Stockton, CA is named after Robert F. Stockton and was incorporated on July 23rd, 1850. While the city is mainly referred to as Stockton, there have been a few nicknames created throughout the years, like “Mudville”, “California’s Sunrise Seaport”, “Port City”, and “Tuleburg”. The official motto of this California city is “Stockton: All American City”.
Stockton is known for being home to the oldest university in California, the University of The Pacific. With the low cost of living (compared to other areas in California) and being a family-friendly city, Stockton is a great place to live.
Where Is Stockton?
Stockton Is in San Joaquin County and is a large metro city. The city of Stockton is mainly located on farmland in the San Joaquin Valley, so there’s more land and less development compared to big cities like Los Angeles. Surrounding Stockton is the Delta River, along with bigger cities like Sacramento and Modesto. It’s 40 miles from Stockton to Sacramento CA, the capital of California.
Stockton Information
- County: San Joaquin
- Area (square miles): 65.25
- Zip Codes: 95201-95213, 95215, 95219, 95267, 95269, 95296-95297
- Area Codes: (209)
- Elevation: 13 feet above sea level
- Time Zone: Pacific Standard Time (PST)
- Closest Airport: Stockton Airport (SCK) which is 6 miles away from the heart of Stockton, CA
Stockton Population & Demographics
The population of Stockton is 322,107, while the metro population is 726,126. The population density for Stockton, CA, is 5,162.7 people per square mile. Since 2010, Stockton has seen an increase of 30,400 residents. While it’s not the largest city or metro area in California, there are still plenty of places to explore.
There are a few notable people from Stockton, which include Jose M. Hernandez and Chris Isaak.
Stockton demographics:
- 16% White, 45% Hispanic, 22% Asian, 5% Biracial, 11% African American, 1% Islander
- Gender Breakdown: 51% female and 49% male
- 23.7% Foreign-Born Population
- Median Age: 32 years old
- Median Household Income: $69,844, which is lower than the state median household income of $84,907. Keep in mind that Stockton is cheaper than other parts of California, which can help offset the difference in household income
- Educational Attainment: 77.2% of the residents graduated from high school, and 15.9% has received their Bachelors degree
Transportation In Stockton
If you don’t own a car, there is public transportation available for residents through the San Joaquin Regional Transit District. Stockton has everything ranging from BRT Express, Local, Hopper (metro and county), Commuter, Van Go!, and Dia-a-ride (ideal for ADA-certified passengers).
There are a few major highways that go through the city of Stockton, and these include Interstate 5 and State Route 99.
The closest airport to Stockton is Stockton Airport (SCK), which is 6 miles away.
Cost Of Living In Stockton
The cost of living in Stockton, CA, is 15.6% higher than the national average. While technically it’s higher than other places in the country, Stockton is still 34.3% lower than the California cost of living, making Stockton an affordable place to live in the beautiful state of California.
According to the Economic Policy Institute, a family of four would need to earn $85,959 to live comfortably in Stockton. According to MIT, for a livable wage in Stockton, a single adult with no children should make $17.31 an hour to live comfortably. As you get married or have children, that liveable wage would need to increase.
Typical Stockton Living Expenses
- Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant: $20.00
- Domestic Beer (1 pint draught): $6.00
- Milk (regular, 1 gallon): $4.40
- Bread (1 loaf): $2.81
- Oranges (1 lb): $1.54
- Apples (1 lb): $1.77
- Beef Round (1 lb): $8.08
- Eggs (regular, 12): $3.47
- Average Cost of Gasoline Per Gallon: $5.65
- Fitness Club (Per Month, 1 Adult): $27.50
- Average Stockton Utilities Per Month: $356
Source: Numbeo
Stockton Income, Sales & Property Taxes
- Average Property Tax Rate In San Joaquin County: 0.73%
- State Sales Tax: 7.25%
- Stockton Sales Tax: 9% (this includes the state tax rate of 7.25%)
- San Joaquin County Tax: 0.25%
- California Income Tax Rate: Depending on your income level, your state income tax rate can range anywhere from 1% to 12.3%
While housing is above the national average by 33.7% in Stockton, home prices in Stockton are well below the median sale price in California, making it an affordable city in California to purchase a home. If it’s always been your dream to own a home, then this California city could be perfect.
Stockton Real Estate | Average Rent & Home Prices
The Stockton median home sale price is $425,000. The city has a wide variety of beautiful Stockton CA homes for sale perfect for young adults, families, and retirees. In Stockton, the average sale price per square foot is $271.
