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When people think of Fresno, they often picture the heart of California’s agricultural region, but the city offers more than just farmland. Located in California’s Central Valley, Fresno is a growing hub that provides access to both rural landscapes and urban amenities. Beyond Fresno’s city center, the surrounding suburbs offer peaceful communities with a variety of living options, ranging from new developments to historic neighborhoods, all while maintaining easy access to the city’s employment, shopping, and entertainment.
In this ApartmentGuide article, we’ll explore some of the most notable Fresno suburbs, highlighting key aspects such as population, average rent, and what makes each area unique. Whether you’re searching for the perfect apartment in Fresno or curious about the different Fresno neighborhoods, let’s discover the best parts of Fresno to call home.
Cost of living in Fresno
Before we dive into the top Fresno suburbs, let’s cover how much it costs to live in Fresno. The overall cost of living in Fresno is about 9% higher than the national average, making it more affordable than many other areas in California but slightly above the national standard. Housing is a major factor, with the median sale price for a home in Fresno at $400,000, which is lower than the national average of $432,657. Rent follows a similar trend, with the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Fresno at $1,494, still below the national average of $1,514.
While some suburbs around Fresno offer more affordable options, others can reflect higher prices, particularly in more desirable areas. Here, we’ll explore a range of top suburbs, providing different lifestyle and housing opportunities depending on your budget and preferences.
1. Clovis
Known for: Excellent schools, welcoming community, and outdoor recreation
Clovis is one of the most popular suburbs in the Fresno area, located just northeast of the city. Known for its top-rated schools, Clovis is often a choice for those seeking educational opportunities, but it also offers much more. The suburb has a robust outdoor lifestyle, with easy access to hiking and biking trails in the nearby Sierra Nevada foothills. Old Town Clovis is a hub for community events, featuring charming local shops, restaurants, and year-round farmers’ markets. The city combines suburban comfort with plenty of recreational activities, from weekend farmers’ markets to hiking in the Sierra National Forest, making it ideal for those who appreciate both community connection and outdoor living.
Population: 121,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,493
Median home sale price: $500,000
Clovis transportation scores: Walk Score 37, Bike Score 51
Apartments for rent in Clovis, CA | Houses for rent in Clovis, CA | Homes for sale in Clovis, CA
2. Sanger
Known for: Small-town charm, agricultural roots, and proximity to outdoor activities
Sanger, located southeast of Fresno, offers a rural atmosphere with the conveniences of city life just a short drive away. Known for its strong agricultural roots, Sanger is surrounded by farms, vineyards, and open spaces, giving residents a peaceful and scenic living environment. The nearby Kings River provides opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, and camping, ideal for nature lovers. The town itself has a small, welcoming atmosphere, with locally owned businesses and a community-focused lifestyle. Housing in Sanger includes a mix of older homes and newer developments, offering more affordable living options compared to other Fresno suburbs.
Population: 25,000
Median home sale price: $346,000
Sanger transportation scores: Walk Score 48, Bike Score 47
Apartments for rent in Sanger, CA | Houses for rent in Sanger, CA | Homes for sale in Sanger, CA
3. Madera
Known for: Affordability, agricultural industry, and small-town feel
Madera, just north of Fresno, offers a quieter, more affordable alternative to living in Fresno itself. The town is deeply connected to the region’s agricultural industry, which forms the backbone of its economy. Madera has a strong sense of community, and local events like festivals, farmers’ markets, and neighborhood gatherings provide opportunities to connect with neighbors. The city also offers access to numerous parks and recreational areas. Madera’s housing market is one of the most affordable in the region, with a mix of single-family homes and newer developments, making it attractive to both first-time homebuyers and those looking for more budget-friendly options.
Population: 65,000
Median home sale price: $410,000
Madera transportation scores: Walk Score 42, Bike Score 44
Apartments for rent in Madera, CA | Houses for rent in Madera, CA | Homes for sale in Madera, CA
4. Kerman
Known for: Rural living, small-town charm, and proximity to Fresno
Kerman is a small, rural suburb located west of Fresno that offers a peaceful lifestyle away from the busier urban areas. Known for its agricultural roots, Kerman provides a tight-knit community atmosphere with many local events and activities centered around its farming heritage. It’s a perfect choice for those seeking a quiet, affordable lifestyle while still being within easy commuting distance to Fresno for work and entertainment. The town has a variety of amenities, including parks, local shops, and restaurants, and is a great place for those looking for an affordable, laid-back lifestyle.
Population: 15,000
Median home sale price: $420,000
Kerman transportation scores: Walk Score 74, Bike Score 50
Apartments for rent in Kerman, CA | Houses for rent in Kerman, CA | Homes for sale in Kerman, CA
5. Reedley
Known for: Riverside living, historic charm, and agriculture
Reedley, located southeast of Fresno along the scenic Kings River, is known for its combination of natural beauty and historic charm. The town offers riverside living, with opportunities for boating, fishing, and other outdoor activities. Reedley’s historic downtown features a variety of local shops, cafes, and restaurants, along with farmers’ markets showcasing the area’s agricultural bounty. Reedley is also home to a number of fruit orchards and vineyards, making it a popular destination for those interested in agritourism. The small-town atmosphere and scenic river setting make Reedley a desirable location for those looking to escape the faster pace of city life.
Population: 25,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,150
Median home sale price: $442,500
Reedley transportation scores: Walk Score 50, Bike Score 52
Apartments for rent in Reedley, CA | Houses for rent in Reedley, CA | Homes for sale in Reedley, CA
6. Sunnyside
Known for: Peaceful environment, newer developments, and proximity to downtown Fresno
Sunnyside, a growing suburb southeast of Fresno, offers a modern suburban lifestyle with newer developments and a quieter residential setting. Known for its convenient proximity to downtown Fresno, Sunnyside offers quick access to the city’s amenities while maintaining a more laid-back atmosphere. The suburb has seen significant residential growth, with a variety of new housing developments ranging from affordable homes to upscale properties. Sunnyside also has plenty of parks, shopping centers, and recreational facilities, making it an ideal choice for those who want to enjoy suburban living with easy access to urban opportunities.
Population: 22,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,494
Median home sale price: $1,340,000
Sunnyside transportation scores: Walk Score 31, Bike Score 45, Transit Score 27
Apartments for rent in Sunnyside, CA | Houses for rent in Sunnyside, CA | Homes for sale in Sunnyside, CA
Methodology: The suburbs included in this list were selected based on their overall popularity, determined by search trends and housing demand in the Fresno area. Average rent and home sale price data were sourced from Redfin and Rent.com as of September 2024. Transportation data, including Walk Scores, Bike Scores, and Transit Scores, was sourced from Walk Score.