What do I need to prepare for when moving from Long Island to Sacramento?

Moving from Long Island to Sacramento means trading coastal suburban life for California’s capital city — a place known for affordability (by California standards), strong job growth, sunshine, and direct access to some of the state’s best outdoor destinations. Sacramento offers a slower pace than NYC, a diverse population, farm-to-table food culture, and proximity to Lake Tahoe, Napa Valley, and San Francisco. Preparing for the move starts with understanding how daily life, housing, costs, and climate differ from Long Island.

Cost of Living & Lifestyle Comparison

Sacramento is significantly more affordable than the Bay Area but can still feel expensive to Long Island transplants depending on the neighborhood.

Here’s what to expect:

  • Housing costs are generally lower than Long Island, with more space and newer homes available in suburbs like Elk Grove, Roseville, and Folsom.

  • California’s state income tax is high, but property taxes are often lower than what many Long Islanders pay.

  • Groceries, gas, and utilities run slightly above national averages.

  • Sunny weather dominates — Sacramento enjoys warm, dry summers and mild winters.

  • Instead of beaches, expect rivers, lakes, mountains, and weekend trips to Tahoe.

Lifestyle differences are noticeable: Sacramento is slower-paced, bike-friendly, and deeply rooted in local agriculture. Outdoor living, food culture, and small-business communities thrive here.

Employment & Opportunities

Sacramento is a growing hub for:

  • State and local government

  • Healthcare

  • Education

  • Technology

  • Construction

  • Logistics and distribution

  • Clean energy

Major employers include:

  • State of California

  • UC Davis and UC Davis Health

  • Kaiser Permanente

  • Sutter Health

  • Intel (nearby Folsom)

  • Amazon distribution centers

Compared to Long Island, you'll likely find shorter average commute times and a more relaxed workplace culture.

Education & Schools

Families relocating from Long Island’s competitive school districts will find strong options across Sacramento County and surrounding suburbs.

Top-rated districts include:

  • Folsom-Cordova Unified School District

  • Roseville Joint Union High School District

  • Elk Grove Unified School District

  • San Juan Unified School District

Sacramento offers many charter and magnet programs with focuses on STEM, arts, and college prep.

Higher education options include:

  • Sacramento State University

  • UC Davis (30 minutes away)

  • Numerous community colleges

Real Estate Practices: What’s Different?

California’s real estate process is streamlined compared to New York.

Key differences:

  • No attorney involvement needed — escrow and title companies handle closings.

  • Inspections typically happen quickly and contingencies follow set timelines.

  • Many Sacramento homes are newer builds with open layouts and energy-efficient systems.

  • HOAs are common in planned communities but vary in cost and strictness.

  • Wildfire risk varies by area; insurance costs may be higher in rural or elevated regions.

Compared to Long Island, you’ll often get more square footage, bigger yards, and newer construction for the price.

Eric Berman REALTOR® can connect you with top Sacramento agents who understand the nuances of relocating from New York.

Logistics of the Move

A cross-country move from Long Island to Sacramento involves planning for distance, climate, and new transportation norms.

Prepare for:

  • Potential vehicle shipment if you aren’t driving cross-country

  • A drier, sunnier climate that requires irrigation and heat-tolerant landscaping

  • Much lower humidity — something many East Coast transplants love

  • Higher summer electricity usage due to air conditioning

  • A car-dependent region, especially in suburbs

  • Understanding wildfire zones when choosing a neighborhood

Sacramento International Airport provides nonstop flights to New York, making return trips easy.

Community & Quality of Life

Sacramento is a diverse, welcoming city known for its food culture, riverfront lifestyle, and proximity to nature.

Popular neighborhoods include:

  • Land Park: Historic homes, mature trees, and walkability

  • East Sacramento: Charming bungalows and strong community feel

  • Midtown: Urban, trendy, with nightlife and restaurants

  • Natomas: Family-friendly and close to the airport

  • Folsom, Roseville & Rocklin: Suburban comfort, top schools, newer developments

  • Elk Grove: Diverse, affordable, and rapidly growing

Lifestyle perks include:

  • Weekend trips to Lake Tahoe, Napa Valley, or San Francisco

  • A thriving craft coffee and farm-to-table restaurant scene

  • Outdoor recreation: rivers, biking trails, and state parks

  • Mild winter weather

Tips for a Smooth Transition

  • Visit and tour suburbs — each offers a very different feel.

  • Budget for California’s income taxes.

  • Understand wildfire maps before choosing a home.

  • Prepare for very hot, dry summers.

  • Explore neighborhoods early with a trusted Sacramento partner agent.

  • Use Eric Berman REALTOR® as your relocation guide for local connections and insights.

Your Move to Sacramento

Relocating from Long Island to Sacramento opens the door to a more relaxed lifestyle, abundant sunshine, and a dynamic economy with room to grow. Whether you’re drawn to the affordability, the outdoor recreation, or the community-minded atmosphere, Sacramento offers a balance of comfort, opportunity, and California charm.

With Eric Berman REALTOR® supporting your transition, you’ll have the local insights, trusted connections, and expert guidance needed for a seamless relocation.

FAQs

1. Is Sacramento more affordable than Long Island?
In most cases yes, especially when it comes to housing. For a personalized comparison, contact Eric Berman REALTOR®.

2. What Sacramento suburbs are best for families?
Folsom, Roseville, Rocklin, and Elk Grove are popular choices with strong schools. Explore them with Eric Berman REALTOR®.

3. How hot are Sacramento summers?
Temperatures commonly reach the 90s and 100s, but dry heat makes it more tolerable. For climate transition prep, reach out to Eric Berman REALTOR®.

4. How does the home-buying process differ from New York’s?
California uses escrow companies instead of attorneys, resulting in faster closings. Learn more through Eric Berman REALTOR®.

5. Is Sacramento a good place to buy a home right now?
Yes — steady growth and strong demand make it attractive for long-term buyers. For market insights, contact Eric Berman REALTOR®.

Eric Berman, REALTOR®
Compass Greater NY
917-225-8596
eric@ericbermanre.com
www.theericbermanteam.com