Founded in 1860 by John Bidwell, who had made a fortune in the California Gold Rush, Chico took a significant turn when a state teachers college was established there. Evolving into California State University at Chico (Chico State), the university makes Chico young and lively. Chico is a unique place well worth considering for an active retirement.
Landscape: Chico is located toward the eastern edge of the Sacramento Valley in northern California. The oak-studded foothills of the Sierra Nevada and Cascade Range provide a scenic backdrop to the city. Chico’s riparian site along Chico Creek allows growth of luxuriant natural vegetation.
Climate: Chico has four distinct seasons. Summer days are hot, sunny and extremely dry. Winters are mild and moderately rainy. Spring and autumn are delightful. Chico is sunny 90% of the time in summer, 70% in spring and autumn, and 50% in winter.
Quality of Life: Excellent. The lovely, tree-shaded grounds and collegiate architecture of the university campus enhance the downtown. Bidwell Park is an enormous asset to the entire community.
Housing: Housing is priced a little above the national average. A good supply of single-family residences and condominiums is usually available.
Goods and Services: Groceries, health care and utilities are all priced about 10% above their national norms. Other goods and services are priced at or slightly above norms.
Taxes: State and local taxes in Chico are 9.4% of income compared to the U.S. average of 9.7%. Sales and excise taxes are a little above average whereas state income taxes and property taxes are slightly below average.
Transportation: Most residents drive or bicycle. Chico Area Transit System and Chico Clipper Service provide alternative local travel. Intercity travel is possible by air, bus and rail.
Retail Services: Chico Mall and other large retailers meet shopping needs. Chico’s charming downtown has a traditional hardware store and quaint galleries, cafes and specialty shops. Farmers’ markets boast an excellent selection of local produce.
Health Care: For its size, Chico offers good medical care. Two general hospitals serve Chico proper; two others are located in other Butte County communities.
Community Services: Good public services are available through the Passages Adult Resource Center and the CARD Recreation Center.
Cultural and Educational Activities: Classes of particular interest to seniors are provided by Chico State and Butte Community College. Numerous cultural events are held at Chico State’s Performing Arts Center and at several other venues in town. The visual arts are showcased at a number of art centers.
Recreational Activities: Chico offers abundant, year-round outdoor recreation. Bidwell Park, occupying more than five square miles and extending into the Sierra Nevada foothills, has three major sections each with their own character. Within 100 miles are several scenic wonders and recreation sites.
Work and Volunteer Activities: Some jobs exist in the service sector. Volunteer opportunities are plentiful.
Crime Rates and Public Safety: Although the property crime rate is slightly above the national norm, violent crime is well below average.
Conclusion: Chico’s greatest strengths are its mild, sunny climate, beautiful landscapes and excellent quality of life. The Chico State campus, Bidwell Park and the nearby Sierra Nevada and Cascade Range all offer a unique, tree-shaded ambiance. Few California active retirement places offer so much at such modest cost.
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