Sacramento, CA, United States
Capital City

Follows United States Residency Rules. Check Digital Nomad & Retiree Pathways →
Est. Monthly Cost (1 Person)
$3,350
Retiree Score
58.0
Safety Index
48.5
Healthcare
14 facilities

With a population of 524,943, Sacramento may seem like a sleepy state capital, but the reality is a bureaucratic headache and a climate that can be a real trial. The city has long boasted of its abundance of trees, but navigating its thicket of red tape and enduring its scorching summers are challenges that new residents may find overwhelming. However, those who can weather the administrative hassles and the heat may find Sacramento's charms, from its vibrant arts scene to its growing food culture, worth the effort. This city is best suited for those seeking a slower pace of life and a connection to California's agricultural heartland.

Can I afford Sacramento, CA?

$

Sacramento, CA

You would need

-350/mo

Savings Rate0%

Monthly Costs

Rent $2,150
Living (Country Average Adjusted)$1,200

Attractiveness Scores

FIRE Score
(i)
0/100
Retiree Score
(i)
58/100
Lifestyle Score
(i)
50/100
💻Nomad Score
(i)
50/100
Meets United States Digital Nomad Visa Income Rule.
49
Safety
14
Healthcare
100
Walkability
100
Nomad

Grocery Basket

Milk (1L) $1
Bread (loaf) *$3
Eggs (12) $4
Rice (1kg) *$5
Chicken (1kg) *$12

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Eating Out

Meal (Inexpensive) *$25
Meal (Mid-range) $90
Cappuccino $6
Water (0.33L) *$3

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Utilities & Lifestyle

Utilities (mo) $228
Mobile Plan (mo) $63
Gym (mo) *$45
Cinema Ticket $15

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Housing

1BR Center (mo) $2,150
1BR Outside (mo) *$1,355
3BR Center (mo) $3,850
3BR Outside (mo) *$2,228

* Estimated based on regional averages.

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Widely Spoken
Expat Community
Large & Active
Top Neighborhoods
Midtown, East Sacramento, Land Park
Best For
families, government workers

Expat Life Notes

California's capital offers a farm-to-fork lifestyle and is a popular alternative to the Bay Area for families.

Pros

  • Strong government job market
  • Close to Lake Tahoe and Napa
  • Relatively affordable for CA

Cons

  • Summer heat waves
  • Rising housing costs
  • Homelessness challenges in the center

🌐 Infrastructure & Lifestyle

Avg Internet
Temperature
5°C°C - 33°C°C
Annual Rainfall
756 mm
Coworking Spaces
Best Months to Visit
May, Jun, Jul, Aug

Also Consider

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Sacramento, CA

Click any question to expand the answer.

Sacramento, CA has a population of approximately 524,943 people.

A single person can expect to spend around $5,375 per month in Sacramento, CA, including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $2150/month.

The nearest airport to Sacramento, CA is SMF, approximately 15km away.

Sacramento, CA is considered moderate in terms of safety, with a safety index of 48.5. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.

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