"tradition, pride, progress."
Just 16 miles north of downtown Sacramento, Roseville is the largest city in Placer County and one of Northern California’s fastest-growing communities. Known for its strong economy, outstanding schools, and family-friendly neighborhoods, Roseville perfectly blends suburban comfort with metropolitan convenience.
With over 4,000 acres of open space, an award-winning parks system, and some of the region’s best shopping and dining, Roseville offers an unmatched quality of life. Whether you’re exploring the historic streets of Old Town, catching a concert at the Civic Center, or spending the afternoon at the Galleria, Roseville delivers a little something for everyone.
history
Roseville’s story began in 1864, when the Central Pacific Railroad extended its route to Sacramento, and the area became known as “Junction.” Growth accelerated after the Southern Pacific Railroad relocated its switching yard from Rocklin to Roseville, and on April 10, 1909, the city officially incorporated.
Within a few short years, over 100 buildings had been constructed — including the Pacific Fruit Express building in 1913, once the largest ice manufacturing plant in the world. The railroad era carried Roseville through both World Wars, providing economic stability and steady growth.
By the 1980s, Roseville transformed from a quiet town into one of the fastest-growing cities in the region. Between 1985 and 2000, its population surged from 28,988 to 79,921, ushering in new neighborhoods, parks, and a downtown revitalization project that modernized Vernon Street, Atlantic Street, and Old Town Roseville. Today, Roseville seamlessly blends its rail-town roots with modern amenities, thriving businesses, and a vibrant community spirit.
LOCATION & DEMOGRAPHICS:
Roseville is the southernmost city in Placer County, just 16 miles north of Sacramento. It encompasses zip codes 95661, 95678, and 95747 and remains the largest city by population in the county.
- Population (2025 est.): ~166,214
- Area: 44 square miles
- Elevation: 165 feet
- Median Age: 39.8 years
- Median Household Income: $117,354
- Cost of Living: ~35–40% higher than U.S. average (but below the California average)
Roseville’s location places it within easy reach of Lake Tahoe, the Bay Area, and the Sierra Nevada foothills — making it ideal for professionals and families who enjoy both convenience and recreation.
open space & recreation
Roseville offers more than 4,000 acres of dedicated open space — roughly one acre for every 25 residents. These preserved natural areas help protect wildlife, improve air quality, and provide scenic trails for biking, running, and walking.
To manage vegetation safely and sustainably, the city even uses herds of goats to graze and clear overgrowth — a local favorite with its own “Goat Tracker” feature on the city website.
Outdoor recreation includes dozens of parks, top-tier sports facilities, golf courses, and nearby Folsom Lake, providing endless opportunities for family fun.
landmarks & culture
Roseville’s cultural and entertainment scene is thriving:
- Roseville Theatre & Tower Theatre: Historic venues from the 1940s, now home to the Roseville Theatre Arts Academy.
- Blue Line Arts: Contemporary gallery supporting local and regional artists.
- Downtown Roseville: Vibrant restaurants, breweries, and seasonal community events.
- Roseville Galleria & The Fountains: Shopping that includes everything from designer storefronts to mall staples
- Quarry Park Adventures (nearby Rocklin): Popular outdoor recreation and concert venue.
- Wake Island Waterpark & Golfland Sunsplash Roseville: Two water parks and recreation places
REAL ESTATE
Roseville’s housing market remains one of the strongest in the Sacramento region.
- Median Sale Price (2025): ~$685,000
- Typical Home Value: ~$652,000
- Owner-Occupied Homes: ~66%
- Renter-Occupied Homes: ~34%
Neighborhoods range from established communities near downtown to expansive new developments in West Roseville, offering options from first-time homes to luxury estates.
EDUCATION
Roseville is served by highly rated school districts, including:
- Roseville City School District (elementary & middle)
- Roseville Joint Union High School District
- Dry Creek School District (K-12 West Roseville)
- Top schools: Stoneridge Elementary, Thomas Jefferson Elementary, Diamond Creek Elementary, and Granite Bay High School (just outside the city limits but serving many Roseville residents)
Private and higher education options include St. Albans Country Day School, Brandman University, Sierra College, William Jessup University, and nearby Sacramento State and UC Davis.
More About Roseville, CA
bet you didn't know...
That 80-foot-tall red sculpture visible from I-80 is called “Cosmos.” Created by artist Aris Demetrios in 1990, it symbolizes unity — despite the urban legend that it’s shaped like a rose when viewed from above.
notable residents who have called roseville home
- Summer Sanders – Olympic gold medalist, sportscaster, actress
- Molly Ringwald – Actress
- Evelyn Ashford – Olympic gold medalist sprinter
- Tedy Bruschi – NFL player, New England Patriots
- Dan Bunz – NFL player, San Francisco 49ers
- Ray Clemons – NFL player
- Andrew Susac – MLB player
- Scott Pruett – Champion race car driver
