🏡 14 Best Sacramento Suburbs for Families in 2026

🎓 Schools • 🚗 Commute • 💰 Value

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Hey, it’s Jake DaRosa with The DaRosa Team here in Greater Sacramento. Thinking about moving to the Greater Sacramento area in 2026?
Before you spend hours scrolling through listings or driving random neighborhoods, let’s make your search easier. I’ve analyzed 14 top suburbs across the region—based on schools, home prices, commute options, outdoor lifestyle, and resale value.

Some of these areas absolutely crush it for family living, while others shine in specific categories like affordability, space, or lake access. By the end, you’ll know exactly where to focus based on your budget, lifestyle, and long-term goals.

Also if you're  🚚 Thinking of Moving to Sacramento or want to know more about the area?

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🥇 Championship Tier – “Top of the Top”

Source: Google Wikipedia

Granite Bay (Placer County)

If prestige had an address, it might be Granite Bay. Tucked along the north edge of Folsom Lake, this Placer County gem balances luxury living with natural beauty. Expect sprawling estates, gated neighborhoods, and towering oaks that create a sense of serenity you won’t find in most newer suburbs.

Families move here for the A+ schools — including Granite Bay High and the Eureka Union School District — and stay for the community’s long-term stability. Homes start around $1 million, and many feature large custom lots, pools, and lake access. Residents enjoy a blend of exclusive privacy and active outdoor life — boating, biking, and hiking are all just minutes away.

In short: Granite Bay offers prestige, peace, and timeless value — the ideal fit for families who want sophistication without sacrificing space or nature.

Source: Goldkey Storage - El Dorado Hills

El Dorado Hills (El Dorado County)

El Dorado Hills brings a touch of resort-style living to everyday life. Rolling hills, lake views, and master-planned neighborhoods define this area, with standout communities like Serrano, known for its country club and golf course, and Blackstone, famous for its newer homes and hillside views.

Families love the A-rated schools like Oak Ridge High and Buckeye Union, while professionals appreciate the easy access to Highway 50 — putting you just 30 minutes from Sacramento and 90 minutes from Lake Tahoe.

The heart of the community is Town Center, a lively spot with restaurants, concerts, a skating rink during winter, and outdoor events year-round. With median prices between $850K and $1M, El Dorado Hills offers a luxurious yet family-centered lifestyle that’s hard to beat.

Also if you're  🚚 Thinking of Moving to Sacramento or want to know more about the area?

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🏆 Excellence Tier – “Top Schools + Everyday Convenience”

Source: Google Wikipedia 

Folsom (Sacramento County)

Historic charm meets modern convenience in Folsom. With its cobblestone streets in Old Folsom, family-friendly parks, and the ever-growing Folsom Ranch development south of Highway 50, the city beautifully blends old and new.

Top-rated schools like Vista del Lago and Folsom High draw families from across the region, while the proximity to major employers like Intel and Micron make it popular among tech professionals. The trails, lakes, and shopping districts add to the appeal — everything feels close and connected.

Median home prices hover around $721K, with options ranging from charming historic cottages to brand-new builds with mountain views. Folsom continues to be one of Sacramento’s most balanced and livable communities.

Source: Placer Living

Loomis (Placer County)

If you’ve ever dreamed of a slower pace without losing access to great schools and city conveniences, Loomis might be your spot. It’s the kind of town where kids still ride bikes down country roads and neighbors wave when you drive by.

This semi-rural gem offers horse properties, orchards, and small farms, yet you’re only a few minutes from Rocklin and Roseville. The schools are stellar — Del Oro High (A) and Franklin Elementary (A–) — and the community’s small-town charm has attracted families looking for both privacy and connection.

Homes typically start around $750K, but larger estates easily climb north of $1 million. Loomis is where country living meets quality education, making it perfect for families who want space, peace, and top-tier schools.

Source: Placer Living

Rocklin (Placer County)

Rocklin is the suburb that checks almost every box for families — and that’s why it consistently ranks as one of the most desirable cities in the region. It offers A-rated schools, master-planned communities, and an abundance of parks and trails that weave through its neighborhoods.

Popular areas like Whitney Ranch and Stanford Ranch feature family-friendly layouts, community events, and strong HOA amenities. The median home price sits around $722K, and the Rocklin Unified School District earns consistent A ratings across the board.

