Are you considering moving to Stockton or one of the cities near Stockton? Stockton is located in San Joaquin County in California’s Central Valley and sits along the San Joaquin River. With a population of 320,804, it’s the most populous city in the county.
The Stockton Metro Area has a population of 436,000. The National Civic League named Stockton an All-America City an impressive five times: in 1999, 2004, 2015, 2017, and 2018. The award recognizes communities that use inclusive civic engagement to address critical issues and create stronger connections among residents, businesses, nonprofits, and government leaders. The Port of Stockton is the largest inland seaport in California.
Stockton is a vibrant city with a rich history, known for its cultural, economic, and recreational diversity. The city’s diverse population encompasses a wide range of ethnicities and cultures. 45.5% of the population identifies as Hispanic/Latino, 20.9% as Asian, 18.8% as two or more races, and 11.6% as Black or African American.
The richness of Stockton’s culture can be seen through events such as the Diwali Festival, the Chinese New Year’s Parade and Festival, the Cinco de Mayo Parade and Festival, the Jewish Food Fair, the Peruvian Independence Day Festival, Filipino Barrio Fiesta, Greek Festival, Hmong New Year, and much more. Popular restaurants like Johnny Wokker and Nena’s Mexican Cuisine also show off Stockton’s diversity.
The Haggin Museum showcases Stockton’s cultural history as well, with an extensive collection of art and artifacts. The Cambodian Buddhist Temple and its stunning architecture represent Stockton’s Cambodian community.
Coined the “Inland Port”, Stockton’s location in the fertile Central Valley makes it a hub for agricultural production, processing, and distribution of a variety of crops, including asparagus, tomatoes, cherries, almonds, and wine grapes.
Stockton is home to distinguished educational institutions, such as the University of the Pacific, known for its high-ranking schools of business, law, and dentistry. San Joaquin Delta College is one of the best community colleges in California, providing students with an affordable education and vocational training. Stockton also has excellent public and private schools.
Cities near Stockton CA offer a wide range of outdoor recreational opportunities. There are beautiful waterways that are perfect for boating, fishing, and kayaking. The 3,000-acre Oak Grove Regional Park is great for picnicking, hiking, and bird-watching. Stockton is also home to several well-maintained golf courses, including the prestigious Reserve at Spanos Park.
Sports fans in the Cities near Stockton CA enjoy the Stockton Ports minor league baseball team and the Stockton Kings basketball team. Adventist Health Arena plays host to a wide variety of sporting events and concerts throughout the year.
The historic Bob Hope Theatre is home to Broadway shows, live music, dance, and performing arts. Stockton Symphony, founded in 1926, is the third-oldest professional orchestra in California after the San Francisco Symphony and the Los Angeles Philharmonic.
Stockton Metropolitan Airport is located just 15 minutes from downtown.
Stockton has been the setting for many movies and television shows. A few of the most popular films shot on location in Stockton include All the King’s Men, Cool Hand Luke, Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, Porgy and Bess, and Raiders of the Lost Ark. TV shows shot in Stockton include the 1960s Western series The Big Valley and the FX show Sons of Anarchy.
Notable people from cities near Stockton CA include jazz musician Dave Brubeck, astronaut Jose Hernandez, singer/songwriter Chris Isaak, actress Janet Leigh, and Hall of Fame college football coach Amos Alonzo Stagg. If you’re wondering what cities are near Stockton CA, keep reading!
Largest Cities Near Stockton, CA
There are five large cities near Stockton within 30 miles that have a population of 60,000 people or more. Each of these towns near Stockton California offers outdoor activities, recreation, and interesting things to see and do. Here are the largest cities near Stockton, CA, listed from largest to smallest.
Modesto, CA – 27 miles from Stockton
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- Population – 218,771
- County – Stanislaus
Out of the towns near Stockton California, Modesto is surrounded by some of California’s richest farmland. Modesto is known for its colorful street murals and the impressive Gallo Center for the Arts, where you can enjoy Broadway shows, world-class ballet, orchestral music, and concerts. The Art Deco State Theatre was built in 1934 and features a neon marquee. The McHenry Mansion is a beautifully preserved 1883 Victorian, and the historic Modesto library building was erected in 1912.
