and movie nights. The eatery scene in East Sacramento features fast food joints, artisan coffee shops, farm-to fork restaurants and fine bar and grills like ‘The Shack’.

Things to do  in East Sacramento:

Take a walk in any of the many beautiful trails in the neighborhood, then grab some coffee at Tupelo Coffee & Roasting along Elvas Avenue. Attend a food truck event or movie night with family and friends hosted at the Mckinley Park. View the beautiful array of rose species at the park while at it. For a great evening out with friends, you can visit the Cabana Winery and Bistro, an award-winning winery for treats and great times.

Practical information

Average housing rates: I- bedroom rent-$ 1, 150 / 2-bedroom-$ 2, 275/ Median home price-$ 521 300

Nearby Schools: Phoebe A. hearst elementary school, David Lubin, Sutter Middle School, Futures High School, California State University

Amenities: Mckinley Park, Museum of Medical History, East Portsl park, cabana winery and bistro, Momo’s meat market, restaurants, shopping centers

2. Land Park

Image by Erika Wittlieb-

Land Park is one of the smaller, tight-knit community neighborhoods in Sacramento. It is quite upscale, an affluent area considered pricey to live in. Its suburban feel renders it a typical, quiet, laid-back environment perfect for families and retirees. It is packed with well-maintained single-family homes.

Located conveniently close to the city, just over 2 miles south of the downtown area, residents can easily access the city’s amenities due to its proximity. The area prides itself in its fantastic public schooling system and is home to Sacramento City College.

Land Park is home to many beautiful parks, trails, golf courses, chic cafes, and craft breweries.  It is best known for William Land Park, a spacious green park with several amusement areas including a golf course. It is a locals’ favorite,  perfect for picnics, jogging, and many come here to spend time with family and friends over the weekend. It also houses the Fairytale Town Play park which your kids will love.

The area is home to a tantalizing food scene, from casual burger joints, ice cream parlors such as the popular Vic’s Ice Cream house, brunch spots as well as fine dine restaurants.

Things to do in Land Park:

Have some family fun at Sacramento Zoo which is home to over 500 animals, Funderland Amusement Park, or explore history in the California State Capitol Museum. On a hot afternoon, grab some ice cream at Vic’s Ice Cream, one of the best in town.

Savor the town’s sushi at the Kyoto Sushi Bar Grill and Ramen, or sample authentic Ethiopian fare at Queen Sheba’s. If you’re willing to break the bank, then Land Park is one of the finest upscale experiences that Sacramento has to offer.

practical information

average housing rates: 1-bedroom rent-$ 1200/ 2-bedroom-$ 2, 395/ median home price-$750, 000

Nearby schools: land park academy, william land elementary school, california middle school, west campus, john f. kennedy high school, sacramento city college

amenities: william land park, sacramento zoo, tower theatre, vic’s ice cream, funderland amusement park, restaurants, coffee shops, shopping centers

3. Midtown

Street lights on a busy night in Midtown, Sacramento by JD Weiher-

As a haven for creativity and buzzing culture, Midtown is known for its energetic crowd and trendy nightlife. If you’re looking for such a vibe on a daily, then look no further.

Midtown is the center of Sacramento’s art and music scene.  Its features include numerous nightclubs, bars,  casual and fine dining, boutiques, and the only winery in the greater Sacramento urban area. It also has several gay bars and establishments, and is an LGBTQ friendly community. Although it is most popular with younger professionals and couples, the area has also attracted retirees as residents.

It is centrally located, making it quite convenient when it comes to transit or access to other areas.  Transport includes bus lines and the Sacramento Regional Transit District light-rail lines. The town is known for being bike-friendly, with continuous marked bike-lanes and a bike path connecting to the American River Parkway.

The housing is diverse in terms of style and price as well, with a mixture of both the old and the new. The population is equally diverse as well in terms of race and income.

Midtown hosts an art walk on the second Saturday of each month, attracting thousands. Get to witness or even actively take part in the creative, artsy spirit of the neighborhood.

Brand new apartments and condos continue to be established due to high demand. The area has a great safety rating and an above-average public school system.

