Sacramento Suburbs With Light Rail Service: Commuting via Public Transit

In the 1980s, as light rail projects surged in popularity across the nation, Sacramento was determined not to fall behind. Inspired by the success of San Diego's trolley system, the Sacramento Regional Transit District (SacRT) committed to building its own light rail network. By 1987, the inaugural SacRT line was up and running, quickly gaining popularity and spurring plans for expansion. As demand grew, SacRT introduced the Blue Line in 2003, establishing a vital connection to South Sacramento. Just two years later, in 2005, the Gold Line was extended to reach the suburban city of Folsom, further expanding the system's reach. By 2012, construction began on the Green Line, the first phase of a project designed to connect Sacramento International Airport to the light rail network. Now, more than three decades after its launch, the Sacramento light rail system remains a cornerstone of regional transportation. Its reach extends into the greater metropolitan area, providing commuters and visitors alike with easy access to everything Sacramento has to offer. Even suburban residents benefit, with several light rail stations serving outlying communities.  Here’s a look at some of the Sacramento suburbs connected by the light rail. Rancho Cordova, CA Rancho Cordova, home to about 82,000 residents, offers the perfect balance of suburban tranquility and convenient access to downtown amenities. Located in the greater Sacramento area, this welcoming city boasts a laid-back atmosphere, an abundance of parks and recreational opportunities, a strong public school system, and a close-knit community.  Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the city’s 26 miles of bike and pedestrian trails, along with over 70 acres of creek channels and tributaries. Meanwhile, the growing arts and cultural scene ensures there’s always something for the creatively inclined. No matter your interests—whether you’re an outdoor adventurer or an art lover—Rancho Cordova has something for you. Situated just 12 miles east of downtown Sacramento, Rancho Cordova makes it easy to enjoy the best of city life. Whether you're seeking fine dining, live music, or upscale shopping, the vibrant heart of Sacramento is just a short trip away. And thanks to the SacRT light rail’s Gold Line, commuting is more convenient than ever. Rancho Cordova features four stations—Cordova Town Center, Zinfandel, Mather Field, and Sunrise—so no matter where you live, public transit is always close by. If you’re considering making Rancho Cordova your home, you’ll find it to be a suburban paradise. Homes here typically sell for around $531,000, offering an excellent opportunity to enjoy all the city has to offer. Folsom, CA  Located in Sacramento County, Folsom is a thriving community with a population of approximately 84,000—a 5% increase over the past five years. The city is celebrated for its stunning natural landscapes, highly-rated public schools, and abundance of outdoor recreational activities. Commuters also enjoy convenient access to downtown Sacramento via the SacRT light rail system. Folsom is served by the Gold Line, with four local stations: Hazel, Iron Point, Historic Folsom, and Glenn/Robert G. Holderness. These stations recently underwent significant upgrades to improve services and accommodate the state-of-the-art low-floor S700 trains now being introduced by SacRT. As of January 2025, train service at these stations has been enhanced, with departures every 15 minutes in each direction, making travel more efficient than ever. The Historic Folsom station offers visitors a unique blend of California’s Gold Rush heritage and modern-day charm, featuring vibrant shopping, dining, and cultural attractions. The area is also home to a variety of wineries and taprooms, providing a perfect setting for a relaxing afternoon with family or friends.  For those considering a visit or move to the Sacramento region, Folsom is a must-see destination. And if you’re thinking of making it your home, be prepared to invest—single-family homes in Folsom average around $771K. Whether you’re commuting, exploring history, or enjoying a day out, Folsom offers something for everyone. Related Content: Sacramento Neighborhoods With a Ligh Rail Station Gold River, CA Gold River, a charming town in Sacramento County, offers a picturesque retreat for its 7,000 residents. Surrounded by larger suburbs like Rancho Cordova, Roseville, and Arden-Arcade, it enjoys the conveniences of nearby infrastructure while maintaining its tranquil ambiance. Known for its safety and welcoming atmosphere, Gold River is a community that embraces people from all walks of life. Just 17 miles from Sacramento, Gold River still feels worlds apart—a hidden gem nestled among stunning natural landscapes. Lush greenery, mature oaks, and manicured lawns lend the town a serene, suburban charm that feels like a true escape from urban life. Designed in the 1960s with a focus on environmental preservation, the community seamlessly integrates its natural beauty into its aesthetic, highlighting river rocks and preserving the area’s mature trees. Wide, shady streets and consistent, elegant architecture define this tight-knit neighborhood, where new arrivals are greeted with warm hospitality—perhaps even a basket of muffins or some homemade coffee cake from a thoughtful neighbor. For those seeking a change of pace, easy bus service to the nearby Gold Line station in Rancho Cordova provides Light Rail access to the city. Homes in Gold River typically list for around $700,000, making it an attractive option for those looking to settle in a peaceful yet conveniently located community. Gold River truly is a suburban oasis, where the stresses of city life feel a world away. Roseville, CA Roseville, the largest city in Placer County, is home to approximately 150,000 residents, making it one of Sacramento's most prominent suburbs. With a robust public transportation system, including an Amtrak station and Express Commuter Bus Routes, getting around is a breeze. Its prime location ensures Sacramento’s urban amenities are always within easy reach, while Roseville itself offers a diverse array of activities, dining, shopping, and more. This vibrant city strikes a perfect balance between outdoor recreation and modern conveniences. Lush parks and green spaces provide plenty of opportunities to unwind, while stylish shopping centers and charming cafés create a lively yet welcoming atmosphere. Roseville’s strong public schools and low crime rates make it an ideal place to call home, appealing to families and individuals alike. A self-sufficient city with everything you need for day-to-day living, Roseville still offers easy access to Sacramento’s thriving arts and culture scene, just a short train or bus ride away. With home prices ranging from $620,000 to $650,000 on average, Roseville delivers a perfect blend of convenience, community, and opportunity.