It’s no surprise that California state workers make up a significant portion of the population in Sacramento and its surrounding suburbs. So, when it’s time for these workers to find the ideal place to live to achieve optimal work-life balance, where should they look? Well, there are lots of excellent choices in the Sacramento region, but one you may want to take a closer look at is Natomas. With its convenient location, newer housing developments, and family-friendly atmosphere, Natomas has a great balance of affordability and accessibility. Here’s what you need to know before making an offer on a home in Natomas.

An Easy Commute to Downtown Sacramento

For state employees working downtown, one of the biggest advantages of living in Natomas is the quick commute. North and South Natomas are just 10-15 minutes from the Capitol and state office buildings via I-5 or I-80. This means less time in traffic and more time enjoying your home and community. While rush-hour congestion can slow things down, Natomas still offers one of the shortest commutes compared to other suburban areas around Sacramento (say, Lincoln or Elk Grove).

Affordability and Modern Homes

Compared to neighborhoods like East Sacramento, Land Park, or Midtown, Natomas provides more affordable housing options without sacrificing quality. Many homes in North Natomas were built in the early 2000s or later, meaning they have modern designs, energy efficiency, and lower maintenance costs. Additionally, state employees looking to take advantage of first-time homebuyer programs will find that Natomas offers plenty of options within budget.

What to Consider Before Buying in Natomas

While Natomas is an excellent place to buy a home, there are some things to keep in mind:

• Traffic Patterns: While the commute is short, I-5 and I-80 can get congested during peak hours. Exploring alternative routes or flexible work schedules can help ease the stress.

• HOA Fees & Mello-Roos Taxes: Some newer communities have additional costs that buyers should be aware of. Be sure to ask about these fees when house hunting.

• Neighborhood Safety: North Natomas is especially well-known for its family-friendly communities,  but there are areas of Natomas that may have higher crime rates. Make sure to research crime maps and talk to locals to find the ideal neighborhood for you.

• Flood Zones & Insurance: While major levee improvements have reduced flood risks, some parts of Natomas still require flood insurance. Check with your lender and insurance provider for details.

The Best Natomas Neighborhoods for Homebuyers

If you’re looking for the best places to buy in Natomas, here are a few top choices:

• Natomas Park: A desirable neighborhood with parks, a clubhouse, and strong community amenities.

• Westlake: A more upscale area featuring beautiful lakefront properties and well-maintained homes.

• Regency Park: A great choice for families, with excellent schools and plenty of green spaces.

For California state workers, Natomas offers a great mix of convenience, affordability, and modern living. And as always, if you're ready to find your home in this growing Sacramento neighborhood, reach out to our team of local experts who can point you down the path to your dream property!