Famous Star Wars director and producer George Lucas grew up in Modesto and filmed his classic American Graffiti there in 1973. The annual Graffiti Summer in June celebrates cars and cruising, showcased in the movie. Modesto is also known for its fresh produce, including nectarines, peaches, and melons. Modesto is also a major producer of almonds.
Tracy, CA – 17 miles from Stockton
- Population – 95,387
- County – San Joaquin
Tracy sprang up as a railroad stop in the mid-1800s and was incorporated in 1911, making it one of the oldest towns near Stockton California. Tracy hosted the infamous Altamont Free Concert in 1969 at Altamont Raceway Park, featuring the Rolling Stones, Santana, Jefferson Airplane, and Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, which was marred by violence.
Tracy has a historic downtown that includes the fully restored 1923 Vaudeville Grand Theatre, restaurants, shops, and entertainment. With many recreational opportunities and festivals, live theater, art shows, and music concerts, Tracy has a lot to offer. It’s also one of the safe cities near Stockton, CA that people recommend.
Manteca, CA – 12 miles from Stockton
- Population – 85,792
- County – San Joaquin
Manteca earned its nickname, “The Family City,” because it’s a great place for families to live. The city was founded in 1861 and incorporated in 1918. Manteca is well known for its agriculture and is billed as the “Pumpkin Capital of the World.” The Manteca Crossroads Street Faire, featuring live music, games, food, and many other activities, is considered one of the largest community gathering events in the region, attracting more than 30,000 people each year.
Lodi, CA – 12 miles from Stockton
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- Population – 67,021
- County – San Joaquin
There are many cities near Stockton California, but none quite like Lodi. Incorporated in 1906, Lodi is well known for its excellent wines and vineyards. The nickname “Tokay Capital of the World” comes from the tokay type of white wine. Lodi was the birthplace of A&W Root Beer and A&W Restaurants back in 1919, and it was once known as the watermelon capital of the country.
The Hill House Museum, a restored Queen Anne Victorian built around 1901, features historic exhibits about the city. The Lodi Changing Faces Theater Company is well known in the area, staging shows such as West Side Story and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. Of the nice cities near Stockton CA, Lodi is a very popular one.
Brentwood, CA – 22 miles from Stockton
- Population – 64,870
- County – Contra Costa
Brentwood has a long history of farming and agriculture and offers many outdoor recreational opportunities. Brentwood has close to 100 award-winning parks and facilities, 20 miles of trails, and 60 miles of bike lanes. Historical landmarks in Brentwood include the John Marsh House, which dates back to the mid-1800s, and Crockett House, built in the late 1800s and now serves as a local history museum.
Brentwood has a thriving arts scene that includes the Brentwood Art Society Gallery, the East County Performing Arts Center, and the Brentwood Community Theatre.
Other Cities near Stockton, CA
There are three cities near Stockton CA within a 25 a mile radius of Stockton with a population of over 15,000. Here are some more of the towns near Stockton California to check out:
Lathrop, CA – 12 miles from Stockton
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- Population – 30,659
- County – San Joaquin
Lathrop is one of the fastest-growing cities near Stockton CA yet still has a small-town feel. Lathrop consists of master-planned communities and highly rated public and charter schools. This tight-knit community is great for families looking for quiet, safe neighborhoods and good public parks for kids to play in. For nature lovers, Lathrop offers breathtaking landscapes and scenic beauty. Dos Reis Regional Park has vast green spaces, fishing ponds, and RV camping facilities.
San Joaquin River National Wildlife Refuge, home to diverse bird species and picturesque wetlands, is a great place to explore and get close to nature. The Old River Golf Course will challenge even the best golfers on a beautifully designed course. If you’re looking for nice cities near Stockton CA, this is one of the best!
Galt, CA – 21 miles from Stockton
- Population – 25,495
- County – Sacramento
Galt was incorporated in 1946 and is a thriving community with small-town charm. The city has many festivals and events throughout the year, including the Winter Bird Festival. The Galt Market every Tuesday and Wednesday offers fresh fruits and vegetables, clothing, home furnishings, local crafts, and more. Sports and recreation opportunities include t-ball, baseball, football, soccer, swimming, karate, exercise classes, and much more for all ages. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Cosumnes River Preserve offers a range of activities, from hiking to bird watching. The Rae House Museum provides a glimpse into Galt’s past.
