Atwater is located in Merced County with a population of 26,435, it is known for its small town atmosphere. This unique location provides many recreational and tourist activities within a short drive. A person can drive to locations that include Sacramento which is 105 miles to the north and Fresno to the south with only a 65 mile drive.

Atwater is just north of Merced which offers two educational facilities, UC Merced and Merced College. If you prefer to drive fifteen to twenty minutes north to Turlock there is California State University Stanislaus.

Within Atwater there are many different community activities, such as the Castle Air Museum, Merced County Court House Museum as well as many recreational parks such as the Rancho Del Rey Golf Course. With everything so close it makes Atwater a great place to live.