100 Reasons to Love Placer County: Find Your Auburn Home for Sale

Nicole Spencer • April 29, 2025

Placer County isn’t just a wonderful place to live—it’s one of the safest in California, making it an ideal spot to explore Auburn homes for sale. According to a recent report from Safewise, two cities in Placer County ranked among the top 10 safest cities in the state of California. However, safety is just the beginning. If you’re looking for Auburn homes for sale, you will find the area features home with views, land, ponds, rivers and small-town charm close to big city entertainment and amenities. The region features scenic beauty, community spirit and welcoming neighborhoods and at least 100 other reasons why Placer County should be your next home.

Luxury home at sunset in Placer County with modern design, well-lit exterior, and text promoting Auburn homes for sale.

Auburn Homes for Sale: Why Many Buyers Are Choosing Placer County


Finding Auburn homes for sale is about more than just four walls; it’s about lifestyle, location, and community. Auburn and the surrounding Placer County area offers everything from historic beauty to outdoor adventure- above the fog and below the snow. If you’re a first-time buyer, a growing family, or a retiree, there’s something here for you.


100 Reasons to Love Placer County: Work with a Top Real Estate Agent in Auburn, CA to Find Yours


From outdoor adventures and schools to beautiful downtowns and peaceful neighborhoods, Placer County offers something for everyone. But finding the right home that fits your lifestyle takes more than just knowing the area—it takes the right guidance. That’s why working with a top real estate agent in Auburn, CA, can make all the difference as you explore all the reasons to love living here.


Natural Beauty and Outdoor Adventure


  1. American River Recreation: Ideal for rafting, fishing, and kayaking.
  2. Hundreds of Miles of Trails: Perfect for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
  3. Hidden Falls Regional Park: Stunning waterfalls, scenic hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding.
  4. Sierra Nevada Views: Enjoy breathtaking mountain landscapes.
  5. Folsom Lake: Boating, camping, and family-friendly beaches.
  6. Rollins Lake: A peaceful spot for fishing, camping, and water sports.
  7. Western States Trail: A historic endurance trail for adventure seekers.
  8. Lake Tahoe Getaway: World-class skiing, hiking, and lake activities nearby.
  9. Hidden Caves and Rock Formations: Unique geological wonders to explore.
  10. Placer County Flower Fields: Beautiful seasonal blooms across the region.
  11. Camp Far West Reservoir: A great spot for boating, fishing, and water skiing.
  12. Snow Sports in the Foothills: Enjoy skiing and snowboarding within an hour drive.
  13. Birdwatching Hotspots: See eagles, hawks, and songbirds in their natural habitat.


