Sacramento, the vibrant capital city of California, is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Located in the northern part of the state, Sacramento is a city with a rich history, diverse culture, and breathtaking natural beauty. But where exactly is Sacramento located? In this article, we'll take a closer look at the city's geography and what makes it such a unique and fascinating place to visit.
Sacramento is situated in the Sacramento Valley, a vast region nestled between the Sierra Nevada mountains and the Sacramento River. The city is located at the confluence of the Sacramento and American rivers, making it a strategic spot for trade and commerce. With its prime location, Sacramento has become a hub for politics, culture, and entertainment in California.
Geographic Coordinates of Sacramento
Sacramento's geographic coordinates are 38.5816° N latitude and 121.4944° W longitude. The city is situated approximately 75 miles (120 km) northeast of San Francisco and 395 miles (636 km) northwest of Los Angeles. Its elevation is around 30 feet (9 meters) above sea level, making it one of the lowest-lying cities in California.
Regional Context and Neighboring Cities
Sacramento is part of the larger Sacramento-Roseville-Arden-Arcade, CA Metropolitan Statistical Area, which has a population of over 2.6 million people. The city is bordered by several neighboring cities, including:
- West Sacramento to the west
- Rosemont to the east
- Citrus Heights to the northeast
- Arden-Arcade to the north
Climate and Natural Features
Sacramento has a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The city experiences an average of 265 sunny days per year, making it an attractive destination for tourists and outdoor enthusiasts. The Sacramento River, which runs through the city, offers scenic views, recreational activities, and a habitat for various wildlife species.
| Climate Data | Values |
|---|---|
| Average High Temperature (°F) | 73 |
| Average Low Temperature (°F) | 49 |
| Annual Precipitation (in) | 18.4 |
Key Points
- Sacramento is located in the Sacramento Valley, at the confluence of the Sacramento and American rivers.
- The city's geographic coordinates are 38.5816° N latitude and 121.4944° W longitude.
- Sacramento has a Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild winters.
- The city is part of the Sacramento-Roseville-Arden-Arcade, CA Metropolitan Statistical Area.
- Sacramento is bordered by several neighboring cities, including West Sacramento, Rosemont, and Citrus Heights.
Getting to Sacramento
Sacramento is easily accessible by car, plane, or train. The city is situated near several major highways, including Interstate 5 and US Route 50. Sacramento International Airport (SMF) offers flights to various domestic and international destinations. Amtrak's Capitol Corridor and Coast Starlight trains also serve the city.
Exploring Sacramento
From its rich history and cultural attractions to its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities, Sacramento has something for everyone. Visitors can explore the California State Railroad Museum, stroll along the Sacramento River, or sample the city's renowned farm-to-fork cuisine.
What is the exact location of Sacramento, California?
+Sacramento is located at the confluence of the Sacramento and American rivers, in the Sacramento Valley region of California. Its geographic coordinates are 38.5816° N latitude and 121.4944° W longitude.
What is the climate like in Sacramento?
+Sacramento has a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The city experiences an average of 265 sunny days per year.
What are some popular attractions in Sacramento?
+Sacramento has a wide range of attractions, including the California State Railroad Museum, the State Capitol and Capitol Park, and the Sacramento River. Visitors can also explore the city’s vibrant arts and culture scene, or sample its renowned farm-to-fork cuisine.