A Guide to the Top 5 Folsom Neighborhoods You'll Love to Call Home
Welcome to Folsom, a city that blends the beauty of nature with small-town charm while keeping the pulse of city life within reach. Whether you’re enjoying a morning jog by the lake, exploring a local farmers market, or relaxing in a café downtown, Folsom offers a way of life that caters to nature, history, and culture enthusiasts–and it’s a city that people would love to call home.
Keep reading as we guide you through the city's most coveted neighborhoods, helping you discover just where you might like to plant your roots.
Start your day with a sunrise tee time at Empire Ranch Golf Club. The sprawling golf course known for its picturesque setting and well-maintained grounds. Golfers of all skill levels will find the 18-hole course both challenging and rewarding, with its winding paths through wetlands and rolling terrain offering a combination of scenic views and strategic play.
After your morning on the greens, you have the choice of indulging in a shopping spree at nearby centers. Empire Ranch is just a few minutes away from the Palladio at Broadstone–an upscale lifestyle center that features a blend of national retailers such as H&M, Barnes & Noble, and Whole Foods, along with unique local boutiques and a vibrant dining scene that includes unique local dining favorites. If you're in the mood for a more traditional mall experience, the Broadstone Plaza is also just minutes away, offering a range of stores including Target and Sprouts Farmers Market.
Alternatively, you might opt for a refreshing workout at one of the local gyms. Larger chains are available for convenience, but niche fitness classes and studios are also available in this neighborhood.
Within Empire Ranch, it’s not unusual for the neighborhood to be constantly bustling with activity. Residents of this area are friendly and often gather for local events and activities. It's also home to some of Folsom’s top schools, such as Empire Oaks Elementary and Vista Del Lago High School, ensuring that educational excellence is just around the corner for family residents.
In Briggs Ranch, life seems to move at a slower pace. This neighborhood is celebrated for its expansive properties and meandering streets, all nestled within lush, green landscapes that promise privacy and lots of open space for its residents.
Briggs Ranch embodies a lifestyle of tranquility and leisure. Homes here typically feature large lots that provide ample room for backyard gatherings, private gardens, and spaces where children can play freely. Homes here are set back from quiet, tree-lined streets, creating a picturesque atmosphere that is both inviting and exclusive.
Residents have convenient access to excellent educational facilities, which contribute to the neighborhood's appeal for families. Nearby schools such as Folsom Hills Elementary School and Folsom High School are known for their commitment to academic excellence and a wide range of extracurricular activities.
For leisure and recreation, Briggs Ranch is at the heart of it all. The neighborhood is just a short distance from Folsom Lake, residents can easily engage in a variety of outdoor activities. Boating, fishing, and hiking are popular pastimes, with the lake providing a stunning backdrop for weekend adventures.
Dining options near Briggs Ranch cater to a range of tastes. For a casual meal, residents might visit local favorites like Karen’s Bakery, known for its hearty breakfasts and incredible pastries. Another option would be Scott’s Seafood Roundhouse, which offers fresh, gourmet dishes
The community spirit in Briggs Ranch is strong, marked by events that bring neighbors together and foster a sense of belonging. Seasonal gatherings, local farmers markets, and community garage sales are just a few of the activities that reflect the neighborhood’s pride and tradition.
Historic Folsom is known for being the cultural heartbeat of the city, seamlessly weaving the threads of history with the vibrancy of modern life. This district is alive with activity, from its bustling shopping streets lined with unique boutiques to its rich collection of museums that narrate the local heritage.
The Sutter Street district, at the core of Historic Folsom, is a shopping haven with a quaint, small-town feel, featuring artisan shops like Snooks Candies & Ice Cream for a taste of handcrafted sweets and Dorothea's Shoppe for unique home decor and holiday gifts. The area also hosts various events throughout the year, including art walks and seasonal markets that transform the streets into vibrant gatherings.