Small-Town Beauty with Big-City Access


14. Downtown Auburn’s Historic Appeal: Unique shops, historic buildings, and a welcoming vibe.

15. Close to Sacramento: A quick drive to the state capital.

16. Easy Travel Access: Major highways, International airport, and Amtrak rail service.

17. Farmers’ Markets: Fresh local produce and homemade goods weekly.

18. Gold Rush Heritage: A strong connection to California’s past.

19. Tight-Knit Community: Supportive and welcoming residents.

20. Local Artisan Shops: Handmade goods and one-of-a-kind crafts.

21. Placer County Fair: A fun-filled annual tradition.

22. Old Town Auburn Allure: Walk through history in this preserved district.

23. Family-Owned Restaurants: Home-cooked meals and authentic flavors.

24. Community Farmers’ Co-ops: Locals coming together to support fresh produce and sustainability.

25. Street Fairs and Art Walks: Downtown areas host lively community events.


Family-Friendly and Safe Communities


26. Highly Regarded Schools: Several public and private school options.

27. Low Crime Rates: A safe place to raise a family.

28. Strong Community Ties: Welcoming and neighborly neighborhoods.

29. Year-Round Events: Parades, festivals, and community gatherings.

30. Abundant Parks and Playgrounds: Plenty of spaces for kids and adults to play.

31. Clean and Well-Maintained Streets: A well-cared-for environment.

32. Libraries with Family Activities:  Storytimes, events, and learning resources.

33. Youth Sports Leagues:  Football, baseball, soccer, and more.

34. Festive Holiday Celebrations: Small-town festivals during every season.

35. Supportive School Districts: Strong partnerships between teachers and parents.

36. High Community Engagement: Residents actively participate in city planning and events.

37. Summer Camps for Kids: Plenty of outdoor and educational programs.

38. Well-Maintained Walking and Bike Paths: Perfect for exercise.


Booming Economy and Job Opportunities


39. Varied Job Market: Opportunities in tech, healthcare, and education.

40. Strong Local Businesses: Thriving small businesses and entrepreneurs.

41. Remote Work-Friendly: Quiet spaces and high-speed internet.

42. Affordable Compared to the Bay Area: More value for your money.

43. Booming Real Estate Market: Great investment opportunities.

44. Low Unemployment Rate: A strong and stable workforce.

45. Business-Friendly Environment: A hub for innovation and startups.

46. Financial Stability: A strong local economy ensures security.

47. Expanding Healthcare Facilities:  More options for high-quality medical care.

48. Tech and Startup Incubators: Support for local entrepreneurs and new businesses.


History and Culture


49. Rich Gold Rush History: Auburn played a key role in California’s past.

50. Historic Landmarks and Museums: Explore preserved buildings and exhibits.

51. Thriving Arts Scene: Art galleries, music festivals, and studio tours.

52. Live Theater and Performing Arts: Local talent on display.

53. Music Venues and Concerts: From intimate performances to lively festivals.

54. Several Cultural Celebrations: Festivals honoring various heritages.

55. Well-Preserved Architecture: Beautiful historic buildings throughout the county.

56. Haunted History and Ghost Tours: Learn Auburn’s spooky past.

57. Preserved Ranchlands and Homesteads: A glimpse into California’s pioneering past.

58. Historic Fire Lookout Towers: Climb for breathtaking views and history lessons.


Food and Drink Scene


59. Award-Winning Wineries: A booming wine region with tastings and tours.

60. Farm-to-Table Dining: Locally sourced ingredients and gourmet cuisine.

61. Craft Breweries: Some of the best local beers in California.

62. Cozy Coffee Shops: Perfect spots for morning caffeine.

63. Various International Cuisine: Italian, Mexican, Thai, and more.

64. Farmers’ Market Finds: Year-round access to fresh, local produce.

65. Scenic Outdoor Dining: Enjoy meals with stunning views.

66. Family-Owned Bakeries and Ice Cream Shops: Fresh treats for all ages.

67. Mandarin and Honey Farms: High-quality, locally produced goods.

68. Grass-Fed and Sustainable Meats: Fresh options from local farms.

69. Local Distilleries: Small-batch whiskey, vodka, and gin made right in Placer County.

70. Pick-Your-Own Orchards: Enjoy harvesting apples, blackberry’s and mandarins.


Ideal Climate


71. Low Humidity: Dry and comfortable summers.

72. Delta Breezes: Evening winds that keep temperatures moderate.

73. Above the Fog and Below the Snow: Enjoy more sunshine and outdoor friendly weather.

74. Extended Growing Season: Ideal for fruit trees and vegetable gardens.

75. Four Distinct Seasons: Enjoy spring blooms, summer sunshine, fall colors, and mild winters.


Unique Attractions and Entertainment


76. Foresthill Bridge: The highest bridge in California with breathtaking views.

77. Gold Panning in Auburn: Hands-on Gold Rush history.

78. Rodeo and Horse Shows: A nod to Placer County’s Western heritage.

79. Off-Roading and ATV Trails: Plenty of space for adventure seekers.

80. Annual Mountain Mandarin Festival: A local favorite celebrating mandarins.

81. Classic Train Rides: Vintage railroad excursions.

82. Car Shows and Classic Car Clubs: A haven for auto enthusiasts.

83. Wedding and Event Venues: Wineries and mountain backdrops for special occasions.

84. Escape Rooms and Adventure Games: Interactive entertainment for all ages.

85. Outdoor Movie Nights: Community parks host film screenings under the stars.


Community Values and Growth


86. Equestrian-Friendly Areas: Plenty of space for horse lovers.

87. Live Entertainment: Local theatres for plays, music and orchestra

88. Pet-Friendly Spaces: Dog parks and hiking trails welcome pets.

89. Support for Agriculture: Farmers, ranchers, and local markets thrive.

90. Old-Fashioned Holiday Celebrations: Tree lightings, parades, and seasonal fun.

91. Volunteerism and Giving Back: Residents support local charities and causes.

92. Strong Schools and Education: Investment in STEM and hands-on learning.

93. Safe and Modern Infrastructure: Well-maintained roads and utilities.

94. Room for Growth and Development: Affordable land and expansion opportunities.

95. A Place People Are Proud to Call Home: Placer County’s reputation continues to grow.


Convenience and Connectivity


96. Amtrak and Rail Access: Train service for easy regional travel.

97. Proximity to Silicon Valley and Sacramento: Without the high cost of living.

98. Tech and High-Speed Internet Expansion: Great for remote workers.

99. Convenient Air Travel: Close Sacramento International Airport

100. Reliable Public Transit: Expanding options for commuting within and beyond the county.


Find Your Home with the Top Real Estate Agent in Auburn, CA


Are you looking for Auburn homes for sale? If you are, you’ll need an expert who knows the market inside and out. That’s where Nicole Spencer Homes comes in. With years of experience, a strong reputation, and a commitment to honesty, she’s the top real estate agent in Auburn, CA, who will help you find your perfect home.


Why Choose Nicole Spencer Homes?


