Quick answer: Bay Area buyers usually get more home for their money in Solano County. Fairfield (around $600,000) is the central hub on I-80, halfway between San Francisco and Sacramento. Suisun City is one of the most affordable options, Vacaville suits families and Sacramento commuters, Dixon offers small-town space near Davis, Benicia is the priciest and most walkable on the water, and Rio Vista offers a relaxed Delta lifestyle.
If you're priced out of the Bay Area but still want to be close to work, family and everything you love, Solano County is one of the best places to look. In 2026, median home prices in San Francisco, San Mateo and Santa Clara counties are all over $2 million, while Solano County's median is under $600,000. Each town has its own personality, so here's how they compare.
What Is It Like to Live in Fairfield?
Median price: around $600,000. Fairfield is the county seat and sits right on I-80, about halfway between San Francisco and Sacramento. It has the most shopping, dining and services in the county, two nearby Capitol Corridor train stations, and neighborhoods ranging from starter homes to newer builds in areas like Cordelia and Paradise Valley. Travis Air Force Base is right next door.
Best for: commuters who want options in both directions.
What Is It Like to Live in Suisun City?
Median price: around $450,000–$530,000. Right next to Fairfield, Suisun City has a historic downtown waterfront, the Suisun Marsh and the Suisun-Fairfield train station. It's often one of the most affordable places in the county to buy.
Best for: first-time buyers and anyone who wants more home for the money.
What Is It Like to Live in Vacaville?
Median price: around $630,000. Vacaville sits a bit farther east, about 40 minutes from Sacramento. It's known for its outlets, newer neighborhoods, parks and an easy suburban feel.
Best for: families and commuters headed toward Sacramento or Davis.
What Is It Like to Live in Dixon?
Dixon is quiet and agricultural with a tight-knit, small-town feel, close to Davis and UC Davis. You get more space and a slower pace, with easy I-80 access.
Best for: anyone wanting room to spread out and a small-town lifestyle.
What Is It Like to Live in Benicia?
Median price: over $790,000, the highest in the county. Benicia has a charming historic First Street, waterfront parks and an artsy community, and it's the closest Solano town to the inner Bay Area via I-680 and I-780.
Best for: buyers who want character and a shorter commute.
What Is It Like to Live in Rio Vista?
Median price: around $450,000–$530,000. Rio Vista sits on the Sacramento River, with boating, fishing and Trilogy, a popular 55+ community.
Best for: retirees, remote workers and anyone who loves the water.
Related Reading
- Fairfield vs. Vacaville: Where Should You Buy?
- How Much Does It Cost to Buy a Home in Solano County?
- First-Time Homebuyer Programs in Solano County
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Solano County a good place to live?
For many Bay Area transplants, yes. It offers more space, lower home prices and a central location between San Francisco, Napa and Sacramento.
What is the commute like from Solano County to San Francisco?
Fairfield is about 45 miles from San Francisco, often an hour or more at rush hour. The Capitol Corridor train and Benicia's location can help.
Which Solano County town is most affordable?
Suisun City and Rio Vista generally have the lowest home prices in the county.
Prices are approximate as of mid-2026. Reach out for current numbers in any town.
Thinking About Making the Move?
I live and work in Solano County and would love to help you find the town that fits your life. Call or text me at (707) 849-2956 or send me a message.
