Considering living in Tracy CA? Check out our comprehensive moving guide! We explore its rich heritage and deep roots in the railroad industry. Founded in 1878, Tracy was a major transportation hub; its establishment can be attributed to the Central Pacific Railroad, which built a new rail line connecting Stockton to the Bay Area.
Today, Tracy remains an integral part of the Bay Area. The city has 3,215 businesses, serving as a safe haven for many families who prefer a quieter atmosphere. If you’re considering moving to Tracy, we’ve paved the way for you, highlighting all its pros and cons so that you can go into your relocation with confidence.
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Is Tracy CA a Nice Place to Live?
Yes, living in Tracy CA is nice, especially for families. It offers a lower crime rate, highly rated schools, and more affordable housing than nearby Bay Area cities. Residents enjoy a welcoming community, growing amenities, and easy access to major job hubs.
However, traffic congestion, limited shopping options, and hot summers are potential downsides. Overall, Tracy appeals to those seeking safety, value, and a suburban lifestyle within commuting distance of the Bay Area.
Where Is Tracy California?
Tracy, California, is situated within the geological triangle formed by Interstate 205, Interstate 5, and Interstate 580; it’s part of the San Jose-San Francisco-Oakland, CA Combined Statistical Area, and is located in the Central Valley.
What county is Tracy CA in? Tracy is located in San Joaquin County and is near various other cities in the San Francisco Bay Area:
- Tracy CA to Stockton CA: 20.6 miles
- Tracy to Lodi: 35.9 miles
- Modesto to Tracy: 29.7 miles
- Tracy to Sacramento: 67.3 miles
There are pros and cons of living in Tracy CA, but its location is undoubtedly a pro!
Transportation – Getting Around Tracy
Let’s take a look at all the ways you can get around Poker City.
- TRACER Bus Service – Public bus transit with seven routes across the city, with stops in Downtown Tracy, local schools, and the notable West Valley Mall. They also offer paratransit services. You must complete the Tracer paratransit certification before riding.
If you need services outside of their fixed routes, consider utilizing their on-demand ride services, which allow you to request pickup and drop off at specific locations.
- San Joaquin Regional Transit District (RTD) – You can access nearby communities through RTD. It also connects to the Dublin/Pleasanton BART commuter route.
- Altamont Corridor Express (ACE) – Experience the rest of the Bay Area with the ACE; notable routes are San Jose and Fremont.
If you prefer driving yourself, the following major highways serve the Tracy area:
- Interstate 205 (I-205)
- Interstate 580 (I-580)
- Interstate 5 (I-5)
- Business Loop 205 (11th Street)
- State Route 33 (SR 33)
- Corral Hollow Road
Tracy CA Population & Demographics
The Tracy population is 93,000, with a 7.5% population increase since 2010; its population density is 3,745.5 per square mile. Its young median age of 37.3 shows that it’s an area that families and young professionals love. 55% of the population is under the age of 39. The region’s young population is attributed to San Francisco’s prominent tech industries.
In addition to having a higher than average median household income ($118,253), the city of Tracy is also diverse; 41.4% of people living in Tracy CA are Hispanic or Latino, 34.9% of its population is White (25.3% non-Hispanic or Latino), and 22% are Asian. 19% identify with two or more races, 6.1% are Black or African American, 1.3% are American Indian or Alaska Native, and 0.7% are native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander.
Additional Tracy CA demographics:
- Sex ratio: 50 females to 50 males
- Educational attainment: 82.5% have high school diplomas and 26.5% have bachelor’s degrees or higher
- Foreign-born population: 31%
- Veteran status: 4.7%
Is Tracy CA Safe?
According to the FBI, Tracy is safer than the average state and city in California.
- Tracy crime rate per 100,000 people: 1,813
- California crime rate per 100,000 people: 2,843
- US crime rate per 100,000 people: 2,324
The crime rate in Tracy is 36.2% lower than the state and is 22.0% lower than the country.
- Tracy violent crime rate per 100,000 people: 297
- California violent crime rate per 100,000 people: 500
- US violent crime rate per 100,000 people: 370
The violent crime rate in Tracy is 40.5% lower than the state and 19.7% lower than the country.
- Tracy property crime rate per 100,000 people: 1,516
- California property crime rate per 100,000 people: 2,343
- US property crime rate per 100,000 people: 1,954
The property crime rate in Tracy is 35.3% lower than the state and 22.4% lower than the national rate.
Thanks to the hardworking individuals at the Tracy CA Police Department, the Tracy CA crime rate is below the state and national average. You can explore crime activity in Tracy using the department’s interactive crime map.
Cost of Living in Tracy – What Is the Sales Tax Rate in Tracy? Real Estate Overview, COLI, & More
The cost of living in Tracy CA is slightly below the national average and the same as in Sacramento. Tracy’s Cost of Living Index (COLI) is 123, with housing costs accounting for 56% of the living costs.
