Welcome to Selma, California, a Fresno County city known for its agricultural heritage and diverse population. Its motto is âRaisin Capital of The Worldâ, and for good reason! Selma is responsible for 90% of the US raisin production.
Living in Selma is excellent for many reasons, but its fascinating history is one of them! Selma was incorporated on March 15th, 1893, but has since developed into a notable Fresno suburb. While initially settled by immigrants from Germany and Scandinavia, Selmaâs growth surged with the arrival of the San Joaquin Valley Railroad (SJVR). The city’s location at the crossroads of State Routes 99 and 43 contributed to its development as a transportation hub.
If moving to Selma is on your bucket list, researching this vibrant city should be your first step!
Where Is Selma?
Selma, California, is one of the many cities in Fresno County. Itâs located at the crossroads of State Routes 99 and 43, making it an ideal commuter suburb. Itâs only 17 miles from Selma to Fresno.
Some cities, towns, and CDPs near the city include Fowler, Kingsburg, Parlier, and Del Rey.
Selma Population & Demographics
Selma has a population of 24,674; 62% of people living in Selma are between the ages of 18 and 62. 5.7% have moved there in the past year. The city of Selma, CA, is the fifth-most popular Fresno County city and boasts the 19th-highest median income.
Additional Selma demographics:
- Sex ratio: 51 males to 49 females
- Educational attainment: 72.3% have high school diplomas, and 11.4% have bachelor’s degrees or higher
- Foreign-born population: 24.1%
- Veteran status: 3.3%
- Median household income: $53,874
- Income per capita: $21,714
Selma has a diverse racial and ethnic makeup: 58.8% White, 10% White (non-Hispanico or Latino), 84% Hispanic or Latino, 12.6% two or more races, 3.3% Asian, 1.1% American Indian or Alaska Native, 1% Black or African American, and 0.1% Native Hawianna or other Pacific Islander.
Notable people from Selma:
- Frank Dusy
- Abijah McCall
- William Deidrick
Is Selma, CA Safe?
According to the FBI, the Selma crime rate is as follows.
- Selma crime rate per 100k people: 2,590
- California crime rate per 100k people: 2,581
- US crime rate per 100k people: 2,346
- Selma violent crime rate per 100k people: 456
- California violent crime rate per 100k people: 442
- US violent crime rate per 100k people: 388
- Selma property crime rate per 100k people: 2,134
- California property crime rate per 100k people: 2,139
- US property crime rate per 100k people: 1,958
Although Selma has higher crime rates than the state and nation, there are still many safe areas to live in! The Selma Police Department works tirelessly to keep its citizens safe; 32 sworn officers work for the department.
Cost of Living in Selma
Despite its attraction location near Fresno, Selma is affordable! The Cost of Living Index (COLI) in Selma is 103.7, making it only 3.7% more expensive than the average US city. The Economic Policy Institute suggests a household income of $100,676 for a Fresno County family of four to live comfortably.
Hereâs what daily expenditures will cost you after moving to Selma.
Typical *Selma living expenses:
- Inexpensive restaurant meal: $18.00
- Gallon of milk: $3.90
- Loaf of white bread: $2.77
- Pound of white rice: $2.24
- Pound of local cheese: $5.08
- Average Selma utilities per month: $364 (per Doxo)
Source: Numbeo
*The above figures are for Fresno; Selma prices may be lower.
Real Estate Selma, CA
Selma, California, has a somewhat competitive real estate market; the Selma median home price is $335,000, and the average price per square foot is $249. You will find a diverse mix of residential properties, including single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments. The demand for homes remains steady, thanks to the city’s proximity to employment centers and amenities. Homes for sale in Selma, CA, sell quicklyâtypically within 24 daysâso we suggest acting fast!
Renting in Selma isnât as standard, but people do it. If you plan to rent here, the average Selma rent is $1,348 monthly for a 941-square-foot rental.
Selma Neighborhoods | Where to Live in Selma
While Selma has countless great areas to live in, some stand out more than others. Here are the best neighborhoods in Selma.Â
Downtown Selma – Ideal for Commuters
Downtown Selma doubles as a tourist attraction and optimal residential neighborhood. The homes on the outskirts of McCall Ave are established and boast prime positioning near countless bars, restaurants, and shops. Any homes for sale will likely be found north of the immediate downtown area and are typically priced below $400,000. This Selma neighborhood is right off State Route 99, making it ideal for commuters.
Floral Ave – Family-Friendly Area
All homes located off Floral & McCall Ave are in the optimal school district. Your child will be zoned for one of the best schools in the Selma Unified School District, Theodore Roosevelt Elementary. You will also be conveniently positioned near W. H. Shafer Park. Homes in this area are affordable; most are priced in the low $200,000âs!
Selma Weather & Climate
Similar to the climate in Fresno, Selma has a Koppen climate classification of Csa; the summers are hot, arid, and sunny, and the winters are cold and cloudy.
Temperatures here vary from 39 degrees Fahrenheit to 98 degrees Fahrenheit. The average high in the summer is 97 degrees, and the average low in the winter is 39 degrees. Selma, CA, weather is enjoyable most of the year, but the best time to visit is from late May to late September. The temperatures are warm, and the rainy season doesnât begin until October, making it the ideal time to enjoy outdoor activities.