Some of Midtown’s treats include a lively eatery scene. Savor mouth-watering sushi at Midtown Sushi, or treat yourself to tasty Mexican street food at the modern local spot; Midtown’s Cantina Alley. It is also home to Sutter’s State Historic Park, for history lovers.

Things to do in midtown

Visit the Sutter’s Historic Park which is open all week from 10 am to 5 pm. If you’re a fan of cheese, check out The Rind, a cheese-centric bar that offers you the ultimate experience when it comes to artisanal cheeses, served with great wine or beer. If not, try The Sandwich Spot, a brunch joint well known for its tasty sandwiches in town.

For a great night out with friends, you’re spoilt for choice over what spot to try out. There are numerous nightclubs and bars if you’re looking for a funky vibe. Check in at MIX Downtown bar and dance the night away while having shots or cocktails with the squad.

practical information

average housing prices: 1-bedroom-$ 1, 706/ 2-bedroom-$ 2, 145

nearby schools: merryhill elementary & middle school, sutter middle school, west campus, st. francis high school, the met

amenities: sutter’s historic park, restaurants, nightclubs, fitness & gym clubs, pizzerias, fashion boutiques, coffee & brunch joints

4. Meadowview

Image by Mabel Amber-

Meadowview is located in south-central Sacramento. It has been described as a superb family-friendly neighborhood, and its features justify that. Located in the southernmost area of the city, it is away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Sacramento. You’ll find lots of restaurants, coffee joints and grocery shops in this sparse suburban area.

As part of the Sacramento City Unified School District, it  is home to many top-rated schools, including West Campus High School, one of the top-ranked in the city.  

Housing is relatively affordable, compared to the lush areas of Land Park and Boulevard Park. Ranked as one of the top family residential areas, Meadowview serves as a perfect location to raise a family. It has a laid-back urban feel to it, and you can hardly feel life move as fast as it does in the city. Most residents own their homes.

You can’t miss something fun to do around here, whether you’re looking for a nice park to visit in the afternoons or a fine mall to go shopping. The area is home to Seymour Park which stretches 2 miles, perfect for jogging, a lazy walk in the afternoon, or a bike ride. The Delta Shore Shopping Center houses numerous well-known stores, and you can visit them for your shopping.

Things to do in Meadowview

Take a walk in the parks, or go on a picnic with your kids at the Seymour Park. Alternatively you can go jogging or cycling in the late afternoons. catch up with a friend over a cup of coffee at Starbucks near the Home Depot center. There are several fast food joints in the  area including Taco Bell, McDonald’s and Giant Pizza. Brunch is therefore a no-brainer.

Practical information

average housing prices: 1-bedroom-$ 1250/ 2-bedroom-$ 2335

nearby schools: mark hopkins elementary school, cesar chavez intermediate school, rosa parks middle school, luther burbank high school

amenities: delta shore shopping center, seymour park, grocery stores, malls, plenty of restaurants, starbucks

5. Boulevard Park

Image by Todd Kent-

This is one of the most charming historic-centred neighbourhoods in Sacramento, and equally expensive. It is nestled between Downtown and Midtown. The area features older historic homes, with a beautiful laid-back charm to them. It offers both the old and new in terms of housing and amenities.  From museums, zoos, and breweries to water parks, chic restaurants and lively shopping centres, the area offers both the old and contemporary.

Just like Land Park, housing here is relatively on the upper limit, but the area’s elegance and relaxed atmosphere makes it reasonably worthy. The community is also small and tight-knit.

Residents enjoy a dense urban feel, yet the town is not too close to the buzz of downtown Sacramento. Most of them rent their homes, with only a fraction owning homes. The median home value is $ 741, 000 subject to variation. Rent ranges from $ 1220 per month.

There are several nearby public schools, including The Met, Phoebe A. Hearst Elementary School, and C.K McClatchy High School. The area’s attractions feature popular amenities including top-rated restaurants in Sacramento such as ‘The Waterboy’ and Tres Hermanus. You can enjoy the Italian and French cuisine of ‘The Waterboy’, or some tasty American fare at ‘Mulvaney’s B&l. 

