Cities and Towns in Placer County, California
Founded in 1851, Placer County is one of 58 counties in the state of California. Historically, Placer County was formed from Sacramento. The city of Auburn is the county seat. With FIPS code of 61, Placer County has a population of 412,300 and area of 1,407 square miles (3,644 km²).
List of all cities in Placer County, CA alphabetically
City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
Agate Bay, CA | 96140 | 530 |
Alpine Meadows, CA | 96145 | 530 |
96146 | 530 | |
Alta, CA | 95701 | 530 |
Alta, CA | 95715 | 530 |
Applegate, CA | 95703 | 530 |
Auburn, CA | 95602 | 530 |
95603 | 530 | |
95604 | 916 | |
Baker Ranch, CA | 95631 | 530 |
Blue Canyon, CA | 95715 | 530 |
Bowman, CA | 95604 | 916 |
Brockway, CA | 96143 | 530 |
Cape Horn, CA | 95713 | 530 |
Carnelian Bay, CA | 96140 | 530 |
Cedar Flat, CA | 96140 | 530 |
Christian Valley, CA | 95603 | 530 |
Clipper Gap, CA | 95603 | 530 |
Colfax, CA | 95713 | 530 |
Dutch Flat, CA | 95714 | 530 |
Eden Valley, CA | 95713 | 530 |
Emigrant Gap, CA | 95715 | 530 |
Flick Point, CA | 96140 | 530 |
Foresthill, CA | 95631 | 530 |
Fulton Acres, CA | 96140 | 530 |
Gold Run, CA | 95717 | 530 |
Granite Bay, CA | 95746 | 916 |
Heather Glen, CA | 95703 | 530 |
Homewood, CA | 96141 | 530 |
Iowa Hill, CA | 95713 | 530 |
Kings Beach, CA | 96143 | 530 |
Lake of the Pines, CA | 95603 | 530 |
Lincoln, CA | 95648 | 916 |
Loomis, CA | 95650 | 916 |
Magra, CA | 95717 | 530 |
Meadow Vista, CA | 95722 | 530 |
Michigan Bluff, CA | 95631 | 530 |
Newcastle, CA | 95658 | 916 |
Olympic Valley, CA | 96146 | 530 |
Ophir, CA | 95603 | 530 |
Penryn, CA | 95663 | 916 |
Ridgewood, CA | 96140 | 530 |
Rocklin, CA | 95677 | 916 |
95765 | 916 | |
Roseville, CA | 95661 | 916 |
95678 | 916 | |
95746 | 916 | |
95747 | 916 | |
Shady Glen, CA | 95713 | 530 |
Sheridan, CA | 95681 | 530 |
Sunset Whitney Ranch, CA | 95677 | 916 |
Tahoe City, CA | 96145 | 530 |
96146 | 530 | |
Tahoe Pines, CA | 96141 | 530 |
Tahoe Vista, CA | 96148 | 530 |
Todd Valley, CA | 95631 | 530 |
Weimar, CA | 95736 | 530 |
Yankee Jims, CA | 95713 | 530 |
Major Cities and Towns in Placer County, California
Roseville
Area, Population, and Geography
- Area: 44.1 square miles
- Population: Approximately 150,000 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 95661, 95678, 95747
- Latitude: 38.7521° N
- Longitude: 121.2880° W
City Location and History
Roseville is the largest city in Placer County, located in the southwestern part of the county, about 20 miles northeast of Sacramento. The city was originally known as “Junction” due to its role as a major railroad junction for the Central Pacific Railroad in the 19th century. Roseville was officially incorporated as a city in 1909 and grew rapidly as a result of its strategic location along major transportation routes. The city’s economy was historically centered around the railroad industry, but it has since diversified to include retail, healthcare, and technology sectors. Roseville is known for its excellent quality of life, with a mix of suburban amenities, parks, and cultural attractions.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Roseville is served by the Roseville City School District and the Roseville Joint Union High School District, with schools like Roseville High School and Woodcreek High School being prominent educational institutions. The city’s major landmarks include the Westfield Galleria at Roseville, one of the largest shopping malls in Northern California, and the Fountains at Roseville, an outdoor shopping, dining, and entertainment complex. The Maidu Museum & Historic Site offers insights into the local Native American history, with preserved cultural artifacts and interpretive exhibits. Roseville’s historic downtown area, centered around Vernon Street, features a mix of shops, restaurants, and community events. The city’s combination of historical significance, modern amenities, and family-friendly environment makes Roseville a key city in Placer County.