Selma, California, has 272 sunny days a year and an average annual rainfall of 11.5 inches. It does not snow in Selma.
Things to Do in Selma
People living in Selma get their shopping done at Sierra Market and Selma Plaza, but store-hopping isnât the only fun thing to do in this city! Below are the top things to do in Selma, CA!
W. H. Shafer Park
H. Shafer Park offers a serene escape for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. Its mature greenery, shaded picnic areas, and various recreational facilities make this spot the perfect destination for a fun-filled day with family and friends.
Thompson Ave, Selma, CA 93662, (559) 891-2237
The Selma Arts Center
If youâre looking for things to do in Selma, step into the vibrant world found at the community art center. From captivating theatrical performances to inspiring art exhibitions, you will immerse yourself in any experience here. This activity is excellent for young adults or even a romantic date-night option.
1935 High St, Selma, CA 93662, (559) 891-2238
Selma 6 Cinemas
Selma 6 Cinemas offers an immersive movie-watching experience. Its six screens allow moviegoers to enjoy their favorite films with state-of-the-art sound and advanced visual technology. Whether you’re seeking action-packed adventures or heartwarming dramas, this is the Selma, CA, movie theater to be.Â
2705 Cinema Way, Selma, CA 93662, (559) 891-8600
Additional Attractions in & Near Selma
There are tons of things to do in Selma and nearby cities. Selma Parks and Recreation maintains the seven parks in Selma, CA, including Peter Ringo Park and Berry Park. You can explore the cityâs special events calendar for upcoming events and community gatherings.
Restaurants in Selma
There are so many tasty Selma restaurants to choose from. Although the city isnât known for a specific food, you will find an abundance of Mexican cuisine and American favorites.
Legends Tap House & Grill
Legends Tap House & Grill in Selma is a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike. It offers a welcoming atmosphere and delicious food. Reviewers rave about the friendly service, extensive beer selection, and mouthwatering menu options, including juicy burgers and flavorful appetizers. Legends Tap House & Grill is one of the best restaurants in Selma!
2910 Pea Soup Andersen Blvd, Selma, CA 93662, (559) 891-7000
La Estrella Mexican Restaurant
La Estrella Mexican Restaurant in Selma is a local favorite, offering delicious and authentic Mexican cuisine. Known for their mouthwatering dishes and friendly service, patrons rave about the flavorful tacos, hearty burritos, and refreshing margaritas. This is one of the tastiest restaurants in Selma, CA, by far!Â
2363 Whitson St, Selma, CA 93662, (559) 318-9396
Cattlemans
Cattlemens offers a delightful dining experience with its hefty steaks and Western-themed ambiance. Regulars love the hearty meals, attentive service, and unique atmosphere. This is undoubtedly one of the most unique Selma restaurants!
1880 Art Gonzales Pkwy, Selma, CA 93662, (559) 896-8450
Jobs in Selma, CA
The city of Selma has a prosperous economy fueled by its leading industries: agriculture, retail trade, and manufacturing. The city has seen a 2% job market increase since last year and is projected to see a 30.8% job market increase by 2034.
There are countless Selma jobs to consider, but checking out the area’s major employers is a great start; major employees in Fresno County are Air National Guard, Amazon Fulfillment Ctr, and California State Univ Fresno. Lion Dehydrators, a fruit dehydration company located in Selma, is one of the largest employers in the county! If youâre not in the AG or manufacturing industry, consider city of Selma jobsâthe pay and benefits are competitive, and the cityâs employees love the atmosphere.
After moving to Selma, youâll find the cost of living affordable and your pay competitive. People living in Selma earn an average hourly wage of $20.02 and an average salary of $65,000.
Selma Schools
Selma Unified School District, located in Selma, California, is dedicated to providing quality education to its diverse student body. It is committed to academic excellence and student success and offers a range of programs and resources to support the educational needs of all students and prepare them for future success.
There are 12 schools and 6,001 students, and the student-to-teacher ratio is 21:1. 96.7% are qualified, certified teachers, and 94.7% boast more than three years of teaching experience. SUSD has five full-time counselors and a 69% graduation rate. The district will spend around $14,000 annually on your child’s educational development and well-being.
Your child may attend one of the following Selma schools: Selma High School, Woodrow Wilson Elementary, and Abraham Lincoln Middle School. However, there are countless in the city limits.
The Selma Library offers optimal educational resources, and nearby colleges, such as California State University – Fresno and California Christian College, offer opportunities to advance your education.
Selma Statistics & Information
- Selma, CA county: Fresno County
- Selma, CA area: 5.77 square miles
- Selma zip code: 93662
- Selma area code: 559
- Selma elevation: 308 feet
- Selma time zone: Pacific Time Zone (UTC-8)
- Closest airport to Selma: Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) is 18 miles from Selma
Selma California Map
Explore the city with this map of Selma, CA!
Selma, California, stands as a testament to the resilience and prosperity of Central Valley communities. From its humble beginnings as a railroad town to its modern status as a bustling suburb, Selma continues to offer residents a high quality of life and numerous opportunities for growth and prosperity, making living in Selma great!
Before moving to Selma, youâll need reliable Selma movers to help you transition. Contact Southbay Moving Systems at (831) 786-5537 for a free estimate.
