Retire in Sacramento, the United States
Last updated on Feb 18, 2023
Summary: Retirees are attracted to Sacramento, United States for its mild climate, affordable housing, and vibrant culture. There are several retirement communities in Sacramento, such as Eskaton Village, Eskaton Lodge, and Eskaton Monroe Lodge, which offer a variety of amenities such as swimming pools, fitness centers, and social activities. The average cost of a nice 2 bedroom home in Sacramento is around $300,000, while a nice 3 bedroom home can cost around $400,000. The weather in Sacramento is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-30s in the winter to the mid-90s in the summer.
What is it like to retire in Sacramento?
"Sacramento and its surrounding areas offer retirees a variety of activities and attractions. There is an active expat community in the area, with many retirees from other countries living in the area. There are plenty of cultural attractions to explore, such as the Crocker Art Museum, the California State Railroad Museum, and the California State Capitol Museum. There are also plenty of recreational activities to enjoy, such as hiking, biking, and kayaking. For those looking for nightlife, there are plenty of bars, restaurants, and clubs to explore," remarked one retiree in Sacramento.

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What advice do overseas retirees have for others considering retiring abroad?
"Retirees in Sacramento advise others considering retiring abroad to research the country they are considering thoroughly, including the cost of living, healthcare, and safety. They also suggest talking to people who have already retired abroad to get a better understanding of what to expect. Additionally, they recommend having a plan for how to stay connected with family and friends back home. Finally, they suggest having a backup plan in case the country of choice does not work out," remarked one retiree in Sacramento.
"Retire overseas with an open mind; avoid making snap judgements about the culture, language, and customs of the country you are visiting, and be ready to learn and experience something new. Be mindful of the costs associated with relocating abroad, including taxes, shipping and shipping fees, medical costs, and the cost of living. Research the local economy and political climate; be aware of any restrictions regarding visas and work permits. Make sure that you have a secure retirement income that is portable, and check out the availability of banking services and money transfer mechanisms for where you will be living. Consider holidays, family visits, and other arrangements to stay connected to your home country. Find out what the local healthcare delivery system is like, and consider joining a health service provider to ensure you are covered in case of illness or injury. Have a plan that allows you to stay connected to family and friends abroad. Most of all, research the culture, local customs, and etiquette of the country you are retiring in, and try to make the most of your experience by immersing yourself in it," said a retiree who moved to Sacramento, United States.
What are the most challenging aspects of retiring in Sacramento?
"One of the most challenging aspects of retiring in Sacramento is the cost of living. The cost of housing, food, and other necessities can be quite high, making it difficult to maintain a comfortable lifestyle on a fixed income. Additionally, Sacramento can experience extreme temperatures during the summer months, making it difficult to stay comfortable without air conditioning. Finally, Sacramento is a large city, and navigating the public transportation system can be difficult for those who are unfamiliar with the area," said one retiree in living in Sacramento, the United States.

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What are the most rewarding aspects of retiring in Sacramento?
"Retiring in Sacramento offers a variety of rewarding experiences. With its mild climate, Sacramento is a great place to enjoy outdoor activities year-round. The city is also home to a vibrant arts and culture scene, with plenty of museums, galleries, and performing arts venues to explore. Sacramento is also known for its diverse and delicious food scene, with a variety of restaurants, cafes, and farmers markets to choose from. Additionally, Sacramento is a great place to stay active, with plenty of parks, trails, and recreational activities to enjoy," said one retiree in living in Sacramento, the United States.
What are healthcare services like in Sacramento?
We asked retirees if they have access to good medical care in Sacramento. They wrote:
"Sacramento offers a wide range of healthcare services, including primary care, specialty care, urgent care, and mental health services. Primary care services are provided by family physicians, pediatricians, and internal medicine specialists. Specialty care services are available for a variety of conditions, including cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. Urgent care services are available for non-life-threatening medical issues, such as minor injuries and illnesses. Mental health services are provided by psychiatrists, psychologists, and counselors. Additionally, Sacramento has a number of hospitals and clinics that provide comprehensive healthcare services," explained one retiree living in Sacramento.
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," explained one retiree living 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," said one retiree in living in Sacramento, US.
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," said one retiree in 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," commented one retiree living in Sacramento, US.

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What do I need to know before retiring 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 retiree living in Sacramento.
"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 retiree in living in Sacramento, US.
What type of recreational activities are there in Sacramento?
"Sacramento offers a variety of recreational facilities for its residents and visitors. The Sacramento Zoo is a popular destination, featuring over 140 species of animals, including giraffes, elephants, and tigers. The Sacramento River Cats Minor League Baseball team plays at Raley Field, offering a fun and exciting atmosphere for baseball fans. The Sacramento State Aquatic Center is a great place to go for swimming, kayaking, and other water activities. The American River Parkway is a great place to go for biking, running, and walking, with over 30 miles of trails. The Sacramento State Arboretum is a beautiful botanical garden with over 5,000 species of plants and trees. The Folsom Lake State Recreation Area is a great place to go for camping, fishing, and boating. Finally, the Sacramento State Recreation Center offers a variety of activities, including basketball, volleyball, and tennis," explained one retiree living in Sacramento.
Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Sacramento?
"Sacramento is home to a variety of stores and markets that cater to expats. One popular grocery store is the Nugget Market, which offers a wide selection of international foods and products. The Sacramento Natural Foods Co-op is another great option for expats, offering organic and locally-sourced produce, as well as a variety of international items. For other shopping needs, expats can visit the Arden Fair Mall, which features a variety of stores, including department stores, specialty shops, and restaurants. Additionally, the Downtown Sacramento area is home to a variety of boutiques, antique stores, and other unique shops," wrote one person in Sacramento.
About the Author
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.
Other Questions:
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- Will I be able to find a job in Sacramento?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do expats in Sacramento appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
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- How are healthcare services Sacramento?
- What are medical services in Sacramento like?
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- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?