Top Cities To Move To In Sacramento
If you're asking where to move in Sacramento, CA, you're in the right place. We're Rose and Steven Gonzales from Living in Northern California, and in this long-form guide we're sharing everything we talk about with clients every week — the neighborhoods, schools, commute trade-offs, builder incentives, and the real reasons families are choosing these communities. This is a deep dive into where to move in Sacramento, CA in 2025: the cities we visit most, the places our clients are relocating to, and why we think these areas will see tremendous growth.
Table of Contents
- How We Picked These Cities — a Quick Roadmap
- Why This Matters: The Shifts Shaping Where to Move in Sacramento, CA
- Rocklin: The Family-friendly, Newer-community Winner
- Elk Grove: Big City Growth Close to Sacramento
- Rancho Cordova: Value and Fast-growing New Neighborhoods
- Folsom: Lake Life, Great Schools, and Varied Housing
- El Dorado Hills: Hilltop Living and Slower Pace
- Roseville: The Most Bang for Your Buck
- Lincoln: Small-town Charm With Rapid Development
- Neighborhood Decisions: How to Narrow Where to Move in Sacramento, CA
- New Construction: Why Representation Matters When Choosing Where to Move in Sacramento, CA
- Detailed Comparison: A Quick Cheat Sheet on Where to Move in Sacramento, CA
- Practical Tips for Buyers Deciding Where to Move in Sacramento, CA
- FAQS on Where to Move to in Sacramento, CA
- How We Help Buyers Deciding Where to Move in Sacramento, CA
- Final Checklist: Before You Choose Where to Move in Sacramento, CA
- We’d Love to Help — Reach Out if You’re Ready
How We Picked These Cities — a Quick Roadmap
We get asked all the time where to move in Sacramento, CA. Our approach is practical: we focus on infrastructure, community vibe, schools, and incentives from builders. We track new construction, school district shifts, planned town centers, and the small things that make neighborhoods feel like home — block parties, neighborhood HOA events, and local parks where kids can play safely.
We also look at data — permits, planned developments, and job hubs — because where to move in Sacramento, CA isn't just about the present. It's about future equity and quality of life over the next 5, 10, even 20 years.
Why This Matters: The Shifts Shaping Where to Move in Sacramento, CA
When people ask where to move in Sacramento, CA, they're usually weighing a few core trade-offs: commute vs. space, established neighborhoods vs. new construction, and school ratings vs. lifestyle amenities. Over the last few years we've seen buyers move for jobs, affordability compared to the Bay Area, and the simple desire for a better life for their kids. Those trends are driving where to move in Sacramento, CA in 2025.
New construction matters because builders are offering incentives — lender rate buydowns, closing cost credits, and upgrades — and you can often negotiate more effectively with representation. We stress this because it affects your real cost and long-term ROI in choosing where to move in Sacramento, CA.
Rocklin: The Family-friendly, Newer-community Winner
If you're asking where to move in Sacramento, CA with a family and you want a strong sense of community and brand-new schools, Rocklin should be at the top of your list. We moved into Rocklin (Whitney Ranch) nearly four years ago and it has been amazing for our family. For many clients looking where to move in Sacramento, CA, Rocklin strikes the balance between neighborhood vibe and access to nearby amenities.
Why Rocklin?
Rocklin is slower paced than Roseville, with a strong emphasis on family life. Newer pockets have brand-new schools — meaning play-friendly yards, safe streets for kids, and neighbors who actually know each other. If you’re considering where to move in Sacramento, CA and community is a priority, Rocklin delivers.
- Community vibe: Block parties, HOA events, neighbors who say hi.
- Schools: Newer schools associated with new developments, generally high-rated in many pockets.
- Access: Close enough to Roseville or Lincoln for big-box shopping and entertainment, but still quieter.
- Affordability: Rocklin remains competitive for families seeking single-family homes.
Potential drawbacks
It can feel quieter and — for some — a little less hands-on in terms of nightlife and big retail options. But Roseville is right there when you want the mall, TopGolf, or a larger dining scene. If you're deciding where to move in Sacramento, CA and you want both neighborhood calm and access to big-city perks, Rocklin is a top contender.
Explore New Build Communities in Rocklin
Elk Grove: Big City Growth Close to Sacramento
When people consider where to move in Sacramento, CA and want a fast-paced, diverse city with large-scale development, Elk Grove is frequently top of mind. Elk Grove is the largest city in Sacramento County and it's been developing rapidly — and it's expected to continue.
Why Elk Grove?