Ripon, CA – 23 miles from Stockton
- Population – 16,440
- County – San Joaquin
Ripon is one of the most tranquil cities near Stockton CA, incorporated in 1945, with a low crime rate and plenty of small-town charm. The city is well known for its thriving agriculture and is a major producer of almonds. So much so that it’s been nicknamed “Almond Capital of the World.” With beautiful parks, good schools, lots of community events, and many outdoor recreational opportunities, Ripon has something for everyone.
Ripon is a great place for families with its close-knit community atmosphere. Ripon has many recreational activities and outdoor spaces, from Mavis Stouffer Park to the Spring Creek Golf and Country Club, with opportunities to hike, cycle, and enjoy the outdoors. The Clarence Smit Museum offers insight into Ripon’s rich agricultural history, with engaging interactive exhibits and fascinating stories for all ages.
Map of Cities Near Stockton and Surrounding Area
Small Cities & Towns Near Stockton, CA
There are six census-designated Places (CDPs) with populations of 2,500 or fewer people within about a 20-mile radius of Stockton. Here are some Stockton CA nearby cities:
Small Cities Near Stockton (1,000 or fewer population)
| County | Population (2020) | Distance from Stockton | |
| Collierville | San Joaquin | 2,354 | 19 miles |
| Linden | San Joaquin | 2,043 | 15 miles |
| Thornton | San Joaquin | 903 | 21 miles |
| Waterloo | San Joaquin | 902 | 9 miles |
| Terminous | San Joaquin | 400 | 18 miles |
| Victor | San Joaquin | 395 | 16 miles |
Major Cities Near Stockton, CA
Stockton is centrally located in the Central Valley of California, making it a great location for day trips to the bordering counties of Stanislaus, Merced, Madera, Fresno, Kings, Tulare, Kern, Calaveras, Tuolumne, Mono, Mariposa, and Inyo. Stockton is also within an hour’s drive of Sacramento, Fremont, San Jose, Oakland, and San Francisco for a weekend getaway. Here are some of the largest cities near Stockton:
Major Cities Near Stockton, CA
| City | Population | Distance from Stockton |
| Sacramento, CA | 525,041 | 44 miles |
| Fremont, CA | 227,514 | 47 miles |
| San Jose, CA | 983,489 | 76 miles |
| Oakland, CA | 433,823 | 54 miles |
| San Francisco, CA | 815,201 | 84 miles |
| Fresno, CA | 494,665 | 127 miles |
| Los Angeles, CA | 3,822,238 | 340 miles |
| San Diego, CA | 1,307,402 | 458 miles |
| Las Vegas, NV | 583,756 | 519 miles |
| Portland, OR | 583,776 | 627 miles |
| Phoenix, AZ | 1,445,632 | 709 miles |
Stockton, CA Area Cities FAQs
What Is the Closest City to Stockton, CA?
The closest city to Stockton, CA is Lathrop, CA, 12 miles away.
What Major Cities Are Near Stockton, CA?
Sacramento (44), Fremont (47), San Jose (76), Oakland (54), and San Francisco (84) are the nearest major cities to Stockton.
What Cities (or Towns) Are About 1 Hour From Stockton, CA?
Davis, CA, San Ramon, CA, Castro Valley, CA, Danville, CA, Jackson, CA, Pittsburg, CA, Rancho Cordova, CA, Newman, CA, San Ramon, CA, and Livingston, CA.
What Cities (or Towns) Are 25-30 Minutes From Stockton, CA?
Twin Cities, CA, Tracy, CA, Ripon, CA, Lockeford, CA, Galt, CA, Atlanta, CA, Manteca, CA, and Terminous, CA.
If you’re looking at the cities near Stockton because you’re planning to relocate here, you’re bound to find one that fits you and your family! There is so much each city offers, and which city is right for you depends on your needs and desires. When the time comes to move to one of these towns near Stockton California, give us a call at 831-786-5537 for a free quote from the best Stockton movers at Southbay Moving Systems!
