If you have been keeping an eye on the Placer County market, you likely already know that Lincoln is no longer just a sleepy town you pass through on the way to Camp Far West. Situated about 30 miles northeast of Sacramento and neighbor to the bustling cities of Roseville and Rocklin, Lincoln has transformed into a destination in its own right.

What makes living in Lincoln, CA so appealing is how it balances its history as a clay and pottery hub with modern, master-planned convenience. You get the safe streets and rolling hills of a premium suburb without feeling like you are stuck in a concrete jungle. Whether you are looking for a luxury gated estate, a low-maintenance retirement villa, or a spacious home near parks and schools, Lincoln has a pocket that fits the bill.

In this guide, we are going to break down the specific neighborhoods that define the real estate market here in 2026, so you can decide which community vibe fits your lifestyle.

What to Know Before Moving to Lincoln

Before we dive into specific streets and subdivisions, let’s set the stage with a few realities of local life. While Lincoln offers a fantastic quality of life, it helps to know the lay of the land.

Traffic and Commuting Highway 65 is the main artery here. While the bypass helped alleviate downtown congestion years ago, traffic can still get heavy during rush hour. Most residents head south toward Roseville for major employment centers or the Galleria Mall. If you commute to Sacramento, expect a 30 to 45-minute drive depending on when you leave.

The Vibe and Weather Lincoln is generally quieter than Roseville. It has a strong community feel—you will see neighbors out walking dogs and attending local events. Weather-wise, prepare for the heat. Summers here routinely hit 100°F+, but the tradeoff is mild winters with absolutely no snow.

A Note on Taxes This is a big one for your monthly budget. Many of the newer, master-planned communities in Lincoln (like Twelve Bridges and Lincoln Crossing) have Mello-Roos taxes. These are special tax districts used to fund infrastructure. When you are calculating your monthly payment, don't just look at the mortgage; ask your lender to factor in the specific tax rate for the neighborhood you are eyeing.

Top Neighborhoods in Lincoln: A Closer Look

Lincoln is roughly divided into three distinct vibes: the historic downtown grid, the massive active adult community to the north, and the modern master-planned communities to the south and west. "Best" is subjective, but these are the areas that consistently draw the most attention from buyers.

Twelve Bridges

If you want scenic views and rolling topography, Twelve Bridges is often the first stop. Unlike the flat valley floor, this area is built into the hills, giving many homes incredible views of the nature preserves and open spaces.

The vibe here is manicured and modern. You will find a mix of housing options, from low-maintenance condos to semi-custom estates on larger lots. There are also pockets of new construction homes popping up if you prefer to be the first owner. The community is anchored by the Twelve Bridges Library and the modern Twelve Bridges High School, making it a hub for education and community events.

At a Glance:

• Lifestyle: Scenic, active, and established.
• Key Amenities: Coyote Pond Park, extensive trail systems, and top-tier schools.
• Price Range: Expect to see condos starting in the mid-$400s, with single-family homes ranging from the mid-$600s up to $1M+ for view lots.

Sun City Lincoln Hills

You can't talk about Lincoln real estate without mentioning Sun City. This is one of the largest active adult communities in California, spanning nearly 3,000 acres. It is important to note that this is an age-restricted community (55+), so it is specifically designed for retirees and active adults.

Life here revolves around the two massive lodges—Orchard Creek and Kilaga Springs. These facilities are resort-caliber, featuring fitness centers, pools, and social spaces. With over 27 miles of walking trails and two golf courses, the lifestyle is incredibly social. Residents have hundreds of clubs to choose from, covering everything from ceramics to pickleball.

At a Glance:

• Lifestyle: High-energy retirement with a resort feel.
• Housing: Single-story homes ranging from cozy cottages to expansive estate models with golf course views.
• Price Range: Generally $500K to $1M+, with premiums for golf course frontage or views.

Catta Verdera

If you are looking for luxury homes in Lincoln, CA, Catta Verdera is the pinnacle. It is the only fully gated golf course community in the city, offering a level of privacy and exclusivity you won't find elsewhere.

The architecture here leans heavily toward Spanish and Mediterranean styles, sitting on custom and semi-custom lots that range from 1/3 acre to over an acre. The community is built around the Catta Verdera Country Club, and because of the elevation, many homes offer sweeping views of the valley and the Sutter Buttes. It is quiet, secure, and upscale.

At a Glance:

• Lifestyle: Private, luxury resort living.
• Housing: Large custom estates.
• Price Range: $1M to $3M+.