Elk Grove offers a variety of neighborhoods — older established areas and large new construction tracts. There are more restaurants, shopping options, and services overall than in many neighboring cities. If you're trying to decide where to move in Sacramento, CA and want an established city with ongoing development, Elk Grove is a strong pick.
- Scale of growth: Over a thousand home permits expected in 2024 and building continuing at a high rate.
- Planned amenities: New projects including a 65-acre zoo near the casino, town centers, schools, and hospitals.
- Convenience: Closer to downtown Sacramento and the Bay Area, making it attractive for commuters.
- Diverse housing: Older and newer homes across a wide price range.
Schools and pricing
Elk Grove Unified School District is large: roughly 30 elementary schools, 17 middle schools, and 16 high schools. That means school ratings vary — you’ll find 8/10 schools and others in the 5–6/10 range. If you’re choosing where to move in Sacramento, CA and schools are a priority, focus on the specific attendance boundaries before you buy. GreatSchools.org is a great resource for ratings and boundary info.
Elk Grove tends to have a slightly higher price point compared to some other suburbs, but it is still significantly more affordable than the Bay Area or many parts of the peninsula. If you’re wondering where to move in Sacramento, CA and want a growing, amenity-rich city close to the state capital, Elk Grove is a top candidate.
Explore New Build Communities in Elk Grove
Rancho Cordova: Value and Fast-growing New Neighborhoods
Rancho Cordova often flies under the radar when people ask where to move in Sacramento, CA, but don’t sleep on it. Rancho Cordova gives you the benefits of Elk Grove in many ways — especially in newer parts of town that feed into Elk Grove schools — and it often does so at a lower price point.
What makes Rancho Cordova attractive?
Rancho Cordova incorporates older neighborhoods and brand-new sections called The Ranch. The newer areas have modern infrastructure, new elementary schools, and promise for future middle and high schools (approvals are in place, but construction takes time). If you ask where to move in Sacramento, CA and want the best value in new builds, Rancho Cordova should be on your radar.
- Affordability: Some of the best deals on brand-new homes in the region.
- Location: Easy access to Folsom and Elk Grove; good for people who want to be close to multiple job centers.
- Growth potential: As roads and connections improve, value and accessibility will increase.
- Example deal: We helped clients buy a 5-bedroom home in Rancho Cordova for about $720k with a 3.5% rate and closing cost help — a real example of how representation and timing matter when deciding where to move in Sacramento, CA.
Considerations
Some older sections of Rancho Cordova have challenges — including pockets with homelessness and lower-rated schools — which is why it's important to focus on specific neighborhoods. But if you're asking where to move in Sacramento, CA and want value and a new-construction vibe with access to Folsom and Elk Grove, Rancho Cordova is one of the best options.
Explore New Build Communities in Rancho Cordova
Folsom: Lake Life, Great Schools, and Varied Housing
If you're deciding where to move in Sacramento, CA and want a city that combines outdoor lifestyle with a lively downtown, Folsom is a standout. Folsom offers more variety in housing — from entry-level homes in the mid-$600k range up to million-dollar riverfront properties — and it’s close to Tahoe and Sacramento.
Why families choose Folsom
Folsom has an active downtown with dining and entertainment, popular outdoor shopping areas like The Palladio, and recreational attractions that make it feel special. If you're working out where to move in Sacramento, CA and you want strong schools plus access to lakes and trails, Folsom should be near the top of your list.
- Downtown and dining: The Palladio is a great outdoor shopping and dining area, including family attractions.
- Recreation: Lake Natoma, American River trails, and proximity to Tahoe make Folsom perfect for outdoor families.
- School quality: Many highly rated schools; check specific boundaries if school rank is crucial.
- Housing diversity: Entry-level neighborhoods, upscale Russell Ranch, and luxury riverfront homes.
Where Folsom fits in the region
When people ask where to move in Sacramento, CA and want a balance of suburban comfort and vibrant amenities, Folsom often ranks highly. It’s a bit pricier than Rancho Cordova or some parts of Elk Grove, but many buyers are willing to pay for the lifestyle and schools.
Explore New Build Communities in Folsom
El Dorado Hills: Hilltop Living and Slower Pace
El Dorado Hills sits further east near the Sierra foothills. If you’re asking where to move in Sacramento, CA and prefer a slower pace with scenic views, El Dorado Hills may be the answer. It’s also an attractive option for retirees and families who want a quieter community with access to trails and nature.
Highlights of El Dorado Hills
- Scenery and lifestyle: Closer to the Sierras, with many hillside homes and scenic outlooks.
