Placer County is located in the U.S. state of California. It is part of the Sacramento-Roseville, CA Metropolitan Statistical Area. To the west, it borders Sacramento and Sutter Counties, and to the east, it borders the state of Nevada. It covers approximately 1,502 square miles and, as of a census conducted in 2020, has a population of around 398,329.
Placer County is known for its stunning natural environment with diverse landscapes that include the western slope of the Sierra Nevada, alpine landscapes, and fertile foothill areas. The county is mainly rural and includes numerous protected areas such as Tahoe National Forest, the American River, and Folsom Lake State Recreation Area.
Its largest city is Roseville, which is part of the Sacramento metropolitan area. Other notable communities include Auburn, which is the county seat, and the town of Colfax. Placer County has a rich history with the California Gold Rush in the mid-1800s, and is known for its wine production, agriculture, and ski resorts.
The climate of Placer County is characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, typical of the Californian Mediterranean climate. Education-wise, Placer County is served by various public school districts, and it also hosts Sierra College and William Jessup University.
Economically, sectors such as healthcare, retail, education, and government are the major employers in Placer County. It is among the wealthiest counties in California. With its well-developed infrastructure, array of recreational opportunities, and high quality of life, Placer County continues to be an attractive place for both residents and visitors.