What Central Valley City in California Should You Move to?

Merced is a small town in the center of California known for its growing population and brand-new University of California campus. The city is rich in agriculture and perfect for those seeking a tranquil setting and an easy-going lifestyle. In Merced, you'll have plenty of opportunities for making friends in a tight-knit, small-town community. Best of all, in Merced, you're just two hours away from everything--snow-packed mountains and skiing, beautiful beaches, and more.

Fresno is a large and bustling city in the center of California, known for its shopping malls, outlets, festivals, and affordable living. There's plenty to do in Fresno, home to world-class universities, a lively arts and culture scene, and a laid-back, easygoing vibe. Best of all, in Fresno, you're just a couple of hours away from mountains, beaches, and everything else that California has to offer.

Davis is one of California's brightest central valley towns, known for its top-rated University campus, the University of California, Davis. Davis is also known as a college town, and 'the bicycle capital of the world', for its high population of bicycles throughout the city. Most of the town's culture is connected to its famous campus, and residents enjoy the Mondavi Center, Picnic Day, and Whole Earth Festival celebrations as perks for living near such a renowned campus.

The Central Valley's biggest caveat is its weather--which can reach scorching hot heat in the summer and bitter cold temperatures in the winter. Salinas, however, is located just far enough to the West to take advantage of the crisp cool winds from the Monterey Bay and Pacific Ocean, while enjoying fantastic warm breezes blowing in from the central area. Beyond the pleasant weather, Salinas is a beautiful town, with picturesque rolling hills and an adorable downtown area.

Do you love fine wine and dining? Visit Lodi, the Central Valley's home to world-class dining establishments, beautiful wineries, and plenty of small-town culture. Lodi is quaint and quite stunning, especially in it's downtown area--which is covered in cobblestones, refurbished century-old buildings, and plenty of old-town charm.

You should live in Sacramento! Sacramento is the capital of California, and home to the state's governor, senators, and other publicly-appointed legislators. Rich in history and culture, there's plenty to do and to see in this beautiful city, from shopping and dining to outdoor sports and recreation. There's also a huge following for the city's NBA basketball team, the Sacramento Kings, and world-class universities like Sacramento State.