Citrus Heights’ brand, “Solid Roots. New Growth.” pays homage to the city’s history while giving a nod toward development. As a ploy to attract buyers in the early 20th century, real estate firms changed the city’s name from Sylvan, after its first school, to the more melodic Citrus Heights for the area's fruit orchards. It evolved from a way station for freight wagons to a ranching and farming destination, and finally, to an area where shopping reigns supreme. During the 1960s, the Grand Oaks Plaza, one of the country’s first indoor malls, was constructed, followed by Sunrise Mall and Birdcage Walk. Now there are plans to transform the Sunrise Mall area into a more extensive dining, shopping and entertainment hub.
Today, roughly 89,000 residents call Citrus Heights home. Many commute about 15 miles southwest to Downtown Sacramento; others work in the retail and service industries. Twenty-five parks and open spaces here encourage exercise and relaxation, and housing prices are slightly above the national average.
Citrus Heights was incorporated to an independent city in 1997.
The Sunrise Mall in Citrus Heights has a JC Penny clothing store.
Sunrise Marketplace is a Longstanding Shopping Center in the Golden Oaks Neighborhood
The Sunrise Mall has Become a Nice Place to Shop with a Little Slower Pace in the Golden Oaks Neighborhood
Citrus Heights’ Home Goods is a great place to find discounted house decorating items.
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A huge variety of shops for every need
More than 600 shops sit in the city’s southeastern end. Sunrise Mall is anchored by JCPenney and Macy’s, along with jewelers and electronic stores. The Marketplace at Birdcage Walk has big-box stores, such as Lowe’s Home Improvement, border coffee shops and grocery stores, including Sprouts Farmers Market. Fashion boutiques are a few blocks from beer houses and bars near Auburn Boulevard. Elsewhere, American and Tex-Mex chain eateries share blocks with fast-food joints, and diners and cafes line Greenback Lane.
Patrons are enjoying lunch at the popular Charlies Café in Citrus Heights.
For the best authentic Mexican food, come try El Tapatio in Citrus Heights.
For farm fresh produce try Sprouts Farmers Market in Citrus Heights.
There is a Lowes for all your building and home upgrade needs in Citrus Heights.
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Home prices slightly above national average
Most homes in Citrus Heights sell after an average of 27 days, compared to the national average of 44. Throughout the last 12 months, the average sale price for single-family homes has risen 5% to $476,035. Prices for two-bedroom homes from the 1960s and '70s start around $315,000, while three-bedroom homes from the 1980s and ‘90s typically range from $450,000 to around $600,000, with four-bedroom homes selling as high as $800,000.
Ranch-style homes, many L-shaped, are spread throughout the city, most of which have well-manicured yards with carports or up to two-car garages. Contemporary Craftsman-style homes with two-car garages sit on larger lots toward the northeast, and a few cottage-styles and 1920s bungalows are found in the northern end. Residential streets like Cowboy and Trailride Way honor the area’s ranching history, and many are lined with mature trees, shrubs and sidewalks.
Some homes in Citrus Heights are duplexes with single car garages.
The most popular style of home, in Citrus Heights is like this ranch-style home.
This contemporary-style home is a rare find in Citrus Heights.
This 2-story modern-style home has a three-car garage in Citrus Heights.
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Career Technical Education at San Juan Unified district schools
The San Juan Unified School District, which earns a B-plus from Niche, serves over 40,000 students and pledges to create an anti-racist environment where students can thrive; it receives an A-rating for diversity. The district has 64 schools and offers programs like Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID), which prepares students for college, and Career Technical Education pathways for students interested in building and construction, engineering and architecture or health sciences.
Arlington Heights Elementary is an award-winning school in the area.
San Juan High School is an award-winning school in the San Juan Unified School District.
Local students can attend Will Rogers Middle School.
