Best Neighborhoods to Live in Sacramento: A Quick Guide!

Want to know what the best neighborhoods in Sacramento are? Several different communities in California's capital will satisfy many different lifestyles, budgets, and interests. And it's a cost-friendly city too, with a cost of living 8% less than the state average, and 105% less than San Francisco! 

Whether you are a student, a young professional, or moving with family, finding the best areas to live in Sacramento makes a very big difference. Urban areas that are always busy, to quiet family-friendly neighborhoods. In this guide, you will find the best areas to live in Sacramento and some of what makes them special. 

Top 10 Neighborhoods in Sacramento for Different Lifestyles

Let’s take a look at the top 10 best neighbourhoods in Sacramento: 

1. Alkali Flats

Average Rent: USD 1,787/month

Crime Rate: 10 out of 10 (higher than the national average)

Highlight: The area attracts a large student and young adult population due to its high walkability score, access to public transit, and proximity to major universities.

Alkali Flats is on its way to being one of Sacramento's top neighborhoods. The unique combination of being revitalised, eclectic, and possessing historic relevance, like most older buildings, was built between 1853 and 1869 which makes this neighborhood a great place to live. 

Many of the homes are being restored or completely restored, so it is possible to live in a home that has some history to it. Because of its walkability and numerous public transportation options, residents won't even need a car, which is a huge plus. 

Anyone looking for a good neighborhood in Sacramento, Alkali Flats has the blend of history, community, and urban amenities.

2. Arden-Arcade

Average Rent: USD 1,500/month

Crime Rate: Approximately 55.50 per 1,000 residents annually, with variations across different parts of the neighborhood

Arden-Arcade has a calm, suburban vibe with all the perks of city living just a short drive away. The neighborhood is home to unique spots like the American River Parkway, a beautiful green space for biking, jogging, and picnicking, and the Arden Fair Mall, a popular shopping destination. Nearby, you can explore the Cal Expo, which hosts the California State Fair and other community events. 

For those considering housing prices in Sacramento, Arden-Arcade offers great value for its location and quality of life.

3. Cal Expo

Average Rent: USD 2,797/month

Crime Rate: Approximately 32 per 1,000 residents annually

Cal Expo is a lively area in Sacramento, known for its mix of quiet residential streets and exciting entertainment spots. Known for being home to the annual California State Fair, it’s a hub of activity, attracting thousands of visitors each year. Residents enjoy the proximity to the Sacramento Horse Racing Track and Raley Field, where you can catch a River Cats game. For those who love the outdoors, the American River Parkway is nearby, perfect for biking, hiking, and enjoying nature.

4.  Old Sacramento

Average Rent: USD 528/month

Crime Rate: Approximately 1,729 per 100,000 residents annually

Old Sacramento is a historic district that offers a unique blend of Gold Rush-era charm and modern attractions. As one of the best neighborhoods in Sacramento for history enthusiasts, it features cobblestone streets, horse-drawn carriages, and landmarks like the California State Railroad Museum, Evangeline’s Costume Mansion, and the iconic Delta King riverboat hotel. Residents and visitors can enjoy dining at Pilothouse Restaurant, grab a treat from Candy Heaven, or explore the Sacramento History Museum. 

Looking for budget-friendly student stays in Old Sacramento? Take a look at this list of the best affordable options!

5. Oak Park: Up-and-Coming Energy

Average Rent: USD 1,800/month

Crime Rate: Approximately 35.7 per 1,000 residents annually

Once overlooked, Oak Park has emerged as one of the best neighborhoods in Sacramento California, for those seeking value and community revitalization. Oak Park was the first suburb in Sacramento, developed more than 150 years ago approximately 2.5 miles south of the center of the city. With its rising property values, this multicultural community has more affordable housing, a vibrant arts community and community organizations, plenty of historic character and new development, and the well-known Oak Park Farmers Market

If you’re looking for the most affordable student accommodation options in Oak Park, be sure to check out this list!

For those seeking an area with growth potential, Oak Park represents the best area in Sacramento to live that's still relatively affordable compared to other central neighborhoods.

