Mark Twain theorized that Yreka gained its name after a bakery in the area lost the letter B from its sign. For whatever reason, from that point onwards, folks began to spell the name backwards but without the missing B, creating Yreka!
The city of Yreka (not to be confused with Eureka, which is also located in California) is the county seat of Siskiyou County. It is located in Shasta Valley, approximately 2,500 feet above sea level. To the south is Mount Shasta while in the north are the Siskiyou Mountains. The city experiences hot summers with mild to cool winters. A large part of the local economy depends on the tourist trade. Tourists like to visit Yreka in part due to its location toward the northern edge of the scenically beautiful Shasta Cascade as well as the city's picturesque, historic downtown area. The National Register of Historic Places has listed West Miner Street as a historic district.
Moving to Yreka
Prior to making a move to a new place, it's good to know what really makes it tick. Understanding some of the facts and how things work is good policy, particularly when it comes to renting.
What's Available?
Not a lot! As such, it's wise to plan ahead; don't wait too long to begin your search. Ideally, you'd be well-set if you were to afford six to seven weeks to conduct your quest to find a home for rent in Yreka.
When's Best?
No time of the year stands out as the best to go on the hunt. Winter, spring, summer, fall -- it's all pretty much the same. Nevertheless, try to avoid the weekends and holidays. Why so? Well, you'd likely find that realtors and landlords in Yreka have a strong preference for conducting business within normal working hours. As such, weekends and holidays are generally rather unappealing.
What's Needed?
Some landlords can be fussy and ask for the whole caboodle -- references, proof of income, proof of employment, proof of ID, credit history, a major deposit, and maybe even a detailed list of what you ate for dinner over the past week. You get the picture. On the other hand, other landlords simply will not care much one way or the other, particularly with respect to the detailed food list.
Yreka Neighborhoods
The cost of living is a great deal less than the state average, and this is also reflected in rental prices. Thus, if you're intent on relocating to Yreka and finding yourself a place to crash, good fortune is certainly on your side.
4th Street: This area has a Walk Score of a very healthy 88 from 100. As soon as you close your apartment door, you'll immediately be greeted by amenities. There are a couple of gas stations, a few banks -- including Bank of America and Tri Counties Bank -- and no less than 14 dining establishments nearby.
North Foothill Drive: With views out over the Siskiyou Mountains, North Foothill Drive might just be your dream come true! It's a good place for property rentals too, including rental condos and rental apts.
South Gold Street: For a more historic ambiance, check out South Gold Street, where you'll find old architectural buildings constructed back in the late 1800s. The Walk Score is verging on excellent at 85 from 100, and the crime rating is zero.
Living in Yreka
Yreka is well served by the surrounding road network, with Interstate 5 and California State Routes 3 and 264 all going through the city. As for keeping busy? Well, Greenhorn Park on Greenhorn Road is a super place for trails. Take your bike, take a stroll, take your pooch for a poop. It's entirely up to you. Kayaking and fishing are also available, although it's best to venture to the lake to partake of such activities. Siskiyou County Museum on South Main Street offers displays of native arts and crafts. The conference rooms at the museum are even decked out to represent the old-style saloon but without the whiskey galore. Pity! West Miner Street Historic District on West Miner and Thirds Streets is another opportunity to witness a blast from the past. A fine mix of eclectic flair and traditional charm is offered here, and you can't help but get a sense that there's still gold in them there hills!