Selma

HELLO FROM SELMA, CA!

Located in Fresno County, Selma was founded in the 1880s thanks to the arrival of the Southern Pacific Railroad. Its railways passed through San Joaquin Valley and most of California and connected various communities in the process. The creation of the Southern Pacific Railroad left plenty of legacies in the 130 years it was in operation. Among these are several smaller towns and cities that cropped up in the central San Joaquin Valley, including Selma.

Agriculture has always been the backbone of Selma's economy, with fertile soil and a favorable climate making it an ideal location for growing fruits and vegetables. Apart from raisins, Selma is known for its grapes and peaches.

Throughout the 20th century, Selma continued to grow and develop with the establishment of schools, churches, and businesses. Today, The city's downtown area features several historic buildings. Among these is the Selma Opera House, which was built in 1904 and now serves as a community center.

There’s a bit of debate as to how Selma got its name. While local legend says that the city was named after Selma Gruenberg Lewis, it was actually named after Selma Michelsen, the wife of a railroad worker.

Selma, CA today

Selma is home to over 24,000 residents. The city takes pride in its small-town atmosphere, strong sense of community, and excellent schools. Downtown Selma is a destination in its own right, featuring historic brick buildings and a selection of local shops and restaurants. Selma also has a booming automotive industry. A testament to this is the presence of the Selma Auto Mall, the largest auto mall between Sacramento and Los Angeles.

Fresno, one of the largest cities in California’s central San Joaquin Valley, is easily accessible via State Route 99. Selma’s own public airport, Selma Airport (0Q4), is around 9 minutes away while the Fresno Yosemite International Airport is less than 30 minutes away.

SELMA, CA HOMES FOR SALE

Selma is an ideal residence for those who are looking for affordability, a central location, and small-town atmosphere.

Single-family homes and vacant land make up the majority of Selma’s residential real estate landscape. Some of these spacious single-family estates are located in Selma’s picturesque countryside while others are closer to town, just minutes away from schools, restaurants, and parks.

The homes for sale in Selma, CA are a mix of styles, including Craftsman, Modern, Victorian, and Ranch-style houses. These homes also come with sizable lots, with some homes covering as much as 19 acres. And if you’re planning on building your dream home, Selma has a variety of vacant lots with great potential. The city also has deep agricultural roots, making it an ideal location for starting your own farm.

Notable neighborhoods in Selma include:

• Downtown Selma. For convenience, walkability, and easy access to amenities, Downtown Selma is the perfect area in the city to live in. Downtown Selma is also located close to State Route 99.
• Floral Avenue. A family-friendly area in Selma, Floral Avenue is within the Selma Unified School District and near expansive green spaces like W.H. Shafer Park.
• North East Selma. One of the most sought-after neighborhoods in the city is North East Selma. The neighborhood is a popular choice among families due its peaceful surroundings and spacious residences.

LIVING IN SELMA, CA

Getting around Selma, CA

Covering just under six square miles, Selma is a compact city that is easy to navigate whether you're a resident or a visitor.

• For those driving, Selma's main thoroughfares include Highway 99, which runs north-south through the city, and Highland Avenue, which runs east-west. The city's streets are well-maintained, with ample parking available in the downtown area.
• Biking is a popular mode of transportation in Selma, thanks to the city's flat terrain and mild climate. The city has several bike lanes and paths, making it easy and safe to get around on two wheels.
• Walking is also a great way to explore Selma, particularly in the downtown area. The city's compact size means that many shops, restaurants, and services are within easy walking distance of each other. Strolling through the downtown area is a great way to take in the city's historic architecture and small-town charm.
• For those without access to a car, Selma is served by Fresno County Rural Transit Agency (FCRTA), which provides bus service to and from the city. The transit agency also offers dial-a-ride service for seniors and those with disabilities. Read more about Selma Transit here.

Schools in Selma

Selma is served by the Selma Unified School District, which is committed to providing quality education to students from kindergarten through high school. It oversees 11 public schools in the city, including an adult/continuation school called Heartland Educational Center.

The district's elementary schools include Eric White Elementary, Garfield Elementary, Jackson Elementary, Roosevelt Elementary, and Wilson Elementary. These schools provide a strong foundation in core subjects like reading, writing, and math, while also offering enrichment programs in areas like music, art, and technology.

At the middle school level, students attend Abraham Lincoln Middle School, which provides them with more advanced coursework and opportunities for exploration and growth.

Selma High School is the district's comprehensive high school, serving students in grades 9-12. The school offers a wide range of academic programs, including Advanced Placement (AP) courses, as well as career technical education (CTE) pathways in fields like agriculture, business, and healthcare. Selma High School also has a strong athletics program and a variety of extracurricular activities, providing students with opportunities to pursue their passions outside of the classroom.

Dining

Selma may be a relatively small city, but it's big on flavor. The local dining scene teems with options, from family-owned taquerias serving authentic Mexican cuisine to steakhouses and their premium cuts of meat and side dishes.

