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Solano County

  • Solano County, California, includes several incorporated cities and unincorporated communities.

    Incorporated Cities:

    1. Benicia

    2. Dixon

    3. Fairfield (county seat)

    4. Rio Vista

    5. Suisun City

    6. Vacaville

    7. Vallejo

    Major Unincorporated Communities:

    • Allendale

    • Elmira

    • Green Valley

    • Rockville

    Solano County is known for its mix of urban, suburban, and rural areas, with strong agricultural roots, military presence (Travis Air Force Base), and waterfront cities.

Flock of white pelicans flying and landing near a water stream in a grassy marshland.

Miles of hiking and biking trails expand over open, rolling grassland, through oak forests and alongside pristine marshes.

Living in Solano County, CA

Nestled between the San Francisco Bay Area and the Sacramento Valley, Solano County offers residents the perfect blend of affordability, natural beauty, and suburban comfort. With its diverse cities, strong sense of community, and easy access to both urban and rural attractions, Solano County is a fantastic place to call home. Whether you’re drawn to the scenic waterfront of Vallejo, the charming small-town feel of Benicia, or the rolling farmlands of Vacaville, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant region.

One of the greatest advantages of living in Solano County is its affordability compared to neighboring Bay Area counties. Residents enjoy a lower cost of living while still benefiting from close proximity to major job centers like San Francisco, Sacramento, and Silicon Valley. With well-connected highways and public transit options, commuting is convenient, allowing people to work in the city while enjoying a more relaxed suburban lifestyle at home.

Beyond its practical benefits, Solano County boasts plenty of recreational opportunities. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the beautiful trails of Rockville Hills Regional Park, take in the scenic views at Lake Solano, or enjoy water activities along the Carquinez Strait. The county is also home to family-friendly attractions like Six Flags Discovery Kingdom and the famous Jelly Belly Factory in Fairfield. With its thriving agricultural scene, residents can visit farmers' markets and local wineries, experiencing the best of farm-to-table living.

Solano County’s welcoming communities, great weather, and mix of urban and rural charm make it an ideal place to live. Whether you’re looking for career opportunities, a peaceful environment, or exciting activities, this county offers a well-rounded and fulfilling lifestyle for individuals and families alike.

About Solano County, California

Solano County, located in the northeastern part of the San Francisco Bay Area, is known for its blend of suburban, agricultural, and industrial landscapes. It serves as a key connection between the Bay Area and Sacramento, with cities like Fairfield, Vallejo, Vacaville, and Benicia offering diverse communities and attractions. The county features rolling hills, fertile farmland, and waterfront areas along the Carquinez Strait and Suisun Bay. Home to Travis Air Force Base, Solano County plays a significant role in military and aviation history while also being a hub for wine production and outdoor recreation.

History of Solano County

Originally inhabited by the Patwin people, a subgroup of the Wintun Native Americans, Solano County saw Spanish colonization in the late 18th century. It later became part of Mexico before joining the United States in 1850, when California became a state. The county was named after Chief Solano, a Native American leader who allied with Mexican settlers. Vallejo briefly served as the state capital in the early 1850s before it was moved to Sacramento. During the 20th century, the county’s economy grew with the development of Mare Island Naval Shipyard and Travis Air Force Base, which played a critical role in military operations. Today, Solano County is a thriving mix of agriculture, tourism, and industry.

Things to Do in Solano County

Solano County offers a range of activities for history buffs, nature lovers, and adventure seekers:

  • Outdoor Adventures – Hike in Rockville Hills Regional Park, explore Lagoon Valley Park in Vacaville, or kayak in Suisun Marsh, one of California’s largest estuarine environments.

  • Historic Sites & Museums – Visit the Benicia Capitol State Historic Park, Vallejo Naval and Historical Museum, and Mare Island, the first U.S. Navy shipyard on the West Coast.

  • Family-Friendly Attractions – Enjoy a fun-filled day at Six Flags Discovery Kingdom in Vallejo or visit the Western Railway Museum for a ride on historic streetcars.

  • Wine & Culinary Experiences – Explore the Suisun Valley wine region, a hidden gem known for boutique wineries, or visit the Jelly Belly Factory in Fairfield for a sweet tour.

  • Waterfront & Scenic Drives – Stroll along the Vallejo and Benicia waterfronts for beautiful Bay views, local dining, and charming shops, or take a ferry ride from Vallejo to San Francisco.

With its rich history, scenic landscapes, and variety of attractions, Solano County is a great destination for both residents and visitors looking for a mix of adventure, relaxation, and culture.

DEMOGRAPHICS

As of 2025, Solano County, California, is projected to have a population of approximately 449,551, reflecting a modest growth rate of 0.07% over the past year.

worldpopulationreview.com

Racial and Ethnic Composition:

  • White (non-Hispanic): Approximately 38.4%

  • Hispanic or Latino: Around 26.8%

  • African American (non-Hispanic): Approximately 14.3%

  • Asian (non-Hispanic): About 13.8%

  • Mixed Race: Approximately 6.7%

These projections indicate a diverse population, with significant representation across various racial and ethnic groups.

solanocounty.com

Age Distribution:

While specific age distribution projections for 2025 are not available, Solano County has historically maintained a balanced age demographic, with substantial populations across all age groups, including children, working-age adults, and seniors.

Population Density and Area:

  • Land Area: Approximately 821.83 square miles

  • Population Density (2020): Approximately 551.8 people per square mile

    census.gov

These figures highlight Solano County's status as a moderately populated region with a rich tapestry of cultural and ethnic diversity.

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