With easy freeway access to I-80 and Highway 65, a strong job market nearby, and steady property value growth, Rocklin is a safe, smart, and vibrant place to call home.

Also if you're  🚚 Thinking of Moving to Sacramento or want to know more about the area?

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🌳 Recreation + Value Blend

Source: PlanetWare

Roseville (Placer County)

Roseville delivers everything families want — from great schools and shopping to parks on nearly every corner. With neighborhoods ranging from the historic core of Old Roseville to the newer Westpark and Fiddyment Farm, the city offers something for every budget and style.

Median home prices hover around $620K, with Westpark High (A–) and Dry Creek Unified (B+ to A–) serving many families. Residents enjoy the Roseville Galleria, The Fountains, and Maidu Park, plus quick access to I-80 for commuters.

Roseville is that rare mix of big-city convenience and small-town comfort, making it one of the best all-around choices for family life in Sacramento.

Source: WikiWand

Lincoln (Placer County)

Once a quiet farming town, Lincoln has transformed into one of the fastest-growing communities in the region. Home to the popular Twelve Bridges Golf Club and a number of master-planned communities, it offers the space and amenities modern families crave.

Homes in Lincoln average in the mid-$600Ks, and you’ll find plenty of new construction options ideal for growing families or multigenerational living. The school districts rank B+ to A–, and you’re just a short drive to Roseville’s shopping and dining scene.

Lincoln is perfect for those who want a newer home, more space, and strong long-term value — without straying too far from the action.

Source: LoopNet

Fair Oaks (Sacramento County)

Fair Oaks blends character and charm like no other. Winding streets lined with towering trees, farmers markets, and historic Fair Oaks Village give it a timeless small-town feel.

Many homes sit on quarter- to half-acre lots, with prices around $600K. The American River Parkway runs right through the area, offering trails, kayaking, and cycling for outdoor enthusiasts. Schools like Bella Vista High (B+) and Fair Oaks Elementary (B+) serve the community.

If you’re looking for a home with character, space, and nature — not another cookie-cutter subdivision — Fair Oaks delivers the perfect mix of authenticity and location.

Source: California Outdoor Properties

Cameron Park (El Dorado County)

Cameron Park offers rolling hills, bigger yards, and a relaxed lifestyle, just east of El Dorado Hills. It’s often described as El Dorado Hills’ little cousin, with a mix of suburban convenience and rural charm.

Homes average around $600K, with Ponderosa High and Blue Oak Elementary (B+ to A–) serving the area. You’ll find everything from hilltop homes with sunset views to aviation properties with private hangars in the Cameron Park Airpark.

It’s a great choice for families seeking space, scenery, and a slower pace — all within 40 minutes of downtown Sacramento.

Also if you're  🚚 Thinking of Moving to Sacramento or want to know more about the area?

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💼 Growth + Budget Efficiency

Source: Visit California

Elk Grove (Sacramento County)

Once a farming community, Elk Grove has grown into one of the most dynamic and diverse suburbs in Northern California. With its massive park system, strong school district, and affordable housing options, it’s a consistent favorite among families.

Median home prices hover around $650K, and schools like Franklin High (A–) and Pleasant Grove (B+) anchor the community. Elk Grove also features a variety of home styles — from cozy starter homes to sprawling estates on acreage near Wilton.

It’s ideal for commuters and families alike, offering plenty of new amenities, great youth sports programs, and an unbeatable sense of community.

Rancho Cordova (Sacramento County)

Rancho Cordova combines affordability, accessibility, and variety. South of Highway 50, you’ll find newer master-planned communities like Anatolia and Sunridge Park, with family-friendly amenities and newer schools. North of 50, you’ll find established neighborhoods near the American River, offering more charm and character.

Median prices run around $500K–$550K, making it an attractive option for first-time buyers and professionals. Commutes to Sacramento are quick, and families love the balance of value, location, and new-home potential.

Also if you're  🚚 Thinking of Moving to Sacramento or want to know more about the area?

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💰 Affordability-First Tier

Source: MapCarta

Orangevale (Sacramento County)

Orangevale is Sacramento’s quiet, underrated gem — offering space, freedom, and value in one package. Many homes sit on large, tree-lined lots, often without HOAs, giving homeowners the flexibility to have RVs, gardens, or workshops.

