Central Valley California Cities 📍| Explore Cities in Central Valley California

Are you thinking about moving to California’s Central Valley? Central Valley California cities are surrounded by stunning landscapes, from the sprawling orchards that fuel the region’s rich agriculture industry to the picturesque mountains and nearby beaches. Whether you are drawn to the region’s vibrant communities, the promise of fresh produce, or the allure of outdoor adventures, the Central Valley has something for everyone. Let’s dive into all of the cities in Central Valley California.

Central Valley California

Where is Central Valley? California’s Central Valley is located in the middle of California and is about 40 to 60 miles wide and runs 450 miles from north to south. The Central Valley covers around 18,000 square miles and is bounded by the Coast Ranges to the west and the Sierra Nevada to the east. The Sierra Nevada provides residents living in California’s Central Valley with stunning mountain views.

This region is known for its agricultural industry, producing more than half of the fruits and vegetables that are grown in the United States, and is home to hundreds of farms. Central Valley is often referred to as the “Great Valley,” and is home to rich riparian forests that line its waterways, providing a habitat for diverse wildlife. Additionally, the Central Valley features seasonal lakes that add to its unique landscape, transforming with the changing seasons. California’s Central Valley has a hot Mediterranean climate, with hot and dry summers and cool and damp winters. In the wintertime, you’ll likely experience ground fog, known as “tule fog.”

California’s Central Valley encompasses all or parts of 18 different counties in California, and the region boasts a population of well over 7 million. Additionally, it is the fastest-growing region in California. If you are thinking about moving to the area, you are sure to have plenty of job opportunities, fun things to do, and amazing towns and cities to explore.

Central Valley California Cities

#1 Fresno

 

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Fresno, one of the most well-known Central Valley California cities, offers a diverse community. This is the most populous of all of the cities in Central Valley California, and there are several incredible neighborhoods in Fresno. From the historic Tower District with its thriving arts scene to the family-friendly Fig Garden, there’s a Fresno neighborhood for everyone. The city combines urban amenities with the scenic beauty of nearby orchards and vineyards, making it a wonderful place to live. Fresno also serves as the cultural and economic hub of the Central Valley, making it a wonderful place to live for those looking for a new job.

• County: Fresno County
• Fresno population: 542,107
• Fresno population growth: 8.7% increase since 2010
• Fresno area: 115.8 square miles
• Fresno median age: 32.4
• Fresno median household income: $64,196
• Fresno median house price: $395,000
• Fresno crime rate: 3,742 crimes per 100,000 people (45% higher than state average and 59.5% higher than national average)
• Fresno map

#2 Sacramento

Sacramento, the state capital of California, is one of the best Central California cities. When living in the area, you can explore the historic old Sacramento Waterfront, visit the California State Capitol Museum, or enjoy outdoor activities at the American River Parkway. Plus, its proximity to the San Francisco Bay Area means you can easily enjoy a day trip to enjoy all of the iconic landmarks and cultural attractions that San Francisco has to offer.

• County: Sacramento County
• Sacramento population: 524,943
• Sacramento population growth: 12.5% increase since 2010
• Sacramento area: 98.6 square miles
• Sacramento median age: 36
• Sacramento median household income: $80,254
• Sacramento median house price: $516,000
• Sacramento crime rate: 3,428 crimes per 100,000 people (32.8% higher than state average and 46.1% higher than national average)
• Sacramento map

#3 Bakersfield

Also located in the San Joaquin Valley, Bakersfield is a gem of California’s Central Valley. Bakersfield is one of the most affordable cities in Central Valley California, with a median home price of $410,000, lower than the national average of $439,000, and an average rent of $1,484, according to RentCafe. There are plenty of things to do in Bakersfield, including the Buena Vista Museum of Natural History and the Bakersfield Museum of Art. Bakersfield offers abundant opportunities for young professionals as Kern County, where Bakersfield is located, is California’s most productive oil-producing county.

• County: Kern County
• Bakersfield population: 403,455
• Bakersfield population growth: 16.1% increase since 2010
• Bakersfield area: 150.3 square miles
• Bakersfield median age: 31.9
• Bakersfield median household income: $72,017
• Bakersfield median house price: $410,000
• Bakersfield crime rate: 4,540 crimes per 100,000 people (75.9% higher than state average and 93.5% higher than national average)
• Bakersfield map

#4 Stockton

Stockton is a family-friendly city in California’s Central Valley, with over half of the households occupied by married couples and a median household size of 3.2. Popular neighborhoods in Stockton include Brookside and Lincoln Village, known for their community vibe. Families can enjoy numerous attractions, such as the Children’s Museum of Stockton, Louis Park, and Victory Park.

• County: San Joaquin County
• Stockton population: 320,804
• Stockton population growth: 9.9% increase since 2010
• Stockton area: 62.4 square miles
• Stockton median age: 34.3
• Stockton median household income: $76,231
• Stockton median house price: $460,000
• Stockton crime rate: 4,259 crimes per 100,000 people (65.0% higher than state average and 81.5% higher than national average)
• Stockton map

#5 Modesto

 

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Modesto is one of the most popular Central Valley California Cities and boasts some of the most fertile farmland in the region, making it a hub for the agricultural industry. The city is popular among young professionals, with several job opportunities to choose from. Modesto is home to E & J Gallo Winery, the largest winery in the world, which employs over 5,000 people. Additionally, top employers such as Memorial Medical Center, Modesto City Schools, and Doctors Medical Center contribute to the city’s economic stability.

