Cities and Towns in Solano County, California
Founded in 1850, Solano County is one of 58 counties in the state of California. The city of Fairfield is the county seat. With FIPS code of 95, Solano County has a population of 451,716 and area of 828 square miles (2,145 km²).
List of all cities in Solano County, CA alphabetically
City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
Allendale, CA | 95688 | 707 |
American Canyon, CA | 94589 | 707 |
Benicia, CA | 94510 | 707 |
Birds Landing, CA | 94512 | 707 |
Dixon, CA | 95620 | 707 |
Elmira, CA | 95625 | 707 |
Fairfield, CA | 94533 | 707 |
94534 | 707 | |
94535 | 707 | |
Liberty Farms, CA | 95620 | 707 |
Mare Island, CA | 94592 | 707 |
Nut Tree, CA | 95696 | 707 |
Rio Vista, CA | 94571 | 707 |
Suisun City, CA | 94512 | 707 |
94534 | 707 | |
94585 | 707 | |
Travis AFB, CA | 94535 | 707 |
Vacaville, CA | 95687 | 707 |
95688 | 707 | |
95696 | 707 | |
Vallejo, CA | 94589 | 707 |
94590 | 707 | |
94591 | 707 | |
94592 | 707 |
Major Cities and Towns in Solano County, California
Vallejo
Area, Population, and Geography
- Area: 49.5 square miles
- Population: Approximately 125,000 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 94589-94592
- Latitude: 38.1041° N
- Longitude: 122.2566° W
City Location and History
Vallejo, located in the southwestern part of Solano County, sits on the northeastern shore of San Pablo Bay, about 30 miles north of San Francisco. The city was founded in 1851 by Mariano Guadalupe Vallejo, a Mexican military officer who played a key role in California’s transition from Mexican to American governance. Vallejo served as the state capital briefly in 1852 and 1853. The city’s strategic location on the bay led to its development as a major naval hub, with the establishment of the Mare Island Naval Shipyard, the first U.S. Navy base on the West Coast, in 1854. The shipyard was a significant economic driver for Vallejo until its closure in 1996. Today, Vallejo is known for its diverse community, rich history, and cultural attractions, including Six Flags Discovery Kingdom, a major theme park.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Vallejo is served by the Vallejo City Unified School District, with Vallejo High School and Jesse Bethel High School as the primary secondary schools. The city is home to landmarks such as the Mare Island Historic Park, which preserves the legacy of the former naval shipyard, and the Empress Theatre, a historic venue that hosts a variety of cultural performances. The Vallejo Naval and Historical Museum offers insights into the city’s maritime history. Vallejo’s waterfront, with its marina and ferry terminal, connects the city to San Francisco, and the nearby Blue Rock Springs Park provides outdoor recreational opportunities. The city’s rich history, coupled with its modern amenities, make Vallejo a dynamic and diverse place to live.
Fairfield
Area, Population, and Geography
- Area: 37.6 square miles
- Population: Approximately 120,000 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 94533, 94534, 94535
- Latitude: 38.2494° N
- Longitude: 122.0390° W
City Location and History
Fairfield, the county seat of Solano County, is located in the central part of the county, about halfway between San Francisco and Sacramento. The city was founded in 1856 by Robert Waterman, a clipper ship captain and early settler, who named it after his hometown of Fairfield, Connecticut. Fairfield’s strategic location along the major transportation routes of Interstate 80 and the California Northern Railroad spurred its growth as a commercial and military hub. The presence of Travis Air Force Base, established during World War II, significantly boosted the local economy and continues to play a vital role in the community. Over the years, Fairfield has developed into a diverse city with a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial areas, while also serving as a gateway to the nearby wine regions of Napa Valley and Suisun Valley.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Fairfield is served by the Fairfield-Suisun Unified School District, with schools like Fairfield High School and Armijo High School playing central roles in the community. Notable landmarks in Fairfield include the Jelly Belly Candy Company, where visitors can tour the factory and learn about the production of the famous jelly beans. The Anheuser-Busch Brewery, another key employer, offers tours and tastings. The city is also home to the Solano Town Center, a large regional shopping mall, and Rockville Hills Regional Park, which provides trails for hiking and biking. Fairfield’s proximity to both the Bay Area and Sacramento, combined with its rich history and modern amenities, make it a desirable place for both residents and businesses.
