Sacramento, California

Founding: Sacramento was officially founded in 1848 by Samuel Brannan and John Augustus Sutter, Jr. around an embarcadero constructed by John Sutter, Sr. a few years earlier. The city was named after the Sacramento River, which in turn was named by Spanish explorer Gabriel Moraga for the Christian sacrament.

 

Estimated Population: As of 2024, Sacramento’s population is estimated to be around 527,437. This represents a slight increase from the previous year, reflecting a consistent growth pattern in the city.

 

Median Household Income: The median household income in Sacramento for 2022 was approximately $78,954, showing an 11.1% increase from the previous year. This figure suggests a growing economic landscape in the city.

 

Current Housing Statistics:

 

  • Median Property Value: In 2022, the median property value in Sacramento was $450,500, which is notably higher than the national average of $281,900. This value saw a 16.9% increase from $385,500 in 2021.

  • Homeownership Rate: The homeownership rate in Sacramento stands at 50.7%, which is slightly lower than the national average of 64.8%. This indicates a significant portion of the population resides in rental properties.

  • Housing Units: In terms of housing units, Sacramento has a mix of owner-occupied and renter-occupied units. In 2022, about 50.7% of housing units were owner-occupied, reflecting a balanced housing market.

  • Rental Market: The median gross rent in Sacramento was $1,650 in 2022, indicating a moderate cost for rental housing.

  • Housing Construction: Approximately 10.9% of all housing units in Sacramento were built before 1940, showing a rich historical housing stock. Post-2000 construction accounts for 17.9% of housing units, suggesting ongoing development in newer areas.

 

Sacramento’s housing market reflects both the historical charm of older neighborhoods and the modern expansion with new constructions. The city continues to be an attractive place to live, given its role as the state capital, its cultural offerings, and its strategic location in the heart of California’s Central Valley. However, the rise in property values and median income also points to an increasing cost of living, which is a significant aspect for those considering moving to or within Sacramento.