Set on the San Joaquin River, Stockton has its history in the Gold Rush, when its seaport provided trade and transport across a booming California. Today, with a bankruptcy case behind it, Stockton has big plans and a stronger foundation to build on. Its healthcare system is ranked second in the country, with Saint Joseph’s Medical Center calling the city home. Meanwhile, a new Housing Action Plan seeks to increase the availability of affordable housing, which suggests its #79 Housing Affordability ranking may ascend further. Stockton’s low Nightlife, Museum and Culture rankings indicate room to grow its cultural capital, but for now the city seems happy to make itself a nicer place for the locals who call it home. Emblematic of this is its 2025-2029 Consolidated Plan, which sets the city’s priorities for the next five years. Assessing housing, improving infrastructure and driving economic development are top of the list. Stockton has also adopted a Vision Zero Plan, aiming to eliminate roadway deaths and improve transport safety. Chuck in a $2-billion levee project that will protect thousands of homes from flooding and its #38 Poverty Rate ranking, and it’s undeniable: Stockton is hustling ahead.