So. Cal to Northern Cal (Sacramento, Roseville: condos, houses, neighborhoods)

[AmyM]

Hi, I currently live in Newport Beach, even thought it's great it's just way too expensive.
I'm looking to move to Northern Cali sometime next year and am looking for a mid-sized town which is safe and the houses aren't too expensive, I'm thinking 400-450K range. It can be anywhere as long as it's 40 mins. drive within an international airport.
The only place I've looked into is West Sacramento (but I haven't had good feedback on that). So I was wondering if anyone has any suggestions?
I also love art, museums, coffee houses, etc. So somewhere 'artsy' would be ideal.
Thanks in advance

[ImRandy]

Artsy, 40min to airport, and cheap don't necessarily all work together. Cheap and 40 min to airport has you looking in the right area. Might give Davis a try, it's close to Sacramento with a little lower prices, safe, but might be a bit of a climate and culture shock.

[AmyM]

Funny you say that, someone else recommended Davis to me earlier today. I will actually be visiting near that area next week so I will check it out.
And about adapting... I've lived in 5 countries from super-hot Australia and Fiji, to cold England and Canada, so when it comes to weather or culture nothing really phases me

[greatbasinguide]

Chico. A very nice town. Davis is a great town, but, Chico I think is more attractive and closer to the hills. Bidwell Park is hard to beat.

[AmyM]

I was searching some new places today, and I'd like some advice about Woodland. It's only 25 mins from the airport and looks reasonably priced.
It's also near Davis which everyone I talk to seems to love! I'd probably prefer somewhere like Davis but Woodland is cheaper.
Has anyone been there/lived there and if so, would you recommend it as a nice place to live?
I'll be going to Davis in a few days so if there's positive feedback I'll check out Woodland too.

[Kingsnkali]

Your price range (400 to 450k) can also get you into the eastern suburbs of Sacramento including Folsom, Roseville and Rocklin.

Folsom has a very charming downtown (Sutter St). Coffee shops, restaurants, zoo etc. The American River and Folsom Lake are very nice. Light rail connection to Sacramento too.

Good luck.

[Carolyn Montgomery]

You know, there are actuallly some nice neighborhoods within the city of Sacramento proper. Hollywood Park, South Land Park Hills, and Pocket/Greenhaven come to mind in your price range. These are all about 20 minutes south of Sac International. All of these neighborhoods have their own businesses ranging from restaurants to Staples where most of us go. On a Sunday, without commuter traffic, I can make it from my front door in the Pocket to Macy's garage at the downtown mall in 15 minutes.

Carolyn Montgomery
Realtor

[CbGuy]

north is more expensive than southern california

[BerkeleyCali]

Have you thought about Alameda--very close to Oak airport and driving distance to SFO, right on the water--beach town, close to everything, a fairy ride to the city, great small town with small businesses, artsy, it is somewhat costly as it is in the bay area, but there are plenty of affordable cottages and condos, cute older victorian homes, and alameda seems to be less than other desirable neighborhoods close by.

[AmyM]

Thanks for the info. guys, I'll be looking into some of those places mentioned

And to CbGuy: It all depends on the area. But as a general for 450K you get a tiny condo in Newport Beach, whereas you can actually buy a house with a yard in the Sacramento area.