Lincoln Crossing

Located on the west side of Highway 65, Lincoln Crossing is a massive master-planned community known for its connectivity and amenities. The terrain here is flat, making it very walkable and bikeable.

The big draw here is the lifestyle included in your HOA dues. Residents get high-speed internet included, plus access to "The Club," a private facility with multiple pools, a gym, and a game room. While the HOA fee is higher here than in some other neighborhoods, many buyers find the bundle of internet and gym access makes it a wash financially.

At a Glance:

• Lifestyle: Community-centric with resort-style amenities.
• Housing: Everything from entry-level starter homes to large move-up properties.
• Price Range: High $500s to the $800s.

Foskett Ranch

For those who want a suburban feel but need a little more breathing room, Foskett Ranch is a strong contender. Located slightly north, this area feels a bit more open and less dense than Lincoln Crossing.

The neighborhood is anchored by Foskett Regional Park, which features soccer fields, softball diamonds, and a dog park. The homes here were largely built in the early 2000s, meaning the landscaping has matured, providing plenty of shade. A major financial perk for many buyers is that many homes in Foskett Ranch have lower specialized tax assessments compared to the brand-new builds.

At a Glance:

• Lifestyle: Quiet, park-oriented, and spacious.
• Housing: Single-family homes on slightly larger lots.
• Price Range: $600K to $900K.

Downtown Lincoln & Historic District

Finally, if you prefer character over gated entrances, Downtown Lincoln offers a charming alternative. This is the heart of the original city, featuring brick buildings, mature trees, and a unique small-town atmosphere.

Living here means you are walking distance to McBean Park (home to the Lincoln Potters baseball team), Beermann Plaza, and local favorites like steakhouses and boutiques. You won't find an HOA here, and the homes range from historic bungalows to mid-century ranch styles.

At a Glance:

• Lifestyle: Walkable, historic, and unique.
• Housing: Older homes with character.
• Price Range: More accessible, typically $450K to $650K.

Quick Comparison: HOA, Vibe, and Pricing

When you are weighing your options, it usually comes down to monthly budget and desired amenities.

• High HOA / High Amenities: Lincoln Crossing and Catta Verdera. You pay more monthly, but you get pools, internet bundles, or gated security.
• Moderate/Low HOA: Twelve Bridges often has lower HOAs than Lincoln Crossing, though Mello-Roos taxes still apply.
• No HOA: Downtown and many older subdivisions like Foskett Ranch usually have no HOA dues, giving you more freedom with your property.

Always ask to see the total tax bill. A home with a lower sticker price in a high-tax district might cost you the same monthly as a more expensive home in a low-tax area.

Shopping, Dining, and Education

Regardless of which neighborhood you choose, you have access to solid local amenities.

Schools The area is served by the Western Placer Unified School District. The addition of the new Twelve Bridges High School has been a major draw for relocators prioritizing modern educational facilities.

Shopping For big-box needs, the Lincoln Crossing Marketplace has you covered with a Target, Lowe’s, and various dining options. For a more localized feel, Downtown Lincoln offers unique shops and restaurants that support small business owners.

Recreation You are never far from fun here. Thunder Valley Casino Resort is a massive entertainment hub just outside of town, offering concerts and dining. For outdoor enthusiasts, Camp Far West Lake is a short drive for boating and fishing, and the local brewery scene is steadily growing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the safest neighborhood in Lincoln, CA?

Lincoln is consistently ranked as one of the safer cities in the region. However, gated communities like Catta Verdera naturally offer the highest level of security due to controlled access. Active adult communities like Sun City also tend to have very low incident rates due to the nature of the residents and neighborhood watch programs.

Does Lincoln, CA have Mello-Roos taxes?

Yes, many neighborhoods in Lincoln have Mello-Roos taxes. This is most common in master-planned communities built after the 1990s, such as Lincoln Crossing and Twelve Bridges. Older neighborhoods near downtown and Foskett Ranch often do not have these extra fees, or the bonds may be close to expiring.

Is Lincoln, CA a good place to retire?

Absolutely. Lincoln is a premier destination for retirees in Northern California, largely due to Sun City Lincoln Hills. The combination of medical services nearby (in Roseville and Lincoln), flat walking trails, and golf-centric living makes it highly desirable for the 55+ demographic.

How far is the commute from Lincoln to Sacramento?

Under normal conditions, the drive takes about 30 to 45 minutes. However, traffic on Highway 65 and I-80 can be unpredictable during peak rush hours, so daily commuters should plan for potential delays or look into commuter bus options.