Finding an Affordable Gem: A Sacramento Locals Guide to the Best Bang-for-Your-Buck Neighborhoods to Rent

Hi there, I'm Carrie, your ApartmentHomeLiving.com Local Expert for Sacramento, California. I was born and raised in Sacramento, and started my own family here. We've lived in a few different neighborhoods over the years as our family has grown and our needs have changed.

Sacramento is California's capital and a major hub for state government jobs. But it's also home to two major universities, booming tech and healthcare industries, and a lively arts scene. That means while salaries are decent, housing costs can be high compared to the rest of the country.

In this guide, I'll share my insider knowledge of Sacramento's most affordable neighborhoods based on my decade of living and raising a family here. These are communities where you can find nice apartments or single-family homes without breaking the bank. I'll also give you a feel for the vibe, amenities, and lifestyle each neighborhood offers.

My priorities are probably a lot like yours - safety, amenities for my family like parks and good schools, easy access to public transportation, and of course, affordability. I try to find that sweet spot between nice homes and a reasonable price tag. These neighborhoods fit the bill!

Foothill Farms

We lived in Foothill Farms when we first moved to Sacramento. It's northeast of downtown, right next to the American River Parkway. We loved walking the trails by the river and taking our kids to the Effie Yeaw Nature Center.

There are lots of casual family restaurants in Foothill Farms, like Tower Cafe and Strings Italian Cafe. But we could also quickly get downtown or to Arden Fair Mall when we wanted more options.

Foothill Farms has mostly modest single-family homes built in the 1950s-70s. The schools are decent, nothing fancy. But there are many nice 2-bedroom apartments that fit most budgets. The neighborhood is really ideal for young couples, families, and professionals who want an affordable place to live that still has nice parks and amenities nearby.

Oak Park

Oak Park is located south of downtown, near Sacramento City College. It's one of the city's most diverse neighborhoods, with a mix of cultures. We loved exploring local businesses, from the Hawaiian barbecue at Mahalos to the pupusas at Los Jarritos.

Oak Park has beautiful, tree-lined streets with charming Craftsman bungalows and Victorians. It's very walkable and bikeable. This neighborhood does have some pockets with higher crime, but we felt safe overall. Many streets have active Neighborhood Watch programs.

There are cute little 2-bedroom apartments that should fit many renters' budgets. Oak Park is really improving over the past decade too, with lots of renovations. It's an up-and-coming area that is attracting young professionals. The diversity and central location make it a vibrant neighborhood for millennials and families alike.

Arden-Arcade

Arden-Arcade is north of downtown, right next to Cal Expo and CSUS. It has its own special district and feel. We moved here when our second child was born because the school district is highly rated.

My kids love the big, beautiful park - Del Paso Park. We also like how close we are to Cal Expo, where we can catch a concert at the new amphitheater or visit the state fair each summer.

Arden-Arcade is mostly tract homes built in the 1950s on large lots with big trees. The neighborhood is quiet and family-friendly. There are many nice 2-3 bedroom apartments available for reasonable prices. The homes give the area a bit more of a suburban vibe while still being close to downtown.

Natomas

Natomas is west of downtown, near the Sacramento International Airport. It was mostly farmland until the 90s, so homes are more modern.

Natomas has great shopping, from Walmart to nice restaurants like Karen's Bakery Cafe. Schools like Inderkum High are excellent. The new Golden 1 Center, home of the Sacramento Kings, has brought more dining and entertainment options too.

Parts of Natomas do flood occasionally when the Sacramento River rises. But the city has worked hard on levees and protection, so this is slowly becoming one of the most desired areas. You can find apartments for decent prices here, though prices are starting to rise with Natomas' increasing popularity. It's a great choice if you want access to trendy amenities.

South Land Park & Pocket

These cute areas are south of downtown, along the Sacramento River. They both have a quaint, small-town vibe but are still close to city amenities.

Walk under the majestic oaks or along the river. Shop local at fun places like Boneshaker Books. Catch a play at Colonial Theater. We loved taking our kids to the rides and zoo at William Land Park.

