The Best Neighborhoods for New Construction in Sacramento
The Best Neighborhoods for New Construction in Sacramento & Beyond
Booming Areas for Builders, Buyers, and Investors
As Sacramento continues to expand, so does the opportunity for homebuyers, builders, and investors looking to get ahead of the curve. From luxury communities in the foothills to affordable, commuter-friendly neighborhoods closer to the Bay Area, the region’s growth is being driven by thoughtful planning, school district performance, and economic development.
In this post, we explore 10 of the fastest-growing communities around Sacramento—each offering unique advantages for new construction and long-term investment. Whether you're building your dream home, developing a subdivision, or guiding clients toward the next up-and-coming neighborhood, this guide is your starting point.
Here’s an in-depth look at the top areas for new construction in Sacramento and beyond.
1. Roseville – A Thriving Suburban Hub
Roseville is one of the fastest-growing cities in the Sacramento metropolitan area, boasting a population of approximately 147,000 residents. The city is widely recognized for its robust economy, anchored by diverse sectors including healthcare, technology, retail, and manufacturing. This economic strength attracts professionals and businesses, contributing to steady growth and development.
Roseville is particularly celebrated for its excellent schools, served by the Roseville City School District and the Roseville Joint Union High School District, which include numerous highly rated elementary, middle, and high schools. This strong education system is a major draw for families seeking quality learning environments for their children.
The city’s family-friendly atmosphere is enhanced by extensive parks, recreational facilities, shopping centers, and community events that foster a welcoming and active lifestyle. Popular master-planned communities such as Westpark, Fiddyment Ranch, and Sierra Vista offer modern homes and convenient amenities like trails, playgrounds, and retail hubs.
With a strategic location offering easy access to major highways and Sacramento’s urban core, Roseville combines suburban comfort with city connectivity. Its balance of affordability compared to California’s coastal markets, combined with high living standards, makes it a top choice for homebuyers and investors alike.
Master-Planned Communities: Neighborhoods like Westpark, Fiddyment Ranch, and Sierra Vista feature modern homes with parks, trails, and shopping centers designed for community living.
Education: Served by the Roseville City School District and Roseville Joint Union High School District, the area has over 30 schools, many of which are highly rated.
Lifestyle: With abundant shopping, dining, and recreational amenities, Roseville supports an active lifestyle with numerous parks and trails.
Best For: Families seeking top-tier schools and professionals looking for a balance of career opportunities and quality of life.
Why It’s a Great Investment:
Roseville offers affordability relative to the Bay Area, with steady population growth and a strong local economy, making it a prime spot for long-term housing investments.
2. Elk Grove – Expanding Fast with New Home Developments
Elk Grove’s lush parks and family-friendly green spaces make it one of the Sacramento region’s most livable and scenic communities
Elk Grove, situated just south of Sacramento, is a thriving city with a population nearing 176,000 residents, making it one of Northern California’s fastest-growing communities. Its rapid expansion is fueled by a strong local economy, affordable housing options, and a family-friendly atmosphere.
The city is widely recognized for its excellent schools, served by the Elk Grove Unified School District, one of the largest and highest-performing districts in California, with over 70 schools including several award-winning campuses. This emphasis on quality education makes Elk Grove particularly attractive to families seeking a safe and nurturing environment for their children.
Elk Grove’s neighborhoods are diverse, featuring master-planned communities such as Laguna Ridge, Madeira, and the Southeast Policy Area (SEPA), which offer a variety of housing styles including single-family homes, townhomes, and new developments tailored to today’s buyers.
Beyond housing, Elk Grove offers a strong sense of community with numerous parks, recreational facilities, local events, and a growing downtown area. Its proximity to Sacramento ensures convenient commuting options via major highways and public transit.
Overall, Elk Grove combines affordability, growth, and excellent amenities, making it a hotspot for new housing developments and a smart choice for homebuyers and investors alike.
Major Housing Developments: Communities like Laguna Ridge, Madeira, and the Southeast Policy Area (SEPA) feature expanding neighborhoods with a mix of single-family homes and townhomes.
Education: The Elk Grove Unified School District serves over 63,000 students across more than 70 schools, including several highly ranked campuses.