When it comes to grilled food, there are two restaurants that stand out: Legends Tap House & Grill and Grapewood Grill. Located in the heart of downtown Selma, Legends Tap House & Grill is known for its delicious tri-tip sandwiches, hamburgers, and fish and chips. Legends is also a haven for beer lovers, with its rotating selection of craft beers on tap.

For the best barbecue in central San Joaquin Valley, Grapewood Grill is a top choice. Their menu features tasty ribs, incredible tri tip sandwiches, and the best mac and cheese you'll ever try.

As for Mexican cuisine, Selma does not disappoint. The city has a wide selection of restaurants offering everything from street tacos to sit-down Mexican eateries. Taqueria Mi Rancho and Tacos La Flor is everyone's go-to for a quick and delicious bite. Both are known for their authentic street tacos made with fresh ingredients and flavorful fillings. La Estrella Mexican Restaurant is another well-known spot, offering classic Mexican food and excellent customer service. First-time and returning customers rave about La Estrella's menudo, enchiladas, and breakfast burritos.

Those looking for a place to have breakfast or lunch can never go wrong with McCoy's Coffee Shop. Their delicious breakfast options include fluffy pancakes, biscuits and gravy, hash browns, and chicken fried steak.

Outdoor recreation

Selma's Mediterranean climate, along with its average 272 days of sunshine per year, makes it easy for residents and visitors to spend more time outdoors.

W.H. Shafer Park is one of the popular outdoor spots in the city. It is home to baseball fields, softball fields, basketball courts, and a playground. W.H. Shafer Park also has plenty of green spaces, which is perfect for having picnics or just lounging around.

For skateboarding enthusiasts, there's Berry Park, a dedicated area that provides a fun and safe environment for skateboarders of all levels. Open daily, the well-maintained skate park has a variety of ramps with rails and huge bowls. Helmets, knee pads, and elbow pads are mandatory.

In Downtown Selma, Lincoln Park offers a tranquil green space at the center of all the action.

The park, which is located at the intersection of McCall and Rose Avenue, has a variety of amenities like a plaza, a bandstand, and park benches.

Attractions

While Selma might not be the first place you think of for an exciting adventure, don't be fooled by its understated charm. The city has a number of hidden gems and unique experiences that are just waiting to be discovered.

One notable attraction is the Selma Arts Center. Located in downtown Selma, the performing arts theater regularly holds theatrical productions, musical acts, comedy shows, and even art exhibits. Aside from the top-notch performances, the Selma Arts Center gives audiences an unforgettable experience with its great lighting and sound system.

And if you want to catch the latest Hollywood blockbuster, an independent film, or a special screening, Selma 6 Cinemas has something for everyone to enjoy. The theater, which is conveniently located just off State Route 99 has six auditoriums complete with luxury recliners and a top-of-the-line sound system.

As the "Raisin Capital of the World," it's only fitting that Selma celebrates its agricultural heritage and rich history of raisin production with a festival. The annual Raisin Festival, which is held every May, attracts visitors from across the region. The Raisin Festival has carnival rides, educational exhibits, and raisin-inspired treats.

Other attractions and destinations around Selma, CA

Selma's location makes it easy to explore what the central San Joaquin Valley has to offer. Here are the nearby attractions that are worth a visit:

• Fresno Art Museum (approx. 20 minutes away). Home to an impressive collection of art from around the world, the museum's permanent collection features a diverse array of works, from contemporary paintings and sculptures to traditional African and Mexican art. Seasoned art enthusiasts and those just looking for unique cultural experience will have the opportunity to explore different mediums, styles, and perspectives, all under one roof.
• Meux Home Museum (approx. 18 minutes away). Those interested in exploring the rich history of Fresno can have a fascinating look into the lives of the Meux family and the early days of the city at the Meux Home Museum. Each of the well-restored rooms are filled with authentic period furnishings, artwork, and personal belongings, allowing you to see firsthand how an affluent family lived in the late 19th century.
• Fresno Chaffee Zoo (approx. 21 minutes away). A premier destination for animal lovers and families, the Fresno Chaffee Zoo has over 190 species of animals from around the world. The zoo has beautifully-designed exhibits that show each animal's habitat and their natural behaviors. Apart from the animal exhibits, the zoo features a variety of interactive experiences like giraffe feedings and stingray touch pools. The zoo also hosts special events throughout the year, including holiday celebrations and educational programs for all ages.
• Kings River Golf and Country Club (approx. 12 minutes away). The Kings River Golf and Country Club features a stunning 18-hole championship course designed by renowned golf course architect Bob E. Baldock. Players of all skill levels are up for a challenging and rewarding experience as they make their way through the course's strategic layout, complete with well-placed bunkers, water hazards, and undulating greens.

FIND YOUR NEXT HOME IN SELMA, CA

Ready to make Selma, CA your permanent address? Learn more living in Selma, CA and its homes for sale with San Joaquin Valley's top real estate agents.

We're Jack and Sherri DuBeau, your dedicated real estate agents in Selma, CA. With over 35 years in sales, we understand the importance of providing each client with a seamless real estate experience. When you work with us, you'll be guided throughout each step of the process, from looking at potential Selma, CA homes for sale all the way until moving day.

Start your real estate journey with us! Call 559.694.1036 or send us a message here to get started.