La Riviera, CA
- About the City
- Geography
- Climate and Weather
- Landmarks and Attractions
- Transport
- Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
- Sport and Sports Legends
- Universities and Educational Institutions
- Healthcare Facilities and Services
La Riviera is a suburban community in Sacramento County, California, along the American River, offering access to nature and city amenities.
About the City
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
The full official name of the community is La Riviera. It is an unincorporated census-designated place (CDP) , meaning it is a defined statistical area but not an incorporated municipality. It is located in Sacramento County, which is part of the Greater Sacramento region in the state of California. Sacramento County is the central county of the Sacramento–Arden-Arcade–Roseville Metropolitan Statistical Area, a major economic and governmental hub for the state, often known for its role in California politics and its agricultural history .
Date Founded and Age
La Riviera is a primarily residential area that developed in the mid-20th century as Sacramento expanded eastward. While it does not have a formal founding date like older cities, its development as a suburban neighborhood began largely in the 1950s and 1960s. This makes the community approximately 60-70 years old as of the current date.
Geographic Location and Coordinates
La Riviera is located in Northern California at the precise geographic coordinates 38.5683° N, 121.3544° W . The community is situated on the south bank of the American River, a key natural feature in the region. It lies directly north of U.S. Route 50 (Highway 50) , a major freeway corridor connecting Sacramento to South Lake Tahoe. The elevation of the community is approximately 52 feet (16 meters) above sea level. Geographically, it is a suburban residential area situated on a relatively flat alluvial plain near the river .
City Type and Economic Specialization
La Riviera is primarily a residential community or a commuter suburb. Its primary function is to provide housing for people who work in the broader Sacramento metropolitan area, including the state capital, Sacramento, which is just to the west. Its economy is local in nature, centered around services for residents. The main commercial areas include the Glenbrook Shopping Center and businesses along Folsom Boulevard. A significant local employer is the California Franchise Tax Board, which has a large office complex near the Butterfield light rail station .
Population and Demographics
As of the 2010 census, the population of La Riviera was 10,802 . With a total area of just over 2 square miles, the population density is high for a suburban area, at over 5,000 people per square mile. Based on its population, La Riviera falls into the class of a small town or large unincorporated community. The demographic profile is diverse, reflecting the broader Sacramento region, with a notable population of Hispanic or Latino origin (16.3%) and a mix of other races .
City's "Business Card"
La Riviera is a quiet, leafy residential enclave nestled along the banks of the American River, offering its residents and visitors easy access to one of the region's most prized natural assets: the American River Parkway. It's a community where suburban convenience meets outdoor recreation, with a network of bike trails, parks, and river access points just steps from its neighborhoods .
Geography
Water Objects
The defining natural feature of La Riviera is its location along the south bank of the American River. This major waterway flows from the Sierra Nevada mountains to its confluence with the Sacramento River. In La Riviera, the river is a focal point for recreation. It is not generally used for swimming due to currents, but it is extremely popular for rafting, kayaking, and fishing. The river is the centerpiece of the American River Parkway, a 23-mile-long stretch of protected green space that runs alongside it, providing a continuous ribbon of natural habitat and recreational land .
Climate and Weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
La Riviera has a hot-summer Mediterranean climate (Köppen climate classification: Csa). This type of climate is characterized by hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters. It is a climate very typical of California's inland valleys, where most of the annual precipitation falls between late autumn and early spring.
Average Monthly Temperatures
The climate in La Riviera features significant seasonal temperature variation. Summers are hot and arid, while winters are short, cool, and wet .
- Hottest Month: July is the warmest, with an average high of 93°F (34°C) and an average low of 60°F (16°C) .
