Moving to Kingsburg? 🌅 | ULTIMATE Living in Kingsburg CA Guide

Seeking a safe community with excellent weather and a distinctive culture? Perhaps you should consider moving to Kingsburg.

Nicknamed "Central California's Swedish Village", Kingsburg is known for its strong Swedish heritage and beautiful architecture. It's a city in Fresno County, named after its location on the Kings River.

Living in Kingsburg CA offers small-town charm with a unique Swedish heritage, scenic surroundings, and a welcoming community. Residents enjoy a quiet lifestyle, excellent schools, and easy access to nearby Fresno for work or entertainment.

Kingsburg developed as a railroad town that prospered after the Valley Line of the Central Pacific Railroad was completed in 1873. Swedish settlers populated the area, which was originally named "Kings River Switch". It underwent several name changes over the years until residents eventually settled on Kingsburg, and it was officially incorporated as a town in 1908.

Today, Kingsburg is a great place to live for families and young professionals seeking a small-town environment with affordable homes. Is living in Kingsburg CA right for you? This guide will cover everything you need to know to get ready for your relocation.

Where Is Kingsburg?

The city of Kingsburg, CA, is in Fresno County in the heart of California's Central Valley. It's in a very central location, about 20 miles from Fresno, two hours from the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range, and the Pacific Coast. US Route 99, aka the Golden State Highway, passes directly through the area, providing a direct route from Fresno to Kingsburg and other parts of the state for drivers living in Kingsburg CA.

It's also very close to the following major cities:

• Kingsburg CA to Los Angeles CA: 200 miles or a 3 hour 10 minute drive
• Kingsburg CA to San Francisco CA: 200 miles or a 3 hour 30 minute drive
• Kingsburg, CA, to Sacramento, CA: 190 miles or a 3 hour 5 minute drive

Kingsburg Population and Demographics

According to the 2020 census, the Kingsburg, CA population is 12,380. Even though it's a small city, the number of people living in Kingsburg CA has increased by 9.2% between 2010 and 2020.

This steady incline indicates a strong housing market and long-term community stability, making it an attractive choice for savvy homebuyers. The city has a suburban atmosphere and a population density of 3,380 residents per square mile, creating a balance between busy neighborhoods and spacious living.

Although residents from all walks of life populate the community, there are a large number of families and retirees living in Kingsburg CA. In Kingsburg, 24% of residents are under 18, while 20% are 65 and older, revealing an atmosphere that is both family-friendly and conducive to a peaceful retirement.

It's also a very diverse community with sizable White, Hispanic, and Asian communities living in Kingsburg CA. Kingsburg’s vibrant Hispanic community, along with its rich Scandinavian roots, gives the city a unique cultural flavor that sets it apart from other towns in the Central Valley.

The racial and ethnic breakdown of those living in Kingsburg CA is 65.5% white (47.3% white, non-Hispanic), 43.2% Hispanic or Latino, 7.2% Asian, and 15.7% two or more races.

Other Living in Kingsburg CA demographics

• The median age is 41.2 years old
• The median household is $82,562, which is 10% lower than the rest of California
• 52% of residents living in Kingsburg CA are female and 48% are male
• 85.1% of the Kingsburg population has a high school diploma, and 19.8% have a bachelor's degree or higher
• The foreign-born population is 9.9%

Living in Kingsburg CA is very safe, and it has a reputation for being among the safest small cities in California. The total Kingsburg CA crime rate is 2,205 crimes per 100,000 residents, which is 22.4% lower than the California crime rate and 5.1% lower than the national average.

• The violent crime rate is also 42.5% lower than California and 22.4% lower than the national average.
• Property crime is 18.1% lower than in the state and 1.9% lower than in the rest of the country.

Surprisingly, the murder rate is eight incidents per 100,000 people, which is 40% higher than the state and 26% higher than the national average. Although this is mainly due to its small population, there was only one murder or non-negligent homicide in the last year of FBI crime data, as overall violence is much lower than the rest of the US.

The Kingsburg Police Department manages crime in the community with the assistance of 23 officers and five civilian employees.

Kingsburg CA Cost of Living

The cost of living in Kingsburg CA is very reasonable for the high quality of life that residents enjoy. One way to understand the cost of living in an area is to examine the cost of living index. It compares the general price of consumer goods to the rest of the country, which is represented by 100.

The COLI for the Fresno area is about 109, which means the cost of living in Kingsburg CA is about 9% higher than the rest of the country. The Economic Policy Institute's Family Budget Calculator indicates that a typical family of four, consisting of two adults and two children, needs to earn $102,425 to afford the cost of living in Kingsburg CA.

• Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: $20.00
• 12 oz bottle of water: $2.05
• 1 gallon of regular milk: $3.39
• Loaf of fresh white bread: $2.41
• Mid-range bottle of wine: $15.00
• 1 gallon of gasoline: $4.76
• 1 dozen regular eggs: $4.29
• Kingsburg average monthly utility bill: $317

Source: Numbeo

*Numbers reflect the general Fresno area but will be similar for those living in Kingsburg CA.

Kingsburg real estate is reasonably priced by California standards. Redfin indicates that the median listing price of homes for sale in Kingsburg CA is $553,148. While that's 28% higher than the US median, it's 54% lower than the median in California. The median price per square foot of Kingsburg, CA, real estate is $268.

Although most residents own a home, renters living in Kingsburg CA will also find numerous options. Census data indicates that 73% of Kingsburg homes are owner-occupied, while 27% are rented out.

Only 9% of Kingsburg apartments are in high-rise buildings with 50 or more units, while 54% are in small-scale complexes. Single-family homes for rent in Kingsburg, CA, make up 37%. Rents in Kingsburg start around $ 1,200 for a one-bedroom unit and go up to $ 2,600 for a three-bedroom unit.

Kingsburg Neighborhoods | Where To Live in Kingsburg

Kingsburg is full of fantastic areas, all offering something unique and exciting. Although not the biggest city, there are plenty of areas to explore. Here are a few of the best neighborhoods for those living in Kingsburg CA.

Downtown Kingsburg | A Charming, Walkable Area Full of Swedish Shops and Restaurants

Downtown Kingsburg is a quaint, residential area with a small-town atmosphere full of Swedish-themed shops and restaurants that reflect the proud heritage of the people living in Kingsburg CA.

Mariposa Parkway | A Peaceful Suburban Neighborhood With Park Access

Mariposa Parkway is a peaceful residential area in East Kingsburg that features well-maintained streets and modern homes that are close to popular attractions like Athwal Park, making it great for families living in Kingsburg CA.

Kings Estates | A New Construction Community With Upscale Homes on Large Plots

Kings Estates is a new construction community featuring upscale homes on large lots that are known for its close-knit atmosphere and easy access to Highway 99. It’s a popular community for affluent residents living in Kingsburg CA.

Kingsburg Weather & Climate

The weather in Kingsburg tends to be very pleasant throughout the year. According to the Köppen Classification system, Kingsburg has a cold, semi-arid climate, characterized by warm summers and mild winters. Temperatures typically range from 38°F to 97°F. However, in the winter, it can drop down to 29°F, and in summer, it can get as hot as 104°F.

The best weather in Kingsburg, California, is usually from May to September. It rarely gets cold enough to snow. However, the city receives approximately 11 inches of rain each year. Be sure to bring an umbrella if you plan on moving to Kingsburg.

Things to Do in Kingsburg

You'll find a wide range of exciting things to do in Kingsburg, CA, that will continue to keep you entertained no matter what your interests. Spent some time in downtown Kingsburg, the Swedish Village of California, which features a handful of quaint shops, symbols of Sweden, dala horses, and restaurants reflecting the town's Swedish pride.

It also hosts the annual Kingsburg Swedish Festival every year. A few popular local boutiques among people living in Kingsburg CA include Heritage Company Boutique, Svensk Butik Gift Shop, and Trinkets and Treasures. Here are a few additional ideas if you're looking for more entertainment options while living in Kingsburg CA.

Kingsburg Historical Park

The Kingsburg Historical Park is a group of historic buildings dedicated to preserving the city's history and origins. It features an extensive collection of exhibits and artifacts, as well as an event hall with a kitchen and bar, perfect for families living in Kingsburg CA who want a weekend outing.

2321 Sierra St, Kingsburg, CA 93631 (559) 869-8320

Kings River Golf and Country Club

With stunning views of the Kings River, this private 18-hole course features challenging greens and state-of-the-art amenities, plus private lessons and social events available.

3100 Ave 400, Kingsburg, CA 93631 (559) 897-5661

World's Largest Box of Raisins

The world's largest box of raisins is a local tourist attraction located outside the offices of Sun-Maid Growers of California, which also features a gift shop and areas for photo opportunities for visitors and locals living in Kingsburg CA.