• County: Stanislaus County
• Modesto population: 218,464
• Modesto population growth: 8.5% increase since 2010
• Modesto area: 43.1 square miles
• Modesto median age: 36
• Modesto median household income: $73,275
• Modesto median house price: $455,000
• Modesto crime rate: 3,206 crimes per 100,000 people (24.2% higher than state average and 36.7% higher than national average)
• Modesto map

#6 Visalia

When searching for cities in California’s Central Valley, Visalia should be at the top of the list. Visalia is one of the safest cities in Central Valley California, with a crime rate only 3.7% higher than the state average, making it popular among families. The city is home to several top-rated schools, including Visalia Charter Independent Study, El Diamante High School, and Oak Grove Elementary.

• County: Tulare County
• Visalia population: 141,384
• Visalia population growth: 13.6% increase since 2010
• Visalia area: 38.1 square miles
• Visalia median age: 34.1
• Visalia median household income: $81,362
• Visalia median house price: $405,000
• Visalia crime rate: 2,676 crimes per 100,000 people (3.7% higher than state average and 14.1% higher than national average)
• Visalia map

#7 Chico

 

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When it comes to Central Valley California cities, you can’t skip out on Chico. Chico is popular among young people, with the largest age group being 20 to 29, comprising 26% of the population. Known as a vibrant college town, it is home to California State University, Chico, which adds to the area’s energetic atmosphere. Chico also boasts Bidwell Park, one of the largest urban parks in the world.

• County: Butte County
• Chico population: 101,475
• Chico population growth: 17.7% increase since 2010
• Chico area: 34.5 square miles
• Chico median age: 32.6
• Chico median household income: $65,021
• Chico median house price: $450,000
• Chico crime rate: 2,518 crimes per 100,000 people (2.4% lower than state average and 7.3% higher than national average)
• Chico map

#8 Redding

Redding, located 162 miles north of Sacramento and 120 miles south of California’s northern border with Oregon, is a haven for nature lovers. Surrounded by mountains to the north, east, and west, and farmland to the south, the city offers stunning natural beauty. Local attractions include the breathtaking Lassen Volcanic National Park, Shasta Lake, and the Sacramento River.

• County: Shasta County
• Redding population: 93,611
• Redding population growth: 4.1% increase since 2010
• Redding area: 59.5 square miles
• Redding median age: 37.2
• Redding median household income: $68,551
• Redding median house price: $403,000
• Redding crime rate: 3,053 crimes per 100,000 people (18.3% higher than state average and 30.1% national average)
• Redding map

#9 Merced

 

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Merce is one of the most popular cities near Fresno as well as one of the best Central Valley California cities. Merced is dubbed the “Gateway to Yosemite,” as it is less than two hours from Yosemite National Park. Known for its affordable real estate market, with a median home price of $395,000 (significantly lower than the California average of $859,000), Merced offers excellent value for homebuyers. Popular neighborhoods include North Merced near the University of California Merced campus and family-friendly areas like Bellevue Ranch and Silverado.

• County: Merced County
• Merced population: 86,333
• Merced population growth: 9.3% increase since 2010
• Merced area: 23.3 square miles
• Merced median age: 31.2
• Merced median household income: $64,160
• Merced median house price: $395,000
• Merced crime rate: 3,113 crimes per 100,000 people (20.6% higher than state average and 32.7% higher than national average)
• Merced map

#10 Yuba City

Yuba City is one of the best Central Valley California cities. When living in the area, you can explore the vibrant local culture at events like the Yuba City Farmers Market and the Yuba-Sutter Fair. Outdoor lovers can enjoy the nearby Sutter Buttes, the smallest mountain range in the world, for hiking and scenic views. If you’re looking for a new job, top employers in Yuba City include the Yuba City Unified School District, Sutter County, and Rush Personnel Services, Inc.

• County: Sutter County
• Yuba City population: 70,117
• Yuba City population growth: 7.9% increase since 2010
• Yuba City area: 15.3 square miles
• Yuba City median age: 39.3
• Yuba City median household income: $59,588
• Yuba City median house price: $440,000
• Yuba City crime rate: 3,115 crimes per 100,000 people (20.7% higher than state average and 32.8% higher than national average)
• Yuba City map

Central Valley California Counties

 

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Because the Central Valley comprises over a third of the state, we cannot list all of the individual cities. Instead, let’s take a look at all of the counties that comprise the Central Valley.

Cities in Central Valley of California Map

Check out this map of the cities in Central Valley of California.

FAQ Section

What Cities Are in Central Valley California?

There are several cities and communities in Central Valley California. Some of the most popular cities include Sacramento, Redding, and Chico.

What Is the Most Populous Central Valley CA City?

The most populous city in Central Valley CA is Fresno, with a population of 542,107.

What Is the Wealthiest City in Central Valley California?

Out of the big cities in the Central Valley, Visalia is the wealthiest. The city has a median household income of $81,362.

What Is the Largest City in Central Valley California?

The largest city in Central Valley California is Bakersfield, with an area of 150.3 square miles.

What Is the Most Crowded City Instate?

The most crowded city instate is Sacramento, which has a population density of 5,352.7 people per square mile.

Which Of These Central Valley Cities Is Right for You?

California’s Central Valley is full of opportunities! If any of these Central Valley California cities sound great to you, then allow Grace Moving to assist you with your relocation. Give our team a call today at (209) 551-7772 to get started with a free quote.

If Fresno is your destination, learn more about working with a trusted moving company in Fresno for your upcoming relocation.