Quality of Life in Sacramento, CA on a $140,845 Annual Salary

Cost of Living

• Overall Expenses: Sacramento's cost of living is slightly higher than the national average. The increased costs are primarily due to housing, utilities, and transportation.
• Groceries and Dining: Prices for groceries and dining are moderately priced, aligning closely with national averages.
• Utilities and Transportation: Utility costs can be higher due to seasonal variations, while transportation costs tend to surpass national averages due to reliance on vehicles and fuel prices.

Housing Market

• Median Home Price: The median home price in Sacramento is higher than the national median, driven by demand and limited supply.
• Rental Market: Renting is a viable option, with rental prices also above the national average, yet more affordable relative to other California cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles.
• Homeownership Feasibility: On a $140,845 salary, purchasing a home is attainable but may require compromises in location and size for budget-conscious buyers.

Quality of Life

• Job Market: The region boasts a diverse job market with strengths in government, healthcare, and technology sectors.
• Culture and Recreation: Sacramento offers a vibrant cultural scene with accessible parks, museums, and proximity to outdoor adventures in the Sierra Nevada mountains.
• Safety and Environment: Generally considered safe, with ongoing efforts to improve environmental sustainability and urban development.

Access to Healthcare

• Healthcare Facilities: Multiple healthcare facilities and hospitals provide comprehensive medical services.
• Medical Costs: Healthcare costs are consistent with national levels, with various health insurance options available to mitigate out-of-pocket expenses.

Quality of K-12 Schools

• Public Education: Sacramento features a mix of highly rated and average public schools, with ongoing initiatives to improve educational outcomes.
• Private and Charter Schools: Numerous private and charter schools offer alternatives for families seeking particular educational philosophies or smaller class sizes.

Summary of Assessment

Living in Sacramento on a $140,845 salary provides a comfortable lifestyle with the capability to cover the moderately high cost of living and housing prices. The city offers a balanced quality of life with robust employment opportunities, plentiful cultural and recreational activities, and access to quality healthcare. Although the housing market poses challenges, strategic planning enables effective homeownership. Education options cater to varied preferences, supporting families with children.