- Coldest Month: December is the coolest, with an average high of 55°F (13°C) and an average low of 39°F (4°C) .
| Month | Average High (°F/°C) | Average Low (°F/°C) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 55°F / 13°C | 39°F / 4°C |
| February | 61°F / 16°C | 42°F / 6°C |
| March | 66°F / 19°C | 45°F / 7°C |
| April | 73°F / 23°C | 48°F / 9°C |
| May | 81°F / 27°C | 52°F / 11°C |
| June | 89°F / 32°C | 57°F / 14°C |
| July | 93°F / 34°C | 60°F / 16°C |
| August | 92°F / 33°C | 59°F / 15°C |
| September | 88°F / 31°C | 57°F / 14°C |
| October | 78°F / 26°C | 51°F / 11°C |
| November | 64°F / 18°C | 44°F / 7°C |
| December | 55°F / 13°C | 39°F / 4°C |
*Source: *
Precipitation and Humidity
La Riviera receives the vast majority of its precipitation during the winter months.
- Annual Average Rainfall: Approximately 25 inches (636 mm) .
- Wettest Months: January and February are the wettest, with February averaging 4.2 inches of rain .
- Driest Months: July and August are almost completely dry, with near-zero average rainfall .
- Snowfall: Snow is extremely rare in La Riviera, with an average annual snowfall of just 0 inches (0 mm) .
Seasonal Weather and Best Time to Visit
- Spring (March-May): Spring is a beautiful time with mild and gradually warming temperatures. This is when the hillsides are greenest from the winter rains. Highs range from the mid-60s to low 80s°F.
- Summer (June-August): Summer is hot and dry with abundant sunshine. Highs are consistently in the 90s°F. This is the best time for river activities like rafting and biking on the parkway trails, but it's essential to stay hydrated and use sun protection.
- Fall (September-November): Fall is another ideal time to visit. The scorching heat subsides, with pleasant temperatures in the 70s and 80s°F in September and October. The first rains typically arrive in November.
- Winter (December-February): Winters are cool and wet. Days are mostly cloudy with periods of rain. Highs are in the 50s and low 60s°F, with nights dropping into the high 30s and low 40s°F. It's the off-season for outdoor tourism, but a good time for indoor activities.
The best time to visit La Riviera for warm-weather outdoor activities is from mid-June to late September .
Landmarks and Attractions
La Riviera's attractions are less about monumental architecture and more about outdoor recreation and community spaces, often shared with the neighboring city of Sacramento.
Architectural and Memorial Monuments
While La Riviera itself is residential, it is adjacent to several notable structures, including distinctive bridges that serve as landmarks for cyclists and pedestrians.
- Guy West Bridge: This pedestrian and bicycle suspension bridge spans the American River, connecting the La Riviera area to the main campus of California State University, Sacramento (CSUS) . It is a local icon and a vital link in the region's trail system .
- Harold Richey Memorial Bicycle Bridge: Dedicated in 1987, this bridge is another key crossing over the American River, popular with families and cyclists, especially on weekends. It's named after a county commissioner and serves as a gateway to the broader parkway .
- Historic Fair Oaks Bridge: A bit further upstream, this historic steel bridge is now closed to vehicles and reserved for bikes and pedestrians. It offers great views of the river and its steep cliffs .
Parks and Recreation
- American River Parkway: This is the undisputed crown jewel of the area. This 23-mile-long stretch of parkland along both sides of the American River offers a vast network of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. It provides numerous access points for fishing and launching non-motorized watercraft .
- Hagan Community Park: Located nearby, this nearly 80-acre park is the largest in the Cordova Recreation and Park District. It is adjacent to the American River Parkway and offers sports fields, picnic areas, and open space for community gatherings .
- Sutter's Landing Park: A short distance down the parkway, this park marks the historical spot where Captain John Sutter landed in 1837 before establishing Sutter's Fort, a foundational event in Sacramento's history .
Transport
Public Transportation
La Riviera is exceptionally well-connected by public transit, being located on the Gold Line of the Sacramento Regional Transit District's (SacRT) light rail system. There are four light rail stations within the community's boundaries: Watt/Manlove, Starfire, Tiber, and Butterfield . This provides residents and visitors with direct, car-free access to downtown Sacramento, California State University Sacramento, and other parts of the metropolitan area .
