Welcome to Kingsburg, a charming city in the heart of California’s fertile San Joaquin Valley. Often referred to as “Little Sweden,” Swedish natives settled the area, and strong Swedish heritage permeates the culture, architecture, and annual festivities like the much-celebrated Swedish Festival. This quaint city, incorporated in 1908, offers a glimpse into its unique past through its beautifully preserved buildings and the iconic Swedish Village, with lush landscapes and grape vineyards surrounding its limits.
But what’s in a name? Once a railroad town called “Kings River Switch” due to its proximity to the Kings River and the Southern Pacific Railroad switch built in the area was finally established as Kingsburgh, with the present spelling being “Kingsburg”.
Living in Kingsburg will bring you to a vibrant community filled with history, culture, and the promise of a peaceful lifestyle. With its picturesque streets, friendly faces, and cultural richness, the city of Kingsburg is indeed a wonderful place to call home.
Where Is Kingsburg CA?
You might know of Fresno, but where is Kingsburg, and what county is Kingsburg CA in? Kingsburg is a cozy city but more resonant of a town, situated in Fresno County within the heart of the San Joaquin Valley. As a part of the Fresno metropolitan area, Kingsburg enjoys a strategic location that offers both the tranquility of a small town and the convenience of nearby major cities; it’s the halfway point between Los Angeles to the south and Sacramento to the north. There’s also major recreation with the nearby Sierra Nevada Mountain Range and national parks like Yosemite within a reasonable drive.
Other smaller cities near Kingsburg CA include those living in Selma to the northwest, Dinuba to the southeast, and Wildflower to the west, contributing to a close-knit environment while also connected to larger cities near Fresno. Just outside its limits, Kingsburg is surrounded by the famed Kings River just minutes to the south and the fertile land characteristic of the Central Valley and the farmers who work its fields.
Directions to Kingsburg California are straightforward, as Kingsburg’s location is close to multiple highways. Common commutes include:
Getting around the Kingsburg CA zip code is easy, with plentiful public transportation available, including Rural Transit, Reedley College Transit, and Valley Rides.
Kingsburg CA Population & Demographics
What is the current Kingsburg population? The city of Kingsburg boasts a rising population of 12,380 residents as of the 2020 Census, a notable increase of approximately 8.76% from the 11,382 recorded in 2010 but a much smaller population compared to the 545,567 people living in Fresno city.
Despite its modest size, Kingsburg’s density of 3,330.6 people per square is a stark contrast to Fresno County’s 169.3, highlighting expanse of land surrounding the cities near Fresno. There’s 4,260 households with an average of 3 people, and indications of strong stability of residence, with an impressive 96.7% living in the same house as the previous year.
Kingsburg takes pride in the town’s Swedish history, as many Swedish natives still maintain roots here. The enduring presence of Swedish Americans has left an indelible mark on Kingsburg, from the Swedish architecture to the annual festivities, lending it the affectionate nickname “Little Sweden. It also boasts a strong Hispanic presence with nearly 46.8% of the Kingsburg population having Hispanic/Latino descent.
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Famous people from the small city include Slim Pickens, a famed actor, Larry Hillblom, co-founder of DHL Express, and Dick Blick, an Olympic swimmer.
Additional Kingsburg Demographics:
- Sex ratio: 53.3% women & 46.7% men
- Median age: 37.1 years
- Racial & ethnic composition: 68.5% White alone (43.5% White, non-Hispanic), 0.6% Black/African American, 0.3% American Indian/Alaska Native, 6.8% Asian, 46.8% Hispanic/Latino.
- The city of Kingsburg median household income: $74,897/year
- Education: 85.7% of Kingsburg residents 25+ years old have a high school diploma, while 21.7% have a bachelor’s degree or higher
- Foreign-born population: 8.3%
Is Kingsburg CA safe? According to the FBI, the Kingsburg crime rate stands at 1,543 crimes per 100,000 people. This rate is notably 40.2% lower than the state and 34.2% lower than the national average—establishing Kingsburg as a secure, safe, and family-friendly city. For those considering moving to Kingsburg CA, peace of mind comes with the knowledge that your family is protected by the diligent efforts of the Kingsburg Police Department.
Cost of Living Kingsburg CA
Although there isn’t a definitive cost of living index, estimates suggest that the cost of living in Kingsburg is similar to the nearby cost of living in Fresno and Bakersfield metro cost of living is around 4% higher than the national average. Kingsburg exudes a unique charm affordable to the state with its Swedish heritage and a sense of community that many find priceless.
The median household income in Kingsburg (in 2018-2022 dollars) stands at a robust $74,897, comfortably above Fresno’s $63,001. This economic vitality is mirrored in the housing market, where a remarkable 70.8% of residents are homeowners, reflecting the city’s stability.
