The diversity of the population and activities available makes it difficult to summarize Fresno in terms of lifestyle; rather, it is a city where you can create a lifestyle around your occupational and recreational interests. In recent years, redevelopment projects have allowed older areas of the city to reclaim their previous stature. The continual progress and evolution of the city adds even more complexity to the local culture. All the while, Fresno maintains its very affordable cost of living. It is for these reasons that Fresno was a winner in the 2000 All-America competition, earning the designation of All-America City.

The list of free-time activities available in and around Fresno is extensive. Sports complexes, historical sites, museums, performing arts theaters, and gorgeous national parks are the headline venues. These are complemented by the many local hot spots that keep residents busy: clubs, bars, restaurants, neighborhood parks, golf courses, and shopping centers.

Fresno’s sports fans cheer on their own baseball team, the Grizzlies, as well as the very competitive Fresno State Bulldogs. Other events include the Clovis Rodeo, the largest two-day rodeo in the state.

Outdoor enthusiasts appreciate Fresno’s proximity to three national parks and several wilderness areas. Kings Canyon, Sequoia, and Yosemite are premier California destinations. The massive trees and deep canyons of Sequoia and Kings Canyon, and Yosemite’s breathtaking cliffs and waterfalls attract millions of visitors each year. Other natural destinations nearby include Sierra National Forest, Kaiser, and John Muir Wilderness Areas.

The climate of Fresno is typically warm and dry, but can vary somewhat due to the range in elevation. Although most of the city is about 330 feet above sea level, the base of the valley dips to 100 feet above sea level, and the surrounding mountain peaks rise to 14,000 feet. Temperatures range from January lows in the high-30s to July and August highs reaching about 100. Average annual rainfall is just less than 10 inches.