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Sacramento, the United States

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Mar 10, 2023

Summary: The population of Sacramento, CA is approximately 500,000 people. People love living in Sacramento because of its diverse culture, vibrant nightlife, and close proximity to the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Residents in Sacramento can enjoy a variety of activities, such as visiting the many museums, galleries, and parks, attending concerts and festivals, and exploring the city's many restaurants and bars. The weather in Sacramento is generally mild, with hot summers and cool winters. The average temperature in the summer is around 80 degrees Fahrenheit, and in the winter it is around 50 degrees Fahrenheit. The average cost of living for a family in Sacramento is around $3,000 per month. The cost of a three bedroom home is around $400,000, and the cost of a four bedroom home is around $500,000. The best neighborhoods to live in Sacramento are Midtown, East Sacramento, and Land Park. These neighborhoods offer a variety of amenities, such as great restaurants, parks, and shopping, as well as easy access to downtown. They are also close to the American River, which is a great place to enjoy outdoor activities.

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What do I need to know about living in Sacramento?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Sacramento, they said:

"Sacramento is a great place to retire for those looking for a mild climate and plenty of outdoor activities. The city is known for its diverse culture, vibrant arts scene, and excellent restaurants. Expats should be aware that the cost of living in Sacramento is higher than the national average, so it is important to budget accordingly. Additionally, the city is home to a large number of universities and colleges, so there are plenty of educational opportunities for those looking to continue their studies. Finally, Sacramento is a great place to explore, with plenty of parks, trails, and other attractions to explore," explained one expat living in Sacramento, the United States.

"If you are a young person in his/her 20s I would not recommend it. We do have a club scene yes, but it dies around 12am. That and most clubs/bars can be dangerous at times due to gangs coming in and starting trouble. Sacramento is perfect for someone in their later adult years to live and work. However, if you are planning on moving here bring plenty money with you, and try to find a place before coming, which isn't difficult, apartment complexes are always renting," said one expat in Sacramento.

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What do I need to know before moving to Sacramento?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Sacramento, they said:

"Sacramento is a vibrant city with a diverse population and plenty of activities to enjoy. The cost of living is relatively low compared to other cities in California, making it an attractive option for expats. The climate is generally mild, with hot summers and cool winters. Public transportation is available, but owning a car is recommended for getting around the city. The city is home to a variety of cultural attractions, including museums, galleries, and performing arts venues. There are also plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, such as hiking, biking, and kayaking. Expats should be aware that the city is prone to wildfires in the summer months, so it is important to stay informed and take precautions," remarked one expat who made the move to Sacramento.

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How do I find a place to live in Sacramento?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"If you are looking for a place to live in Sacramento, there are many options available. You can search online for rental listings, or you can contact a local real estate agent to help you find the perfect place. You can also look for apartments, condos, and houses for rent in the local newspaper or on Craigslist. Additionally, you can check out local neighborhoods and visit open houses to get a better feel for the area," wrote one member in Sacramento.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Sacramento?

"Expat homes and apartments in Sacramento tend to be modern and comfortable, with plenty of amenities. Many expats choose to live in the downtown area, where they can enjoy easy access to restaurants, shops, and entertainment. Apartments in the city center often feature high ceilings, large windows, and modern appliances. Expats living in the suburbs can find spacious homes with plenty of outdoor space, as well as access to parks and other recreational activities," explained one expat living in Sacramento, the United States.

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What is the average cost of housing in Sacramento?

If you are thinking about moving to Sacramento, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The average cost of housing in Sacramento is generally considered to be quite high. The median home value in the city is around $400,000, and the median rent is around $1,500 per month," said one expat in Sacramento.

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How do I meet people in Sacramento?

When we asked people living in Sacramento about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Expats living in Sacramento can join a variety of clubs and activities to meet people and explore the city. Popular clubs and activities include book clubs, language exchange groups, outdoor activities such as hiking and biking, and cultural events. Expats can also meet people by attending local festivals, joining a gym or fitness class, or volunteering with a local organization. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups to connect with other expats in the area," wrote one member in Sacramento.

