What Is Sacramento Known For? A Guide for Renters [2025]

If you ask someone from California, "What is Sacramento known for?" they might share tips on farm-to-table restaurants, outdoor stops, its gold rush history, farmers markets, and capital city landmarks. The blend of Old Sacramento with a thriving downtown area offers something for everyone, even if you’re looking for a family-friendly suburb.

Compared to other major California cities like San Francisco or Los Angeles, Sacramento boasts lower rental costs while still offering urban amenities, cultural attractions, and a thriving food scene. Locals enjoy mild weather, a growing economy, and a laid-back lifestyle with all the perks of living in California. Learn more about what Sacramento is known for and why it’s worth considering for your next move.

What Is Sacramento Best Known For?

1. Old Sacramento

Sacramento’s story begins with the 1848 gold rush, when gold was discovered in the Sacramento Valley, transforming the region into a bustling hub for fortune seekers. Today, visitors can step back in time in Old Sacramento, a beautifully preserved historic district along the Sacramento River.

With its cobblestone streets, wooden sidewalks, and gold rush-era buildings, the area captures the charm of the 19th century. Horse-drawn carriages still roll through the streets, while riverboats offer scenic cruises. The California State Railroad Museum brings the city’s rail history to life with interactive exhibits and excursion train rides, while the Sacramento History Museum showcases artifacts from Sacramento’s early days.

The area is filled with activities and unique experiences, from a gold rush-themed mini golf course to kid-friendly saloons serving ice cream. Many of the shops are tucked into historic basements, adding to the district’s distinctive charm. Ghost stories add to the intrigue, with locals saying the spirits of the past still linger.

2. Sutter’s Fort

Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park is a part of California’s early pioneer era, offering visitors a glimpse into what it was like during the gold rush. Established in 1839 by Swiss immigrant John Sutter, the fort became the economic and agricultural heart of New Helvetia, the first permanent European colonial settlement in California’s Central Valley. During its peak, the fort served as a trading hub, agricultural outpost, and refuge for settlers, playing a significant role in shaping California’s development. It also marked a pivotal point in history when gold was discovered at Sutter’s Mill in 1848, triggering the gold rush that transformed the region forever.

Today, Sutter’s Fort offers an immersive experience into pioneer life, with restored adobe walls, wooden gates, and working demonstrations of 19th-century trades. Visitors can explore the armory, kitchen, blacksmith shop, and candle-making stations, each showcasing the daily skills and craftsmanship essential to survival in early California. Living history programs and costumed interpreters bring the fort’s past to life, making it a fascinating and educational stop for history buffs and families alike.

3. California State Capitol Park

The California State Capitol in Sacramento is a stunning architectural landmark, a center of political history, and a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the Golden State’s past and present. Completed in 1874, the neoclassical-style Capitol building features a striking white dome reminiscent of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. Inside, visitors can explore the Capitol Museum, which offers exhibits on California’s legislative history, influential leaders, and key moments in state politics. Walking through its grand hallways, you'll see beautifully preserved 19th-century rooms, historic artifacts, and even live sessions of the California State Assembly and Senate in action.

The Capitol grounds span 40 acres of lush gardens, with towering palm trees, colorful flower beds, and dozens of monuments honoring California’s rich history. Highlights include statues dedicated to veterans, law enforcement, and key historical figures, as well as native and international plant species that make it one of the most scenic spots in Sacramento. The World Peace Rose Garden, a favorite among visitors, bursts with more than 650 roses, while the Civil War Memorial Grove, planted with saplings from famous battlefields, offers a quiet place for reflection.

4. Farm-to-Fork

Sacramento is known as the Farm-to-Fork Capital and is surrounded by rich farmland that supplies its restaurants with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. From Michelin-starred dining at The Kitchen to casual bites at one of more than 50 farmers markets, the region’s food culture is deeply rooted in sustainability and seasonality.

Local chefs take pride in showcasing local ingredients, and the city’s Farm-to-Fork Festival draws thousands of food lovers every year, celebrating Sacramento’s thriving agricultural and culinary scene. Even the Golden 1 Center, home to the NBA’s Sacramento Kings, sources 90% of its food locally, setting a national standard for sustainable dining in sports arenas.

