Santa Rosa, CA
Santa Rosa is a city located in Sonoma County, California, USA. It is situated in the heart of Northern California's wine country and is surrounded by beautiful vineyards and rolling hills. Santa Rosa is the largest city in Sonoma County and serves as its economic and cultural center. The city boasts a diverse economy, including healthcare, technology, education, and tourism. Santa Rosa is home to many attractions, such as the Charles M. Schulz Museum and Research Center, Luther Burbank Home and Gardens, and the historic Railroad Square. The city is also known for its vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and cultural events throughout the year. Additionally, Santa Rosa offers easy access to outdoor recreation, including hiking, biking, and water activities on the Russian River.
STATISTICS
INDICATORS
Region
West
Population (2020)
177,882
The chart below displays this city's performance across all indicators vs. averages for the 25 cities
% Non-White Population
37.7
Median Income (2020)
$80,472
Average Home Value (2022)
$698,461
Average Annual Cost of Living
$40,236
Housing, transportation and energy costs as a percent of median income
Averages
City Data
CHALLENGES
Housing affordability: Like many cities in California, Santa Rosa has a high cost of living, particularly when it comes to housing. This has made it difficult for many residents, particularly low-income and working-class families, to afford to live in the city.
Traffic congestion: As Santa Rosa has grown, traffic congestion has become a major issue, particularly during peak commute times. This has led to increased travel times and frustration for many residents.
Wildfire risk: Santa Rosa is located in an area prone to wildfires, and the city has been impacted by several major fires in recent years. This has led to increased concerns about wildfire risk and the need for better preparedness and planning.
Homelessness: Like many cities in California, Santa Rosa has a significant homeless population, which has led to challenges related to public health, safety, and quality of life.
Drought: California is experiencing a severe drought, and Santa Rosa has implemented several measures to conserve water, including restrictions on outdoor watering and increased use of recycled water. However, the ongoing drought poses ongoing challenges for the city and its residents.
BRIGHT SPOTS
Natural beauty: Santa Rosa is located in Sonoma County, known for its scenic landscapes and world-class wineries. The city is surrounded by rolling hills, redwood forests, and vineyards.
Cultural offerings: Santa Rosa has a vibrant arts and culture scene, with numerous galleries, museums, and theaters. The city is also home to the Luther Burbank Center for the Arts, which hosts a variety of performances and events.
Economic opportunity: Santa Rosa is home to several major employers, including Kaiser Permanente, Sutter Health, and Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital. The city is also a hub for the wine industry, with many wineries and vineyards in the surrounding area.
Outdoor recreation: With its mild climate and beautiful surroundings, Santa Rosa offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, biking, kayaking, and golfing. The city is also close to the Pacific Ocean and the Russian River, providing easy access to beaches and water activities.
Community spirit: Santa Rosa has a strong sense of community, with many local organizations and events that bring residents together. The city hosts several annual events, such as the Sonoma County Fair and the Santa Rosa Marathon, that draw visitors from across the region.