- Town Center: A vibrant town center with restaurants, a movie theater, and amenities.
- Demographics: A mix of retirees and families — and some 55+ communities.
If you’re deciding where to move in Sacramento, CA and want beautiful homes rather than a high-energy city environment, El Dorado Hills offers that slower lifestyle while still being close enough to Folsom and Sacramento for errands and entertainment.
Explore New Build Communities in El Dorado Hills
Roseville: The Most Bang for Your Buck
Roseville is our pick for the biggest overall value if you're asking where to move in Sacramento, CA and want a lot of boxes checked: affordability, great schools, strong new construction deals, and plenty of amenities. Roseville has a mix of shopping, entertainment, and large-scale development projects that make it a very attractive long-term play.
Roseville's edge
Roseville has everything: big retail (The Galleria and Fountains), family attractions, and large new master-planned communities. Developers are building thousands of homes in pockets like West Park, and there are projects approaching 7,000 homes in certain areas. If you're doing market research about where to move in Sacramento, CA for potential equity growth, Roseville should be high on your list.
- Affordability: We've seen brand-new homes in Roseville in the low-to-mid $500k range in recent cycles — often better-priced than equivalent homes in nearby cities.
- Growth: Massive new communities are being planned and built — tens of thousands of future residents in some pockets.
- Amenities: Sunsplash, TopGolf, parks, and a thriving shopping and dining scene.
Why Roseville stands out in 2025
For buyers asking where to move in Sacramento, CA and balancing long-term equity with lifestyle, Roseville is often the sweet spot. With a local focus on schools, parks, and new infrastructure — plus a campus-like presence from institutions planning expansions — Roseville remains a go-to choice.
Explore New Build Communities in Roseville
Lincoln: Small-town Charm With Rapid Development
Lincoln is often compared to Livermore twenty years ago — a charming downtown, wineries nearby, and growing neighborhoods. If you’re asking where to move in Sacramento, CA and want a quieter town with a strong community vibe and more affordable new construction, Lincoln is a great choice.
Lincoln highlights
- Old Town charm: A cute downtown with local pizza spots and family-oriented activities.
- Family activities: McBean Park and William Jessup University stadium events make for affordable family nights out.
- 12 Bridges: New hubs like 12 Bridges offer top-rated schools and newer housing pockets right next to Rocklin/Roseville.
- Affordability: We’ve seen brand-new single-family homes in the high $400k range in certain areas — an incredible value for what you get.
Why pick Lincoln?
If your question is where to move in Sacramento, CA and you prefer a quieter, more small-town life with the benefit of nearby city amenities, Lincoln presents an excellent option. With new builders buying land and more projects in the pipeline, Lincoln’s future looks bright for buyers prioritizing affordability and community.
Explore New Build Communities in Lincoln
Neighborhood Decisions: How to Narrow Where to Move in Sacramento, CA
Choosing where to move in Sacramento, CA comes down to asking the right questions:
- 1. What commute are you willing to accept? Proximity to the Bay Area or downtown Sacramento raises prices.
- 2. Do you prefer new construction or resale homes? New builds often come with new schools and modern layouts but require research on future school builds and infrastructure timing.
- 3. Are schools a top priority? Use GreatSchools.org and check attendance boundaries for the specific house you’re considering.
- 4. What lifestyle matters most? Downtown dining and nightlife vs. parks, trails, and lake access will steer you to different cities.
- 5. How important is long-term equity? Areas with large-scale planned development (like Roseville pockets) may offer strong appreciation potential.
New Construction: Why Representation Matters When Choosing Where to Move in Sacramento, CA
There’s a lot of new construction across these cities. A common trap buyers fall into is walking into a model home unrepresented and missing incentives they could have negotiated. If you’re wondering where to move in Sacramento, CA and plan to buy a new build, work with local agents like us who know builders, floorplans, and lender incentives.
Representation can mean:
- Access to negotiated rate buydowns and closing cost contributions.
- Knowledge of upgrade negotiation strategies and warranty terms.
- Guidance on school boundaries, HOA rules, and builder timelines.
Detailed Comparison: A Quick Cheat Sheet on Where to Move in Sacramento, CA
Here’s a compact rundown to help you quickly match lifestyle preferences to city options:
- Best for families wanting new neighborhoods: Rocklin
- Best for fast growth and diversity: Elk Grove
- Best value in new construction: Rancho Cordova
- Best for outdoor life and great schools: Folsom
- Best for scenic, slower-paced living: El Dorado Hills
- Best all-around value and amenities: Roseville
- Best small-town charm with development trajectory: Lincoln
Practical Tips for Buyers Deciding Where to Move in Sacramento, CA
Below are practical steps we recommend when narrowing where to move in Sacramento, CA:
- 1. Start with a budget and must-have list (number of bedrooms, school rating targets, commute time).
