Fresno, CA

After years of sparse inhabitation as an agricultural area, Fresno’s development into the thriving city is it today began with the arrival of the railroad in the 1870s. Farming and livestock remained integral to the region’s economy as Fresno steadily grew throughout the 20th century, attracting large groups of immigrants from around the world and building the city into the vast multicultural community it is today.

Fresno’s food scene has something for every taste and budget, making it a great place for renters who love to explore local dining. From family-owned taco trucks to sleek sushi bars, the city offers a wide range of global flavors. Local favorites like Sakura Chaya deliver lively hibachi experiences and fresh Japanese fare, while spots like Dai Bai Dang offer modern Asian fusion in a casual setting. For those who love Italian, Campagnia and Oggi Cosi Si Mangia are longtime staples with cozy vibes and robust menus. If you’re into craft beer, downtown’s Brewery District is buzzing—Tioga-Sequoia Brewing Company and Full Circle Brewing Co. host regular events, live music, and serve up inventive local brews. National chains like Jack in the Box, Subway, and McDonald's are widely available too, offering quick bites on the go. Whether you're grabbing street tacos or planning a night out, Fresno’s dining options are as varied as the city itself.

Most Fresno residents rely on driving, but the city also provides a variety of convenient transportation choices. The Fresno Area Express (FAX) bus system operates multiple routes across the city, including frequent service along major corridors, and a bus rapid transit line known as Q offers faster travel through downtown and along Blackstone and Kings Canyon roads. For longer trips, Fresno is served by Fresno Yosemite International Airport on the east side of town, with regional service also available at smaller airports in the area. Travelers can connect easily to the rest of California via Amtrak’s San Joaquins line, which runs through Fresno’s station, or by major highways including State Routes 99, 168, and 41. Together, these options make getting around the city and beyond accessible for residents without relying solely on a car.

Renters in Fresno will find plenty of outdoor spaces and recreation nearby. Roeding Park is a local favorite, home to the Fresno Chaffee Zoo and a spacious dog park. Farther north, Woodward Park offers miles of trails, a BMX terrain park, disc golf, and a popular amphitheater, along with the serene Shinzen Japanese Garden for quiet strolls. The Island Waterpark adds to the mix with slides, pools, and splash areas that make it a popular spot during Fresno’s warm summers. And just a short drive away, Yosemite National Park provides world-class hiking, waterfalls, and breathtaking Sierra Nevada views, giving renters easy access to one of the nation’s most iconic outdoor destinations.

The median rent in Fresno is $832, which is far below the California average of $1205. The average for single-bedroom apartment sis under $800 per month, and it’s not uncommon to find units for under $600. This makes Fresno an affordable place where just about anyone can find an apartment.

Fresno has the best of a big city and charm of a rural western town, and you will find everything from discount chains, big box retailers, boutiques and specialty stores. In addition to Target, Walmart, Costco, Sam’s Club, Kmart and more, The Fashion Fair Mall has JC Penny and Macys as well as Abercrombie and Fitch, Aeropostale, Claire’s, Ecko, Footlocker, Forever 21, Guess and Fredericks of Hollywood. The mall has specialty stores for apparel, accessories, bath and beauty, electronics, shoes, jewelry, fabric and athletic apparel. With its proximity to the Sierras, outdoor gear shops include REI and Tactical and Practical.

Shizen Japanese Gardens, Chukchansi Park, Courthouse Park, Warnors Theatre, Fresno State campus, Chinatown, Fresno Chaffee Zoo, Rotary Playland, downtown mural district