6. Pocket-Greenhaven: Peaceful Riverside Living

Average Rent: USD 1,683/month

Crime Rate: 22.08 per 1,000 residents annually

The Pocket-Greenhaven area constitutes one of the best areas to live in Sacramento CA, for those seeking a peaceful, suburban feel while remaining within city limits. The Pocket-Greenhaven features many homes with scenic waterfront views, where prices range from USD 650,000 for renovated mid-century ranchers to over USD 1 million for expansive contemporary builds. 

Features include waterfront homes along the Sacramento River, well kept parks such as the Sacramento River Parkway and effective community groups. The neighborhood is additionally characterized by low crimes, good schools and family friendly features.

7. Tahoe Park: Affordable Place to Live 

Average Rent: USD 1,774/month

Crime Rate: 27.20 per 1,000 residents annually

For budget-conscious residents who don't want to sacrifice location or charm, Tahoe Park stands out as a good neighborhood in Sacramento. Tahoe Park offers a dense suburban feel with a median home value of USD 519,979 and median rent of USD 1,826, where 67% of residents own their homes. The area offers affordable homes with character on tree-lined streets. Tahoe Park is around 19 acres of recreational space with the proximity to UC Davis Medical Center and a diverse, welcoming community. 

8. Curtis Park: Historic Charm

Average Rent: USD 1,496/month

Crime Rate: 30.45 per 1,000 residents annually

Curtis Park represents one of the nicest areas in Sacramento for those who appreciate historic architecture and established communities. Curtis Park, a historic Sacramento neighborhood known for its tree-lined streets and classic architecture, has a median home sale price of approximately USD 709,000 and a median rent of around USD 2,045 as of early 2025. This charming neighbourhood has the popular Curtis Park itself with tennis courts and a playground, Sierra 2 Center for Arts & Community, and a strong neighborhood association

As one of the oldest and most architecturally significant best neighborhoods in Sacramento California, Curtis Park attracts residents who value history, community, and central location.

8. Newton Booth

Average Rent: USD 2,280/month

Crime Rate: Approximately 5,547 per 100,000 residents annually, which is 96% higher than the California average.

Newton Booth is one of the best neighborhoods in Sacramento for those seeking a blend of history and urban convenience. Known for its tree-lined streets and vintage homes, this neighborhood offers a charming atmosphere with a strong sense of community. The area is home to several parks, including Muir Park and Newton Booth Park, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Additionally, the Midtown Farmers Market and the Golden 1 Center are just a short distance away, offering residents a unique mix of activities and amenities. 

9. Fruitridge Manor

Average Rent: USD 1,804/month

Crime Rate: 33.59 per 1,000 residents annually

Fruitridge Manor is an affordable neighborhood in Sacramento, offering a balance of suburban charm and urban convenience. Known for its tree-lined streets and vintage homes, it’s an up-and-coming area with ongoing revitalization projects like the 5700 Stockton Boulevard development. The neighborhood offers proximity to local amenities such as the Fruitridge Community Park, John Cabrillo Park, and schools like C.K. McClatchy High School. 

Find affordable student housing near Fruitridge Manor with this list and explore the charm of this lively neighborhood.

10. South Land Park: Mid-Century Comfort

Average Rent: USD 2,674/month

Crime Rate: Approximately 3,061 per 100,000 residents annually

South Land Park is a hidden gem and the nicest area in Sacramento, which is known for its mid-century modern homes and tranquil vibe.  With a median home value around USD 610,000 and a median rent close to USD 1,900, this neighborhood offers. 

With a median home value around USD 610,000 and a median rent close to USD 1,900, this neighborhood offers Tree-lined streets with unique architectural styles, a family-friendly atmosphere, and quiet ambiance, and efficient close access to I-5, Land Park, and downtown. 

Safe Student Housing in Sacramento

Sacramento blends California charm with student-friendly neighborhoods, offering the perfect mix of academic focus and laid-back living. From Midtown’s artsy vibe to the peaceful streets of East Sacramento and nearby Davis, the city has options for every lifestyle.

Looking for a place in one of the best neighborhoods in Sacramento? Let amber help you find the perfect accommodation. We offer flexible leases, trusted listings, and personalized support, so you can focus on classes, not contracts.

Here are some top picks for student housing in Sacramento:
1. Academy 65, Sacramento
2. The Bernice, Sacramento
3. The Celeste, Davis