Most homes here are 1950s ranch houses or adorable bungalows. South Land Park and Pocket are really charming, affordable areas with good apartment options. These neighborhoods are ideal if you want a quieter residential area away from the hustle and bustle but still accessible to downtown Sacramento.

North and South Natomas

Different from regular Natomas west of the airport, North and South Natomas are located northwest of downtown. These areas are similar to suburbs with more modern homes, chain restaurants and stores galore.

If you want suburban living close to downtown's jobs, Natomas is very affordable. You can find nice 3-bedroom apartments for reasonable prices. The schools are top-notch and there are ample shopping centers and family activities like the Sierra Bowl bowling alley and Fun Zone amusement park. North and South Natomas attract families who want spacious living at non-urban prices.

Rosemont

Rosemont is south of downtown, near Franklin Blvd. It has a high concentration of apartments, condos, and townhouses, so lots of rentals.

This neighborhood is very diverse, with many Asian and Hispanic families. We enjoy the authentic restaurants, like the pho at Rosemont Noodle House or tacos at Vallarta's.

Rosemont is denser urban living. The schools are just okay. But for an apartment close to the action, Rosemont offers affordable options. The diversity and affordability make Rosemont popular with students, young couples, and multicultural families who want conveniences at reasonable costs.

Rio Linda & Elverta

For serious savings, you can look at Rio Linda north of the city or Elverta, northwest of Sacramento. These rural communities are around 20-30 minutes from downtown but can be half the price of rentals in the city.

There are some rough areas, but many family-friendly suburban neighborhoods with decent schools. If your priority is getting the most amenities for your budget, these communities have incredible value. You can find larger apartments - even 3 bedrooms - for very low costs compared to the rest of Sacramento. The trade-off is you have a bit more of a commute to get downtown.

Carmichael

Our family now lives in Carmichael, east of downtown along the American River. It's a classic suburb with quiet, tree-lined streets, parks, and an old-town charm.

We love the amazing Indian and Asian restaurants here, from Shalimar to Vien Huong. Arden Fair Mall and Cal Expo are close by. And we can quickly get downtown or to UC Davis Med Center.

Carmichael homes are mostly 1950s ranch houses. The schools like Del Campo High are highly rated. Carmichael gives you great suburban living at affordable costs, with ample apartment options. Carmichael is ideal for anyone seeking a peaceful suburban feel without going too far outside the city. Lots of families live here for the schools, parks, and community vibe.

Citrus Heights

Northeast of downtown lies Citrus Heights, another quintessential affordable suburb. This area developed quickly in the 1950s and retains much of that mid-century charm.

Citrus Heights has rolling hills that live up to its name. The marquee Sunrise Mall draws shoppers from all over the region. Restaurants range from the pasta at Josie's Place to burgers at Pumpkins.

The apartments in Citrus Heights cater to families and professionals. Most are large complexes with amenities like pools and fitness centers. Prices are reasonable for the spacious options. Citrus Heights also has lots of parks and access to nature.

Antelope

Antelope is directly north of downtown Sacramento, adjacent to McClellan Air Field. This area was farmland until suburbia took over in the late 1900s.

Because Antelope is newer, you can find very modern apartment complexes with great amenities. Several complexes have gone up in recent years along with suburban shopping centers. So you get new construction without downtown costs.

Some areas of Antelope are more affluent than others. But you can find solid apartments for mid-range budgets. Antelope attracts families and commuters who work downtown or at the airport. The schools are decent and improving as well.

Sacramento Is a Great Place to Live With Many Diverse Neighborhoods

Sacramento offers many wonderful neighborhoods that balance convenience, comfort, and community without breaking the bank. These diverse areas have their own unique vibes but all offer nice apartments with access to parks, shopping, and schools.

I hope this insider's guide from my decade all over Sacramento gives you a great start in finding your perfect neighborhood. There are affordable gems across the city - you just have to know where to look! Let me know if you need any other tips. I'm happy to help new residents discover Sacramento's best values.