For museum enthusiasts, the Folsom History Museum and the Railroad Block Museum deep dives into the area's past—from gold rush days to the development of the railroad. These institutions offer a hands-on approach to history, perfect for family outings or a solo exploration into the roots of the region.
The architecture in Historic Folsom adds another layer to its charm, with buildings that display a mix of Victorian facades and modern constructions. These homes are a patchwork of stories and styles that appeal to those who cherish uniqueness and a sense of time.
Nestled in the heart of Folsom, Lexington Hills is a haven for those who cherish the outdoors without wanting to forsake the conveniences of urban living. This neighborhood is celebrated for its lush natural trails and its close proximity to Cobble Hills Ridge Park, offering residents endless opportunities for hiking, biking, and enjoying the scenic beauty of Northern California.
The tranquility of Lexington Hills is complemented by its central location, providing effortless access to the best that Folsom has to offer. Just a short drive away, the Palladio at Broadstone complex caters to all shopping and dining needs, featuring a mix of local boutiques, major retailers, and a variety of restaurants—from gourmet dining options to family-friendly spots where diners can enjoy a relaxed meal.
For families, the educational opportunities in the area are a significant draw. Schools like Folsom Hills Elementary and Folsom High School are known for their strong academic programs and commitment to student development, making Lexington Hills a sought-after location for those prioritizing quality education.
The community also places a strong emphasis on maintaining a balanced lifestyle, integrating city amenities with expansive green spaces. Residents can easily transition from a day of shopping or working in the city to an evening walk along the trails of Cobble Hills Ridge Park or a weekend outing at Folsom Lake, both of which are popular for their recreational offerings and natural beauty.
Broadstone is designed for ease and comfort. With its array of parks, comprehensive shopping centers, and a robust fitness club featuring tennis courts, Broadstone caters to a lifestyle that balances activity with accessibility.
The neighborhood is exceptionally commuter-friendly, situated just minutes from Highway 50, providing easy access to downtown Sacramento and other areas of interest. This proximity makes it ideal for those who commute to work but wish to retreat to a more serene setting at day's end.
Families in Broadstone benefit from a variety of educational opportunities, with top-rated schools such as Gold Ridge Elementary and Folsom High School nearby. The community is dotted with numerous playgrounds, offering engaging spaces for children to play and interact, which support a family-friendly atmosphere throughout the neighborhood.
Broadstone is also a hub of residential diversity, featuring a wide range of home styles—from modern apartments to large, single-family houses, and even gated communities for those seeking extra privacy and security. This variety ensures that families of any size and preference can find a place that feels like home.
Shopping and dining are convenient and varied, with the Broadstone Marketplace offering everything from grocery stores and numerous dining destinations. For those looking for retail therapy, Palladio at Broadstone provides a wide selection of stores and eateries in an upscale outdoor mall setting.
Like most of the neighborhoods in Folsom, community spirit thrives here, emphasized by lots of local events such as neighborhood block parties, seasonal festivals, and sports leagues. The local community centers serve as gathering spots where residents can engage in various group activities, classes, and social functions.
In Folsom, each neighborhood offers its unique charm and advantages, from the serene, family-oriented atmosphere of Broadstone to the vibrant, historical richness of Historic Folsom. Whether you're drawn to the natural beauty and central location of Lexington Hills, the leisurely pace and spacious living of Briggs Ranch, or the active and convenient lifestyle of Empire Ranch, Folsom provides a perfect backdrop for anyone looking to enrich their life with a blend of nature, community, and modern amenities.
If you're ready to make living in Folsom a reality, don't hesitate to reach out to us at Onyx Real Estate.
Stay up to date on the latest real estate trends.
Actionable Tips for Seasonal Slowdowns
Seasons Influence Real Estate More Than You’d Think
Finding the Right Approach for Your Next Move
Expert Tips for Maximum Appeal
A Must-Read if You're In the Market
Read this if you’re a real estate agent!
We see every client as a lifelong client. Buying or selling is just the beginning of our relationship, and that's the best part.