Lifestyle: With extensive parks, trails, and community events, Elk Grove provides a welcoming environment for families and retirees alike.
Best For: Families looking for quality education and amenities, professionals seeking affordable housing near Sacramento, and retirees wanting a peaceful suburban setting.
Why It’s a Great Investment:
Elk Grove’s continued population growth, city-supported infrastructure projects, and community-focused planning create strong long-term housing value.
3. Natomas (North & South) – Convenient and Growing
Natomas, with a population around 90,000 split between North and South Natomas, is one of Sacramento’s most vibrant and rapidly growing neighborhoods. Known for its relative affordability compared to other parts of the city, Natomas attracts young families, first-time homebuyers, and professionals who appreciate its convenient location near downtown Sacramento and Sacramento International Airport.
The area offers a diverse mix of housing options, including newer single-family homes, townhomes, and apartment communities, making it accessible for a broad range of residents. Natomas is served by the Natomas Unified School District, which operates numerous elementary, middle, and high schools, several of which have earned commendations for strong academic programs and extracurricular activities.
Residents enjoy ample green space with miles of bike trails, parks, and nature reserves, as well as recreational access to the nearby Sacramento River. The community hosts local events and festivals that foster a close-knit, family-friendly atmosphere.
With easy access to major highways like I-5 and I-80, Natomas is well-positioned for commuters working in downtown Sacramento or the Bay Area. Its growth is supported by ongoing infrastructure improvements and commercial development, making it a promising area for both homebuyers and real estate investors.
New Homes in North Natomas: Communities like Westlake, Natomas Park, and The Cove offer a mix of single-family homes, townhomes, and apartments designed for modern living.
Education: Natomas Unified School District serves over 12,000 students with 18 schools, including several highly rated elementary and middle schools.
Lifestyle: With miles of bike trails, parks, and access to the Sacramento River, Natomas offers plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities.
Best For: Ideal for young families seeking affordability and accessibility, as well as professionals needing a short commute to downtown or the airport.
Why It’s a Great Investment:
With a large land bank still available for development, and ongoing infrastructure improvements, Natomas offers great growth potential and solid home appreciation.
4. Folsom – A Balance of Nature and Modern Living
Folsom, CA offers the charming & historic Sutter Street full of shops, restaurants and a weekly farmers market.
Folsom, with a population of approximately 82,000, is celebrated for its unique blend of suburban comfort and stunning natural surroundings. Known as one of the Sacramento region’s most desirable places to live, Folsom attracts both families seeking excellent schools and retirees looking for an active lifestyle amidst scenic beauty.
The city offers a diverse housing market, ranging from modern single-family homes in master-planned communities like Folsom Ranch and Russell Ranch to charming older neighborhoods. Folsom’s robust education system is served by the Folsom-Cordova Unified School District, which includes a number of highly rated schools known for academic excellence and comprehensive extracurricular programs.
Outdoor enthusiasts are drawn to Folsom for its close proximity to Folsom Lake State Recreation Area, the American River Parkway, and miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails. The city’s parks, golf courses, and waterfront amenities foster an active and healthy lifestyle.
Folsom also offers a vibrant local economy with retail, dining, and entertainment options that support a high quality of life. Its family-friendly atmosphere combined with excellent healthcare facilities makes it equally appealing for retirees.
New Communities: Folsom Ranch and Russell Ranch are master-planned developments adding thousands of homes featuring parks, trails, and community centers.
Education: Served by the highly rated Folsom-Cordova Unified School District, Folsom has about 20 schools, including several award-winning elementary and high schools.
Lifestyle: Outdoor enthusiasts love proximity to Folsom Lake, American River Parkway, and numerous hiking and biking trails.
Best For: Families who want top schools and recreational amenities, and retirees who appreciate the natural surroundings and calm suburban vibe.
Why It’s a Great Investment:
Folsom maintains strong property values due to high demand and limited space for expansion, making it a safe choice for long-term growth.
