Folsom, California
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| Folsom, California | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Name | Folsom, California |
| Settlement type | City |
| Pushpin label | Folsom |
| Coordinates | 38, 40, 20, N... |
| Subdivision type | Country |
| Subdivision name | United States |
| Subdivision type1 | State |
| Subdivision name1 | California |
| Subdivision type2 | County |
| Subdivision name2 | Sacramento |
| Established title | Founded |
| Established date | 1849 |
| Established title1 | Incorporated |
| Established date1 | April 20, 1946 |
| Government type | Council–manager government |
| Leader title | Mayor |
| Leader name | Rosario Rodriguez |
| Unit pref | Imperial |
| Area total sq mi | 34.11 |
| Area land sq mi | 32.05 |
| Area water sq mi | 2.06 |
| Elevation ft | 217 |
| Population total | 80854 |
| Population as of | 2020 |
| Population density sq mi | auto |
| Timezone | Pacific Time Zone |
| Utc offset | -8 |
| Timezone DST | PDT |
| Utc offset DST | -7 |
| Postal code type | ZIP Codes |
| Postal code | 95630, 95763 |
| Area code | 916, 279 |
| Blank name | FIPS code |
| Blank info | 06-24638 |
| Blank1 name | GNIS feature IDs |
| Blank1 info | 277502, 2410516 |
| Website | www.folsom.ca.us |
Folsom, California is a city in Sacramento County, situated within the Sacramento metropolitan area along the banks of the American River. Historically significant for the California Gold Rush and the construction of Folsom Dam, it has evolved from a Central Pacific Railroad terminus into a major technology and retail hub. The city is internationally recognized for Folsom State Prison and the associated Johnny Cash concert, and serves as a gateway to the recreational areas of the Sierra Nevada.
History
The area's history is deeply tied to the California Gold Rush, with the town originating in 1849 as a mining camp named "Granite City" near the American River. In 1855, it was renamed for Captain Joseph L. Folsom, who purchased the original land grant from the Rancho Rio de los Americanos. The arrival of the Central Pacific Railroad in 1865 established it as a critical transportation terminus, while the completion of the first Folsom Powerhouse in 1895 transmitted electricity to Sacramento, marking a milestone in long-distance power transmission. The 20th century was defined by the construction of Folsom Dam by the United States Army Corps of Engineers in 1955, creating Folsom Lake, and the enduring notoriety of Folsom State Prison, immortalized by Johnny Cash's 1968 live album recorded there.
Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city encompasses a total area of approximately 34 square miles, with Folsom Lake and the American River forming significant hydrological features. The terrain is characterized by rolling foothills at the edge of the Sierra Nevada mountain range, with the city proper located at an elevation of about 217 feet. Key geographic landmarks include the Folsom Lake State Recreation Area and the American River Parkway, which provide extensive riparian habitats and connect to the Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail. The climate is classified as Mediterranean, with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters.
Demographics
As of the 2020 United States Census, the population was 80,854, reflecting significant growth from previous decades. The racial makeup is diverse, with substantial Asian American and Hispanic or Latino communities alongside a non-Hispanic white majority. The city has a high median household income and educational attainment, with a large percentage of residents holding a bachelor's degree or higher. Major ancestry groups include German, Irish, and English, contributing to the city's socioeconomic profile within the Sacramento metropolitan area.
Economy
The economy has transitioned from its historical roots in transportation and corrections to a major center for technology and retail. It is a principal location for Intel's large semiconductor manufacturing and research facilities, alongside other major employers like Micron Technology and Panda Restaurant Group. The Folsom Premium Outlets and the Palladio at Broadstone are significant retail destinations, while the healthcare sector is anchored by the Mercy Hospital of Folsom. The city's strategic position along U.S. Route 50 and proximity to Sacramento further support its commercial vitality.
Culture and recreation
Cultural landmarks include the Folsom History Museum and the Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary. The city hosts annual events such as the Folsom Rodeo, the Folsom Live music festival, and the Folsom Pro Rodeo. Recreational opportunities are centered on Folsom Lake State Recreation Area, which offers boating and fishing, and the extensive American River Parkway trail system used for cycling and running. The historic Folsom Powerhouse State Historic Park and the Folsom Veterans Memorial are key sites, and the performing arts are supported by the Harris Center for the Arts at Folsom Lake College.
Government
Folsom operates under a council–manager government system, with a five-member Folsom City Council elected at-large, including the directly elected mayor. The city manager oversees daily administrative operations. As part of Sacramento County, it is represented in the California State Legislature and the United States Congress. Local law enforcement is provided by the Folsom Police Department, while the Folsom Fire Department handles emergency services. The city is within the jurisdiction of the Folsom Cordova Unified School District and is served by the Sacramento Municipal Utility District for power.
Category:Cities in Sacramento County, California Category:Populated places established in 1849