Lifestyle

Welcome to one of the most scenic an unique regions in Northern California, where the terrain and scenery change with every mile you drive. Whether you are looking for broad flat river deltas or the majestic mountains of Yosemite this region has it all. The North Central Valley offers enough diversity to support nearly every lifestyle choice. Several leading cities combine to provide a wealth of cultural, educational, and recreational advantages, from the cities of Modesto and Stockton to the college town of Turlock. At the same time, these communities are situated within an easy drive of the Bay Area's glittering array of entertainment and cultural attractions to offer the best of all worlds. Even close to home, performing arts groups join fine museums and wonderful venues to keep the calendar filled with exciting dates.

Unlike the foggy and often chilly Bay Area, this area’s communities enjoy warm, dry summers and mild winters. One of the most outstanding features of this area is the San Joaquin Delta where the Sacramento and San Joaquin Rivers meet before entering the San Francisco Bay. Covering 1,000 miles of navigable rivers, streams, and canals, this region is a paradise for anglers, boaters, and water-sport enthusiasts. Or if mountains are what you crave, Yosemite is has you covered. The entire area is brimming over with picturesque sites for biking, hiking, camping, and backpacking. Several major ski resorts are also available within a two-hour drive. Residential neighborhoods are usually just minutes from lush city parks that feature sports and recreational facilities and amenities. Year-round spectator sports and a myriad of other special events and entertainment centers ensure activities that can be enjoyed by residents of all ages. Take your time discovering the obvious and hidden pleasures of one of California's most idyllic regions.

The housing selection is diverse and affordable, ranging from elegant Victorians to beautiful new construction. Historic downtown districts like the picturesque center in Merced draw regional shoppers to antique shops and one-of-a-kind boutiques, while modern malls showcase the latest fashions from national retailers.

Services

The North Central valley is ideally positioned to offer the best of all worlds. Residents of the area's cities and tranquil rural communities enjoy access to a network of state-of-the-art healthcare services and facilities. The region's major hospitals provide more than 2,000 beds including nearly 1,000 acute-care beds. Many of these institutions have recently completed or plan upgrades and expansions to meet the needs of a growing population. Throughout the area, specialized and routine-care facilities combine with skilled professionals in private practice to meet nearly every need close to home. Educational resources are equally well represented in the region, where important institutions of higher education complement the network of public and private schools from preschool through 12th grade.