Vacaville
Area, Population, and Geography
- Area: 29.3 square miles
- Population: Approximately 103,000 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 95687, 95688, 95696
- Latitude: 38.3566° N
- Longitude: 121.9877° W
City Location and History
Vacaville is located in the northeastern part of Solano County, nestled between the Vaca and Blue Ridge Mountains. The city was established in 1851 by William McDaniel when he purchased land from Manuel Vaca, one of the area’s early Mexican land grantees. Originally an agricultural town, Vacaville gained fame for its orchards and produce, particularly its prunes and apricots. The completion of the railroad through Vacaville in the late 19th century further stimulated growth by providing easy access to markets. Over the years, Vacaville has transformed from a small farming community into a bustling suburban city, while still retaining its agricultural heritage. Its location along Interstate 80, between San Francisco and Sacramento, has made it a popular residential area with a growing economy.
Major Schools and Landmarks
The Vacaville Unified School District serves the city, with Vacaville High School and Will C. Wood High School being the primary secondary institutions. Landmarks in Vacaville include the historic Nut Tree, a roadside attraction that has been a local landmark since 1921 and has evolved into a modern shopping and dining destination. The Vacaville Museum offers exhibits on local history and culture. The city is also known for its large premium outlet shopping center, Vacaville Premium Outlets, which attracts visitors from across Northern California. Nearby Lagoon Valley Park provides outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and picnicking. Vacaville’s blend of suburban comfort, historical significance, and access to natural beauty makes it a vibrant and appealing city.
Suisun City
Area, Population, and Geography
- Area: 4.2 square miles
- Population: Approximately 30,000 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 94585
- Latitude: 38.2380° N
- Longitude: 122.0406° W
City Location and History
Suisun City is located in the central part of Solano County, adjacent to Fairfield, and is situated along the northern edge of Suisun Bay. The city was established in the 1850s as a port town, serving as a hub for shipping agricultural products from the surrounding region. Suisun City’s name derives from the Suisunes, a Native American tribe that originally inhabited the area. The completion of the California Pacific Railroad in 1868 further boosted the city’s development by connecting it to the transcontinental rail network. Despite experiencing periods of decline, Suisun City has undergone significant revitalization since the 1980s, particularly around its historic waterfront district. Today, the city is known for its scenic marina, charming downtown, and close-knit community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Suisun City is part of the Fairfield-Suisun Unified School District, with key schools including Suisun Elementary and Crystal Middle School. The city’s most prominent landmark is the Suisun City Waterfront District, which has been transformed into a vibrant area with shops, restaurants, and a marina. The Suisun Wildlife Center, located nearby, offers educational programs and rehabilitates injured wildlife. The annual Suisun City Waterfront Festival is a popular event that attracts visitors with live music, food, and boat tours. The Suisun Marsh, one of the largest contiguous estuarine marshes in the United States, provides opportunities for bird watching, fishing, and hiking. Suisun City’s rich history, coupled with its ongoing revitalization efforts, make it a dynamic and attractive place to live and visit.
Benicia
Area, Population, and Geography
- Area: 15.7 square miles
- Population: Approximately 28,000 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 94510
- Latitude: 38.0494° N
- Longitude: 122.1586° W
City Location and History
Benicia is located in the southern part of Solano County, along the northern edge of the Carquinez Strait, which connects Suisun Bay to San Pablo Bay. The city was founded in 1847 by Dr. Robert Semple and Thomas O. Larkin and named after General Mariano Vallejo’s wife, Francisca Benicia Carrillo de Vallejo. Benicia briefly served as the state capital of California from 1853 to 1854 before the capital was moved to Sacramento. The city’s deepwater port and shipbuilding facilities, particularly the Benicia Arsenal, played a significant role in its early economic development. The Benicia Arsenal, established in 1849, became a major military supply depot and remained active until its closure in 1964. Today, Benicia is known for its historic downtown, waterfront, and vibrant arts community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Benicia is served by the Benicia Unified School District, with Benicia High School as the main secondary institution. The city is home to several historical landmarks, including the Benicia Capitol State Historic Park, which preserves the building that served as California’s third state capitol. The Benicia Arsenal area has been repurposed into an arts district, housing studios, galleries, and workshops. The Benicia State Recreation Area offers scenic trails along the shoreline, while the city’s waterfront district features a marina, parks, and restaurants with views of the Carquinez Strait. The annual Benicia Peddler’s Fair, held in the historic downtown, attracts thousands of visitors each year. Benicia’s blend of rich history, cultural vibrancy, and scenic beauty make it a unique and desirable place to live and visit.