What resources are there for partners and families?

Resources for partners and families

Relocating to a new area often involves coordinating needs across a household, including partner employment, childcare, education and other practical considerations. This section brings together resources that may be helpful when planning a move with a partner or family, along with wellbeing and support services available once you arrive.

Childcare and Schools

Finding childcare and preschool options

Finding childcare and a preschool are an important part of planning a move for families with young children. Many families begin exploring options as they evaluate neighborhoods, commuting patterns and daily routines.

In the Davis–Sacramento region, families typically use a mix of UC Davis-affiliated childcare centers, licensed childcare providers, preschools and home-based daycare options. Because availability can vary, many families begin researching childcare and preschool and joining waitlists early in the process.

Explore childcare and preschool options:

Exploring K–12 school options

For families relocating with school-aged children, school options often play an important role in deciding where to live. A range of public, charter and private schools are available in the Davis-Sacramento area.

Public schools are generally assigned based on where you live, although transfers between districts may be possible depending on availability and local policies.

Explore schools and school districts:

Support for Everyday Life

Support for work, life and wellbeing

Relocation is both a logistical transition and a personal one. Many employees and their families find it helpful to access resources as they adjust to a new community.

The UC Davis WorkLife and Wellness program offers practical guidance and referrals to help balance work and family responsibilities, including childcare, elder care guidance, lactation support, flexible work resources and wellbeing programs designed to support employees and their families through different stages of life and transition.

Learn more about WorkLife and Wellness services

Confidential counseling and personal support

Sometimes, a little extra support can help. The Academic and Staff Assistance Program (ASAP) provides confidential short-term counseling, consultation and referrals for employees and members of their household. ASAP counselors can help with stress, anxiety, relationships, caregiving, grief and adjustment during major life changes, including relocation.

Services are free and confidential and are available to employees, spouses and eligible family members.

Learn more about ASAP or book an appointment

Relocation and partner support programs

These additional programs are included in some job offers for certain roles. Ask about availability during the hiring process with your university contact.

Personalized relocation support

Some new hires and their families benefit from more structured support when planning a move, particularly when relocating from outside the region and navigating housing, schools and local services for the first time.

The Capitol Resource Network (CRN) is a UC Davis-affiliated service that provides personalized relocation support. Depending on the level of investment by the department, this may include housing searches, school information, partner employment resources and orientation to local communities and services. Interested candidates are encouraged to ask about eligibility during the recruitment process.

Learn more about the Capitol Resource Network (CRN)

Career support for partners and spouses

For many employees, accepting a new position also means considering career opportunities for a partner or spouse.

The UC Davis Partner Opportunities Program (POP) provides career support, guidance, networking connections, informational interviews and assistance in exploring employment opportunities for relocating partners and spouses of eligible employees at UC Davis.

Interested candidates are encouraged to ask about POP during the recruitment process.

Learn more about the UC Davis Partner Opportunities Program (POP)

What people notice when relocating with a partner or family

Settling in: Many people say uncertainty gives way to more stable routines once work, school and commuting patterns settle.
Choosing a neighborhood: Housing priorities sometimes shift after spending time in different neighborhoods.
Balancing priorities: School location, commute patterns and childcare logistics often influence each other.
Finding the right fit: Some households prioritize walkability and shorter commutes, while others prioritize space, affordability or school access.
Building connections: Families often build community gradually through schools, workplaces, activities and local events.