Main Highways
The southern border of La Riviera is defined by U.S. Route 50 (Highway 50) , a major east-west freeway. This highway provides direct access to downtown Sacramento to the west and the Sierra Nevada foothills, including the city of Folsom and South Lake Tahoe, to the east . Watt Avenue is a primary north-south arterial road that connects La Riviera to areas north of the American River.
Commuter Characteristics
As a quintessential bedroom community, the vast majority of La Riviera's workforce commutes to jobs elsewhere, primarily in Sacramento. The average one-way commute time for residents is 25.6 minutes, slightly less than the national average . The primary mode of transportation is driving alone, but thanks to the light rail, a significant percentage (5.9%) of residents use mass transit to get to work .
Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
While La Riviera itself is a charming suburban community, its culinary scene is vibrant and diverse, offering a variety of dining options that reflect the tastes of the Sacramento region. You'll find a mix of local favorites and family-owned establishments serving up everything from authentic Italian to creative gastropub fare .
[La Strada]
For those seeking an authentic Italian experience, La Strada is a must-visit. This family-owned restaurant has been a staple in La Riviera for years, serving up delicious pasta dishes, pizzas, and risottos. Their constantly evolving menu features classics like lasagna and margherita pizza that are always a hit with locals .
[The Flying Pig Kitchen and Bar]
If you're in the mood for elevated pub fare, The Flying Pig Kitchen and Bar is your best bet. Their menu boasts an array of mouth-watering dishes, including their signature pork belly tacos, juicy burgers, and creative salads. The cocktail menu is just as impressive, with craft beers and creative cocktails that will satisfy any palate .
[Sushi Hana]
For sushi lovers, Sushi Hana is a hidden gem in La Riviera. Their menu offers a diverse selection of sushi rolls, sashimi, and other Japanese delights. Known for fresh fish and very reasonable prices, it's a great spot for a casual meal. Don't forget to try their miso soup and edamame as an appetizer .
[Tacos El Rorro]
Taco fans will rejoice at Tacos El Rorro, a small, family-owned taqueria that serves up delicious street-style tacos, burritos, and other Mexican dishes. Their carne asada and carnitas tacos are fan favorites, and their homemade salsa bar is a nice touch that adds to the authentic experience .
[Bistro 411]
For a taste of France in La Riviera, Bistro 411 is the place to be. Their menu offers a variety of classic French dishes, including escargots, ratatouille, and duck confit. Their wine list is equally impressive, with a selection of French and California wines that pair perfectly with their dishes .
The Local Dining Experience
The dining scene in La Riviera is characterized by its community-focused, family-owned restaurants. Whether you're a local or a visitor, there's something for everyone in this charming California city .
Sport and Sports Legends
While La Riviera itself doesn't have major professional sports venues, it's located in the greater Sacramento area, which offers plenty of sporting attractions. However, it's important to note that the famous Riviera Country Club, often associated with the name "Riviera," is actually located in Los Angeles, not near La Riviera in Sacramento .
Nearby Sporting Options
Residents of La Riviera have access to the broader Sacramento sports scene, including:
- Sacramento Kings (NBA) basketball at the Golden 1 Center in downtown Sacramento
- Sacramento Republic FC (USL Championship) soccer at Heart Health Park
- Sacramento River Cats (Triple-A baseball) at Sutter Health Park in West Sacramento
A Note About the "Other" Riviera
There is a world-famous sporting venue called The Riviera Country Club, but it is located in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles, not near La Riviera in Sacramento . This historic club, celebrating its centennial, is one of the most iconic golf courses in America and has hosted numerous PGA Tour events, including The Genesis Invitational .
Golf legends like Ben Hogan, Sam Snead, and Byron Nelson have all won at Riviera, with Hogan's success earning the course the nickname "Hogan's Alley" . The course has also hosted three major championships: the U.S. Open (1948) and the PGA Championship (1983, 1995) . Looking ahead, this prestigious venue will host the 2026 U.S. Women's Open, the golf competitions for the 2028 Summer Olympics, and the 2031 U.S. Open . The course is famous for its unique design features, including the par-3 6th hole with a bunker in the middle of the green and the drivable par-4 10th hole .
