Nestled in the center of the San Joaquin Valley and nearly equidistant from Yosemite, Kings Canyon, and Sequoia national parks, Fresno, California is an enticing place to live. In an area largely dominated by agriculture, Fresno is the economic hub. Since it is located in the center of California it has fairly easy access to the far-more-expensive cities of San Francisco, Sacramento, and Los Angeles. With so many distinct and beautiful neighborhoods to choose from, how do you decide which is the best for you? We’ve laid out some highlights of the best neighborhoods in Fresno to give you a starting point.
Woodward Park
Named after the 300-acre local public park, this neighborhood is located on the northern edge of Fresno and abuts the San Joaquin River. Homes in this area are definitely priced on the higher end, but the neighborhood’s schools are highly ranked. Plus, the sheer amount of public green space is highly desirable. Woodward Park itself is home to more than five miles of winding trails as well as the Shinzen Japanese Gardens, a BMX and mountain bike course, a dog park, and an amphitheater that can seat 2,500 people. Add some excellent restaurants, and it’s no wonder Woodward Park is one of the best neighborhoods for families in Fresno.
Best for: Families, outdoor recreation lovers, seekers of quiet.
Cultural Arts District
This area was once known as the Mural District, and it is truly the cultural hub of Fresno (hence the name). For those who need a regular fix of live music and local art, you’ll be able to stroll through your neighborhood and find it all. The neighboring city center is home to plenty of bars and restaurants too. So after you’ve wandered the neighborhood’s ArtHop on the first and third Thursdays, there are good eats close by. And lest we forget: the murals. Around nearly every corner you’ll find incredible art painted on local buildings, including some iconic pieces of history. When you decide where to live in Fresno, don’t forget to take a stroll.
Best for: Art lovers, musicians, and those seeking a strong cultural experience.
Old Fig Garden
With some of the oldest homes in Fresno, Old Fig Garden is truly a charmer of a neighborhood. Some of the vintage homes were constructed in the 1900s, and they are surrounded by elegant cedar trees and lots of green space. Unlike other neighborhoods in Fresno that were highly planned and are densely developed, Old Fig Garden boasts large lots with gorgeous gardens. You’ll see residents walking or biking along the streets (there are no sidewalks). At Christmas, Van Ness Ave becomes “Christmas Tree Lane”: residents decorate their homes lavishly, and all of Fresno comes to see.
Best for: Families, people who want the privacy of a large plot of land, people who really like Christmas decorations.
Tower City
A look at any photo of Fresno’s skyline will probably showcase the Tower Theater’s glowing monument. (Today, it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places!) The theater was reopened in the 1970s and is still showcasing a variety of acts; its revival, in turn, revived the Tower City neighborhood. Even though downtown isn’t far, a bit of the small-town feel that was created in the post-WWII heydey still remains. This neighborhood has become home for Fresno’s LGBTQ community, hosting the annual Gay Pride parade and a number of other community events. If you’re looking for a fun and funky nightlife in Fresno with a strong community feel, Tower City might be your new home.
Best for Young professionals and students at Fresno City College (½ mile away), LGBTQ individuals, hipsters.
Whatever you’re seeking, there’s a neighborhood in Fresno to meet your needs. Once you’ve decided, let Unpakt help you find professional Fresno movers quickly and easily!