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Multiple green spaces, activities and a city golf course
Kevin Huntzinger, district administrator for Sunrise Recreation and Park District, which partners with Citrus Heights, says outdoor activity is significant to residents here. “Our programs are booming and always full,” he says, “and some of the most popular activities include pickleball at 50-acre Rusch Park, where people play day in and day out no matter the weather.” The city has an aquatics program that provides swimming lessons and a public pool. “It amazes me how busy the pool is every day during the summer,” says Huntzinger. Smaller pocket parks with playgrounds and gardens are within walking distance of many homes, and the public 9-hole Foothill Golf Course, located next to Interstate 80, provides junior lessons and Glow Golf events.
Rusch Park in Citrus Heights is very popular with the pickleball players.
You can practice your free-throws at Citrus Heights’ Rusch Community Park.
Your kids can learn to swim at Rusch Community Pool in Citrus Heights.
Foothill Golf Course is a small well maintained 9-hole course in Citrus Heights.
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Holiday events with light contests
Every December, the community gathers at City Hall for the Annual Tree Lighting, which features train rides, sweet treats and carols. The Best Lights in Citrus Heights contest includes the Griswold award for the brightest light display and the Jingle All the Way for the best animation and music display. For Independence Day, Van Maren Park is filled with live music, area food trucks and fireworks, while during the City Scoop Neighborhood Event Series, local communities host ice cream socials to encourage neighbors to get to know one another. Stones Gambling Hall sits just west of Interstate 80 and offers table games, poker and virtual golf, along with Sammy’s Restaurant and Bar, a local favorite since 1989.
Local car enthusiasts meet up at the Classic Car Cruise in Citrus Heights.
Santa and Mrs. Claus are the main attraction at the Citrus Heights Tree Lighting Event.
Sammy’s Restaurant and Bar is inside Stones Casino serving Citrus Heights.
Stones Gambling Hall has tables and cards in Citrus Heights.
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Access to Interstate 80 and Sunrise Mall additions
Interstate 80 jets through the city's western portion, which leads 15 miles southwest to Downtown Sacramento, and Auburn Boulevard, part of the Lincoln Highway – America’s original transcontinental road – is one of the city’s main thoroughfares. Sacramento Regional Transit buses serve the southwestern end of town. Designated bike lanes parallel the most prominent streets, and sidewalks line residential areas. Sacramento International Airport sits about 22 miles west, and Mercy San Juan Medical Center borders the city's southwestern boundary.
City council members have approved a plan to revitalize Sunrise Mall into a multi-purpose area with office space, a hotel and residential units. Citrus Heights has received funding to study how to improve pedestrian and bicycle access across Interstate 80, and officials are working to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by updating homes and businesses to meet new energy efficiency standards.
Increasing violent crime and flooding mitigation
According to the local police department’s Annual Report, violent crimes have increased since 2022, while property crimes have decreased. Both, though, are well below national averages. The department hired additional police officers in 2023 and is working to suppress street crime through education and prevention strategies.
Citrus Heights experiences warm, dry summers with low humidity and mild winters. Average high temperatures range from the mid-40s during the colder months to the mid-70s in the summer. Rain typically falls during December and January, causing foggy mornings, and the sun usually shines over 260 days of the year here.
Flooding has occurred along Citrus Heights’ 26 miles of creeks, especially after heavy rainfall. The last major flooding event took place in 2012, when rain from three storms overwhelmed the city’s drainage system. Since then, city officials have been implementing solutions to the drainage problems and offering residents sandbags from October to March.
