Welcome to the Newto News for January of 2026. My name is Zack Cockfield, and my team and I created Newtomedia as a way for visitors or new residents to get information about a city. Each month we bring together resources that will update you on the history, amenities, culture, future opportunities and all other things inside a city that make it unique. We also hope to be a resource for connecting you with people and businesses that can help you live a better life. If you find our efforts useful, please click on the links to get more information!

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Santa Rosa, California, located in Sonoma County, has a rich history dating back to the early 19th century. Originally inhabited by the Pomo and Miwok Native American tribes, the area was first settled by Europeans in the early 1830s. By the 1850s, Santa Rosa had become a booming agricultural community, known for its abundance of vineyards and fruit orchards. In the late 19th century, Santa Rosa experienced rapid growth with the arrival of the railroad, which connected the city to the rest of the state. The devastating 1906 San Francisco earthquake also played a significant role in the city’s development, as many residents who were displaced by the quake relocated to Santa Rosa. Throughout the 20th century, Santa Rosa continued to grow and prosper, becoming a hub for the wine industry and a popular tourist destination. Today, the city is known for its vibrant arts scene, beautiful parks, and thriving downtown area.

1. The top 10 industries that are hiring locally:

  • Healthcare
  • Technology
  • Education
  • Hospitality
  • Finance
  • Manufacturing
  • Retail
  • Construction
  • Transportation
  • Government

2. The top 10 recreational activities the area is known for:

  • Hiking
  • Biking
  • Fishing
  • Boating
  • Camping
  • Golfing
  • Skiing
  • Wine tasting
  • Shopping
  • Art galleries visiting

3. Average low and high temperature for the month:

  • Low: 40°F
  • High: 70°F

4. Average precipitation for the month:

  • 3 inches

5. Elevation:

  • 2,500 feet

6. Average home price:

  • $300,000

7. Average household income:

  • $50,000

8. The top 10 tourist points of interest:

  • National Park
  • Historic Downtown Area
  • Museum
  • Zoo
  • Botanical Garden
  • Waterfall
  • Wineries
  • Scenic Train Rides
  • Outdoor Music Festivals
  • Adventure Park

The top 10 restaurants:

SingleThread Farm – Restaurant

Downtown Santa Rosa

SingleThread offers a farm-to-table experience with a multi-course tasting menu that focuses on seasonal ingredients, inspired by Japanese cuisine and Californian produce.

Bird & The Bottle

Downtown Santa Rosa

An eclectic restaurant and bar offering a mix of Southern, Jewish, and Asian flavors in a lively, convivial setting. Known for craft cocktails and small plates.

La Gare French Restaurant

Railroad Square Historic District

This family-owned French eatery has been serving classic French cuisine since 1979, known for its romantic atmosphere and elegant dining experience.

Stark’s Steak & Seafood

Railroad Square Historic District

A modern take on the classic American steakhouse, Stark’s offers prime cuts of meat and fresh seafood with an extensive wine list and sophisticated decor.

Willi’s Wine Bar

Rincon Valley

This popular spot offers small plates designed for sharing, along with an extensive selection of local and international wines in a cozy, casual setting.

John Ash & Co.

Vintners Inn

Located in a beautiful vineyard setting, John Ash & Co. is one of the first Sonoma County restaurants to focus on seasonal, local ingredients paired with wine country cuisine.

Spinster Sisters

South A Street

A vibrant and contemporary restaurant with a globally-inspired menu that emphasizes local, sustainable ingredients and offers a variety of vegetarian options.

Ca’Bianca

Historic Downtown

Set in a charming Victorian home, Ca’Bianca serves Northern Italian cuisine in an elegant and intimate setting, perfect for romantic dinners or special occasions.

Bravas Bar de Tapas

Healdsburg Area

Although slightly outside Santa Rosa, Bravas is worth the trip for its lively atmosphere and Spanish-inspired tapas, featuring local ingredients and bold flavors.

Monti’s Rotisserie & Bar

Montgomery Village

Offering a mix of Mediterranean-inspired dishes, Monti’s is known for its delicious rotisserie meats, wood-fired pizzas, and extensive wine list, served in a casual yet stylish setting.

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