Major League Baseball is officially in the Sacramento region.
With the Oakland (Sacramento?) Athletics preparing to begin their inaugural season at Sutter Health Park on March 31, 2025, West Sacramento is entering an exciting new era. While this relocation is temporary—lasting until the A’s new stadium is expected to open in Las Vegas in 2028—the potential impacts on our local economy, infrastructure, and real estate market may be anything but short-term.
At SAR, our mission is to keep our members informed and prepared for shifts in the marketplace. Here’s what we’re watching as the A’s take the field in our own backyard.
Increased Visibility Could Drive Interest
Any time a major sports team sets up shop in a new city, even temporarily, it puts that region on the map. For West Sacramento and the greater Sacramento area, this means national media attention, increased tourism, and more eyes on our housing market. This heightened profile could result in stronger interest from out-of-town buyers, investors, and developers who might previously have overlooked the area.
We expect this buzz to focus especially on neighborhoods close to Sutter Health Park and the downtown core, potentially driving demand in both residential and mixed-use sectors.
Economic Impact and Investment Opportunities
City and county leaders estimate that the A’s presence in West Sacramento could bring more than $650 million in economic activity to the region over the course of their stay. For REALTORS®, that figure represents more than a headline—it signals opportunity.
Restaurants, retail, hotels, and other businesses are likely to expand or move in to meet the needs of fans and visitors, increasing commercial activity and potentially raising property values. REALTORS® working with commercial clients should monitor city planning and development efforts around the ballpark and beyond.
Rental Market May Shift Gradually
With a professional baseball team comes an influx of staff, media, and fans. While this isn’t expected to create an immediate surge in rental prices, there may be a gradual tightening of the rental market, particularly near the stadium.
Mid-term rentals and furnished housing options may become more desirable, especially during baseball season. REALTORS® working with investors might find a niche in helping clients prepare for this shift.
Stadium Upgrades and Local Improvements
To prepare for the A’s arrival, Sutter Health Park has already undergone significant upgrades—from high-tech field enhancements to improved player and fan facilities. These changes not only elevate the game-day experience but also add value to the surrounding area. Public and private investment in infrastructure improvements often leads to wider development interest, which could positively influence property values in nearby communities.
Potential Long-Term Impacts
Though the A’s are expected to eventually leave for Las Vegas, their presence will likely leave a lasting mark on the region. Whether through the physical improvements made to Sutter Health Park, the cultural visibility brought to West Sacramento, or the increased viability of the city as a host for large events or other sports teams, this moment has the potential to reshape the way outsiders view Sacramento—and how we see ourselves.
What REALTORS® Should Do Now
For REALTORS®, now is the time to prepare. Know your neighborhoods. Watch the market data closely. Talk to your clients—both residential and commercial—about the potential changes. And most importantly, be ready to serve as the expert voice on how this exciting chapter might influence our region’s future.
