Sacramento Suburbs To Call Home in 2026: Planting Roots in the City of Trees

If you’ve always dreamed of living in California but are looking for a lower cost of living, a robust job market, and access to outdoor recreation, consider moving to the Sacramento suburbs! The state capital is one of the cheapest places to live in California and offers residents a comfortable Mediterranean climate, safe communities, good schools, and plenty of room to grow. Not to mention, there are plenty of things to do in Sacramento!

Moving to a Sacramento suburb could be the right choice for you, especially if you’re looking for quieter neighborhoods away from the bustle of the city. You’ll find suburbs on our list perfect for families, retirees, and people looking for a fresh start. If friendly communities and plenty of scenic beauty are what you want, then check out our list of the 12 best Sacramento suburbs.

Sacramento at a Glance

• Population: The population of Sacramento is just under 535,800.
• Demographic: Families are attracted to Sacramento thanks to affordable housing costs and good schools. However, colleges like Sacramento State mean there’s a robust student and young professional population as well.
• Average home value: The average home value of Sacramento is $468,400, compared to the state average of $755,300 and the national value of $357,300.
• Average rent (all sizes): Sacramento’s average rent is $1,900, compared to the California average of $2,625 and the national average of $1,725.
• Great for: Farm-to-fork dining, plenty of outdoor activities, a thriving cultural scene, more affordable homes, welcoming neighborhoods.

12 Best Sacramento Suburbs

If you’re considering a move from out of state, make sure you do your research to find which of the Sacramento suburbs will meet your needs. While you may not be able to visit each of these in person, our list is here to give you a little glimpse into the unique character that each community has. In no particular order, these are the 12 best Sacramento suburbs!

1. Granite Bay

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,615
• Average home value: $1.1M
• Great for: Families, schools, outdoor recreation, golfing
• Commute to Sacramento: 35-minute drive

One of the wealthiest Sacramento suburbs is the beautiful community of Granite Bay. Situated right along Folsom Lake, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to go boating, fishing, swimming, or kayaking. The Folsom Lake State Recreation Area is also full of winding trails, beaches, and campgrounds.

Granite Bay is popular with horse owners, and you’ll find plenty of opportunities to go horseback riding on the trails or join one of the many equestrian clubs. If you’re into golf, this is also a great area to put down roots, as the Granite Bay Golf Club offers a challenging course and lots of opportunities to stay active.

This upscale suburb is home to many estates and luxury homes, and the public schools have an A+ ranking on Niche. Since it’s primarily residential, there are more limited dining options, but residents can enjoy local places like Dominick’s Italian Restaurant & Deli, or drive the short distance to nearby Roseville or Rocklin.

2. Rocklin

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,975
• Average home value: $674,000
• Great for: Families, retirees, good jobs, quality schools
• Commute to Sacramento: 28-minute drive

One of the best suburbs of Sacramento for families is Rocklin, thanks to Niche’s A+ public school ranking alongside affordable home options. Instead of sprawling estates, in Rocklin you’ll find more traditional single-family homes as well as apartments and townhouses. The heart of the community is Quarry Park — home to zip lining fun at Quarry Park Adventures, expansive green space for sports and picnics, as well as an amphitheater for live music and concerts.

This suburb prides itself on being a welcoming community. Every year, residents enjoy community days, plenty of shows and entertainment, as well as festive holiday events like the tree lighting. The scenic beauty of Folsom Lake is just a short drive away, allowing residents to easily get out on the water or enjoy its many trails.

Locals can hit the links at Ancil Hoffman Golf Course in Carmichael — one of the best Sacramento suburbs.
(Source: Ancil Hoffman Golf Course via Facebook)

3. Carmichael

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,475
• Average home value: $544,200
• Great for: Families, outdoor activities, easy commute
• Commute to Sacramento: 23-minute drive

Carmichael is considered one of the top Sacramento suburbs for families, largely because of its excellent schools, which are a part of the San Juan Unified School District. There is also the thriving La Sierra Community Center, which offers all kinds of activities, camps, and sports for kids, as well as adult classes and leagues. Carmichael is also home to the Effie Yeaw Nature Center, which has educational exhibits, classes, and nature trails to explore.

Since Carmichael borders the American River, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors — both in the water or on the shore. Ancil Hoffman Park is a popular place to go walking or jogging, enjoy a picnic, or take a swing on the park’s golf course. The local brewing scene is very lively in Carmichael, and locals can enjoy craft beer at River City Brewing Co. or wine at Wreckless Blenders.