5. Granite Bay – Luxury Living with a Small-Town Feel
Granite Bay living would include easy access to amenities like Folsom Lake State Recreation Area
Granite Bay is an upscale, prestigious community nestled in the scenic rolling hills of Placer County, home to approximately 21,000 residents. Renowned for its spacious estates and luxury homes, Granite Bay offers a serene, small-town atmosphere that combines privacy with convenient access to the greater Sacramento metropolitan area.
The community is characterized by large, custom-built residences often situated on expansive lots, surrounded by mature trees and scenic landscapes. Residents enjoy a peaceful lifestyle with easy access to outdoor recreational activities, including nearby Folsom Lake and regional parks, making it popular among nature lovers and those seeking tranquility.
Granite Bay boasts some of the highest-ranked schools in the region, served primarily by the Rocklin Unified School District and the Roseville Joint Union High School District, which consistently earn top marks for academics, sports, and arts programs. This makes it an attractive location for families prioritizing education.
With a strong emphasis on community safety and quality of life, Granite Bay offers a blend of exclusivity and warmth, appealing to professionals, executives, and families looking for a prestigious address with a close-knit community feel.
Housing: Primarily composed of custom-built and semi-custom luxury homes on spacious lots.
Education: Part of the Rocklin Unified School District and some parts served by Roseville Joint Union High School District, Granite Bay boasts several top-rated schools with consistently high test scores.
Lifestyle: Quiet neighborhoods, scenic views, and access to outdoor amenities like Folsom Lake State Recreation Area make it perfect for those seeking privacy and nature.
Best For: Families seeking a prestigious school district and spacious homes, and professionals wanting upscale suburban living with easy access to Sacramento.
Why It’s a Great Investment:
The limited land availability and exclusive community keep home prices strong, appealing to buyers looking for luxury and long-term value.
6. Rocklin – Family-Friendly and Fast-Growing
Rocklin, with a population nearing 70,000, is celebrated for its welcoming, family-oriented neighborhoods and a robust network of community services. The city offers a wide variety of housing options, from affordable starter homes to larger single-family residences in master-planned communities like Whitney Ranch and Sunset Ranch.
Education is a major draw, with the Rocklin Unified School District serving over 16,000 students through highly rated elementary, middle, and high schools that emphasize academic achievement and extracurricular involvement. Families benefit from numerous parks, recreational facilities, and community programs that foster an active and connected lifestyle.
Rocklin’s growing economy includes a burgeoning tech sector and expanding business parks, providing local employment opportunities while maintaining its suburban charm. Its strategic location just northeast of Sacramento offers residents easy access to the city’s job market, major highways, and regional amenities.
Overall, Rocklin’s blend of quality education, family-friendly amenities, and economic growth make it a popular choice for homebuyers and investors looking for a strong community with solid long-term potential.
Popular Communities: Whitney Ranch and Sunset Ranch offer diverse housing options, parks, and schools.
Education: The Rocklin Unified School District serves more than 16,000 students with a reputation for quality education and extracurricular programs.
Lifestyle: Abundant parks, golf courses, and family-friendly events contribute to Rocklin’s welcoming environment.
Best For: Families looking for good schools and safe neighborhoods, as well as professionals attracted to growing local job opportunities.
Why It’s a Great Investment:
Rocklin’s balance of affordability, growth, and access to Sacramento’s job market makes it a smart choice for homebuyers and investors.
7. El Dorado Hills – Upscale Living with Stunning Views
El Dorado Hills communities boasts stunning valley and foothill views
El Dorado Hills is an affluent community nestled in the scenic rolling hills east of Sacramento, home to approximately 50,000 residents. It’s widely recognized for its upscale lifestyle, featuring luxury homes, custom estates, and gated neighborhoods that offer spacious lots and stunning views of the Sierra Nevada foothills and Folsom Lake.
The community boasts a strong sense of safety and exclusivity, with some of the lowest crime rates in the Sacramento region. Families are drawn to El Dorado Hills for its highly rated public and private schools, served primarily by the Buckeye Union School District and El Dorado Union High School District, both known for academic excellence and a wide range of extracurricular programs.
Residents enjoy a lifestyle balanced between natural beauty and modern convenience, with access to extensive hiking and biking trails, golf courses, parks, and marinas. The area hosts numerous community events, farmers markets, and cultural activities, fostering a welcoming and engaged population.