Additional Kingsburg Attractions

• Swedish Coffee Pot Water Tower And Public Park
• Kingsburg Train Depot
• Ramos Torres Winery
• Crandell Swim Complex

For those seeking more fun activities in Kingsburg, CA, the local Parks and Recreation Department offers a comprehensive list of parks, murals, recreation programs, and other public facilities available to those living in Kingsburg CA on its website.

Kingsburg Restaurants

Feeling hungry? You'll find a great selection of delicious restaurants in Kingsburg, CA, offering everything from casual dining to steak and seafood. Here are a few of the top Kingsburg, CA, restaurants to visit on a Friday or during the week.

Stacked Bar and Grill

Stacked Bar and Grille is a laid-back eatery serving classic American comfort food, including salads, burgers, chicken, and sides, plus outdoor seating and bar games.

1722 Draper St, Kingsburg, CA 93631 (559) 419-9321

Cheyanne's Steakhouse and Lounge

Cheyanne's is one of the best restaurants in Kingsburg, CA, if you're in the mood for a prime cut of beef or fresh lobster, plus drink specials and a full bar.

505 Sierra St, Kingsburg, CA 93631 (559) 897-2000

Vikings Bar and Grill

Vikings Bark and Grill is a casual brewpub and restaurant serving weekend brunch and upscale bar food with a large selection of beers and to-go options. It’s perfect for anyone living in Kingsburg CA looking to unwind after work.

1600 Marion St #118, Kingsburg, CA 93631 (559) 859-8442

Jobs in Kingsburg CA

Another benefit of living in Kingsburg CA is its stable economy. It's famous for its agricultural production, specifically grapes and raisins. For much of its history, the fields surrounding Kingsburg were mostly vineyards producing raisins and table grapes. However, in recent years, some of those fields have been used to grow stone fruit.

The Sun-Maid Growers of California, a major producer of raisins and other dried fruit, was once based in Kingsburg. Their main corporate offices moved to Fresno in 2019, although the company still has a major presence in Kingsburg and currently operates a production facility.

The present-day economy of Kingsburg is mainly supported by industries like manufacturing, education, and retail. Guardian Glass and the Sacramento Container Company also operate facilities in Kingsburg. It's home to over 400 businesses that provide numerous job opportunities for workers living in Kingsburg CA, and features an unemployment rate of 4.1%.

Major businesses providing Kingsburg CA jobs:

• Sun-Maid Raisins: 700 employees
• Guardian Glass: 297 employees
• Kingsburg Elementary School District: 268 employees
• Sacramento Container Company: 121 employees: 121 employees
• Central CA Sheets: 65 employees

Payscale indicates that the average hourly rate for workers in Fresno is $21.73. So, anyone living in Kingsburg CA should expect to be paid around the same amount. From credit manager to administrative assistant, employment seekers will find plenty of interesting Kingsburg jobs available. City of Kingsburg jobs with the local government are also available.

Kingsburg Schools

Children living in Kingsburg CA will get an amazing education. Kingsburg is unique in that it operates on a charter school system, where students in grades K-8 all attend schools together, with each school serving 1-3 grades at a time. 

Schools available to students living in Kingsburg CA:

• Washington Elementary: Kindergarten-only
• Roosevelt Elementary: 1st grade-only
• Lincoln Elementary: 2nd and 3rd grade
• Ronald Reagan Elementary: 4th, 5th and 6th grades
• Rafer Johnson Junior High School: 7th and 8th grade

Kingsburg High School is the sole community high school, serving grades 9-12. It’s in a separate district from the elementary schools, known as the Kingsburg Joint Union High School District. It’s a well-respected school that ranks within the top 500 in the state and features a 99% graduation rate.

Residents living in Kingsburg CA are also welcome to stop by the local branch of the Fresno County Public Library System for books and other media.

Kingsburg Statistics and Information

• Kingsburg County: Fresno County
• Kingsburg area: 3.71 square miles
• Kingsburg zip code: 93631
• Kingsburg area code: 559
• Kingsburg elevation: 302 ft
• Kingsburg time zone: Pacific Time Zone (UTC-7 and -8)
• The closest airport to Kingsburg, Fresno-Yosemite International Airport (FAT) is 25 miles away.

Map of Kingsburg CA

Discover more exciting activities, attractions and fun things to do while living in Kingsburg CA with this map.

Learn For Yourself What Living in Kingsburg CA Is Like

Excited to experience first-hand what living in Kingsburg CA is like? Trust the reliable Kingsburg CA movers at Grace Moving to make your upcoming move easy and stress-free. Call (209) 551-7772 today for a free quote.