Written By
Tess Evans
Photography Contributed By
Daniel Reagan
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Andi Wagner,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Citrus Heights, CA sell after 37 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Citrus Heights, CA over the last 12 months is $472,000, down 3% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to 7428 Ranch Ave, where style, space, and functionality come together. This beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath townhome in Ranch Avenue Village offers 1,683 sq ft of thoughtfully designed living space that's ready to impress from the moment you walk in. The open-concept main level flows effortlessly from the spacious living area into a well-appointed kitchen featuring newer
Welcome to this single-story 3 bedroom, 2 bath home in a highly desirable Citrus Heights community, featuring a welcoming double-door entryway, vaulted ceilings, recessed lighting, and crown molding that create a bright, spacious feel. The living room showcases a striking floor-to-ceiling brick fireplace and opens seamlessly to the adjacent flex room and formal dining area, offering effortless
Meticulously cared for turnkey 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom home in a peaceful rural setting of Citrus Heights. Freshly painted and move in ready. Enjoy mature fruit trees and a generous garden area with room to grow your own food. The spacious backyard offers ample space for a pool, ADU, or outdoor entertaining. Snuggle by the wood burning fireplace on a rainy day, or enjoy the quiet of the backyard
Welcome to Sierra Meadows Mobile Estates, a desirable senior community offering comfort, space, and exceptional amenities. This beautifully maintained double wide 3-bedroom, 2-bath manufactured home showcases true pride of ownership and features a spacious, well-designed floor plan. Enjoy the expansive great room feel with a large family room, living room, dining area, and kitchen all seamlessly
Welcome to 7428 Ranch Ave, where style, space, and functionality come together. This beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath townhome in Ranch Avenue Village offers 1,683 sq ft of thoughtfully designed living space that's ready to impress from the moment you walk in. The open-concept main level flows effortlessly from the spacious living area into a well-appointed kitchen featuring newer
Welcome to Lakeview Village, where comfort, style, and community come together. This spacious 1,536 sq ft home offers 2 generous bedrooms, including a lovely primary suite with a private bathroom featuring a separate soaking tub and shower stall. Enjoy a separate formal living and dining room plus a comfortable family room, providing plenty of space to relax or entertain. The kitchen features
Welcome to Oak Grove Estates, a sought-after 55+ community offering comfort, connection, and low-maintenance living. This rare 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers 1,440 sq ft with vaulted ceilings in the living/dining room and a separate family room perfect for relaxing or entertaining. The kitchen opens to the spacious family room and features a charming curved counter and abundant storage. Enjoy the
Welcome to Sierra Meadow Mobile Estates, a highly desired 55+ gated community! This beautifully remodeled 3-bedroom, 2-bath manufactured home has been completely updated from top to bottom. Inside, you'll find brand-new sheetrock throughout, dual-pane windows, LVP and carpet flooring, fresh interior and exterior paint, new fixtures, and a stunning new kitchen. The open and bright floor plan
Clean, well-kept home in the 55+ Lakeview Village community, set on a quiet circle with covered parking and a low-maintenance yard. There's room for a garden if you want it, plus a secluded covered patio for relaxing or entertaining. Inside, the home offers large rooms and a separate laundry room with a built-in desk area that works well for an office or crafts. Newer HVAC already in place.
Pierce Plam
Windermere Signature Properties Roseville/Granite Bay
Welcome to this single-story 3 bedroom, 2 bath home in a highly desirable Citrus Heights community, featuring a welcoming double-door entryway, vaulted ceilings, recessed lighting, and crown molding that create a bright, spacious feel. The living room showcases a striking floor-to-ceiling brick fireplace and opens seamlessly to the adjacent flex room and formal dining area, offering effortless
Welcome home to this beautifully cared-for 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom home offering 1,344 sq ft of comfortable living in the award-winning Big Oak Mobile Home Park, a senior community celebrated for its peaceful setting and active lifestyle. This inviting home offers a formal living and dining room, plus a spacious family room, providing wonderful flexibility for both everyday living and entertaining.