El Dorado Hills also benefits from convenient access to Sacramento and other employment hubs via Highway 50, making it an ideal location for professionals seeking a tranquil, upscale home environment without sacrificing connectivity.
Housing: The Serrano community is one of the largest master-planned areas with estates, gated neighborhoods, and golf courses.
Education: Served primarily by the Buckeye Union School District and El Dorado Union High School District, offering some of the highest-rated schools in the region.
Lifestyle: The rolling hills, lake views, and low crime rates make it attractive for families and retirees seeking a peaceful lifestyle.
Best For: Affluent families who want premium homes and top-tier schools, and retirees drawn to scenic, tranquil surroundings.
Why It’s a Great Investment:
Limited land and strong demand keep prices high, providing stability and growth potential.
8. Rancho Cordova – Affordable New Home Options
Anatolia is one of the newest neighborhood developments in Rancho Cordova
Rancho Cordova is a vibrant and diverse city located just east of Sacramento, with a population of approximately 75,000 residents. Known for its relatively affordable housing market compared to neighboring communities, Rancho Cordova offers a variety of housing options, from new single-family homes to townhomes and apartments, appealing to first-time buyers, growing families, and young professionals alike.
The city benefits from a growing and diversified economy, anchored by several corporate headquarters, industrial parks, and a flourishing healthcare sector. Rancho Cordova’s business-friendly environment attracts companies across technology, manufacturing, and service industries, creating ample local job opportunities.
Residents enjoy convenient access to major highways like Highway 50 and Grantline Rd., making commutes to Sacramento, Folsom, and other employment hubs straightforward. The community also offers numerous parks, recreational facilities, and a developing network of trails, contributing to an active and family-friendly lifestyle.
Rancho Cordova is served by the Folsom-Cordova Unified School District, which includes many schools recognized for strong academic programs and extracurricular activities, adding to the city’s appeal for families.
Overall, Rancho Cordova combines affordable living, economic growth, and accessibility, making it an attractive choice for homebuyers and investors seeking value and opportunity in the Sacramento metropolitan area.
Developments: Anatolia and Sunridge Park are large new subdivisions with varied home styles at competitive prices.
Education: Served by the Folsom-Cordova Unified School District, offering many schools rated above average.
Lifestyle: Conveniently located near Highway 50, with parks and a growing number of dining and entertainment options.
Best For: First-time homebuyers, young families, and investors looking for affordable entry points close to Sacramento.
Why It’s a Great Investment:
Lower home prices combined with ongoing commercial and infrastructure development offer long-term appreciation.
9. Mountain House – California’s Newest City
An aerial view of Mountain House reveals its thoughtful master-planned layout—walkable neighborhoods, community parks, and modern homes nestled in one of Northern California’s fastest-growing towns.
Mountain House, located near Tracy in San Joaquin County, is one of Northern California’s fastest-growing communities with a population of approximately 16,000 residents. This master-planned city has been carefully designed to provide a high quality of life with a focus on walkability, community engagement, and modern amenities.
Mountain House offers a variety of housing options including single-family homes, townhomes, and apartments, attracting families, young professionals, and retirees looking for affordable alternatives to the Bay Area’s high housing costs. The community is served by the Lammersville Unified School District, which includes several highly rated schools that emphasize strong academics and extracurricular programs.
Residents enjoy numerous parks, playgrounds, and open spaces, along with community centers that host local events, sports leagues, and cultural activities. Its strategic location offers convenient access to major highways like Interstate 580, making commutes to the Bay Area and Sacramento manageable for professionals.
Mountain House’s rapid growth is fueled by its affordability, family-friendly environment, and thoughtful urban planning, making it an attractive location for new homebuyers and real estate investors seeking long-term value.
Master-Planned Community: Designed with walkability, parks, and community schools at its core.
Education: Served by the Lammersville Unified School District with multiple highly rated schools.
Lifestyle: A family-focused community with plenty of amenities, yet affordable compared to Bay Area prices.
Best For: Families and professionals who want a newer community with modern conveniences and easy Bay Area access.
Why It’s a Great Investment:
Rapid growth and affordability make Mountain House an excellent choice for new homebuyers and investors.