When it comes to living expenses, the Economic Policy Institute’s Family Budget Calculator indicates that a family of four in Kingsburg would need an annual income of about $100,676 in 2024 to live comfortably in Fresno County, and overall, the Kingsburg CA cost of living is very manageable.
Typical Expenses Living in Kingsburg CA:
Let’s consider a range of costs from everyday items to the city of Kingsburg utilities that would be common in the region:
- Loaf of bread (1 pound): $2.77
- A gallon of milk: $3.90
- Meal at inexpensive restaurant: $18.00
- Monthly Kingsburg CA Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage) for 915 sq ft apartment: $379.41
- Mobile phone plan: $46.67
- Gasoline (1 gallon): $4.76
- Gym membership: $25.00
- Local transportation (1-way bus ticket): $1.38
- Internet: $79.50
- One pair of jeans (Levis 501 or similar): $52.50
Data sourced from Numbeo
The Kingsburg real estate market remains very competitive. Kingsburg CA homes for sale typically feature a median home price of $305K, which has seen a decrease of 39.4% since last year, and the price per square foot at $239, up slightly by 2.1%. Compared to Fresno’s median sale price of $396,975, Kingsburg offers a more affordable living experience while still enjoying all the amenities and lifestyle of the Central Valley.
Rentals in Kingsburg CA also present an attractive option, with apartments for rent in Kingsburg CA coming in at $1,913 per month, offering a competitive alternative to Fresno’s $1,556 and below the national average of $1,713.
The cost of living in Kingsburg, coupled with its small-town appeal and rich cultural backdrop, as well as the many beautiful houses for sale in Kingsburg CA, makes it a standout choice for affordability without compromising on quality of life.
Kingsburg Neighborhoods | Where to Live in Kingsburg CA
Whether you’re navigating the Kingsburg CA real estate market or hunting for Kingsburg apartments, the neighborhoods reflect a blend of small-town charm and community-centric living. And if this area doesn’t work out, there are plentiful other cities in Fresno County to explore!
Kingsburg Downtown/City Center
Downtown Kingston, or its City Center, is an area brimming with historical significance and community spirit. Here, residents are treated to a range of local shops, restaurants, and the famous annual Swedish Festival. The neighborhood’s architecture, with its Swedish influences, adds to the area’s unique character. Living in Kingsburg downtown places you in the heart of the town’s most vibrant cultural and social scenes.
Kingsburg North
North Kingsburg is a blossoming area known for its residential appeal and features many new homes for sale in Kingsburg. This neighborhood provides a more relaxed pace of life with its array of family homes, local parks, and community spaces.
Kingsburg Southwest
Kingsburg Southwest and West side offers a picturesque slice of sunny living with its expansive vistas and access to outdoor recreation. With its mix of newer developments, well-established homes on the west side, and Kingsburg rentals, this zone caters to a diverse range of tastes and lifestyles.
Whether you’re settling down for a peaceful retirement or looking to raise a family in a nurturing environment, living in Kingsburg and its various neighborhoods offers a welcoming place to call home.
Kingsburg Weather & Climate
Both inviting and conducive to outdoor activities throughout the year, the weather in Kingsburg CA is a big-time appeal. With a large surplus of 269 sunny days and just 11 inches of rain, the weather in Kingsburg allows residents to relish the picturesque California landscapes regularly.
Summers in the city bring warm temperatures, with July averages reaching into the 90s Fahrenheit. Winter, on the other hand, is gentle and mild, with January seeing average lows of 37. Although the weather in Kingsburg is pleasant year-round, many claim that May, October, and April are the best times to visit.
The weather in Kingsburg CA complements the serene lifestyle, with clear skies for stargazing, warm days for community gatherings, and cool evenings perfect for a stroll through its Swedish-inspired downtown.
Things to Do in Kingsburg CA
Known for its rich Swedish heritage and quaint charm, there are plentiful things to do in Kingsburg! When you’re done shopping at local favorites like the Sun Maid Market or browsing through unique finds at The Village Mall, check out the following Kingsburg events, festivals, and other happenings!
Visit Kingsburg Swedish Village
Explore the heart of Kingsburg’s Swedish culture and Swedish architecture at the Kingsburg Swedish Village. This charming spot is the focal point of the town’s proud Swedish heritage, featuring the annual Swedish Festival. Visitors can also enjoy the iconic Swedish Coffee Pot
1460 Marion St, Kingsburg, CA 93631
Ramos Torres Winery
Dive into the famed local wine culture at Ramos Winery Kingsburg, nestled in a region celebrated for its vineyards. This winery offers a sophisticated tasting experience with a selection of wines that showcase the richness of California’s viticulture.