The farm-to-fork philosophy extends far beyond restaurants. Farm tours, culinary tours, and wine tastings offer immersive experiences that connect visitors directly with the people growing their food. Craft breweries and award-winning wineries elevate the local beverage scene, while hands-on cooking classes let food lovers sharpen their skills with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Sacramento farmers contribute 80% of the domestic caviar supply and grow nearly all of the nation’s sushi rice, proving that this city’s impact on food extends far beyond its borders.

5. Local Wineries and Breweries

Sometimes referred to as "the Napa Valley of 30 years ago," the Sacramento area is home to more than 200 wineries, offering intimate, often free wine tastings where visitors can meet winemakers and explore the craft firsthand. The diverse soil and terrain of the Sacramento Valley and Gold Country allow vintners to produce a wide variety of wines, from bold Cabernet Sauvignons to crisp Chardonnays, making the region a hidden gem for wine lovers.

The city is also experiencing a craft beer renaissance, with more than 50 breweries shaping the local scene. Pre-Prohibition, Sacramento was the largest beer producer west of the Mississippi, home to iconic brewers like Buffalo Brewing Company and Captain Frank Ruhstaller. Today, spots like Track Seven Brewing Company and Urban Roots Brewery and Smokehouse continue that legacy, offering bold and innovative flavors. Local hop yards supply fresh ingredients to brewers, and beer lovers can enjoy brewery tours, beer-pairing dinners, and multiple beer festivals throughout the year.

6. The Sacramento River and American River Parkway

Sacramento’s rivers are the lifeblood of the region, shaping its history, economy, and outdoor culture. The Sacramento River, California’s largest, begins high in the Sierra Nevada and stretches 380 miles before merging with the San Joaquin River in the vast Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. Along the way, it irrigates over 2 million acres of farmland in the Central Valley and provides a crucial habitat for diverse wildlife, including endangered salmon that migrate from the Pacific Ocean.

The American River Parkway, a 32-mile stretch of trails and riverfront, offers a peaceful escape right in the heart of the city. Easily accessible from Tower Bridge, it’s the perfect place for walking, jogging, and biking, with stunning views of both the downtown skyline and the untouched beauty of the riverbanks.

7. Outdoor Activities in Sacramento

Sacramento’s year-round mild weather and more than 200 parks make it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Outdoor spaces like McKinley Park in East Sacramento feature a stunning rose garden, a jogging path, a playground, and tennis courts, offering a perfect mix of relaxation and activity. William Land Park, home to Fairytale Town and the Sacramento Zoo, provides spacious picnic areas, sports fields, and scenic walking trails. Meanwhile, Southside Park stands out with its basketball and tennis courts, a pretty pond, and a fun playground, all set against the city skyline. Other outdoor activities include whitewater rafting on the American River, as well as kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing on Folsom Lake and Lake Natoma.

8. Sacramento Art

Sacramento has quickly gained momentum over the years as a vibrant arts community. The annual Wide Open Walls festival, established in 2016, has transformed the city into an expansive outdoor gallery, commissioning over 600 murals by local, national, and international artists.

The city's commitment to the arts is further exemplified by the Crocker Art Museum, the oldest public art museum west of the Mississippi River, founded in 1885. The museum boasts an extensive collection that spans various periods and styles, including the world's foremost display of California art from the gold rush era to contemporary works. Visitors can explore European master drawings, international ceramics, and a diverse array of Asian, African, and Oceanic art.

Adding to the cultural landscape, Midtown is a residential community full of galleries, live music venues, and theaters, hosting events throughout the year that showcase emerging and established artists.

9. Sacramento Sports Teams

Sacramento is a city with a deep passion for sports, fueled by dedicated fans and a growing roster of teams. The Sacramento Kings, the city's NBA franchise, play at the state-of-the-art Golden 1 Center, an arena known for its eco-friendly design, cutting-edge technology, and game-day atmosphere. As one of the most loyal fanbases in the league, Kings supporters pack the stands to cheer on their team, creating one of the loudest and most spirited environments in the NBA.

Soccer has also found a devoted following in the city, with Sacramento Republic FC leading the charge. The club has built a strong reputation in the USL Championship and continues to draw large crowds, with hopes of securing an eventual Major League Soccer (MLS) expansion.

