Davis, located in Yolo County, California, is a vibrant college town known for its strong emphasis on education, sustainability, and community participation. Home to the University of California, Davis, the city boasts a bohemian atmosphere, abundant green spaces, and an active arts scene. With a diverse range of residential areas, Davis offers great options for families, students, and professionals alike. This article explores the best residential areas in Davis, highlighting their unique characteristics, housing options, and average prices.
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Central Davis

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Central Davis is the heartbeat of the city, providing easy access to Davis's best amenities, including shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. It’s perfect for those who want a vibrant, urban lifestyle.
Characteristics of the Central Davis
* Culture: Rich local arts scene, diverse dining options
* Transportation: Excellent access to public transportation and bike paths
* Services: Grocery stores, banks, cafes, and community centers
* Environment: Lively and community-focused
Housing Options in the Central Davis
Condos, Single-family homes, Townhouses
Average Home Prices in the Central Davis
* Buying: $600,000 – $800,000
* Renting: $2,000 – $2,800/month
North Davis

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North Davis is known for its family-friendly neighborhoods and close-knit community. It features spacious parks and good schools, making it ideal for families with children.
Characteristics of the North Davis
* Culture: Strong community involvement, family-oriented
* Transportation: Biking and walking paths, easy access to public transit
* Services: Schools, parks, and shopping centers nearby
* Environment: Quiet and suburban
Housing Options in the North Davis
Single-family homes, Duplexes
Average Home Prices in the North Davis
* Buying: $650,000 – $900,000
* Renting: $2,300 – $3,200/month
West Davis

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West Davis offers a suburban feel with a focus on green living and outdoor activities. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a quieter lifestyle but still want to be near the amenities of the city.
Characteristics of the West Davis
* Culture: Eco-friendly community, strong emphasis on sustainability
* Transportation: Bike-friendly, public transportation available
* Services: Community gardens, parks, and recreational facilities
* Environment: Relaxed and nature-oriented
Housing Options in the West Davis
Single-family homes, Eco-friendly developments
Average Home Prices in the West Davis
* Buying: $700,000 – $950,000
* Renting: $2,400 – $3,300/month
South Davis

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South Davis encompasses a mix of residential options and is known for its easy access to outdoor activities, including nearby parks and trails, appealing to nature lovers.
Characteristics of the South Davis
* Culture: Outdoor lifestyle, friendly neighborhood ethos
* Transportation: Good access to bike paths and public transport
* Services: Schools, fresh markets, and recreational areas
* Environment: Friendly and engaging
Housing Options in the South Davis
Single-family homes, Townhouses
Average Home Prices in the South Davis
* Buying: $630,000 – $850,000
* Renting: $2,200 – $3,000/month
East Davis

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East Davis is characterized by its spacious properties and a suburban atmosphere. It often appeals to families seeking larger homes with access to excellent educational opportunities.
Characteristics of the East Davis
* Culture: Strong educational focus due to nearby schools
* Transportation: Car-dependent but also bike-accessible
* Services: Strong community services, educational facilities
* Environment: Residential and family-friendly
Housing Options in the East Davis
Single-family homes, Larger lots
Average Home Prices in the East Davis
* Buying: $750,000 – $1,000,000
* Renting: $2,600 – $3,500/month
University Area

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The University Area is ideal for students and young professionals due to its proximity to UC Davis. It offers affordable housing options and a lively atmosphere.
Characteristics of the University Area
* Culture: College town feel, vibrant energy with many events
* Transportation: Excellent public transit, bike-friendly
* Services: Coffee shops, student services, libraries
* Environment: Lively and youthful
Housing Options in the University Area
Apartments, Shared houses
Average Home Prices in the University Area
* Buying: $400,000 – $600,000
* Renting: $1,500 – $2,000/month
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Residential Areas in Davis:
The best residential areas in Davis include Central Davis, North Davis, West Davis, South Davis, East Davis, and the University Area.
North Davis is known for its family-friendly neighborhoods, good schools, and spacious parks.
The University Area is the most popular for students due to its proximity to UC Davis and affordable rental options.
In Central Davis, the average home prices range from $600,000 to $800,000.
West Davis offers single-family homes and eco-friendly developments with a focus on sustainability.
Davis has excellent public transportation options, with bus services and bike paths connecting different neighborhoods.
Yes, Davis is known for being extremely bike-friendly, with many dedicated bike paths throughout the city.
West Davis and South Davis have several parks and recreational facilities, perfect for outdoor activities.
The University Area tends to have more affordable rental options suitable for students.
West Davis emphasizes eco-friendly living and has many green initiatives in the community.
Conclusion on the Best Residential Areas in Davis:
Davis offers a variety of residential neighborhoods tailored to different lifestyles, whether it’s the vibrant culture of Central Davis, family-friendly North Davis, or the student-centric University Area. Each area has its distinct character, amenities, and housing options, catering to families, students, and professionals alike. The city's commitment to sustainability and community engagement enhances the living experience, making it an attractive place for those looking to settle down. When considering a move to Davis, potential residents should evaluate their lifestyle needs and preferences to find the perfect neighborhood that suits them.
About the Author

Published by:Eribert De Oliveira
Mechatronics Engineer and founder of Mi Inmueble Online, with a background in real estate. I combine technology and analysis to help you find the best areas to live.