Moving to Vacaville, CA? The Pros and Cons

Thinking about moving to Vacaville, CA? This charming Northern California city perfectly combines suburban comfort, economic opportunity, and convenient amenities. If you're considering the move, use our top pros and cons as your introductory Vacaville, CA relocation guide.

The Pros of Vacaville, CA

Vacaville, California, has many things going for it, making it an ideal place for families, retirees, young professionals, and outdoor enthusiasts. It has something for everyone and is a more affordable spot than other towns and cities in the Greater Bay Area. Here are some of the top highlights of living in Vacaville:

Location

On a map, Vacaville, California, is located in Northern California, approximately 55 miles northeast of San Francisco and 35 miles southwest of Sacramento. The city's central location allows Vacaville residents to take advantage of what both areas offer. Vacaville is also quite close to Napa Valley - Napa County is only a 50-minute drive away.

Weather

While the summer temps can hit triple digits (100°F+), locals can count on lots of sunshine, warmer summers, and mild winters. The comfortable weather allows residents to be outdoors year-round.

Photo Credit: Visit Vacaville

Cost of Living

Compared to Bay Area cities, such as San Francisco and San Jose, Vacaville is more affordable for housing. As of early 2025, the Vacaville housing market remained competitive.

• Median Listing Price: Approximately $640,000
• Median Sale Price: Approximately $585,000
• Affordable Neighborhoods: Leisure Town
• Higher-End Neighborhoods: Southtown and North Village

Growing Economy & Hot Job Market

Summers aren't the only hot thing - so is the job market in Vacaville. Moving to Vacaville, CA, may open up new career opportunities, thanks to the presence of biotech, manufacturing, and distribution hubs. The Vacaville economy continues to grow. Vacaville boasts a very diverse economy with opportunities in sectors such as:

• Biotech & Pharmaceuticals: Many companies, including Genentech, have significant operations in the area.
• Logistics & Distribution: The city is situated on the I-80, making it the perfect spot for distribution centers.
• Healthcare: Kaiser Permanente, NorthBay Healthcare, and other facilities provide numerous job opportunities.

Suburban Feel

Considered a good place for families, Vacaville provides everything you need to live out your suburban dreams. You'll find all the amenities you need, as well as numerous parks and shopping centers, including the Vacaville Premium Outlets.

Outdoor Activities

This area is chock-full of things to do to get outside and enjoy all Northern California has to offer. Vacaville is near hiking trails, lakes, and other outdoor recreation. You can get in some of the finest California hiking, biking, and fishing at:

• Peña Adobe Park, home to the Tower Challenge, and Lagoon Valley Park: 470 acres of hiking, biking, fishing, archery, disc golf, and more. Plus, there's a large dog park!
• Lake Berryessa: Only 20 minutes from Vacaville, this lake offers fishing for both warm-water and cold-water fish, including rainbow trout, bluegill, bass, and catfish.
• Golf courses near Vacaville, CA, including Paradise Valley Golf Course, Cypress Lakes Golf Course, and Rancho Solano Golf Course

Photo Credit: @penaadobe

The Cons of Vacaville, CA

While the area is typically well-received by both new residents and seasoned locals, there are several factors to consider before moving to Vacaville, CA.

Cost of Living

Yes, Vacaville is considered relatively affordable compared to San Francisco; however, the area is still more expensive than the national average (approximately 28% more expensive). Remember, you're paying California prices, just not San Francisco prices.

Traffic

Being on the I-80 has many benefits. But the I-80 traffic congestion can be pretty brutal. If you must commute toward Sacramento or the Bay Area, be aware that you may hit heavy traffic during rush hour.

Also, because Vacaville is more suburban than other areas, public transportation options are limited. It is recommended to have a car.

Wildfire Risk

Like much of Northern California, Vacaville is vulnerable to the impact of wildfire. First Street labeled Vacaville's fire factor as "severe," stating that 99% of all properties in the area will be at risk of being affected by wildfires in the next 30 years.

Limited Nightlife

If you're looking for a family-friendly area with a suburban vibe, you've found the place. But if you're craving more nightlife and culture, you will have to make a short trip to neighboring cities and areas, as it is very limited in Vacaville.

Is Vacaville in Northern California a good town to live in?

Yes, we would have to say so! Moving to Vacaville, CA, is worth it if you're seeking a balanced lifestyle, suburban charm, and economic vitality. Whether you're drawn by job opportunities, housing options, or community amenities, it's a city worth considering.

Photo Credit: Tripadvisor

Self Storage Near Vacaville: Storage Star 

Moving and storage go hand-in-hand. Whether you've purchased a home, are renting an apartment, or are renovating, Storage Star Vacaville, CA, at 170 Bella Vista Road has self-storage near Vacaville. Our storage units in Vacaville, CA, can help you during the transition. Our self-storage solutions feature:

• Climate-controlled units
• Indoor ground-level and outdoor drive-up units
• Security features, including video surveillance and gated access
• Convenient month-to-month leases, online bill pay, and auto-pay options
• Extended access hours
• Boat storage and vehicle storage options

If you're moving to Vacaville, CA, or are in the planning phase, reserve or rent your unit online now! Need more help choosing the perfect storage unit size? Give our friendly storage experts a call to help you select the best unit for you!