Universities and Educational Institutions
La Riviera is ideally situated near some of the most prestigious colleges in California, offering residents excellent access to higher education. The community's location in Sacramento County places it within easy reach of several renowned institutions .
Major Universities Near La Riviera
California State University, Sacramento (Sacramento State)
Often referred to as Sacramento State or Sac State, this university is a beacon of higher education in the region and is located just a short drive from La Riviera . Known for its diverse and inclusive campus, vibrant student life, and a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs, Sac State prides itself on its commitment to hands-on learning experiences, community service, and sustainability initiatives. With state-of-the-art facilities and a faculty comprising leading scholars and professionals, it offers a comprehensive education that prepares students for successful careers .
University of California, Davis (UC Davis)
Though slightly farther afield, the University of California, Davis is an exceptional institution worth considering for those willing to commute from La Riviera . Renowned worldwide for its research and innovation, UC Davis offers comprehensive programs across various disciplines, including environmental sciences, veterinary medicine, and engineering. The campus's collaborative atmosphere, cutting-edge research facilities, and commitment to sustainability make it a leading choice for students seeking a rigorous academic challenge .
Community Colleges
American River College (ARC)
American River College is a community college renowned for its high transfer rates to four-year universities, making it an ideal starting point for students aiming for a bachelor's degree . Situated in a convenient location accessible from La Riviera, ARC provides a broad spectrum of academic programs, from arts and humanities to science and engineering. The college is committed to fostering a supportive learning environment, offering extensive counseling services, tutoring, and various student clubs .
Sacramento City College
Sacramento City College stands out for its rich history and commitment to academic excellence. Located within easy reach of La Riviera, this college offers a wide range of degree and certificate programs tailored to meet the needs of a diverse student body . With a strong emphasis on liberal arts, the college prepares students for both professional careers and transfer to four-year universities. The campus is known for its beautiful architecture, green spaces, and a supportive community .
Cosumnes River College (CRC)
Cosumnes River College offers a dynamic and supportive educational environment, with a wide range of academic and career-technical programs . Located conveniently for La Riviera residents, CRC is dedicated to promoting student success through high-quality instruction, innovative programs, and services such as career counseling and internships. The college's diverse community and vibrant campus life provide a rich collegiate experience .
Healthcare Facilities and Services
La Riviera offers its residents access to healthcare services that are generally on par with the national average. The area has a physician density of 206 physicians per 100,000 people, which is very close to the U.S. average of 210 .
Healthcare Access and Quality
The healthcare landscape in La Riviera is characterized by accessibility to medical professionals that matches both neighboring communities like Rancho Cordova and Carmichael . The health cost index in La Riviera is 97 (where 100 is the national average), indicating that healthcare costs are slightly below the national average .
Environmental Health Factors
The area does face some environmental challenges that can impact health:
- Air Quality: La Riviera has an air quality index of 28.5 (where 100 is best), which is below the national average of 58.4
- Water Quality: The water quality index is 40, compared to the national average of 55
- Superfund Sites: The area scores well on environmental cleanup, with an index of 95.2, better than the national average of 86.9
Nearby Medical Facilities
While specific hospitals aren't mentioned in the search results for La Riviera itself, residents have access to the broader Sacramento-area healthcare system, which includes several major medical centers:
- UC Davis Medical Center, a nationally ranked academic medical center
- Kaiser Permanente Sacramento Medical Center
- Mercy General Hospital
- Sutter Medical Center, Sacramento
A Note on Similarly Named Facilities
There is a facility called Riviera Healthcare Center located in Los Angeles County (11627 Telegraph Rd, Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670), but this is a skilled nursing facility in Southern California, not related to the La Riviera community in Sacramento County . This 154-bed facility participates in Medicare and Medicaid and has received surveys from health and fire safety inspectors .