In addition to California sunshine, our location in the San Joaquin Valley offers residents several lifestyle benefits. With more than 1 million people living in Fresno and its neighboring towns, our region provides many amenities without the congestion of the Bay Area or Southern California. Getting away to the coast, mountains, Bay Area or Southern California is a short drive, including easy access to three national parks – Yosemite, Kings Canyon and Sequoia. Recognizing the value of our extensive regional park system, U.S. News & World Report ranks Fresno among the top most fun places to live if you love the outdoors.