Things to do in Boulevard Park

Learn about California’s lawmaking history at the California State Capitol Museum. Check out the Biennial Senate Contemporary Art Collection while at it. Visit the Raging Waters Park for some major water park fun with your family in the crystal clear pools, and exhilarating slides among other fun-filled activities. The kids will find science fascinating at the Discovery Museum-Science & Space Center at Auburn Boulevard.

practical information

average housing prices: 1-bedroom-$ 1479/ 2-bedroom-$ 2038

nearby schools: The Met, Phoebe A. Hearst Elementary School, and C.K McClatchy High School. 

amenities: discovery museum, craft breweries, water parks, restaurants, shopping centers

6. Rancho Cordova

This is one of the most populated areas in Sacramento, with an estimated population of over 80, 000. It is conveniently located only 12 miles east of Downtown Sacramento, and 25 miles from Sacramento International Airport.

It is a large suburb with a variety of housing options, and a relative range of pricing meaning there’s something for everyone. It can therefore be a great option for first-time home buyers. A majority of its residents are young professionals.

The area is home to numerous restaurants, coffee shops, a lively art scene since it regularly hosts many events, miles of beautiful trails and miles of the scenic American River Parkway.

Located in the Folsom school district, the area is served by 4 school districts and 21 post-secondary schools. These include Cordova High School, Walnutwood High School, and Kinney High School. Rancho is served by Sacramento Regional Transit’s various bus lines, facilitating commuting around and out of town.

Rancho is not short of beautiful scenery either. At its northern border is the shimmering American River, meandering through the town’s border as it traverses the city.

The town boasts about 70 acres of creek channels and tributaries, hence scenic views of nature’s best are not hard to come by. The town is also home to the Sacramento Children’s Museum, suiting a fun day out with the kids.

things to do in rancho cordova

With about 26 miles of serene pedestrian and biking trails, jogging or taking a walk in the neighborhood is a perfect fit for a late afternoon or easy morning. Explore the American River while you fish, kayak or rent a raft with friends. If you have kids, let them have some weekend fun at the Sacramento Children’s Museum. For a thrill with your squad, shun the fear of heights at the Granite Arch Climb Center. 

Practical information

average rate: 1-bedroom-$ 1540/ 2-bedroom-$ 2235

nearby schools: rancho cordova elementary school, cordova high school, navigator elementary school, walnutwood high school

amenities: sacramento children’s museum, restaurants, granite arch climbing center, parks,  shopping centers, coffee hangouts

7. South Natomas

Sacramento Airport. Photo by Carol M.

It’s all about strategic location and affordability at South Natomas. With over 90,000 residents, it is one of the largest areas, and it is still growing. Its houses are moderately priced, with offers as low as $ 300,000.

It is a pretty green area with numerous community parks including the massive Discovery Park, nature trails along the American River perfect for hiking and biking, picnic areas, and a lively food scene. You’ll find a string of coffee shops, casual brunch spots and malls for your shopping needs.

Home to the Sacramento International Airport, this neighborhood proves quite convenient for business professionals who travel regularly, and generally for anyone who catches a flight once in a while.

South Natomas is home to the 302-acre Discovery Park, situated at the confluence of the American and Sacramento Rivers. Having one of the best boat launches in the area, it offers boaters some of the best, scenic waterways.

Things to do in south natomas

You can go hiking along one of the many trails in the area, or biking at Bannon Creek Park. catch up with friends over brunch at Huckleberry’s Breakfast & Lunch, serving tasty southern eats. Alternatively, you can choose to try outdoor fun by boating along the American River, and Discovery Park offers you just the right boat launches.

practical information

average rent: 1-bedroom-$ 1648/ 2-bedroom-$ 2000

nearby schools: leroy greene academy, creative connections arts academy, two rivers elementary school, discovery high school, natomas charter school

amenities: bannon creek park, discovery park, coffee shops, restaurants, shopping centers, brunch spots

8. Pocket

Aerial view of Sacramento River, Pocket neighborhood in the background. Photo by U.S Army Corps of Engineers-Sacramento District.