Median prices sit near $550K, and you’re just minutes from Folsom Lake and the American River Parkway. Residents love the community’s laid-back, semi-rural vibe with easy access to nearby shopping and schools.

If you want the comfort of suburbia with the feel of the foothills, Orangevale delivers a lifestyle that feels both grounded and free.

Also if you're  🚚 Thinking of Moving to Sacramento or want to know more about the area?

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Source: Pendulum Vans

Citrus Heights (Sacramento County)

Citrus Heights offers one of the most affordable entries into the Sacramento market — without sacrificing location. Nestled between Roseville and Fair Oaks, it’s centrally positioned for commuting, shopping, and recreation.

Median home prices sit around $500K, and while the San Juan Unified School District (B–) isn’t top-ranked, it’s improving and offers strong community support. You’ll find mature neighborhoods, big trees, and classic homes with character — a refreshing change from newer, uniform developments.

For first-time buyers or anyone craving central access and affordability, Citrus Heights is a smart, practical choice.

Source: Homes.com

Antelope (Sacramento County)

Antelope is the perfect mix of newer homes, affordability, and quiet suburban life. It’s clean, well-kept, and within reach of both Roseville and Natomas job corridors, making it a strong option for young professionals and growing families.

Homes typically range from the high $400Ks to low $500Ks, served by Center Unified School District (B). The area has a peaceful, community-driven feel with plenty of parks, trails, and newer construction still developing.

If you’re looking for move-in-ready homes and solid value within 20–25 minutes of downtown, Antelope is a hidden gem worth exploring.

🗺️ Quick Summary: Where to Look

Top Schools & Resale: Granite Bay, El Dorado Hills, Folsom, Rocklin, Loomis, Roseville
Lake/River Lifestyle: Granite Bay, EDH, Folsom, Fair Oaks, Orangevale, Cameron Park
New-Build Growth: Lincoln, Rancho Cordova, West Roseville

Also if you're  🚚 Thinking of Moving to Sacramento or want to know more about the area?

Grab my Free Greater Sacramento Relocation Information Guide — packed with insider tips, school rankings, commute maps, and neighborhood insights:
👉 Download it here

💰 Budget-Friendly & Accessible

If you’re a first-time buyer, downsizing, or simply looking to maximize lifestyle without overspending, these three suburbs deserve a closer look:

Orangevale – Quiet Value & Space

Orangevale flies under the radar compared to nearby Folsom or Fair Oaks, but it offers larger lots, mature trees, and no HOA restrictions, giving homeowners more flexibility. Many residents have RVs, boats, or backyard workshops that wouldn’t fit in newer, tighter subdivisions.
You’re minutes from Folsom Lake and the American River Parkway, so it’s perfect for anyone who loves the outdoors but still wants suburban convenience. Expect homes in the $500K–$600K range, often sitting on quarter-acre lots.

Citrus Heights – Central & Convenient

Citrus Heights is one of the most affordable entry points into the Greater Sacramento market. Located between Roseville and Fair Oaks, it offers easy I-80 access for quick commutes to both Sacramento and Placer County.
You’ll find older, established neighborhoods with plenty of charm, parks, and retail options nearby. Average home prices hover around $500K, making it a smart choice for first-time buyers or commuters who want a central location without breaking the bank.

Antelope – Suburban & Newer

Antelope gives you that newer-home feel for far less than nearby Roseville. Clean streets, family-friendly parks, and proximity to Natomas and Roseville job corridors make it especially attractive to young families.
Homes are typically under $550K, and commute times to downtown Sacramento average 20–25 minutes. You’ll find both established and new-build options, so it’s easy to match your lifestyle with your budget.

Bottom line:
If your focus is value, location, and convenience, these three communities deliver. Orangevale offers space and character, Citrus Heights keeps you central, and Antelope provides newer homes and quiet suburban living—all within reach of Sacramento’s top amenities and employers.

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📞 Let’s Find Your Perfect Sacramento Home

Every family’s situation is unique — whether you’re buying, selling, or relocating, I can help you find the right fit and negotiate the best deal.

Call or Text: 916-425-7860
Jake DaRosa | The DaRosa Team, Powered by PLACE
Helping families buy and sell across Placer, El Dorado, and Sacramento Counties.