Rocklin
Area, Population, and Geography
- Area: 19.6 square miles
- Population: Approximately 70,000 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 95677, 95765
- Latitude: 38.7907° N
- Longitude: 121.2358° W
City Location and History
Rocklin is located in southwestern Placer County, just north of Roseville and about 22 miles northeast of Sacramento. The area was originally inhabited by the Maidu people before being settled by European Americans during the California Gold Rush. Rocklin developed as a quarry town in the mid-19th century, with its granite quarries supplying stone for numerous building projects across California, including the California State Capitol. The arrival of the railroad in the 1860s further spurred growth, transforming Rocklin into a key transportation and commercial hub. The city was officially incorporated in 1893. Today, Rocklin is a growing suburban community known for its family-friendly neighborhoods, parks, and schools.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Rocklin is served by the Rocklin Unified School District, with schools like Rocklin High School and Whitney High School being among the most notable. The city’s major landmarks include Quarry Park, a unique park that celebrates Rocklin’s quarrying history with a central amphitheater carved into a former granite quarry. The Rocklin History Museum, housed in a historic building, offers exhibits on the city’s past, including its role in the granite industry. Sierra College, a well-regarded community college, is also located in Rocklin and serves as a center for higher education in the region. Rocklin’s combination of historical roots, educational opportunities, and suburban amenities make it a key city in Placer County.
Auburn
Area, Population, and Geography
- Area: 7.2 square miles
- Population: Approximately 14,000 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 95602-95604
- Latitude: 38.8966° N
- Longitude: 121.0769° W
City Location and History
Auburn, the county seat of Placer County, is located in the western foothills of the Sierra Nevada, about 35 miles northeast of Sacramento. The city was founded in 1848 during the California Gold Rush and quickly became a major center for gold mining. Auburn was originally named “North Fork Dry Diggings” before being renamed after Auburn, New York. The town grew rapidly as prospectors flocked to the area, and it became a key supply center for miners. Auburn’s historic downtown features well-preserved 19th-century buildings that reflect its Gold Rush heritage. The city was officially incorporated in 1888 and remains an important cultural and historical hub in Placer County.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Auburn is served by the Placer Union High School District, with Placer High School being the main secondary institution in the city. The city’s major landmarks include the historic Placer County Courthouse, a striking example of 19th-century architecture that now houses the Placer County Museum, showcasing local history and artifacts. Old Town Auburn is a well-preserved district with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings that offer a glimpse into the city’s Gold Rush past. The Auburn State Recreation Area, located along the American River, provides opportunities for hiking, boating, and exploring the rugged landscapes that once drew gold miners to the area. Auburn’s rich history, outdoor activities, and small-town charm make it a key city in Placer County.
Lincoln
Area, Population, and Geography
- Area: 20.1 square miles
- Population: Approximately 49,000 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 95648
- Latitude: 38.8916° N
- Longitude: 121.2930° W
City Location and History
Lincoln is located in the western part of Placer County, about 30 miles northeast of Sacramento. The city was founded in the mid-19th century as a railroad town by Charles Lincoln Wilson, after whom it was named. Lincoln initially developed as an agricultural community, with farming and ranching playing central roles in its economy. The discovery of clay deposits in the area led to the establishment of the Gladding, McBean & Co. pottery company in 1875, which became one of the city’s major employers and remains a significant presence in Lincoln today. The city experienced rapid growth in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, particularly with the development of new residential communities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Lincoln is served by the Western Placer Unified School District, with Lincoln High School being the primary secondary school. The city’s major landmarks include the historic Gladding, McBean & Co. factory, which is still in operation and known for its architectural terra cotta and clay products. The factory offers annual tours as part of the Feats of Clay festival, showcasing its historic kilns and production processes. The Lincoln Brand Feats of Clay Art Show is a major cultural event that celebrates the city’s artistic and industrial heritage. The nearby Lincoln Hills Golf Club and the Turkey Creek Golf Club offer recreational opportunities for residents and visitors. Lincoln’s blend of historical industry, suburban growth, and community events make it a significant city in Placer County.
Loomis
Area, Population, and Geography
- Area: 7.3 square miles
- Population: Approximately 7,000 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 95650
- Latitude: 38.8210° N
- Longitude: 121.1933° W
City Location and History
Loomis is a small town located in southwestern Placer County, just east of Rocklin and about 25 miles northeast of Sacramento. The town was originally known as Pine Grove in the 1850s, but it was renamed Loomis in 1890 after James Loomis, a local landowner and postmaster. Loomis developed as an agricultural community, with orchards and vineyards being prominent features of the local economy. The town has retained much of its rural character and small-town charm, even as the surrounding region has experienced significant suburban growth. Loomis was officially incorporated in 1984 and continues to be known for its strong sense of community and historic preservation efforts.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Loomis is served by the Loomis Union School District and the Placer Union High School District, with Del Oro High School being the main secondary institution in the town. The town’s major landmarks include the High Hand Nursery, a historic nursery and garden center that also features a café, art gallery, and event space. The Blue Goose Event Center, housed in a restored fruit packing shed, serves as a venue for community events, farmers’ markets, and cultural activities. Loomis also hosts the annual Eggplant Festival, celebrating the town’s agricultural heritage with food, music, and family-friendly activities. The nearby Loomis Basin Regional Park offers outdoor recreation opportunities, including hiking, picnicking, and sports. Loomis’ commitment to preserving its rural character and community spirit makes it a unique and treasured part of Placer County.