If you’re curious about the median sale price breakdown based on single-family homes, condos, and townhouses, check out the following information:
- Single-family: $430,000
- Condos: $180,000
- Townhouses $400,000
The average rent in Stockton is $1,552 for a 780 square foot apartment, according to RentCafe. Of course, the price can vary depending on the number of bathrooms, bedrooms, amenities, and location. Compared to California as a whole, Stockton is an affordable city to settle down in and start a family.
Stockton Neighborhoods | Where To Live In Stockton
Here are a few of the most popular neighborhoods in Stockton, CA!
Spanos Park | Family-Friendly Neighborhood
As a family-friendly neighborhood, Spanos Park has everything you’re looking for to settle down. With plenty of places to explore outside, fun restaurants, and kid-friendly activities, you have it all here. The median home sale price in Spanos is $531,000.
Brookside | Luxurious Yet Affordable
Are you looking for a luxurious neighborhood in Stockton without breaking the bank? Brookside is the place for you to settle down! The area surrounding Brookside is farmland, so you have plenty of space to expand and create the life you’ve always wanted. The median home sale price in Brookside is $535,500.
Lincoln Village West | Waterfront Neighborhood
As a safe, quiet, and family-friendly neighborhood, Lincoln Village West is great for people of all ages. It’s close to shops and restaurants, so you don’t have to travel as far. The median home sale price in Lincoln Village West is $385,000.
Sherwood Manor | A Calm & Serene Stockton Neighborhood
The average age in the neighborhood of Sherwood Manor is 53 years old, and it’s a great place to raise a family or retire. This suburb is quiet, calming, serene, and a wonderful place to buy a house. The median home sale price in Sherwood Manor is $458,000.
Stockton Weather & Climate
Depending on the time of year, Stockton’s climate can fluctuate between cool semi-arid (BSk) and hot-summer Mediterranean (Köppen: Csa). During the spring and summer months in the city of Stockton, the weather is hot and arid, with clear skies. The temperature during the spring and summer months can range between the upper 70s and the low 90s. During the fall and winter months in Stockton, the weather is short, wet, cold, and partly cloudy. The temperature during the fall and winter months can range between the low 60s and the mid-50s.
In Stockton, the total yearly rainfall is 15.9 inches, and zero inches of snow. The best time to visit Stockton is between June and September.
In California, the most common natural disasters to be aware of include wildfires, earthquakes, and landslides.
Stockton Restaurants
Food is everything. Here are some of the top-rated restaurants in Stockton, CA!
Market Tavern
Market Tavern only serves high-quality mouthwatering food – all made from scratch. This palate-pleasing restaurant serves a wide range of options, from tasty starters, soups, and salads, to pizzas, pastas, and unique mains. With its welcoming environment and atmosphere, you can relax and enjoy the moment.
Market Tavern, 236 Lincoln Center, Stockton, CA 95207 (209) 932-8001
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Angelina’s Spaghetti House
As a well-known Genovese Italian restaurant in the community of Stockton, CA, Angelina’s Spaghetti House serves delicious food at an affordable price. You’ll find daily lunch specials and an expansive dinner menu, including eggplant parmesan, spaghetti, ravioli, lasagna, and steak and chicken entrees.
Angelina’s Spaghetti House, 1563 E Fremont St, Stockton, CA 95205 (209) 948-6609
Misaki Sushi & Bar
The Misaki Sushi & Bar is considered to be one of the best sushi restaurants in the Stockton area. You’ll find delicious lunch specials and an evening happy hour menu Monday-Friday, which includes drinks, appetizers, and rolls. Choose from ala carte, dinner combination boxes, don buri, udon, special entrees and rolls, or gourmet sushi boats.
Misaki Sushi & Bar, 222 N El Dorado St M, Stockton, CA 95202 (209) 547-1288
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Things To Do In Stockton
Stockton has plenty of fun things to do for both tourists and residents. Regardless if you’re looking for a park, the best local attractions, shopping centers, museums or entertainment, there is something for everyone in Stockton, CA!
Top Stockton Attractions
Limitless Escape Games
Limitless Escape Games provides you with an experience to “unlock your adventure,” according to their website. A few of the most popular rooms include wizard school, bank heist, Sherlock Holmes, pirate adventure, and the morgue. These rooms are fun for all ages and a perfect unique, family-friendly activity.
