It was the pioneering farmers of the mid-1800s who sowed the seeds of commerce that are reflected in the thriving economy of Woodland today. These were men who recognized the potential in Yolo County's rich soil, temperate climate and lush geography. In the winter of 1853 Henry Wycoff settled in a dense grove of oak trees and opened a small store; soon other businesses followed suit, including a store owned by Major F. S. Freeman. He offered free lots to those who would clear the land and build homes, and before long the settlement of Yolo County was renamed Woodland; in 1862, the Yolo County seat transferred to Woodland from present-day West Sacramento.
With its strong historic heritage still evident today in the impressive stock of restored buildings and homes, both downtown and in surrounding neighborhoods, Woodland's agricultural setting is largely responsible for the community's distinct identity and economic vitality. Various transportation routes, as important today as the railroads of the 1800s, create a wealth of opportunities for industry and commerce. Woodland's proximity to the state capital of Sacramento places it near the political pulse of the state.
Home prices in Woodland are attractive relative to California real estate standards, and available housing ranges from Victorian treasures in the downtown core area to newly built custom homes. Woodland is proud of its family-friendly community which offers numerous cultural, recreational and leisure opportunities, as well as its neighborhood parks and ball fields.
Baseball is not only the national pastime in Woodland, it's a way of life - and baseball diamonds receive a workout from all ages, tots to adults. Proving the old adage that practice makes perfect, Woodland's 1994 Babe Ruth World Series Champions were a source of pride community-wide. For the more adventurous sporting types, Cache Creek white-water rafting is a popular pastime; numerous fishing opportunities are also available nearby. Enjoy the great outdoors at one of Woodland's nearly 40 parks, ball fields, community centers and swimming pools.
Annual Woodland celebrations include the Yolo County Fair, Farm-City Harvestfest and the Woodland holiday parade, a nearly fifty year tradition that is attended by more than 25,000 people.
Public education in the Woodland area is provided by the Woodland Joint Unified School District which embraces the standards and accountability focus of the school improvement efforts of California and the nation. WJUSD is proud of its students' successes in exemplary programs that include academic decathlon, agriculture, art, athletics, drama, home/health services, music, student leadership and student publications. These programs have received regional, state and national recognition.
In February 2010, the average home sales price for a single family home or condo in Woodland was $227,232. While this data is collected from the MLS and deemed reliable, it is not guaranteed.
