Sacramento

About Sacramento

Sacramento is one of California's fastest-growing cities and is the economic and cultural heart of the larger Sacramento metropolitan area. The mild climate, recreational opportunities and variety of jobs are just a few of the things that attract people to the city. Sacramento is central to many waterways, including the Sacramento River and several lakes, which make it a great place for boating, rafting, fishing and sailing nearly year-round. The famously tree-filled city is home to a diverse population of people, with an evolving culture and a friendly sense of community that makes it a popular home for families, young people and professionals alike.

The History of Sacramento

Sacramento is not only the capital of California, but it's also the oldest incorporated city in the state. Originally inhabited by Native Americans, the area was not settled by European Americans until 1839. Then, a Swiss immigrant named John Sutter established a trading colony and built Sutter's Fort. In 1850, the California State Legislature accepted Sacramento's city charter.

Sacramento played an integral role in the California Gold Rush when gold was discovered at Sutter's Mill, and the city transformed into an epicenter of commercialism and agriculture. The city became a bustling travel hub, with stagecoaches, river boats, wagons, the first transcontinental railroad and the Pony Express using it as a final destination point in the West.

Since then, Sacramento has flourished, with a consistently growing population and an expanding economy.

Living in Sacramento

Some of the most popular jobs in Sacramento's diverse economy are sales, office and administrative support, business, finance, engineering, computers and transportation. All signs point to continued growth, with a variety of opportunities available in both white collar and blue collar positions. City and state agencies and several local hospitals and school districts are among the largest employers in the city.

The public transportation system in Sacramento is extensive and widely used, so you might not even need a car. Using public transit, you can easily commute to work and access the variety of amenities that Sacramento has to offer.

If you're interested in spending time exploring the history of the city, Old Sacramento provides a peek into the city's past. There, you'll find the oldest buildings in Sacramento, including the Big Four Building, the 1852 offices of the city's original financiers. Sacramento also has a number of museums, theaters, shops and restaurants to explore.

Neighborhoods in Sacramento

Here are a few of the great neighborhoods that Sacramento has to offer:

Land Park

Land Park is home to the massive William Land Park, and its historic homes are often passed down through generations of families. Block parties are a popular event in this family-oriented neighborhood, providing plenty of chances to get together.

Tahoe Park

Tahoe Park is home to a large collection of mature shade trees, giving it a cozy neighborhood feel that attracts many young families. It's also near the city's several medical campuses, including Shriner's Children's Hospital, one of the leading pediatric facilities in the nation.

Midtown

Midtown is the bustling center of town, and its youthful vibe attracts many young professionals. It's one of the most pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods in Sacramento, and a short stroll can take you past trendy boutiques, hip wine bars and historic buildings, all within a single block.

Pocket-Greenhaven

Nicknamed The Pocket, the Pocket-Greenhaven neighborhood was long considered the area's farming capital. What once had miles of farmland is now home to a diverse population of families, including many well-known celebrities and professional athletes.

Sacramento Schools

The Sacramento City Unified School District, which was established in 1854 and is one of the oldest districts in the western United States, manages most of the public schools in the city. You also have the option of enrolling your child in any of the local private schools, with specialized curricula including faith-based and Waldorf options.

If you're interested in pursuing higher education in Sacramento, you'll find plenty of schools to choose from. The city is home to two large public universities, several private colleges and a mix of community colleges and vocational schools.

Resources for Moving to Sacramento

Here are a few helpful resources to make your move to Sacramento easier:

• Utilities: The city of Sacramento administers water and sewer services, the Sacramento Municipal Utility District manages electricity, and Pacific Gas & Electric is the area's natural gas provider.
• Garbage and Recycling: The city provides curbside collection of trash, recyclables and yard waste, and you can also take advantage of seasonal services including composting seminars.
• Public Transit: The Sacramento Regional Transit network is large and easily accessible, providing convenient transportation around the city via bus and light rail.

Sacramento Housing

Sacramento's median home value is nearly double the U.S. average, but the city does have a large variety of housing options available. With both single-family homes and multi-family communities available to buy or rent, you'll be able to find something that works for your budget and needs.