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University Park World Peace Rose Garden
Open 365 days a year, the University Park World Peace Rose Garden has over 250 rose bushes and a lakeside view from inside the garden. According to the University Park World Peace Rose Garden’s website, they’re on a mission to “advance peace and understanding amongst all the nations, cultures and religions of the world through the creation of rose gardens that become magnets for community activities”.
Whether you’re visiting on a school field trip or with your kids, this beautiful and fragrant garden is fun for all ages.
Sky Zone Trampoline Park
How high can you jump? Then come and test your skills at the Stockton Sky Zone Trampoline Park! In addition to free jumping, there are other activities like sky slam, ultimate dodgeball, foam zone, ultimate volleyball, free climb, parkour zone, and even a toddler zone.
Stockton 99 Speedway
The Stockton 99 Speed Way is one of the top 10 Nascar tracks, and it holds events ranging from monster trucks to real life races.
Buckley Cove Park
While this might be a park, Buckley is considered a top attraction in Stockton due to its proximity to the water, beautiful walking paths, and being a perfect place for people of all ages.
Banner Island Ballpark
A waterfront ballpark in Stockton? Yes, please! This family-friendly ballpark is perfect for people of all ages.
Stockton Downtown Marina
The Delta River is one of the most iconic activities to do in the area because of the wakeboarding, houseboating, and tubing adventures you can go on with your family and friends. As you’re traveling down the river, you can stop at the downtown marina in Stockton to enjoy some delicious food, drinks, and other nearby activities.
Stockton Museums
Stockton Children’s Museum
The Stockton Children’s Museum has been a staple in the community since 1994 and has different ways for children to learn and have fun. With 40+ interactive exhibits along with an art studio and music classes, the Children’s Museum here in Stockton is a perfect family-friendly must do attraction.
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Haggin Museum
With 3 stories to explore of beautiful 20th-century paintings, the fun never stops!
Filipino American National Historical Society Museum
Through this museum, they are on a mission to preserve, inspire, and educate people about Filipino history.
Mexican Heritage Center & Gallery
This museum, the community of Stockton can learn more about the Latino culture through local artists, classes, and community events.
Stockton Entertainment & Arts
The Bob Hope Theatre
With a 1,200-square-foot space, The Bob Hope Theatre provides a one-of-a-kind live performance experience with a state-of-the-art light and sound system. There are 2,030 red velvet seats, and the theatre is available to rent out for both corporate events and private celebrations.
Stockton Arena
As a world-class entertainment venue, Stockton Arena is the go-to place for live music performances, Disney on Ice, comedy acts and sporting events.
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West Lane Bowl
Is there a better type of entertainment than bowling? With bowling leagues, tournaments, and a pro shop, West Lane’s is the go-to stop for bowlers of all skill levels.
Stockton Civic Theatre
Since 1951, the Stockton Civic Theatre has been a family-friendly activity. Over the years, some of the most common shows that they’ve produced include: Oliver, Rent, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, and Fox on the Fairway.
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Stockton Parks & Outdoors
Oak Grove Regional Park
With a total of 180 acres, Oak Grove Regional Park has something for everyone. The lake is 10 acres and is perfect for paddleboarding and fishing (stocked with catfish and trout), a nature center that provides educational programs to those who are interested, two hiking trails one of them is handicapped accessible, a playground, a campground for youth groups, horseshoe pit, BBQ grills, and an 18 hole disc golf course.
The parking fee is $5 per vehicle on weekdays and $6 on the weekends. Pets are allowed if you keep them on a leash, but they cost an additional $1 each.
Louis Park
As a riverfront park, Louis Park has a variety of kid-friendly and family-friendly activities like boating, sports fields, grass to play catch, practicing your soccer moves or playing football, and also a picnic area with BBQs!
Victory Park
Victory Park is home to the Haggin Museum. In addition to the museum, there are individual picnic tables, a BBQ pit, a jungle gym for kids, and plenty of large grassy areas to play and have fun.
American Legion Park
With plenty of grassy areas, American Legion Park is perfect for picnics, throwing the football, playing frisbee, and enjoying a day as a family. In addition to the grassy fields, the park has a lake, benches, and a playground for your kids.
Shopping In Stockton
Weberstown Mall
In the large and enclosed Weberstown shopping mall, there are a wide variety of stores, a classic mall food court, and plenty of chain retailers.
Sherwood Mall
Sherwood Mall is a classic shopping center that has a wide variety of boutiques, department stores, and food options in the food court.
Lincoln Center
If you’re looking to support local businesses, the Lincoln Center has plenty of independent boutiques, along with high-end restaurants, salons, and chain stores.
