bridge over river during daytime

Sacramento is a vast city and larger than most people would actually think. From suburbs in South Sacramento to new developments near the airport and beyond, the River City is always growing. For anyone moving to Sacramento from the Bay Area or out of state, many ask, “where are the top places to live in Sacramento?”

Below is a review of Sacramento’s top neighborhoods and why you can consider them if you’re planning to move.

1. Midtown Sacramento

Known for its mid-rise buildings and walkable destinations, Midtown is the heart of Sacramento. You’ll find a number of quaint restaurants and coffee shops, bookstores, parks and so much more. Because Midtown is so popular, you will need to have a substantial budget to live here.

Midtown is also home to many Sacramento businesses. If you work here, you’ll love having the option to walk to work every day.

2. Folsom

Heading east on Highway 50 will take you through suburbs like Rancho Cordova, Carmichael and you’ll arrive at Folsom. Folsom is known for its close proximity to shopping, a fun downtown to explore and several new subdivisions. Additionally, there are many new businesses in Folsom as seems to be be growing all of the time.

If you love spending time outside, you’re a short drive from the base of the Tahoe National Forest and Folsom Lake is just minutes away.

3. Natomas

Natamos is one of Sacramento’s newest areas and is also growing all of the time. What was once a neighborhood near the airport has now grown into a booming subdivision of the city. New restaurants, businesses and homes are constantly being built.

If you’re looking for all of the benefits of new construction and a close distance from downtown Sacramento (it’s maybe a 10 minute drive on I-5), this is the area for you.

4. Roseville / Rocklin

Heading east on I-80 will bring you to the neighborhoods of Roseville and Rocklin. While Roseville is known for its large mall (the Galleria), Rocklin is an up and coming area with several new businesses, restaurants and homes being built.

Most residents of this area have stated they love the area for its family-oriented appeal. If you’re raising a family, this is the spot for you.

5. Elk Grove

Finally, head south past the neighborhood of South Sacramento to arrive in Elk Grove. While Elk Grove is by no means a new city, it has the appeal of a new city. From new subdivisions popping up all of the time to new restaurants and businesses being established here, Elk Grove is definitely seeing a rise in interest.

Elk Grove is also located along the Delta with estuaries along the way. If you love walking paths and trails, you’ll love Elk Grove’s nature-oriented features.

Other Great Options

As mentioned, Sacramento is a big city and is always growing. While these are the top 5 areas we’ve considered, you’ll also want to check out these areas:

East of Downtown Sacramento

  • East Sacramento
  • Carmichael
  • Citrus Heights
  • Fair Oaks
  • Orangevale
  • Auburn

North of Downtown Sacramento

  • Plumas Lake
  • Yuba City
  • Marysville
  • Wheatland
  • Elverta

West of Downtown Sacramento

  • West Sacramento
  • Davis
  • Dixon

South of Sacramento

  • Land Park
  • South Sacramento
  • Florin
  • Pocket

Have you recently moved to Sacramento? Let us know where in the comments!

By David Rodriguez

David Rodriguez is a local real estate agent and contributor to 916 Journal. Look for David's posts about business topics.

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