10. West Sacramento – Rapid Growth with New Construction Potential
West Sacramento is ideal for those who want to stay close to the hustle and bustle of downtown Sacramento
West Sacramento is a vibrant and rapidly growing city located just across the Sacramento River from downtown Sacramento, with a population of approximately 55,000 residents. Over recent years, West Sacramento has experienced significant new home development and urban revitalization, transforming it into a sought-after area for both homebuyers and investors.
The city is known for its master-planned communities such as Bryte Ranch, The River Walk, and Southport Landing, which offer a variety of modern single-family homes, townhomes, and mixed-use developments designed with walkability and community amenities in mind. These neighborhoods often feature parks, bike trails, and proximity to the riverfront, catering to residents seeking an active, outdoor lifestyle.
West Sacramento’s economy is diverse and growing, supported by industries ranging from manufacturing to tech and logistics. The city is served by the Washington Unified School District, which includes several schools with strong academic reputations, making the area attractive to families.
Residents benefit from a revitalized downtown area with expanding dining, entertainment, and cultural options, while also enjoying convenient access to Sacramento’s job centers via major highways and public transit. Its location offers a unique blend of urban convenience and suburban comfort.
New Construction Boom: Areas like Bryte Ranch, The River Walk, and Southport Landing are master-planned communities offering modern single-family homes, townhomes, and mixed-use developments with walkable amenities.
Population & Growth: With around 55,000 residents and a steady influx of newcomers, West Sacramento is growing quickly thanks to its affordability and proximity to Sacramento’s job centers.
Education: Served by the Washington Unified School District, which includes several schools with strong academic performance.
Lifestyle: Residents enjoy waterfront parks, bike trails, a growing downtown area with dining and entertainment, plus easy access to Sacramento and the Bay Area.
Best For: Builders and developers targeting affordable new housing for families and professionals, as well as buyers seeking a modern urban-suburban blend.
Why It’s a Great Investment:
West Sacramento’s aggressive redevelopment efforts, infrastructure investments, and abundant new construction opportunities make it a prime location for builders and homebuyers looking for value and growth potential in the Sacramento region.
Build Smarter- Start with the Right Community and the Right Plan
Choosing where to build your next home or investment property is one of the most important decisions you'll make—and Sacramento’s top-growing communities offer something for everyone. From the scenic foothills of El Dorado Hills to the modern convenience of Natomas or the affordability of Rancho Cordova, these neighborhoods are shaping the future of residential growth in the region.
But once you've chosen the right location, what comes next?
Next Steps in Your New Construction Journey:
Research Your Top Communities
Dive deeper into each area's school districts, zoning, amenities, and local development plans. Use the city planning links above or talk to a local realtor who specializes in new builds.Find the Right Builder
Look for licensed builders with experience in your chosen area. Ask to see previous work, check references, and confirm they’re familiar with city-specific codes and permitting processes.Choose or Customize Your Floor Plan
Whether you're selecting from a builder’s portfolio or working with an architect, make sure the floor plan fits your lifestyle, lot, and long-term goals.Walk Your Plans—Before You Build
This is where Walk Your Plans Sacramento makes all the difference. Our full-scale floor plan walkthroughs help you and your builder spot design issues early, test flow and functionality, and make confident decisions before construction begins. It's a game-changing tool for pre-construction clarity.Secure Financing and Permits
Meet with your lender early and work with your builder to ensure all city approvals and permits are in place to avoid costly delays.Break Ground with Confidence
With the right location, team, and plan in place, you’re ready to build smarter and more efficiently—knowing you’ve anticipated the details that matter most.
Our full-scale floor plan walkthroughs help you and your builder spot design issues early, test flow and functionality, and make confident decisions before construction begins. It's a game-changing tool for pre-construction clarity.
Plan It. Walk It. Build It.
Before you break ground, make sure your vision works in real space. At Walk Your Plans Sacramento, we help developers, homeowners, and design professionals walk through their future builds—at full scale—before a single wall goes up. Whether you’re building in Mountain House, Roseville, or anywhere in the region, we’re here to help you get it right the first time.
Ready to Walk Your Plans? Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