4. Davis

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,925
• Average home value: $826,000
• Great for: Young professionals, students, biking, good schools, easy commute
• Commute to Sacramento: 25-minute drive

Ranked the No. 1 best Sacramento suburb is the thriving university community of Davis. Home to the University of California Davis (UC Davis), this suburb appeals to students, young professionals, and families alike. There are ample opportunities to experience the farm-to-fork movement that Sacramento is known for. With an emphasis on local ingredients, restaurants like Urban Plates and Osteria Fasulo provide diners with fresh, local produce and meat. The Davis Farmer’s Market is also a good place to take advantage of the many abundant agricultural farms in the area.

Davis is a walkable and bike-friendly city, and residents love spending time outdoors golfing at Wildhorse Golf Club, jogging at the Mace Ranch Park, or going hiking at the Putah Creek Riparian Reserve.

5. Elk Grove

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,975
• Average home value: $627,200
• Great for: Families, outdoor activities, golfing
• Commute to Sacramento: 15-minute drive

Elk Grove is an up-and-coming suburb of Sacramento that has a lot to offer families, retirees, and those who commute to the city for jobs. Residents live an active lifestyle and experience all four seasons in this safe, welcoming community. Head over to Emerald Lakes Golf Course for a challenging game, enjoy horseback riding and horse shows at Brookside Equestrian Park, or stroll along the trails at Camden Park.

As one of the best suburbs of Sacramento for families, residents will appreciate the highly ranked Elk Grove Unified School District, as well as the many recreational opportunities for kids at CORE. The Elk Grove Certified Farmers Market is a popular place to gather local produce and crafts, and residents can enjoy local brews at the Prost Beer Hall or fresh seafood at Station 16.

With housing options ranging from historic to new construction, Roseville stands out among the best Sacramento suburbs.
(Source: Melissa Duvane via Facebook)

6. Roseville

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,975
• Average home value: $633,600
• Great for: Families, good schools, water activities, safety
• Commute to Sacramento: 25-minute drive

One of the safer Sacramento suburbs is the thriving community of Roseville, located just under 30 minutes from Sacramento. This makes it an ideal place for professionals and families alike to live and enjoy a high quality of life. With neighborhoods that range from historic homes to new construction, there’s something for everyone here. Roseville residents can take advantage of all the outdoor opportunities that make Sacramento one of the best cities to retire in California. That means 35 miles of paved trails, 80 parks and recreation facilities, and Maidu Regional Park, which features 54 acres of sports fields and green space.

Folsom Lake is a short drive away, while the excellent hiking trails at the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains are only a day trip away. Families appreciate the range of activities for kids, and adults can enjoy amazing restaurants such as Moksa Barrel House.

7. El Dorado Hills

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,200
• Average home value: $888,000
• Great for: Families, retirees, good schools, outdoor activities, good jobs
• Commute to Sacramento: 30-minute drive

The upscale suburb of El Dorado Hills is a great place for a diverse range of lifestyles. This Sacramento suburb is ranked the No. 1 place to raise a family in El Dorado County, thanks to the quality schools in the school district. It’s also a great place for retirees or working professionals looking for luxurious homes with access to outdoor adventures, as well as urban amenities like concerts and fantastic dining options. Plus, a great local brew scene. You can enjoy local brews at Mraz Brewing Company or Boring Rose Brewing Company. When you’re ready for local, organic bites, head over to ELDO or Sienna.

Browns Ravine, located right on Folsom Lake, is popular for boating, kayaking, and swimming. As a resident, you’ll have access to skiing in the Sierra Nevadas, fishing in Bass Lake (if you want to make a day trip), or enjoying a round of golf at the Empire Ranch Golf Club.

8. La Riviera

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,500
• Average home value: $463,900
• Great for: Young professionals, families, retirees, easy commute, outdoor activities
• Commute to Sacramento: 16-minute drive

Whether you’re looking for a short commute into Sacramento or want to enjoy living by a river, La Riviera is a Sacramento suburb worth considering. Sacramento is one of the best places to live in California, and this suburb, nestled along the American River, allows residents to take full advantage of all the outdoor pursuits their community offers. These include walking the river trails, kayaking or paddleboarding, as well as picnicking and playing in the Larchmont Community Park.

La Riviera’s excellent location makes it easy to hop on the freeway and reach Downtown Sacramento or the mountains after a short drive. The neighborhood also offers light rail access to the city via Butterfield Station.

Locals enjoy being surrounded by the beautiful natural scenery, along with the amenities of suburban living. Whether you want to grab drinks and hear live Irish music at Pitch and Fiddle or go roller skating at The Rink, there’s always something to do in this Sacramento suburb.

