Established back in 1866, Live Oak was the second officially settled city in Sutter County, California. The California-Oregon Railroad played a major role in its growth and establishment, though the city wasn't incorporated until 1947.
Located in Sutter County, California, Live Oak is a rural area. The city provides a home to about 8,392 residents (according to the 2010 Census) and has a location convenient to Highway 99. With its position within the Yuba City Metropolitan Statistical Area, Live Oak offers a host of amenities close to home, as well as proximity to activities and resources in places like San Francisco and Sacramento. Summers in this part of the state tend to be very hot and dry, with temperatures reaching well into the 90s. Winter brings more rain and cooler temperatures, but even then highs typically climb into the 50s.
Moving to Live Oak
Vacancy rates tend to be on the low side, so if you find an apartment for rent in Live Oak, you may do well to apply for it right away. Of course, applying is just the start of things, and you'll need to present yourself as a good tenant to get approved. Show up for your rental tours a few minutes early and have proof of income, references and photo identification on hand. It's also a good idea to have your checkbook, as many landlords will require a deposit of some sort to hold a rental for you. Once you're ready to sign the lease, you may have to pay one month's rent or more. In many cases, a security deposit is required as well.
There isn't really a wrong time to look for a rental in Live Oak. However, some times of the year may be more comfortable for moving in than others. You may want to avoid the hottest and wettest times of the year, which means planning your move for May or September. The area sees a good deal of rain from October to April, and June, July and August typically bring the highest temperatures.
Neighborhoods in Live Oak
A small city, Live Oak spans just a little over 1.8 square miles. As such, it doesn't have many defined neighborhoods. In fact, newcomers may find it easier to think of Live Oak as one extended neighborhood rather than the average city. However, considering the following two sections of town may help you narrow your choices when it comes to your next home.
Encinal / Lomo: Despite its location within a rural city, this part of town has a slightly more rural feel. If you're looking for a house rental, you'll likely find a selection of smaller to medium-size homes. If a rental apartment is more your style, you'll find small apartment buildings and homes converted into apartments here. Rental prices are lower than those in about three quarters of other California communities, yet they are generally higher than average for the country overall. The area has a Walk Score of 8, so you will need a car to get just about everywhere. Hop in your car to head to Sutter Buttes State Park and The Pizza Place.
City Center: If your rental budget is tight, this part of Live Oak can provide options. You can rent here for less than it would cost in the vast majority of other California neighborhoods. This area doesn't have as many two-bedroom apartments for rent, however. What it does have is condos for rent, townhomes and single-family houses. The townhomes and houses are mostly small to medium size. Like most parts of Live Oak, the City Center area has a Walk Score of just 8, which means you'll likely need a car to get to the Gridley Museum or the Bellissima Boutique. Opt for a cab after you wet your whistle at the Broadway Lounge.
Nearby Apartment Complexes
There aren't a whole lot of apartment complexes to choose from in Live Oak, since smaller apartment buildings and houses are the name of the game here. Still, there are a few to consider:
Country Oaks Apartments: This complex is located at 2551 Allen Street. It offers central air and heat as well as vertical blinds and carpeting.
Marple Park: This small apartment complex is located at 2340 Gum Street in Live Oak and features two-bedroom apartments as well as townhomes with up to four bedrooms. The complex also has a community room and basketball courts.
Living in Live Oak
People in Live Oak have a range of shopping venues to choose from, including several grocery stores and places to grab a bite to eat, such as the Live Oak Donut Shop. There are two parks in the area and a library. You won't find much in the way of public transportation in this area, so you'll need to drive to the Tower Supermarket and Straw Hat Pizza. Other than a local bar or two, there's not much nightlife. Don't worry, though. San Francisco and Sacramento are within driving distance. You'll even have driving access to Lake Tahoe from here.