Citrus Heights

Citrus Heights is not really known for much except for its typically bland, middle to lower-middle class suburbia. It’s part of the greater Sacramento metropolitan area makes it a conformable living environment while its proximity to Folsom Lake makes water sport enthusiasts envious. However, not much change has been bestowed upon the city of Citrus Heights. The population has topped out at around 82,000 residents, which according to the 2010 U.S. Census Bureau, is close to the same as 2000‘s census. Neighborhoods are plotted on long, flat and curving roads with trees roughening the neighborhood. Many of these neighborhoods are outfitted with aged, one-story homes. However, a big perk is that each house seems to have plenty of front lawn space and an attached garage.

Citrus Heights also enjoys a range of commercial areas highlighting its retail and service industries. Sunrise Mall is the city’s largest commercial hub, offering over a hundred stores including major department stores (i.e. Macy’s, JC Penny and Sears). It is located in the heart of Citrus Heights (Sunrise Boulevard) while providing acres of public parking. Moreover, Sunrise Marketplace lies adjacent to the busy strip mall serving many chain restaurants and discount retail stores. Other small neighborhood markets sprout up around Auburn Boulevard and along Antelope Road. It seems each one hosts a couple eclectic shops, chain stores, a market, fast food and a deli.

The city is served by the San Juan Unified School District, boasting ten elementary schools, one middle school and two high schools within its vicinity. It’s community rating on greatschools.org within Citrus Heights is high (4-out-of-5 stars review).

Outdoor activities are relatively sparse in Citrus Heights. One of the few pastimes in the area is Sunrise Driving Range and Golf course. In addition, there are a plethora of parks and children’s playgrounds sprinkled throughout the community. Yet, many residents travel east to Folsom Lake for water skiing, fishing, hiking and bike riding.

Public transit is an unpopular option amongst locals considering most residents drive in to work. Highway 80 run diagonally across the city, cropping part of the northwestern corner. Many use this freeway to commute to nearby Sacramento. Also, Summer Hills Plaza shopping area sits next to the highway’s onramp, offering a small plaza with an adjoining fitness center.