If you’re looking for outdoor things to do in Sacramento, Folsom offers easy access to boating, swimming, and fishing spots, plus dozens of parks and 50 miles of paved trails.
(Source: The Bishop Real Estate Group via Facebook)

9. Folsom

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,050
• Average home value: $745,800
• Great for: Families, retirees, water activities, cultural activities
• Commute to Sacramento: 30-minute drive

If you’ve always wanted to live in close proximity to the water, have access to natural scenery, and enjoy strong community ties, then Folsom could be the suburb for you. With housing options ranging from apartments to luxury estates, residents can walk or bike the trails along the American River, or head north to Folsom Lake and go boating, swimming, or fishing. The Folsom Lake State Recreation Area offers stunning vistas of the lake and is the perfect place for a picnic or a camping trip with friends and family. When you live in Folsom, you’ll have access to 49 parks and over 50 miles of paved trails waiting to be explored.

In addition to outdoor activities, Folsom has a bustling historic district that includes The Gallery at 48 Natoma, which features free exhibits showcasing local and regional artists. You can also take classes at the Folsom Arts Center, sign up for adult and youth sports leagues at the Andy Morin Sports Complex, or visit rescued animals at the Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary.

10. Rancho Cordova

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,700
• Average home value: $525,400
• Great for: Young professionals, families, easy commute, good schools
• Commute to Sacramento: 17-minute drive

Whether you’re looking for a Sacramento suburb with a short commute for work or you want to have water access close by, living in Rancho Cordova could be a good fit. Located along the American River, residents can enjoy swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking, as well as green spaces like the Sunrise Recreation Area and the many trails that follow the river. Rancho Cordova has a relaxed suburban feel while also featuring a growing business community.

Rancho Cordova is home to its very own Barrel District, boasting five award-winning breweries, a distillery, and a meadery. Families also enjoy the area’s kid-friendly attractions, including the Sacramento Children's Museum and a variety of recreational sports.

11. West Sacramento

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,825
• Average home value: $524,200
• Great for: Young professionals, short commute, good jobs
• Commute to Sacramento: 8-minute drive

West Sacramento is not far from Downtown Sacramento, making it ideal for professionals who want a short commute to work. It has a variety of housing options as well, offering single-family homes, apartments, and condos that appeal to different lifestyles. Residents can walk the scenic trails of the Sacramento River and enjoy the views from Bryte Park or River Bend Park.

This suburb also puts you in a prime location to visit the cultural highlights of Sacramento, including MOSAC, the Sacramento Zoo, and the California State Railroad Museum, which are located just across the river.

Pause Coffee House is a go-to spot for expertly crafted coffee in Fair Oaks — one of the best Sacramento suburbs.
(Source: Pause Coffee House via Facebook)

12. Fair Oaks

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,725
• Average home value: $599,000
• Great for: Families, retirees, good schools, parks
• Commute to Sacramento: 23-minute drive

One of the best Sacramento suburbs is the quiet area of Fair Oaks, which has access to both the American River and Lake Natoma. Residents of this community enjoy the laid-back lifestyle this suburb has to offer, as well as ample opportunities to get outside and enjoy their many recreational facilities. Whether it’s paddling along the river, enjoying concerts in the park, participating in farmers' markets, or attending the Taste of Fair Oaks, there is a wide range of activities in this Sacramento suburb.

Fair Oaks residents like to support their up-and-coming local businesses as well, and both Madison Avenue and Hazel Avenue offer an array of options for comfort food and drinks like Dad’s Kitchen and Pause Coffee House.

Sacramento Suburbs — FAQs

Q: What is the nicest suburb of Sacramento?
A: Folsom is considered one of the nicest suburbs of Sacramento, thanks to its location along the American River, offering plenty of outdoor access.

Q: What is the wealthiest suburb of Sacramento?
A: Granite Bay is an affluent suburb of Sacramento.

Q: Which city is 30 minutes from Sacramento, California?
A: The lovely city of Roseville is only 25 minutes from Sacramento.

Q: Where in Sacramento is the best place to live?
A: Elk Grove is considered one of the best Sacramento suburbs.

PODS Can Get You to One of the Best Sacramento Suburbs

When you’ve decided to move to Sacramento, let PODS make your move a flexible one. Have a portable storage container delivered directly to your driveway, so you can pack it up on your own schedule. They can even refer you to local packing and loading assistance for the heavier items. When you’re all set, a driver will pick up the storage container and take it to your new Sacramento address, or you can choose to store it in a secure PODS Storage Center. One month of storage is built into the cost of every move!

Visit PODS online for a free local moving quote or call 877-350-7637 for long-distance moving.

Editor’s note: Average rent prices were obtained from RentCafe and Zumper; average home values were obtained from Zillow. For ease of reading, monthly rental prices were rounded to the nearest $25 and home values were rounded to the nearest $100. Home values in the millions were rounded to the nearest $100,000.

_{*This article was written on behalf of PODS Enterprises, LLC (“PODS”). PODS does not warrant the completeness or accuracy of any information contained in this article and disclaims any liability for reliance upon the content herein.}