Sacramento, CA
Although many people have dreams of making it in Hollywood or landing a job in Silicon Valley, Sacramento is one of the best places to live in California. Sacramento, the capital city of California, could easily be overlooked compared to some of the larger cities and attractions in the state, but don't let that deter you.
Sacramento is a large city with a metropolitan area population that exceeds 2 million. It is the fifth largest city in the state. Despite its size, Sacramento is known for having a lush tree-filled environment along the streets. Consequently, it has been nicknamed the "City of Trees."
The tranquil green atmosphere provides a low-stress lifestyle, and the weather is not as hot here as it is in other large cities in California. This is partially due to the pleasant summer breezes that blow in from the delta. If you enjoy some occasional snow, there are mountain areas within a short drive to satisfy your joy of snow-related activities.
Outdoor activities are plentiful for people who enjoy water sports and other pastimes. The plentiful array of rivers in the region offer a wide variety of aquatic activities, including rafting, kayaking and boating. The mild warm weather that persists throughout the year makes Sacramento an ideal place for outdoor sports such as hiking, biking and running events.
There is a large farm community surrounding the city, so a rich tradition of farm-to-table cuisine makes Sacramento a great place for restaurant fans. People who enjoy fresh produce can visit dozens of farmers' markets in the region, one of which is the largest in the state.
Compared to other prominent cities in California, Sacramento is relatively affordable. The real estate prices are well below the average for the state but still much higher than the national average. The costs for living expenses, such as groceries and utilities, are on par with what you would pay in other parts of the country. If you want to make use of public transportation in Sacramento, there are a variety of options that include buses, light rail and a dial-a-ride service for the disabled.
There are plenty of things to see and do in Sacramento. Some of the most noteworthy attractions include the Crocker Art Museum, the California State Railroad Museum and the Sacramento Zoo. The city also has an NBA team, the Sacramento Kings, and people who enjoy the fine arts can visit the B Street Theater for a dose of culture. For some family fun, you can go to Raging Waters to enjoy wild activities at a large water park.
In Sacramento, you can find a variety of high-quality dining options that are not priced as high as exclusive restaurants in Los Angeles or San Francisco. The city is home to a fine Italian restaurant launched by the world-famous chef Biba Caggiano. This and many other local restaurants make Sacramento a town that should satisfy most people's cravings for good food in a farm-to-table tradition.