Living in FOLSOM
A dynamic city blending Gold Rush heritage, modern master-planned communities, and Folsom Lake recreation
Welcome to Folsom
Folsom is one of the Sacramento region's most dynamic and desirable cities, blending rich Gold Rush heritage with modern master-planned communities, exceptional schools, and unmatched access to outdoor recreation. Located along the shores of Folsom Lake in northeastern Sacramento County, this thriving city has grown from a historic gold mining settlement into a vibrant community of over 90,000 residents.
Situated approximately 25 miles east of downtown Sacramento, Folsom offers something rare in California: a city that excels in nearly every category that matters to homebuyers. Top-rated schools, a charming historic downtown, one of the region's largest employers (Intel), extensive parks and trail systems, and direct access to Folsom Lake all contribute to its consistently high quality-of-life rankings.
Whether you're drawn by the award-winning schools, the energy of Historic Sutter Street, the brand-new homes in Folsom Ranch, or the 32-mile American River Bike Trail at your doorstep, Folsom presents an exceptional community for families, professionals, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Folsom Neighborhoods
Folsom offers a remarkable range of housing options, from charming historic homes near Sutter Street to brand-new construction in the expansive Folsom Ranch development. Here are some of the city's most popular neighborhoods:
Folsom Ranch
Folsom's newest and most ambitious master-planned community, Folsom Ranch spans over 3,200 acres south of Highway 50 and represents the future of the city. Multiple distinct villages — including The Crest, The Parkway, and others — offer a range of architectural styles, lot sizes, and price points. The development features an extensive trail network, resort-style pools, parks, and future retail and commercial centers.
Price Range: $825K - $1.45M
Features: New construction, multiple villages, resort-style amenities, trail networks, modern floor plans
Empire Ranch
Developed primarily in the early 2000s, Empire Ranch is one of Folsom's most established family communities. Mature trees, completed landscaping, and well-maintained neighborhood character define this community. Located near Folsom High School with easy access to shopping and parks.
Price Range: $750K - $1.3M
Features: Established neighborhood, mature landscaping, near Folsom High School, family-friendly
Broadstone
A mid-range community offering excellent value with solidly built homes from the 2000-2010 era. Broadstone features good-sized lots, functional floor plans, and convenient proximity to the Palladio shopping center and Folsom Lake. The neighborhood attracts buyers seeking established homes at accessible price points.
Price Range: $650K - $950K
Features: Good value, established homes, near Palladio, convenient location
Historic Folsom
The heart of the city, Historic Folsom surrounds the iconic Sutter Street district and features charming older homes with character, walkability, and proximity to shops, restaurants, and the American River trail system. Properties range from restored Victorian-era homes to updated mid-century ranches.
Price Range: $550K - $850K
Features: Walkability, historic charm, Sutter Street access, trail proximity
Natoma Station
A well-established neighborhood near Lake Natoma, offering a range of home styles from townhomes to single-family residences. The community provides excellent access to recreational areas and convenient commuter access via Highway 50 and the Gold Line light rail station.
Price Range: $500K - $800K
Features: Lake Natoma proximity, light rail access, mixed housing options, established community
Lexington Hills
A mature, family-friendly neighborhood in central Folsom with tree-lined streets, generous lot sizes, and a strong sense of community. Located near multiple parks and schools, Lexington Hills offers an appealing blend of affordability and livability.
Price Range: $600K - $900K
Features: Central location, mature trees, family-friendly, near parks and schools
Local Amenities & Recreation
Folsom stands out for its exceptional recreational infrastructure, from Folsom Lake to the extensive trail system to the vibrant Historic District.
Folsom Lake Recreation Area
The crown jewel of outdoor recreation, Folsom Lake offers 75 miles of shoreline for boating, fishing, swimming, and water sports. Multiple access points including Folsom Point and Brown's Ravine provide convenient entry for residents. The lake is one of Northern California's most popular year-round recreation destinations.
Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary
A unique zoo focused on providing permanent sanctuary for non-releasable wild and exotic animals. The zoo features native California species and rescued animals in naturalistic habitats, offering educational programs for families.
