Stockton is situated on the northern side of California’s San Joaquin Valley alongside the San Joaquin River, and would truly be a wonderful place to call home. In fact, Stockton has been named an All-American City three times and is well-known for being a family-friendly city, offering many wonderful neighborhoods and plenty to see and do. It’s also known for its thriving arts and culture scene, natural beauty, and friendly, welcoming vibe. If you’re thinking of making a move to Stockton, chances are, you’ll find plenty about it to love!
A Look at Stockton’s History
Built during the California Gold Rush, the city had several names before its incorporation in 1850, including "Tuleberg,” “Gas City” and “Mudville.” It was ultimately named Stockton in honor of Commodore Robert Stockton, who was instrumental in capturing California during the Mexican-American War. Stockton’s seaport access caused it to grow quickly as a gateway to California’s Central Valley and beyond. Stockton grew steadily throughout the next century. Today, it is a center of art, creativity, industry, and abundant natural beauty, and a thriving LGBTQ community as well.
A Few Fun Facts About Stockton
Read more fun facts about Stockton here.
The LGBTQ Community in Stockton
Stockton is a city that cherishes and celebrates its LGBTQ community and supports it through a variety of community resources, including:
PFLAG San-Joaquin-Stockton is the area’s local chapter of the national PFLAG organization, which is the largest grassroots organization of its kind in the country. PFLAG is well-known for its mission of supporting LGBTQ people, friends, family, and allies across the country in a wide variety of ways. With 500 chapters and more than 200,000 members in the United States, PFLAG plays a critical and important role in providing advocacy, support, and resources to the LGBTQ community.
The San Joaquin Pride Center is a LGBTQ community center serving San Joaquin County and the surrounding areas by providing resources, educating the public, and creating safe and welcoming spaces where all can feel welcome and celebrated for who they are.
What's the Weather Like in Stockton?
Stockton has around 257 sunny days per year, on average, and the average annual temperature is around 75°F. The average yearly rainfall is about 14 inches, which is significantly lower than the national average. Stockton receives no snow, and due to its mild climate, most months of the year are very pleasant times to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors.
The Best Events in Stockton
The annual Stockton Pride Festival is a wonderful yearly event that celebrates Stockton's LGBTQ community and all that it adds to the city. The event includes a variety of food vendors, a family-friendly area, an arts section, a beer garden, and plenty of dancing. Don't miss your chance to come and enjoy the festivities for yourself!
Typically held in October of each year at the University of the Pacific in Stockton, the Brubeck Jazz Festival is a can't miss event for any jazz lover, or anyone simply interested in relaxing, having fun, and enjoying excellent music in a beautiful setting. A wide variety of talented performers take the stage each year, and it's certainly a festival that you'll want to be sure to put on your calendar.
Where to Live in Stockton
Unlike some larger cities that have one specific “gayborhood” Stockton’s LGBTQ community is a bit more spread out across the city, which means there are simply more wonderful neighborhoods to explore and choose between. A single-family home in Stockton can be found for as little as $100,000, while more expensive homes can be priced as high as several million. Typically, condos in Stockton range from $75,000 to $475,000.
Arts and Entertainment
The Haggin Museum is an art and history museum in Stockton that Sunset magazine called “one of the undersung gems of California.” Its stunning collection features works by several noted 19th-century painters, as well as many other American and European artists. The history displays focus on Stockon’s past and its famous residents. It’s a wonderful place to spend a day being educated and inspired.
The Stockton Arts Commission serves as the arts advocacy commission for Stockton and tries to serve as a catalyst to support and strengthen community awareness, opportunities, and involvement in arts in the city. There are many opportunities to become involved in the arts community and to enjoy the wide variety of wonderful arts and performances that are offered.
Parks and Recreation
The Micke Grove Zoo is a beautiful oak-forested park that initially opened in 1938, and has been offering joy and abundant natural beauty to visitors ever since. The park features a beautiful Japanese Garden, an amusement park area, and a zoo that features a wide variety of animals from all parts of the world.
The Stockton Arena is the home venue of the Stockton Heat of the American Hockey League and Stockton Kings of the NBA G League, not to mention hosting many other events throughout the year for visitors and residents alike to enjoy.
Stockton Nightlife
This laid-back bar in a strip mall is popular with the LGBTQ community for its large dance floor, pool tables, friendly bartenders, and welcoming atmosphere. It’s a great place to enjoy a night out in Stockton with friends.
Contact a Stockton Gay Realtor Today
If you're ready to make a move to Stockton, at www.gayrealestate.com, we're here to help you take the first step toward finding an agent who knows and loves the community, and who can help you find a home and a neighborhood you'll love. We're proud to have a network of excellent realtors in Stockton, and we would love to help connect you with the right one. Contact a Stockton gay realtor today for a free, no-obligation consultation!
