Considering moving to Sacramento with wife and two small kids (Elk Grove: to rent, house)

[Geomantra]

Have never been to Sacramento, but might be taking a job in West Sacramento. I would like to commute around 30 minutes max by car or public transit (even better). We're looking to rent a house in the beginning for about $1200/month. The priority is a safe neighborhood with good elementary schools, but hopefully not too boring with easy access to shops and public transit. Any input is greatly appreciated!

[Majin]

$1200/month for a house in a safe neighborhood?

[NickB1967]

Originally Posted by Geomantra

Have never been to Sacramento, but might be taking a job in West Sacramento. I would like to commute around 30 minutes max by car or public transit (even better). We're looking to rent a house in the beginning for about $1200/month. The priority is a safe neighborhood with good elementary schools, but hopefully not too boring with easy access to shops and public transit. Any input is greatly appreciated!

I would take a look at the Southport area of West Sacramento. The elementary schools are *new*, like the neighborhhood, and perhaps West Sacramento high schools will improve overall with time. Not sure if you can swing $1200 a month anywhere else that has a short commute.

[JohnS_15]

You might look at College-Greens/Glenbrook area. Sometimes there are homes that rent for about $1200 but it wouldn't be anything updated. It's a nice little community near Sac State University with 2 good elementary school options. Pretty close to everything and right by light rail and the river. Would be about a 15 or 20 minute commute into West Sac. A bit longer during rush hour. You could also check out maybe the nicer areas of Rosemont.

[caligirlz]

It's probably a better idea to live closer to your employer. At least stay on the same side of the downtown, if possible. Nick is right, check out Southport, or, you may want to look at Elk Grove, or No Natomas.

Your comment about "not boring" is interesting. If you mean, suburbs, then try a location downtown/midtown.

[Geomantra]

Thanks for the tips! I'll check out those areas...I don't know yet what my salary will be; it could be I can afford more than $1200 a month. I would like 3 bedrooms, but it doesn't need to be big (I've lived in Europe for awhile now so I'm used to small). It also doesn't need to be new, but I would like a decent size yard for a vegetable garden and kids to play in. You're probably right caligirlz, I can't expect to life to be exciting in the suburbs. I guess I meant easy access to areas with things to do.

[redg415]

sacramento is a great city, lots to see and do and life is affordable as long as your job can afford it. and a not too long drive to san francisco bay area and lake tahoe/reno.