Sacramento wasn't always the capital of California. Shocking, isn't it? Benicia was the state's capital from 1853 all the way to.... 1854.
The city has a number of historical sites, including the Camel Bar, The Clock Tower, and the Jefferson Street Mansion, all of which are worthy of exploring. The main shopping area is First Street and is truly like a snapshot of an old town, featuring antique stores, small boutique shops, and a few cafes. There's something about the old time charm here, so much so that the city was selected to be a part of the California Main Street Program. With Interstate 680 running through it and Cordelia Junction nearby, it is easy to get around the entire San Francisco Bay area from this area. Benecia, which is on the bank of the Carquinez Strait is worthy of exploration if you are looking for an apartment for rent in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Moving to Benecia
What are your chances?
With a vacancy rate of 7.51%, Benecia may be the city for you. With 71% of homes being owner occupied and 30% renter occupied, your chances aren't too shabby when it comes to finding a home here. Benecia offers more single-family homes than it does apartments, hi-rises, and mobile homes.
How to prepare
As any good, obedient, ideal renter should do, have all your paperwork ready when you are viewing any places. You don't want to give off the wrong impression to your landlord. Don't forget to bring a form of ID, proof of employment, a credit report (or payment for one as the landlord is likely to charge you for it), letters of references from old landlords, and as much cash as you can carry because that'll show the landlord that you're ready to invest right then and there. If you're bringing along Fluffy, don't forget his paperwork too!
Neighborhoods in Benicia
The city is divided into four areas. The West Side, East Side, Southampton, and the Benicia State Recreational Area. For those looking for condos for rent, homes for rent, or other properties, consider the following neighborhoods in the city.
Panorama Drive: In the Southampton area, Panorama Drive is its own neighborhood. For shopping, individuals can head to the Southampton Shopping Center. Most of the homes here are single-family homes. A few apartments for rent are located in this area, too.
Bahia: Near the water, with I-680 running through it. The Grizzly Island Wildlife Area is located here, too. There are some sub-developments in the region, especially towards the southern region. Homes for rent here get you up close to the wildlife in the area, too.
Rose Drive/Cambridge Drive: With vacancy rates at 10.8%, you may want to take a peek at this neighborhood.
Living in Benicia
Benecia has a lot to offer for its residents throughout the year. The Benecia Old Town Theatre Group has two live performances throughout the year, so don't miss out and keep up to date with their schedule. If you're looking for nightlife, Benecia has an array of wine bars, taverns, and music all around town. If you look hard enough, there will be something for you to do. And those with great patriotism will love the Fourth of July festivities: the Torchlight Parade, and the Picnic in the Park and fireworks.