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Nevada City, CA

View of Nevada City, CA
Image credit: Frank Schulenburg / CC BY-SA 4.0
Population
3,174
U.S. Census Population Estimates Program · 2025
Elevation
2,478 ft
Median Home Value
$677,400
U.S. Census American Community Survey 5-Year · 2024
Median Rent
$1,411/mo
U.S. Census American Community Survey 5-Year · 2024
Median Income
$75,792
U.S. Census American Community Survey 5-Year · 2024
General Quality
Overall rating out of 100

Highlights

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OverallBest places in CaliforniaPopulation rankingHighest population places in CaliforniaNearest larger communityGrass Valley, California2.9 miles away · 14,035 residents.

About Nevada City

Tucked into the Sierra Nevada foothills about an hour northeast of Sacramento, Nevada City is a scenic town of around 3,000 residents. Famous for its preserved Gold Rush-era streetscapes, walkable downtown, and vibrant arts scene, it pairs historic charm with a relaxed pace of life. Pine forests frame colorful Victorian homes, lively local cafes, and independent shops, making it an inviting landing spot for anyone looking for quiet foothill living.

Half Dome from Glacier Point, Yosemite NP Diliff

Families moving to the area have access to a variety of educational options, including neighborhood public schools and nature- or arts-focused charters. Outdoor recreation is a huge part of everyday life, with hiking trails, mountain biking, and beloved swimming holes along the nearby South Yuba River. Combined with a close-knit community and convenient access to extra amenities in neighboring Grass Valley, Nevada City offers a peaceful, creative place to put down roots.

Top Rating Signals

Highest current ratings for this town.

Lower FEMA County Drought Risk IndexA+100.0ratingLower FEMA County Hurricane Risk IndexA+100.0ratingLower Projected Late-Century County-Area Exposure to Sea-Level RiseA+100.0rating

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