Map Of Stockton Things To Do
Sports
While Stockton doesn’t have any professional sports leagues, sports are still a community favorite in Stockton. The two local minor sports teams are the Stockton Kings, which are part of the NBA G League, and the Stockton Heat from the American Hockey League.
Now, a few other popular sports teams throughout California that are popular in Stockton are the San Francisco 49ers, Los Angeles Lakers, Los Angeles Dodgers, and the Golden State Warriors.
Whether you’re into basketball, football, baseball, or hockey, there is something for everyone in Stockton, CA.
Stockton Crime Rate
The total crime rate in Stockton, CA, is 4,259 per 100k people, which is 65% higher than the state average. While crime does exist in Stockton, there are still plenty of areas and neighborhoods that are safe and family-friendly.
Here’s a Stockton crime rate compared with other major cities nearby:
- Modesto: the total crime rate is 3,206 per 100k people, which is 36.7% higher than the national average. When compared to Stockton, Modesto has a 28.2% lower crime rate.
- Fremont: the total crime rate is 2,509 per 100k people, which is 6.9% higher than the national average. When compared to Stockton, Fremont has a 51.7% lower crime rate.
- Sacramento: the total crime rate is 3,428 per 100k people, which is 46.1% higher than the national average. When compared to Stockton, Sacramento has a 21.6% lower crime rate.
- Oakland: the total crime rate is 6,457 per 100k people, which is 175.2% higher than the national average. When compared to Stockton, Oakland has a 41% higher crime rate.
- San Francisco: the total crime rate is 4,938 per 100k people, which is 110.5% higher than the national average. When compared to Stockton, San Francisco has a 14.7% higher crime rate.
On average, the crime rate in Stockton is similar to other nearby cities. Just because a city has a higher crime rate than the national average doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of safe areas to settle down in and call home.
There are 468 sworn officers with the Stockton Police Department that work hard every day to serve and protect the community of Stockton, CA.
Economy & Jobs In Stockton
While the unemployment rate in Stockton is 10.3%, which is higher than the national average of 6%, the city of Stockton has seen a 2.2% growth in the job market in the past year; things are looking up for the economy in Stockton, CA.
The largest industries in Stockton are Social Services and Health Care. According to Payscale, the average base salary in Stockton is $66,000, and the average hourly rate is $18.54.
The top four employers in Stockton, CA, are St. Joseph’s Regional Health, Stockton Police Department, Stockton Unified School District, and Walmart. While these are the most popular employers in Stockton, there are a few other employers becoming more popular, like Amazon and the Stockton Kings.
Within a 25-mile radius of Stockton, there are currently over 10,000 available jobs on Indeed. If you’re interested in working for the government, here are some available careers in the City of Stockton.
Healthcare
A few of the most popular hospitals in or near Stockton include Kaiser Permanente Modesto and Manteca Centers, Adventist Health Lodi Memorial, and St. Joseph’s Medical Center, an award-winning hospital named 2022 Fortune/Merative 100 Top Hospitals.
Stockton Schools
Stockton, CA, is part of the Stockton Unified School District. This California community is home to the nationally ranked school, Stockton Collegiate International Secondary, which scores #1 in Stockton and #149 nationally. Some additional highly-ranked private schools in Stockton include: Stockton Unified Early College Academy and Aspire Benjamin Holt College Preparatory School.
Some of the public school options within the Stockton Unified School District include:
If you’re interested in attending college, here are the top universities near Stockton: Stanford, California State University Sacramento, San Francisco State University, University of California Davis, University of the Pacific, San Joaquin Delta College (community college), and California State University Stanislaus.
When it comes to checking out books, the Stockton-San Joaquin County Public Library has everything you need!
Stockton Utilities & DMV Change Of Address
When you move to a new place, one of the first tasks is to set up the utilities. Here are the utility providers in Stockton.
- Gas & Electricity: Pacific Gas And Electricity (PG&E)
- Solid Waste: City of Stockton Solid Waste And Recycling Department
- Water: Cal Water
To get a driver’s license (if you’re from out of state) and change your address with the DMV in California, you need to make an appointment to go in person. If you’re a California resident and just moved to Stockton, you can submit a change of address form on the DMV’s website. Here you can determine your closest DMV location.
Are you thinking about moving to Stockton, CA? Mother Lode Moving is here to help make your transition seamless. As the #1 Stockton moving company, we always provide award-winning services. Call us today at (916) 631-4285 for a free estimate!