Typical Tracy living expenses:
- Inexpensive restaurant meal: $20
- Gallon of milk: $5.05
- Dozen eggs: $3.44
- Pound of local cheese: $7.34
- Loaf of white bread: $3.85
- Pound of chicken fillets: $5.00
- Average city of *Tracy CA utilities per month: $119 (per Doxo)
- Tracy CA sales tax: 8.250%
Source: Numbeo
*The above statistics are for San Diego, meaning prices may differ when living in Tracy.
Tracy CA Real Estate Market
Whether in Sacramento or Tracy, buying a house is exciting, yet daunting. Understanding your future home’s real estate market is key to housing hunting and finding the right home for you and your family.
The Tracy CA median sale price is $657,000, which is slightly above the US median of $416,900, but lower than the state median of $904,210. The average price per square foot here is $379, and homes for sale in Tracy CA sell within 27 days. Its home prices are the main cause of its high cost of living.
32% of people living in Tracy CA rent their homes, as rental prices are relatively affordable when compared to a mortgage payment on a nearly $700,000 home. The average rent per month is $2,467 for a 967 square foot rental. Renting is more cost-effective than buying in Tracy, and most of California, despite other US states showing differing results.
Tracy CA Weather & Climate
The weather in Tracy CA is enjoyable most of the year, as it boasts a semi-arid climate (Köppen BSk). Although the summers are hot and dry, the winters are cool and short. You will experience the most rain when living in Tracy California, in the winter; there is a 28% chance of rain on any given day in February. The average rainfall in February is 3.3 inches.
To ensure you can explore all of Tracy’s activities, the best time to visit is from mid-June to late September, when the temperatures are warm and the rainfall is limited. However, be ready for the heat! The average high in July is 92 degrees Fahrenheit, with a 0% chance of precipitation.
Best Neighborhoods in Tracy CA
Living in Tracy offers diverse options of neighborhoods and apartment complexes.
Fair Grove – New Construction Homes in Tracy
Fair Grove is a new-build community in Tracy offering high-quality living at the right price. Homes range from 1,945 to 2,416 square feet, and there are three floor plans to choose from. The homes are complete with modern features, sleek landscaping, and spacious backyards.
The community is located just off of SR 580 and within walking distance of Carroll Hollow Elementary, making it a family favorite.
Pheasant Run – Great for Families
Pheasant Run hosts Rippin Park and Harvest Park, which families love. The streets are quiet, there is a nearby gym (In-Shape Fitness), and Earle E. Williams Middle School is close by. Homes tend to run in the high $700,000s to low $800,000s, making it a more affluent option.
Redbridge – Ideal for the Active Individual
If you’re a commuter, you’ll have access to Highway 99 and Interstate 5 if you choose Redbridge as your Tracy neighborhood. Nearby activities include Joan Sparks Park and Marlow Brothers Park. This neighborhood is only a few miles from the various restaurants and shopping options near East 11th Street.
Things to Do in Tracy CA
The city of Tracy CA boasts tons of activities. From shopping at the Tracy Pavilion to exploring the eclectic storefronts and weekly community events in Downtown Tracy, CA, you’ll never run out of Tracy CA attractions.
Tracy Historical Museum
Explore Tracy’s unique history at the city’s historical museum. Its exhibits are devoted to the region’s rich background in the railroad industry and Chinese laborers. There is no admission fee, making the Tracy Historical Museum one of the top free things to do in Tracy CA.
1141 Adam St, Tracy, CA 95376, (209) 832-7278
Lincoln Park
Looking for fun things to do in Tracy CA? Lincoln Park is one of the area’s top spots for recreational fun.
Cinemark Tracy 14
Cinemark is a highly reviewed movie theatre in Tracy that offers fun for the whole family. Its ten screens ensure the top films are always just a ticket purchase away for the city’s residents.
- N. Naglee Road, W Valley Mall, Tracy, CA 95376, (209) 833-8897
Additional Things to Do in Tracy
- West Valley Bowl – Top bowling in town
- Bikram Yoga Tracy – For the health nut in your family
- Downtown Tracy Farmers Market – Vibrant Saturday market for those who love to peruse
Tracy Parks System
One of Tracy CA USA’s main allures is its robust outdoor activities menu. The city of Tracy Parks and Recreation Department maintains 78 parks and 3,000 acres of public space. There is one public swimming pool and one community center, which benefits many families without access to a pool.
Brushy Peak Regional Preserve is located nearby and is every natural enthusiast’s dream. From birding to biking and hiking, you’ll have much to do here. In short, living in Tracy CA is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
Restaurants in Tracy CA
This city offers a diverse range of dining options to suit every palate. From various Asian cuisine options to Italian and Hispanic food galore, you’ll always find something to curb your cravings.