"I would recommend the bars and clubs here in Sacramento. They are mostly located in the downtown area. Some good clubs to visit are Blue Q and Empire. For bars we have plenty of them, some good ones are Sandbar,Pine Cove,Firehouse,Players,for the youngfolks that attend Sac State Univ. you can check out the Library, and you can also go down to the river Old Sacramento area for the riverside dining bars that are available. If you are into music we have a growing underground music community in hip-hop and rock. Finding out about shows is easy mainly because you can flyers for shows posted in every coffee shop and street corner. A good venue for music to check out is the Boardwalk. If clubbing and music isn't your thing we have 2 rivers and a lake within the Sacramento area. One can do everything from boating,swimming,fishing,mountain biking to jogging. There are plenty of outdoor activities to do," remarked one expat who made the move to Sacramento.

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What should I bring when moving to Sacramento?

People living in Sacramento were asked what three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They wrote:

"When moving to Sacramento, it is important to pack items that will help you adjust to the climate and lifestyle. Pack comfortable clothing for the warm summers and mild winters, as well as layers for the cooler evenings. Bring items to protect yourself from the sun, such as hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Rain gear is also a must, as Sacramento experiences wet winters. Additionally, pack items to help you enjoy the outdoors, such as a bike, hiking boots, and camping gear. Finally, don't forget to bring items to make your new home feel like home, such as decorations, furniture, and kitchenware," remarked one expat living in Sacramento, the United States.

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Where should I setup a bank account in Sacramento?

We asked expats in Sacramento what banks they use and there advice about banking. They advised:

"Sacramento is a great place to retire for those looking for a mild climate and plenty of outdoor activities. The city is known for its diverse culture, vibrant arts scene, and excellent restaurants. Expats should be aware that the cost of living in Sacramento is higher than the national average, so it is important to budget accordingly. Additionally, the city is home to a large number of universities and colleges, so there are plenty of educational opportunities for those looking to continue their studies. Finally, Sacramento is a great place to explore, with plenty of parks, trails, and other attractions to explore," remarked one expat who made the move to Sacramento.

"No, I first got a Bank of America account which annoyed me so much with their lack of customer services (and charging for them too!) that I looked elsewhere and got an account with a local credit union who turned out to be very friendly and flexible and give great personal service. I use them for my Bank account, HELOC and car loan. It's worth trying to find a local Credit Union (they have simple qualification rules, such as must live in a specific area or be employed by a specific employer or industry type," explained one expat living in Sacramento, US.

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Will I be able to find a job in Sacramento?

When we asked people about industries and career opportunities in Sacramento, they reponded:

"Foreigners often have jobs in Sacramento in a variety of industries, such as hospitality, retail, construction, agriculture, and technology. They may also work in professional services, such as accounting, finance, and consulting. Additionally, many foreigners find employment in the healthcare industry, including nursing, medical assisting, and medical coding," wrote one member in Sacramento.

"Sacramento is the capital of California, so there are many opportunities for State service, and most people here make their livings working in various state departments. However Sacramento has a broad job market with various jobs from health care,manual labor,engineering,IT, and customer service. Most people find jobs here via the state personnel board http://spb.ca.gov or for non-state service jobs we have various employment journals and staffing agencies to work with," remarked one expat who made the move to Sacramento.

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What is life like in Sacramento?

When we asked people living in Sacramento what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Sacramento is a great place for expats and digital nomads to live. The city has a vibrant culture, with plenty of activities and attractions to explore. The cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive option for those looking to save money. The city is also well-connected, with easy access to the rest of the US and the world. The weather is mild and sunny, making it a great place to enjoy outdoor activities. There is a diverse range of restaurants, bars, and cafes to explore, and the city is home to a thriving arts and music scene. Expats and digital nomads in Sacramento can also benefit from the city's strong job market and excellent educational opportunities," remarked one expat who made the move to Sacramento.