Lake Natoma
A quieter complement to Folsom Lake, Lake Natoma is popular for kayaking, rowing, stand-up paddleboarding, and sailing. The lake's 5-mph speed limit creates a serene environment for non-motorized watercraft. Black Miners Bar Beach and Nimbus Flat offer easy access.
Palladio at Broadstone
Folsom's premier outdoor shopping and dining destination featuring upscale retailers, restaurants, a movie theater, and seasonal events. The Palladio serves as a modern complement to Sutter Street's historic charm.
Historic Sutter Street
Folsom's charming historic downtown features a vibrant mix of locally owned shops, restaurants, galleries, and entertainment venues along the tree-lined Sutter Street. Regular community events include farmers markets, art walks, live music, and holiday celebrations that keep the area buzzing year-round.
American River Bike Trail
The 32-mile Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail (American River Bike Trail) is one of the longest paved trails in the nation. Running from Discovery Park in Sacramento to Beal's Point at Folsom Lake, it passes directly through Folsom and is beloved by cyclists, runners, and walkers.
Local Favorite Restaurants
Folsom's dining scene has flourished, with Sutter Street serving as the epicenter of a diverse range of restaurants that attract food lovers from across the region.
Sutter Street Steakhouse
From the creators of the multi-award-winning 5th Street Steakhouse in Chico, this upscale steakhouse features USDA Prime cuts, fresh seafood, an extensive wine list, and personalized service in the heart of Historic Folsom.
Address: 603 Sutter St, Folsom
Cuisine: Steakhouse, Fine Dining
Visconti's Ristorante
A beloved Folsom institution serving authentic Italian cuisine with house-made pastas, wood-fired specialties, and an impressive wine cellar. The warm, inviting atmosphere makes it perfect for family dinners and special occasions.
Address: 2700 E Bidwell St, Folsom
Cuisine: Italian, Fine Dining
Karen's Bakery & Café
A Folsom favorite tucked in the Historic District, Karen's offers freshly baked pastries, gourmet sandwiches, seasonal soups, and specialty coffees in a charming, casual setting. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or grabbing a treat.
Address: 705 Gold Lake Dr, Folsom
Cuisine: Bakery, Café, Breakfast
Plank Craft Kitchen & Bar
A stylish American eatery on Historic Sutter Street serving fresh-smashed burgers, inventive dishes, and craft beers. The fun, energetic atmosphere and creative menu make it a local go-to for casual dining.
Address: 608 Sutter St, Folsom
Cuisine: American, Gastropub
Nixtaco
Chef-driven Mexican cuisine featuring handmade tortillas, elevated flavors, and thoughtful preparation. Nixtaco has quickly become one of Folsom's most talked-about restaurants, blending tradition with innovation.
Address: 185 Placerville Rd, Folsom
Cuisine: Mexican, Contemporary
Bacchus House Bistro
A sophisticated wine country-inspired restaurant offering farm-to-fork American cuisine with Mediterranean influences. Known for its creative seasonal menus, craft cocktails, and an extensive wine selection.
Address: 1004 E Bidwell St, Folsom (nearby)
Cuisine: Farm-to-Table, Wine Bar
Schools in Folsom
Folsom is served by the Folsom-Cordova Unified School District, which is widely regarded as one of the top districts in the Sacramento region. The quality of education is a primary driver for families moving to the community.
Elementary & Middle Schools
Folsom-Cordova Unified School District
- Empire Oaks Elementary - A top-performing school known for academic excellence and strong parent involvement. GreatSchools Rating: 9/10
- Sandra J. Gallardo Elementary - Award-winning school with exceptional STEM programs and community engagement. GreatSchools Rating: 9/10
- Russell Ranch Elementary - One of Folsom's highest-rated schools, located in the Folsom Ranch area with modern facilities. GreatSchools Rating: 9/10
- Mangini Ranch Elementary - Highly regarded school with strong academic and enrichment programs. GreatSchools Rating: 9/10
- Theodore Judah Elementary - A well-established school near Historic Folsom with comprehensive academic programs. GreatSchools Rating: 9/10
- Folsom Middle School - Top-rated middle school with extensive academic and extracurricular offerings. GreatSchools Rating: 8/10
- Sutter Middle School - Strong academic programs with a focus on college readiness and character development. GreatSchools Rating: 8/10
High Schools
Folsom-Cordova Unified School District
- Folsom High School - Consistently ranked among California's top public high schools, offering extensive AP courses, award-winning athletics, and outstanding arts programs. The school has a graduation rate exceeding 96% with a strong focus on college preparation. GreatSchools Rating: 9/10
- Vista Del Lago High School - Another top-performing high school in Folsom, Vista Del Lago excels in academics and athletics. The school offers a wide range of AP courses, career pathways, and has earned multiple California Distinguished School honors. GreatSchools Rating: 9/10
Both Folsom high schools have outstanding reputations for sending graduates to prestigious universities nationwide. Their athletic programs regularly compete for section and state championships across multiple sports.