It is nearly impossible not to mention Pocket while listing some of the most fascinating neighbourhoods in Sacramento. Just as the name suggests, it is tucked like a pocket into a curve of the Sacramento River which runs along its western border. It is situated 5 miles south of the busy downtown.

It is suburban with a mid-century feel and is home to some of the oldest properties. These have been largely renovated and new ones put in place. Pocket has been described as the Mecca for retirees, with a considerable majority of its residents being retired.

Its naturally relaxed environment and beautiful tree-lined streets render it an ideal laid-back town to settle in. The streets are well-lit, the neighbours are friendly and you’ll see kids playing outside after school. The median home price is about $ 549,000. This is subject to variation.

Pocket is home to the Crocker Art Museum, the oldest one west of Mississippi. It also houses the California State Rail Road Museum. The Garcia Bend Park located near the Sacramento River is perfect for scenic trails for cycling and taking walks.

things to do in the pocket

Shop during the weekend at The Promenade, one of the largest malls in the area. Visit one of the 18 public parks for some outdoor fun with family and friends. The Garcia Bend Park is one of the most visited, strategically located near the Sacramento River. Bike in the afternoon or take your dog for a stroll in the neighbourhood’s serene trails.

practical information

average rent: 1-bedroom-$ 1965/ 2-bedroom-$ 2360

nearby schools: brookfield school, genevieve didion elementary school, martin luther king jnr elementary school, sam brannan middle school, john f. kennedy high school

9. El Dorado Hills

Image by Bailey Ansielme-

If you’re looking for a country living feel, while still staying close to the city, then this is the ultimate pick in Sacramento. It is situated about an hour away from Sacramento’s CBD. El Dorado Hills is a suburb that is primarily affluent but with relatively affordable housing. It offers that rural feel and is perfect for lovers of active, outdoor lifestyles.

From the sunny California weather to dozens of landscaped parks, the town is easily one of the best neighbourhoods to consider living in Sacramento. There are numerous amenities from restaurants, shopping centres,  coffee shops, boutiques and public parks. Most residents own their homes, and the median value of a house is around $ 630, 000 subject to variation.

Things to do in El Dorado Hills

You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to things to do in the area. You can visit Promontory Park and engage in fun water sports activities, or check in at one of the numerous wineries or distilleries that have become a growing charm in El Dorado County. Sample the restaurants at the Town Center with a friend or watch a movie at the Regal Cinemas.

practical information

average rent: 1-bedroom-$ 2382

nearby schools: oak meadow elementary school, rolling hills middle school, oak ridge high school, golden hills school

amenities: public parks, restaurants, coffee joints, cinemas, wineries & distilleries, promontory park

10. Tahoe Park

Highway 50 gateway to Sacramento’s Tahoe Park neighborhood, located at the intersection of 59th and T Streets. Photo by Sirrebral.

Tahoe Park is an up-and-coming neighbourhood area that is constantly growing, located close to downtown Sacramento. It is relatively suburban, and its quiet, laid-back environment makes it suitable and attractive as a family residential area.

Housing is rated as affordable, and the town is easily a great choice for first-time homeowners. It has an above-average rated school system, and some of the known nearby schools include the Leonardo Da Vinci Middle School and West Campus High School. It is also home to Tahoe Elementary School and Hiram W. Johnson High School.

The 19-acre Tahoe Park is one of the neighbourhood’s beautiful leisure picks. It is centrally located. It has spacious green spaces perfect for picnics, and trails if you prefer to take a stroll. You can unwind over the weekend by visiting the park and engaging in sports such as basketball, or a laid-back picnic with the family.

The area has several great restaurants. Lovers of Italian cuisine will be delighted to visit Allora, an Italian restaurant serving over 200 Italian wines, and tasty dishes.  The Mezcal Grill is a local’s spot for delicious Mexican treats, and a perfect joint to try out whenever you want to take a break from the southern fare.

Practical information

average rent: 1-bedroom-$ 1695/ 2-bedroom-$ 2394/ median home price-$456,950

amenities: tahoe park, restaurants, shopping centers, coffee hangouts