  • Placer County and Auburn real estate market knowledge.
  • A proven track record of satisfied buyers and sellers.
  • A reputation built on trust, integrity, and results.


Placer County isn’t just a place to live—it’s a place to thrive, with safe neighborhoods, scenic beauty, and a strong sense of community. When choosing an agent to work with, buyers ranked honesty and trustworthiness as the most important factors, followed closely by experience. Interestingly, an agent’s reputation held slightly more weight among older generations compared to younger ones. With that in mind, partnering with someone who brings integrity, knowledge, and a solid reputation to the table is key. That’s where Nicole Spencer Homes comes in. As one of the top real estate agents in Auburn, CA, Nicole brings the local expertise and trusted guidance you need to turn your dream home into a reality.


If you're ready to take the next step, reach out to Nicole Spencer Homes to begin your search for the perfect country properties in Placer County.

A  large white house with the words the need for setting up a trust expert advice from auburn ca
By Nicole Spencer February 14, 2025
Learn why setting up a trust is crucial for your real estate investments from Auburn, CA’s top realtor, Nicole Spencer.
By Nicole Spencer February 23, 2023
Gated communities offer a sense of community, safety and privacy and are hence very desirable. Communities often vary around hobbies such as golf, equestrian, age 55 and over and lake communities. If you are looking for a gated community in the Auburn, Roseville, Granite Bay, Lincoln and greater Placer county area, look no further. As your local real estate expert, I have included details and links below to a variety of gated communities in the area and am available to answer any of your questions.
By Nicole Spencer January 17, 2023
Placer and Nevada County offers a plethora of horse properties for all horse riding disciplines. Located in the Sierra Foothills, between Sacramento and North Lake Tahoe the terrain varies between flat to gentle rolling hills with little to no trees to more sloped properties with more trees, at the higher elevations. There are many horse properties that come on the market, some with barns and arenas and others with just fencing and an open pallet to build what you desire. While there is enough rain to typically provide green grass 5-8 months of the year, it may be important to you that the property provides irrigation water. Irrigation water in Placer and Nevada Counties are provided by the Nevada Irrigation District (NID) or Placer County Water Agency (PCWA). Not all properties have access to this water, so if it is important to have year-round irrigated pastures, let your Realtor know. Prices range from approx. $550,000 to multi-millions. There are a few communities that offer riding trails, maintained by the HOA – like Sierra Foothill Estates and the Rancho’s in Auburn or Auburn Lake Trails in Cool. A savvy horse rider & Realtor can look for properties that back up to public horse riding trails so that you have easy access. These may include parks like Hidden Falls, Empire Mine, Folsom Lake or the Canyon or a private place that only a trail rider will know about.
By Nicole Spencer May 26, 2022
Have you been thinking about building an ADU on your property?
By Nicole Spencer April 14, 2022
Have you been thinking about building an ADU on your property?
A large house is sitting on top of a hill with trees in the background | Luxury Homes
By Nicole Spencer March 25, 2022
Title insurance is a safety net to protect your property after purchasing, from any financial claims that may be unknown at the time of closing escrow. Below are examples of some of the instances that title insurance will protect you.
By Nicole Spencer March 23, 2022
Here are seven reasons why Auburn is a great place to live:
By Nicole Spencer March 3, 2022
Winchester Country Club is a private course that was twice rated as one of America’s best residential golf courses by Golfweek. Co-designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr. and Jr. the challenging course takes approximately 4 hours to play. Winchester Country Club is a premier luxury home and golf community, offering the amenities and atmosphere of a scenic retreat for year-round resort-like living. The design and location of this community beautifully blend together an award-winning clubhouse and generously spaced luxury homes with views, pines and oaks – above the fog and below the snow. Located only 5 minutes off of highway 80, Auburn is approximately 5 minutes down the hill with high end shopping at the Galleria mall about 30 minutes from the community. Residents can enjoy a day trip to Lake Tahoe in about one hour, to San Francisco in about two hours, or simply enjoy all the social activities right at home in Winchester. Homeowner amenities include a junior Olympic swimming pool, tennis courts, bocce ball, pickleball and owner’s clubhouse, and over 4 miles of walking trails. Golf club amenities include bar, fine dining, and 2 fitness centers.
By Nicole Spencer March 3, 2022
The par 72 Darkhorse Golf course features magnificent elevation changes and was sculptured to fit the natural landscape of the area. Riding on the cart path is like riding through a nature preserve with the abundance of wildlife. It is rated in California’s top 10 by GolfWeek Magazine and recognized as an outstanding affordable golf experience. The community of Darkhorse is located 15 miles from I80, midway between the historic towns of Auburn and Grass Valley. Residents enjoy lots of great local shopping and dining or the Galleria mall for shopping, within 45 minutes. San Francisco in less than 2 ½ hours and Lake Tahoe is about 1 hour. If you like to golf, you will love living in Darkhorse.