"People's lives revolve mostly around working all day to pay the bills, then coming home and socializing. Family isn't really a big priority here mainly because most families here are dysfunctional or broken," explained one expat living in Sacramento, US.

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What do expats in Sacramento appreciate most about the local culture?

"Expats in Sacramento appreciate the city's diverse culture, with a variety of ethnicities and backgrounds represented in the population. They also enjoy the city's vibrant art and music scene, with a variety of galleries, museums, and live music venues. The city's close proximity to the Sierra Nevada Mountains and Lake Tahoe also makes it a great destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and skiing. Additionally, the city's mild climate and abundance of parks and green spaces make it a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors," said one expat who made the move to Sacramento.

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What do expats find most challenging?

"Expats in Sacramento often find it challenging to adjust to the local culture due to the city's diverse population. The city is home to a variety of cultures, languages, and religions, which can make it difficult for expats to find a sense of belonging. Additionally, the city's climate can be difficult to adjust to, as Sacramento experiences hot summers and cold winters. Furthermore, the cost of living in Sacramento is higher than in many other cities in the US, which can be a challenge for expats on a budget," remarked one expat living in Sacramento, the United States.

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Is there a lot of crime in Sacramento?

We asked people if there is a lot of crime. They answered:

"Sacramento has seen an increase in crime in recent years. The city has experienced a rise in violent crime, including homicides, robberies, and aggravated assaults. Property crime, such as burglary, larceny, and motor vehicle theft, is also on the rise. The Sacramento Police Department is actively working to reduce crime in the city," wrote a member in Sacramento.

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Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Sacramento accepting of differences?

"Sacramento is a diverse city with a variety of ethnicities, cultures, and backgrounds. People in Sacramento are generally accepting of differences and strive to create an inclusive and welcoming environment. The city is home to a variety of organizations and initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion," remarked one expat who made the move to Sacramento.

"Sacramento is probably one of the most diverse cities in North America next to LA and Toronto. Religiously people will accept you, but non-religious ideologies are growing here. Culturally it is both segregated and inter-mized depending on where you go. The inner city area you will tend to find predominantley Black,Mexican,or South East Asian neighborhoods. However, the farther you go out the neighborhoods become more diverse. People here tend to be ignorant toward other races/ethnicities, you will one time or another run into some racial prejudices, but not all the time. Economically we are like most of the country suffering from the mortgage crisis, however housing costs are at a low for the time being, so if shouldnt be hard to find a house under $200,000 right now," explained one expat living in Sacramento, US.

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What are the schools in Sacramento like?

"Sacramento is home to a variety of excellent international and bilingual schools. The International School of Sacramento (ISOS) is a private, non-profit school that offers a rigorous, college-preparatory curriculum in English and Spanish. ISOS is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and art. The school also offers a variety of cultural and language immersion programs, such as Spanish, French, and Mandarin Chinese. The Sacramento Japanese School is a private school that offers a bilingual education in Japanese and English. The school offers a variety of classes, including Japanese language, culture, and history. The school also offers a variety of extracurricular activities, such as sports, music, and art. The Sacramento Chinese School is a private school that offers a bilingual education in Chinese and English. The school offers a variety of classes, including Chinese language, culture, and history. The school also offers a variety of extracurricular activities, such as sports, music, and art. The Sacramento Korean School is a private school that offers a bilingual education in Korean and English. The school offers a variety of classes, including Korean language, culture, and history. The school also offers a variety of extracurricular activities, such as sports, music, and art. The Sacramento International Academy is a private school that offers a bilingual education in Spanish and English. The school offers a variety of classes, including Spanish language, culture, and history. The school also offers a variety of extracurricular activities, such as sports, music, and art," commented one expat when asked about in Sacramento.

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What are the pros and cons of living in Sacramento?

Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Sacramento responded:

"Expats and digital nomads living in Sacramento appreciate the city's affordability, diverse cultural attractions, and proximity to outdoor activities. They also enjoy the city's vibrant food scene, with a variety of restaurants and food trucks to explore. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may find the city's hot summers and lack of public transportation to be drawbacks," said one expat.