Utilities & Community Services
New residents will need to set up the following utilities and services when moving to Folsom:
Electricity & Gas
Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD) / PG&E
SMUD Phone: (916) 732-6738
Website: www.smud.org
PG&E Phone: 1-800-743-5000
Website: www.pge.com
Services: Electricity and natural gas
Water & Sewer
City of Folsom — Environmental & Water Resources Department
Phone: (916) 461-6161
Website: www.folsom.ca.us
Services: Water and sewer services
Waste Management
City of Folsom — Solid Waste Services
Phone: (916) 461-6161
Website: www.folsom.ca.us
Services: Trash, recycling, and green waste collection
Internet & Cable
Xfinity/Comcast
Phone: 1-800-XFINITY
Website: www.xfinity.com
AT&T
Phone: 1-800-288-2020
Website: www.att.com
Consolidated Communications
Phone: 1-844-968-7224
Website: www.consolidated.com
Public Safety
Folsom Police Department
Non-emergency: (916) 461-6400
Emergency: 911
Folsom Fire Department
Non-emergency: (916) 461-6300
Emergency: 911
Government
City of Folsom
Address: 50 Natoma St, Folsom, CA 95630
Phone: (916) 461-6000
Website: www.folsom.ca.us
Frequently Asked Questions About Folsom
What is the average commute time from Folsom to Sacramento?
The average commute from Folsom to downtown Sacramento is approximately 25-35 minutes via Highway 50, depending on traffic. Folsom also offers light rail service (Sacramento RT Gold Line) from the Historic Folsom and Iron Point stations, providing an alternative to driving. Many residents also work locally at Intel, which is Folsom's largest employer.
What is the climate like in Folsom?
Folsom enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer temperatures typically range from 90-100°F, while winter temperatures usually range from 40-58°F. The area receives approximately 20-22 inches of rainfall annually, primarily between November and April. The proximity to Folsom Lake can provide a moderating effect on temperatures.
Are there community events in Folsom?
Absolutely! Folsom has a thriving events scene. Historic Sutter Street hosts regular events including Thursday Night Market, Folsom Live music series, Folsom Rodeo, and holiday celebrations. The city also organizes community festivals, farmers markets, and outdoor recreation events at Folsom Lake throughout the year.
What healthcare facilities are near Folsom?
Folsom residents have access to Mercy Hospital of Folsom, a full-service hospital providing emergency, surgical, and specialty care. Kaiser Permanente and Sutter Health also have facilities in the area. The city has numerous medical offices, urgent care centers, and specialty practices for routine and specialized care.
Is there public transportation in Folsom?
Yes, Folsom has better public transportation than many suburban communities. Sacramento Regional Transit operates the Gold Line light rail with two stations in Folsom (Historic Folsom and Iron Point), providing direct service to downtown Sacramento. Folsom Stage Lines and Dial-A-Ride offer additional local transit options.
What shopping options are available in and around Folsom?
Folsom offers extensive shopping options. The Palladio at Broadstone features upscale retailers and dining. Folsom Premium Outlets offers brand-name shopping at discount prices. Historic Sutter Street provides unique locally owned boutiques and specialty shops. Additional retail centers throughout the city provide everyday shopping convenience.
Ready to Make Folsom Your Home?
Schools, commute times, market trends, hidden gems — we've lived here our whole lives and know every neighborhood. Ask us anything.
