Is Chico area good for family???

[AbbeysMama]

That's cool about the farmers markets. Are there a lot of young families like us? Ive also heard Paradise is more of a retirement community? Any help is, again, very appreciated )) And yes, we will definately be renting... With one vat, and I want a small dog. Hubby says if we get a bigge place that's fine Yay!

[Curmudgeon]

My daughter in Paradise is in her early 30s, as is her husband, with young children and there are plenty of other families like hers there. While the town does have plenty of retirees, it also has a thriving, youthful presence.

[galloplove]

I have lived near chico all my life and it is a good area. It is a big party area and known because of Chico State. There are alot of lakes and rivers near and fishing, camping you name it. There are horse areas, quads, anything to do with outside and has a great community college aswell. If you move I would stay away from Nord and 32 area it is more for college kids and known to be called college town and it probably wouldnt be the best area for a family because teh majority of the kids around are partying all night every night.

[hydro]

I lived in Chico for 5 years. It is a lovely town with an absolutely beautiful park for biking or swimming in the Butte Creek. There is also the Sacramento river nearby. It gets very hot in the summer. There is an abundance of trees in the area for shade. Chico draws the earthy, educated types as far as the settled families are concerned. I give it a thumbs up. The town has character. As far as the Paradise suggestions are concerned, I disagree. I generally prefer the more rural areas, but my problem with Paradise, Magalia is the INCREDIBLY high presence of meth- it is really bad there. Oroville same problem. Avoid Hamilton City as well due to gang activity. Chico is a haven but the surrounding areas are not great. If you move there you will certainly try camping at Lake Almanor, and there is a beautiful waterfall on the Feather River up Highway 70. Good Luck!