So you’ve decided to move to the state capital—congratulations, you’re nearly halfway there! But with the toughest decision out of the way comes the second most responsible task in moving: choosing the best neighborhoods in Sacramento for you. In a city as diverse as the City of Trees, this could be quite an overwhelming task. But, once you have your extra-long list narrowed down, a day trip to Sacramento is the only thing you need to make up your mind.

Sprawled across nearly 100 square miles between Lake Tahoe and San Francisco, Sactown invites you to get a taste of its large lots, family-friendly neighborhoods, relatively affordable prices, and idyllic places to settle. Combining the best of the old and new, offering a range of fun activities, and checking off your list of ideal hometown characteristics, the best neighborhoods in Sacramento are everything you dream of and more. 

Safest Places to Live in Sacramento

East Sacramento

Median home price: $760,650

About three miles east of downtown is a wonderful area by the name of East Sacramento, which also happens to be one of the safest places to live in Sacramento. Highly walkable and full of beautiful homes, this suburban enclave is one of the best places to live around Sacramento. East Sacramento is a fantastic option for college students and families alike; it’s especially appealing to prospective Sacramento State University students for its close proximity. You’ll love exploring the quaint shops and eateries, learning about its established private schools, exploring the various parks, and taking advantage of the friendly small-town vibe.

Pocket

Median home price: $630,700

Pocket is a unique gem of a neighborhood in Sacramento, offering a quiet, calm, and safe atmosphere. Located southwest of the Sacramento Executive Airport, this family-friendly neighborhood is known for its 1970s and 80s homes and large community of retirees. A stark contrast to the liveliness of downtown, Pocket is one of the best neighborhoods in Sacramento for those who’d like to live life in the slower lane. Families often head to Seymour Park and Renfree Park for outdoor recreation, and joggers get their scenic workout along the Sacramento River Delta. 

While it’s slightly farther from downtown, Pocket has a mall with every amenity you might need in your everyday life. Plus, as one of the best suburbs of Sacramento, it’s dotted with bus routes that make getting around the city incredibly easy.

Downtown

Median home price: $547,550

While downtowns tend to be the most crime-ridden parts of many cities, that is not the case in Sacramento. We’re not saying that you can leave without locking your door and have blind trust in the community; however, compared to most downtowns, Sacramento’s gives you a significantly higher sense of security and comfort. One of the best areas to live in Sacramento, Downtown Sacramento is packed with cultural attractions, amazing restaurants, and awesome nightlife spots. So, if you want to live a life of luxury apartments and exciting amenities, Downtown Sacramento is the best neighborhood in Sacramento for you.

Best Places to Live in Sacramento for Families

Land Park

Median home price: $841,210

About two and a half miles south of downtown is another affluent Sacramento community that’s highly accommodating of families. One of the best areas to live in Sacramento, this neighborhood is home to a variety of lifestyles, amazing local elementary and secondary schools, and great recreational activities. Home to the Sacramento Zoo, Funderland Amusement Park, and Fairytale Town, this beloved Sacramento neighborhood allows its residents to experience some of the top family-friendly attractions in the city.

Natomas Park

Median home price: $608,990

Natomas Park is a verdant neighborhood with a welcoming and diverse community. Offering numerous entertainment, retail, and outdoor destinations, this is one of the best places to live in Sacramento for families who appreciate fun amenities, safety, and a laid-back lifestyle. To get acquainted with your fellow neighbors, sign up to be a member at The Club at Natomas Park. This 15,000-square-foot resort facility offers a fitness center, resident lounge, kid zone, two cafes, and three pools. Satisfying your recreational and social needs, this is a spot many residents head to after school, work, and on the weekends to unwind.

Nicest Places to Live in Sacramento

Westlake

Median home price: $613,360

If you value peace and quiet and a small-town feel, then Westlake is the best suburb of Sacramento for you. With highly-rated public schools and a small, tight-knit community, out-of-state newcomers and NorCal natives can feel right at home in Westlake. Families enjoy spending time outdoors at spots like Egret Park, Sparrow Park, and Westlake Community Park. Are you a family that goes on frequent getaways? This awesome neighborhood is situated right next to Highway 5 and is super close to the local airport, making it easy to escape to both nearby and far destinations.

Boulevard Park

Median home price: $773,280

The suburban feel of Westlake is not quite your cup of tea? Then you might fit in better at Boulevard Park in Midtown Sacramento. As a historic residential neighborhood adjacent to the downtown district, this area has a reputation for being highly desirable and one of the nicest places to live in Sacramento. A big part of its appeal is due to the popular amenities found nearby, which include top-rated local restaurants, great outdoor recreation spots, and historical points of interest. Albeit costing you a pretty penny, Boulevard Park is one of the best neighborhoods in Sacramento thanks to its awesome perks and top-notch locale.

Curtis Park

Median home price: $730,440

Curtis Park is also recognized as one of the best places to live around Sacramento for its quaint and family-centered nature. This residential neighborhood is known for its Craftsman bungalows and Tudor Revival homes and offers plenty of fun perks and amenities to its residents. The historic Sierra 2 Center for the Arts and Community hosts plays, concerts, and comedy performances; the neighborhood’s namesake park has jogging trails, tennis courts, and summer concerts. You’ll also find several casual bistros, craft breweries, and hangout spots where you can unwind after school or work throughout the area.