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1665 Simpson St, Kingsburg, CA 93631 (559-419-9159)
Kingsburg Train Depot
The Kingsburg Train Depot is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and families alike. This historical site provides insights into the region’s development of the Kings River Switch and serves as a charming venue for local events.
1465 California St, Kingsburg, CA 93631 (559-634-0900)
Additional Attractions in Kingsburg:
For those looking to explore beyond the city of Kingsburg, nearby attractions include the Forestiere Underground Gardens and Fresno Zoo in Fresno, or you can visit the world’s largest box of raisins at the local Sun-Maid facility! Getting outside in the city is easy thanks to the countless parks in Kingsburg CA, including:
- Bicentennial Park
- Downtown Park
- Erling Park
- Memorial Park
- Athwal Park
- Kingsburg Dog Park
- Veterans Park
- Heritage Park
Proudly managed by the Kingsburg Parks and Recreation department. Between the recreation and other fun things to do in Kingsburg, you can see how staying busy while living in Kingsburg CA isn’t an issue!
Kingsburg Restaurants
The restaurants in Kingsburg California curate an inviting array of dining options that showcase both local and international flavors. Whether you’re in the mood for freshly baked goods, hearty American cuisine, or Italian-inspired dishes, the following Kingsburg CA won’t disappoint.
Bella Bakery Kingsburg
For those with a sweet tooth or in search of the perfect morning start in the city of Kingsburg, Bella Bakery in Kingsburg offers a delightful array of baked goods, from artisan breads to decadent pastries. This local favorite is renowned for its fresh ingredients and cozy atmosphere.
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1501 Draper St, Kingsburg, CA 93631 (559-419-9667)
Roadhouse Kingsburg
Roadhouse Kingsburg brings a taste of traditional American grill to the heart of California. Known for its robust flavors and friendly service, this restaurant is a popular spot for both locals and visitors looking for a fulfilling meal in a relaxed setting.
1515 Smith St, Kingsburg, CA 93631 (559-897-5433)
Fugazzis Kingsburg
Fugazzis Kingsburg CA provides a casual yet refined dining experience with a menu that features Italian-inspired dishes infused with California flair. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and innovative cuisine, Fugazzis is a must-visit for food lovers in Kingsburg.
1335 Draper St, Kingsburg, CA 93631 (559-419-9865)
Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a leisurely dinner, Kingsburg restaurants provide a range of options that promise a memorable dining experience and a full belly.
Jobs in Kingsburg CA
What was once a railroad town built on the Central Pacific railroad (until bought by Southern Pacific) and heavily occupied by farmers has developed into a strong economy. Kingsburg’s economy thrives on agriculture, manufacturing, and retail, supported by major employers like Sun-Maid, the largest company in the area, followed by Guardian Glass and the Kingsburg Elementary School District. Most retail businesses can be found downtown. This diverse industrial base offers a variety of jobs in Kingsburg CA, enhancing its regional economic stature in the country.
For job seekers, local opportunities can be explored through jobs in Kingsburg on Indeed and the City of Kingsburg Jobs board, making it an appealing destination for both professional growth and employment.
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Kingsburg, CA Schools
Students of Kingsburg schools are served by the Kingsburg Elementary Charter School District and the Kingsburg Joint Union High School District, renowned for their commitment to excellence in education.
Kingsburg elementary schools are highly regarded and include Kingsburg Reagan Elementary, Lincoln elementary Kingsburg CA, Washington Elementary Kingsburg, and Roosevelt Elementary. Beyond elementary, there’s Rafer Johnson Jr. High and Kingsburg High School, where the Kingsburg Vikings football team competes.
These schools offer a variety of programs, from advanced academics to athletics like the Kingsburg Seawolves swim team, while the Kingsburg Public Library supports further learning opportunities outside of the classroom.
Kingsburg Statistics & Information
- Kingsburg CA county: Fresno
- Kingsburg area: 3.71 square miles
- Kingsburg zip code: 93631
- Kingsburg area code: (559)
- Kingsburg elevation: 302’ above sea level
- Kingsburg time zone: Pacific Time Zone (UTC-7 and -8)
- Closest airport to Kingsburg: The Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) is the closest major airport.
Map Kingsburg CA
Moving to Kingsburg? Explore all this wondrous city has to offer with this interactive Kingsburg CA map!
Kingsburg, California, is a mosaic of Swedish heritage, community spirit, and abundant opportunity, making it a perfect destination to settle down. For those planning on moving to Kingsburg, Southbay Moving Systems provides exceptional service to ensure a smooth and stress-free transition to this delightful city.
Ready to start your new life in Kingsburg? Call us today at 831-786-5537 for a free quote!