- 2. Research specific school attendance boundaries on GreatSchools.org.
- 3. Visit neighborhoods at different times of day to feel traffic and noise levels.
- 4. Work with an agent or with us, experienced in local builder incentives if you’re considering new construction.
- 5. Check long-term city plans and permit activity to understand where growth and infrastructure are planned.
- 6. Talk to neighbors and read community HOA docs when possible — they tell you a lot about day-to-day life.
FAQS on Where to Move to in Sacramento, CA
How do I decide where to move in Sacramento, CA if I need good schools?
Start with GreatSchools.org to check ratings and attendance boundaries for the homes you're considering. Newer communities often belong to newly built schools that are highly rated but always confirm the specific school assignment for a particular address. If you’re trying to pick between areas like Rocklin, Folsom, and Roseville, look at both school ratings and commute trade-offs when deciding where to move in Sacramento, CA.
Is Elk Grove or Roseville better for commuting to Sacramento?
Elk Grove is closer to downtown Sacramento geographically and will often have a shorter commute if your job is in the city. Roseville is further northeast and closer to Rocklin, but it offers more in-town amenities which can offset commute time. If commute time is a priority for deciding where to move in Sacramento, CA, map out your daily route and test the drive during rush hour.
Are new construction homes a good investment in these cities?
New construction can be a solid investment, especially in areas with planned infrastructure and large-scale growth (like parts of Roseville or Elk Grove). Where to move in Sacramento, CA for investment depends on whether you value immediate lifestyle features versus long-term appreciation. New builds offer modern features and warranties, and many buyers receive incentives that improve immediate affordability.
How much should I expect to pay in 2025 for a new home?
Prices vary widely. As a general guide (based on recent cycles): entry-level new construction in Roseville and Lincoln can start in the mid-to-high $400k to low $500k range; Folsom tends to be higher (mid $600k and up for entry-level neighborhoods); Elk Grove and Rancho Cordova have a broad range depending on age and neighborhood. Use these as ballpark figures and consult local listings to get current prices before deciding where to move in Sacramento, CA.
Is Rancho Cordova a safe bet if I want affordability and access to Folsom?
Yes. Rancho Cordova’s new sections provide strong value and good access to Folsom and Elk Grove. If you’re focused on affordability but still want proximity to Folsom’s amenities and schools, Rancho Cordova is one of the top answers to where to move in Sacramento, CA.
Should I buy now or wait for 2025 market changes?
Timing the market is difficult. If you find the right home that matches your priorities and you have a plan for financing, 2025 can still be a great time to buy — especially if you take advantage of builder incentives and work with agents who know how to secure rate buydowns. When deciding where to move in Sacramento, CA, focus on lifestyle fit and long-term affordability rather than trying to predict short-term rate swings.
How We Help Buyers Deciding Where to Move in Sacramento, CA
We work with buyers across Northern California every week who ask where to move in Sacramento, CA. Our process is simple and focused:
- 1. Initial strategy call to understand priorities (schools, commute, price).
- 2. Neighborhood tours — we show homes in multiple cities to compare in real-time.
- 3. Map school boundaries and builder incentives so you understand long-term value.
- 4. Negotiate with builders and lenders to get the best overall deal including rate buydowns and closing cost help.
We’ve helped clients secure homes in Rancho Cordova, Roseville, and beyond — often with favorable rates and incentives — and we bring that local market knowledge to every buyer deciding where to move in Sacramento, CA.
Download The FREE Sacramento Suburbs Relocation Guide
Final Checklist: Before You Choose Where to Move in Sacramento, CA
- Define your top three must-haves (e.g., school rating, commute, yard size).
- Check school boundaries for specific properties.
- Visit neighborhoods at different times of day and week.
- Work with an experienced local agent for builder deals and negotiations.
- Consider long-term development plans in the area for equity potential.
- Review HOA rules and community standards where applicable.
We’d Love to Help — Reach Out if You’re Ready
If you’re trying to decide where to move in Sacramento, CA and want a short strategy call or neighborhood suggestions, we’re here to help. Call or Text us at 925-922-3901. We love sharing what we’ve learned from moving here ourselves and working with dozens of families. Drop us a note — we’d love to chat about your priorities and make a plan that fits your timeline and budget. We love this region and are excited to help more people make it their home!