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What type of social life can someone expect in Sacramento?

When we asked expats and global nomads about their social experiences in Sacramento, they replied:

"Expatriates, retirees, and digital nomads living in Sacramento typically have an active social life. There are many opportunities to meet new people and make friends, such as attending local events, joining clubs and organizations, and participating in outdoor activities. Sacramento is home to a vibrant arts and culture scene, with plenty of galleries, museums, and live music venues to explore. There are also plenty of restaurants, bars, and cafes to enjoy, as well as a variety of outdoor activities to take part in. With its diverse population, Sacramento is a great place to meet people from all walks of life and make lasting connections," remarked one expat in Sacramento.

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"Sacramento is a vibrant city with a lively social scene. There are plenty of bars, restaurants, and clubs to explore, as well as a variety of cultural events and activities to enjoy. The city is home to a diverse population, so there are plenty of opportunities to meet people from all walks of life. Whether you're looking for a night out on the town or a more relaxed evening with friends, Sacramento has something for everyone," commented one expat living in Sacramento, the United States.

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What advice to expats in Sacramento have about housing?

"Expats in Sacramento recommend researching the different neighborhoods to find the best fit for your lifestyle. It is also important to consider the commute to work and other amenities when looking for a place to live. Additionally, it is wise to look into the safety of the area and the availability of public transportation. Lastly, it is important to factor in the cost of living when deciding on a place to live in Sacramento," commented one expat living in Sacramento, the United States.

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What are medical services in Sacramento like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Sacramento, they replied:

"Sacramento offers a wide range of medical services to meet the needs of its residents. The city is home to a number of hospitals, clinics, and specialty care centers that provide comprehensive care for a variety of medical conditions. Patients can access primary care, emergency care, and specialty care services, as well as preventive care and wellness services. Additionally, Sacramento is home to a number of research centers and medical schools, providing access to the latest medical treatments and technologies," said one expat living in Sacramento.

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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Sacramento?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Sacramento can be expensive. The cost of healthcare services and health insurance premiums can vary depending on the type of coverage and provider. Generally, health insurance premiums tend to be higher in California than in other states, and the cost of healthcare services can also be higher than in other parts of the country. Additionally, the cost of health insurance can be affected by the type of plan chosen, the deductible, and the amount of coverage," remarked one expat in Sacramento.

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Is the cost of living in Sacramento high?

We asked people about the cost of living in Sacramento, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Sacramento is generally considered to be quite affordable. Rental prices for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Sacramento range from around $1,000 to $1,500 per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can range from around $1,400 to $2,000 per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Sacramento can cost around $20 per person," said an expat in Sacramento.

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What are the visa & residency requirements in Sacramento?

"In order to obtain a visa to live in Sacramento, California, an individual must first apply for a nonimmigrant visa through the United States Department of State. This process involves submitting an application, providing supporting documents, and attending an interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Once the visa is approved, the individual can then travel to the United States. In order to apply for residency in Sacramento, California, an individual must first obtain a valid visa. Once the visa is obtained, the individual must then apply for a green card, which is the official document that grants permanent residency in the United States. This process involves submitting an application, providing supporting documents, and attending an interview at the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services office. Once the green card is approved, the individual can then live and work in the United States," wrote one expat living in Sacramento.

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Why do people move to Sacramento?

When we asked people why foreigners move to Sacramento, they responded:

"Sacramento is an attractive destination for expats due to its diverse culture, vibrant economy, and affordable cost of living. The city is home to a wide variety of cultural attractions, including the Crocker Art Museum, the California State Railroad Museum, and the Sacramento Zoo. The city also boasts a thriving job market, with many opportunities in the tech, healthcare, and government sectors. Additionally, Sacramento is known for its mild climate, with warm summers and mild winters. With its low cost of living, Sacramento is an ideal place for expats to settle down and enjoy all that the city has to offer," mentioned an expat living in Sacramento.

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About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

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