10. Sacramento Music Festivals

Sacramento has built a reputation as a top destination for music lovers, offering a diverse mix of festivals and live performances throughout the year. The city draws fans from across the region with major events like Aftershock Festival, one of the largest rock and metal festivals on the West Coast, featuring legendary headliners and rising stars in hard rock. The Hot Jazz Jubilee brings together top jazz musicians for a weekend of smooth, soulful performances, while the GoldenSky Country Music Fest celebrates the country’s biggest names with two days of high-energy shows. In addition, Sacramento’s music scene extends beyond large festivals, with intimate venues in Midtown and Downtown hosting live performances every night of the week.

Renter Life in Sacramento

• Median rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,367
• Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,727
• Median home value: $484,600
• Population: 524,943

Living in Sacramento means enjoying the charm of a smaller city while still having access to all the amenities you’d expect from a California hub. With more affordable housing compared to San Francisco or Los Angeles, Sacramento attracts families, professionals, and retirees alike.

You can also consider the U.S. Census Bureau data, which states the median household income in Sacramento is $83,753. That’s a bit above the national median household income of $78,538 a year.

To figure out how much you can afford for rent, we recommend sticking to the 30% rule, which stipulates spending up to 30% of your take-home pay on rent. If you rent a one-bedroom apartment for $1,382 a month, you need to earn at least $55,280 a year in Sacramento, or $4,606.67 a month after taxes, to live comfortably. Remember, this is just a general guideline. You may need to earn more if you have student loans, want to save up for a big expense, or plan to travel more.

Sacramento Population

Sacramento is home to 524,943 people, with 21% of residents being foreign-born and 22% under the age of 18. Sacramentans are a mix of mellow city folk who embrace the area's unmatched diversity and generally have an accepting nature. While the city has its rougher edges, most people here are friendly, generous, and deeply connected to the outdoors.

Culturally, Sacramentans tend to be humble and down-to-earth, valuing authenticity over status. They are mindful of others' feelings and sensitive to causing offense, making the city feel welcoming. However, they don’t take kindly to arrogance or elitism, as those traits contradict the strong sense of community and grounded values many hold. This creates an atmosphere where people appreciate sincerity, hard work, and a genuine connection with their neighbors.

Economy and Jobs in Sacramento

As California’s state capital, Sacramento has long relied on government jobs, but its economy has expanded into healthcare, education, technology, construction, and clean energy, creating new opportunities across industries.

Healthcare remains one of the city's largest employers, with Sutter Medical Center, UC Davis Medical Center, and Dignity Health leading the sector. Similarly, education plays a major role, with Sacramento State University and the University of California, Davis providing thousands of jobs while driving research and innovation.

Sacramento’s affordability compared to the Bay Area has helped fuel technology growth, attracting companies like Intel. Its proximity to California’s agricultural heartland has also made it a hub for agricultural technology, where advancements in precision farming and sustainability are shaping the future of food production.

The city's commitment to clean energy has further diversified the economy, spurring growth in solar, wind, and energy storage industries. Meanwhile, construction continues to thrive as Sacramento expands to accommodate its growing workforce.

Best Places to Live in Sacramento

Sacramento offers a mix of urban, suburban, and natural settings, making it easy to find a neighborhood that fits your lifestyle. Whether you prefer a lively downtown atmosphere or a quiet suburban retreat, here are some of the best places to live.

• Downtown Sacramento – A walkable, bike-friendly area with great restaurants, open-air markets, and weekend activities, though it has some petty crime and homelessness.
• Midtown – The heart of Sacramento’s cultural scene, with restaurants, bars, art galleries, and music venues.
• East Sacramento – Known for its tree-lined streets, classic architecture, and tight-knit community.
• Arden-Arcade – Conveniently located near shopping, dining, bike trails, and quick access to Downtown.
• West Sacramento – A lush, green area with walking and biking trails connecting to the rivers.
• Rosemont – A diverse, friendly community where neighbors feel a strong sense of belonging.
• Carmichael – Offers quick access to nature, scenic bike rides, and plenty of farmers markets.
• Natomas – A suburban community with spacious homes, top-rated schools, and plenty of parks.

Find Your Next Apartment in Sacramento

Looking for the perfect place to call home in Sacramento? Whether you’re drawn to the historic charm of East Sacramento, the vibrant energy of Midtown, or the family-friendly appeal of Natomas, Sacramento has a neighborhood that’s perfect for you.

Take the Apartment List quiz to find rentals tailored to your lifestyle and preferences. Start your Sacramento adventure by finding the perfect place to call home. With us, you’ll spend five minutes and save 50 hours searching.