Welcome to your dream home in Lakeview Village, a premier 55+ gated community offering a blend of tranquility and vibrant living. This charming residence is perfectly located at the end of a cul-de-sac, providing unparalleled seclusion and a private yard ideal for relaxation, entertaining, or enjoying time with your pets. The home boasts two inviting patio spaces a covered patio for outdoor
Pierce Plam
Windermere Signature Properties Roseville/Granite Bay
2014 manufactured home in desirable Sierra Meadows 55+ gated community. This charming, character-filled home boasts tall coffered ceilings with elegant crown molding in the living room and master bedrooma subtle, definite upgrade often overlooked (make sure to look up!). The smart, open layout feels spacious, bright, and full of warmth. Recent upgrades include a newer 50-year roof, stylish
Pierce Plam
Windermere Signature Properties Roseville/Granite Bay
7931 Mariposa Ave sits on 0.61 acres in Citrus Heights and offers a rare multi-unit setup. The main home (1944 build) is mid-remodel kitchen nearly done, bathroom framed with rough plumbing and electric complete. The detached second unit (~800 sq ft) is livable and needs only minor cosmetic touch-ups. Both units have separate meters. Live in one and rent the other or finish the updates and flip
Pierce Plam
Windermere Signature Properties Roseville/Granite Bay
Welcome to this charming single-story home in Citrus Heights offering a warm, functional layout and wonderful curb appeal. The bright and open living room is filled with natural light and flows seamlessly into the dining area and kitchen, creating an inviting space perfect for both everyday living and entertaining.The kitchen features granite countertops, plenty of storage, and a newer dishwasher
Welcome to Sunrise Wood, a peaceful community tucked away in the heart of Citrus Heights, just off Sunrise Blvd and Antelope Cross Street, near Roseville. Our community is surrounded by beautiful protected redwoods, providing a serene and calming atmosphere. We offer spacious 1 & 2-bedroom apartments that are move-in ready, so you can start creating memories right away.Each apartment home
Experience resort style living in Citrus Heights at Montage at Fair Oaks Apartments. Montage at Fair Oaks features spacious one and two bedroom floor plans with washer and dryer, central air and heat and European styled cabinetry. Relax in one of three resort style pools or get your work out on in our yoga and cardio group room and fitness center. Montage at Fair Oaks is conveniently located near
Peaceful Creekside Living in Citrus Heights! Woodside Creek offers 1 and 2 bedroom apartment homes in a controlled access community. All homes offer a full-size washer and dryer, wood burning fireplaces (in select apartments), microwave, dishwasher, built-in closet organizers among many other luxurious amenities. Recreational amenities include a sparking pool, relaxing spa, BBQ and picnic area.
Welcome to Spring Creek Apartments in Citrus Heights!Discover a delightful blend of comfort and convenience at our inviting apartment complex. With its serene surroundings, newly remodeled interiors, and an array of convenient amenities, Spring Creek Apartments offers an exceptional residential experience tailored to your needs. Take a glimpse into what awaits you.Your Serene
Featuring exceptionally spacious and fully remodeled 2 & 3 bedroom condo style apartment homes. Greenback Terrace offers you a beautiful community nestled in a residential setting just one block from Greenback Lane, walking distance to fine dining, shopping, Sunrise Marketplace and the new Citrus Heights concert series! Our unique homes feature separate dining area, breakfast bars, central
The Orchard Apartments is resort style living in a lush park like setting, located in the San Juan Unified School District. We are within walking distance of Fair Oaks Park, casual and fine dining, shopping and night life. The Orchard offers spacious, pet friendly 1 & 2 bedroom apartment homes. Our open floor plans feature huge patios and balconies, central heat and air, extra storage and plenty
Find your new apartment at Crosswood Park in Citrus Heights, CA. Our apartment community offers top amenities and features. These include: high-speed internet access, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and eat-in kitchen or dining rooms. The professional leasing team is ready to help you find your new home. Come see Crosswood Park today.
The Woods offers apartments in Citrus Heights, CA near Mercy San Juan Medical Center with excellent amenities. Visit our website for more info & schedule a tour!
Greenback Ridge makes the ultimate statement with brilliant architectural design, lavish amenities and an award winning team. Our commitment to excellence and resident satisfaction is our top priority. We invite you to reserve your one, two or three bedroom apartment home and be envied by everyone. We do not want you to miss the opportunity to take a personal grand tour so please email us your
Welcome to Huntington Square. In the picturesque environment of Arcade Creek, Huntington Square is landscaped with small lakes, decorative fountains and lush greenery. This ideal setting in Citrus Heights offers the ultimate in luxury, with the convenience of nearby shopping, entertainment and freeway access. To accommodate an active lifestyle, a variety of recreational activities are available
Discover a blend of warmth and comfort in this Cozy, Lush, Gated community. Its proximity to I-80, and central location between Roseville and Sacramento, offers residents a wealth of convenient shopping, recreation, educational, and employment opportunities. The well-planned community amenities and attractive features at The Reva are extensive, such as a large swimming pool, BBQ Lounge, Gym, and
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