Tracy Thai Restaurant
If you’re looking for great food in Tracy, consider the notable Tracy Thai. Their popular menu items are pad Thai, panang curry, and their chicken salad. It’s one of the top Tracy restaurants, thanks to its friendly atmosphere and tasty eats.
1035 N Central Ave, Tracy, CA 95376, (209) 833-9703
Black Bear Diner Tracy
Black Bear Diner is a Tracy staple; they serve classic diner meals, including chicken-fried steak, pancakes, bacon, and hash browns.
2351 Toste Rd (W Grant Line Rd, Tracy, CA 95377, (209) 835-5600
Los Potros Restaurant
One major pro you’ll experience after moving to Tracy CA is its robust Mexican dining options, and Los Potros is one of the best. They serve their taco on authentic, housemade corn tortillas, and reviews love their chili relleno and chilaquiles.
508 E 11th St B, Tracy, CA 95376, (209) 830-9618
Jobs in Tracy CA
Living in Tracy CA provides ample job opportunities in various fields, but specifically in its leading industries, retail trade, manufacturing, and health care & social assistance. Its major employers are Amazon, APL Logistics, Barbosa Cabinets, Best Buy, and the City of Tracy.
Tracy’s economy is solid; 122 new businesses opened their doors in the past year! The city’s thriving business realm is mostly thanks to its prime location along major highways (Interstate 5, 205, and 580) and proximity to the Bay Area’s $681.98 billion Gross Domestic Product.
The city also values the small businesses that provide undeniable charm and character to living in Tracy CA. For example, its small business initiatives are robust. High-paying Tracy jobs are abundant, but chief executives, marketing managers, obstetricians and gynecologists, and family medicine physicians earn the most, according to data provided by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Other popular places people moving to Tracy are considering are:
- The City of Tracy (jobs)
- Cinemark
- Tracy Police Department
- Tracy Unified School District
If you’re having an issue finding a position that’s right for you once living in Tracy CA, consider visiting one of the many job agencies in Tracy CA—Express Employment Professionals and Share Staff are a few notable options.
All in all, living in Tracy CA provides access to large, blossoming economies paired with a government that does its best to help small businesses flourish. You can’t go wrong working and living in Tracy!
Schools in Tracy California – Excellent Schools of Tracy
K-12 public school students living in Tracy CA are served by the Tracy Unified School District. The district has 13,925 students across 20 schools. The student-to-teacher ratio is 22:1, and the minority enrollment is 90%. Thanks to its rigorous STEM programs, 8th-grade students in Tracy are excelling in Algebra.
The school your child will attend is dependent on your new address. You can use the district’s handy school locator map to find this information; simply enter your address, and the correct schools and their contact information will be displayed. If you’re unsure if you’re located within the Tracy Unified School District, refer to the county’s school lookup map.
Notable Facts About Schools in Tracy CA
- Tracy High School – Tracy High School offers various unique academic programs: Advanced Placement (AP) courses, International Baccalaureate (IB) program, Ag-Science Academy, Performing Arts Magnet, Child Development and Education, Food Education and Service Training (FEAST), and Industrial Technology.
- West High School Tracy – Ranks in the top 50% of high schools in California
- Tracy Elementary School – 21:1 student-to-teacher ratio
The public schools in Tracy California are great, but if you prefer a private education, Delta Charter Schools is a great option.
Common Questions People Have About Living in Tracy CA
What Is the Minimum Wage in Tracy CA?
Tracy has a minimum wage of $16.50.
What Is the Planting Zone in Tracy CA?
If you have a green thumb and plan to garden when living in Tracy CA, your planting zone is 9b.
Where to Get a Smog Check Tracy CA?
When living in Tracy CA you will have to get a smog check on your vehicle. All Star Smog,
Tracy Test Only and All Pro Smog are certified smog check locations.
Statistics & Information
- Tracy CA County: San Joaquin County
- Tracy area: 26.03 square miles
- Tracy zip code(s): 95304, 95376–95378, 95385, 95391
- Tracy area code: 209
- Tracy time zone: Pacific Time Zone (UTC-8 and -7)
- Tracy elevation: 52 feet
- Closest airport to Tracy CA: Sacramento International Airport is 77.8 miles from Tracy
Tracy California Map
Explore more about living in Tracy CA with this map of Tracy.
Moving to Tracy CA With Mother Lode Moving
Whether you’re moving to Tracy because you’ve broken a lease in California or because you’re ready to experience a family-friendly, safe community, you’re in the right place. We know all about living in Tracy CA, and can help you change your address and can provide you with any other moving tips. When you’re ready to relocate, call Mother Lode’s Tracy movers at (916) 631-4285.
