Cheaper states back east are bleeding people since June due to violent crime rates, and being the only state with all of these cities both as diverse as CA as well as coastal too made me realize even not that expensive mountain states will end up the same as rest of country as long as the problems fallow them, both liberal and conservative problems, traditional and newfangled problems. California the golden state we can fix it, right? Whether you love nature or the beach, technology or moving for your career or military family, California has a spot for you to settle down.
This guide to some of the best places to live in California takes all of these factors into account, using data provided by HAR and HARMLS, to compare the overall quality of life, affordability, job prospects, community amenities, and family friendliness of 27 cities in California.
1. San Diego – Coastal Living at Its Best
San Diego is the city of many people\’s dreams: sun, beach, relaxation and city living all in one place. Its sun-splashed, break taking outdoor life and quality education, alongside a job market that’s strong in tourism, trade, tech and defense, draws families, professionals and retirees.
The city’s neighborhoods, such as La Jolla, Del Mar and North Park, deliver their own vibes, from wealthy, oceanfront lifestyle to artsy and young. Further, San Diego houses multiple of California’s largest military bases including Naval Base San Diego and Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, optimal for active-duty personnel and their loved ones.
2. Sacramento – Affordable and Family-Friendly
I think it could work out just fine in the long run compared to the cost of living and the hectic life in California. Sacramento – California’s 6th largest city Population estimate: 508,000Median household income: $52,535, Located in the Central Valley, Sacramento is far removed from the ocean and this emptiness may well be the allure for you. The city has been growing fast, a function of new housing construction, a flourishing business district and a boom in culture events and attractions.
And its location smack bang in the middle of both the Bay Area and Lake Tahoe means there’s endless opportunity for weekend adventure for residents. With its tightknit community feel, outstanding public schools and diverse neighborhoods, Sacramento is an amazing home for families and young professionals to get the big city feel at a fraction of the cost.
3. Irvine – Safe, Clean, and Tech-Focused
The public administration of Irvine is governed under the council/manager form of government. It’s especially popular among families given the vast number of parks, excellent public schools and master-planned communities.
Irvine is a significant tech and education employer. Companies including Blizzard Entertainment, Broadcom and a range of startups have offices here. The U.C.I. is here, which certainly brings a certain academic and cultural polish to the town.”
Housing prices are slightly higher here, but families benefit from clean streets, low crime, and an overall family-friendly vibe that is hard to beat.
4. Santa Barbara – Coastal Charm and Upscale Living
Grazing the Santa Ynez Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Santa Barbara is sometimes called the “American Riviera. This is a city that comes with its own Mediterranean architecture, beautiful beaches, and high-level quality of life.
Santa Barbara Santa Barbara is good for people who want luxury living, restaurants and outdoor activities such as hiking, surfing and wine tasting. It has a rich cultural scene as well with art galleries, museums and music festivals year-round.
The cost of living is high, but with such beautiful surroundings and such a calm, tranquil setting, it’s worth the money for many.”
5. Fresno – Budget-Friendly with Agricultural Roots
One standout option for home buyers who crave affordability and room for growth is Fresno. Fresno is situated in the heart of California’s Central Valley and is the state’s agricultural capital, with a population that has been steadily increasing.
Fresno is one of the most affordable places for home ownership in California and ideal for first-time buyers and retirees. It is also close to the Yosemite, Sequoia, and Kings Canyon National Parks, which is great news for nature-lovers.
It is a revitalized downtown, a range of food options and a family-friendly environment that is bringing new life to what has long been an overlooked part of town.
6. San Jose – The Heart of Silicon Valley
San Jose is a tech center with strong ties to major employers like Apple, Google, Cisco and Adobe. For techies and entrepreneurs, it’s a promised land. The city has a nice blend of suburban peace and urban excitement, from deluxe condos to family houses.
But even with high costs of living, many residents say the trade-off is worth it because of the volume of high-paying professional jobs and the quality of the public schools. The city itself is fantastically cosmopolitan, both culturally and linguistically – it feels very international.
San Jose, for buyers, San Jose is a competitive but rewarding place to look for homes. You may be interested in learning more about the best places to buy land in California if you’re thinking of building your dream home in this highly sought after location.
7. Los Angeles – Urban Buzz and Entertainment Capital
With everything from the glamour of Hollywood to the surf-friendly shores of Santa Monica, Los Angeles has something for everyone. Ruotsalainen is the most experienced defenseman on JYP and LA is a notoriously good team when it comes to managing players from Finland.
Areas such as Silver Lake, Westwood, and Echo Park offer choices for artists, students, and professionals. Traffic and the cost of living can be a drag, but the job market, diversity and limitless recreational possibilities keep many coming back.
LA boasts a number of top universities and medical facilities, and some of the prominent sites in the US, such as the Hollywood Sign, Griffith Observatory and Getty Center.
8. Palm Springs – Retirement Paradise and Desert Beauty
If you’re dreaming of a serene retirement, or a second home in the sun, Palm Springs may be an option. This desert city, with its midcentury modern architecture, golf courses and hot springs, offers a luxurious, easygoing way of life.
Palm Springs is home to the Palm Springs International Film Festival and Modernism Week. Slower and with a sense of community, it’s no wonder so many retirees move here.
9. Oakland – Diversity, Culture, and Bay Area Access
Neighboring San Francisco across the bay, Oakland has transformed into a cultural and artistic hub. With its mix of residents and cultures, its vibrant art scene and its distinctive living nooks, the cost of living in Oakland makes it an appealing place for young professionals and families who are looking for a more budget-friendly version of the Bay Area.
The city is packed with character from the hipster vibes of Temescal to the historic allure of Rockbridge. The city boasts some of the best food and music scenes in the state and public transit provides easy access to the rest of the Bay.
10. Temecula – Wine Country Meets Suburban Living
Temecula in Riverside County offers the best of both worlds, with the relaxation of Southern California’s wine country and a strong sense of community. One of the fastest-growing cities in the region, it draws families, remote workers and retirees.
Featuring high-rated schools, clean streets, and a picturesque wine country, Temecula provides a high standard of living for a fraction of the cost of living at the beach.
Good thing is if eligible veterans and active duty service members wish to settle in places such as Temecula, they can always take advantage of VA home loans in California to fulfill their dream of homeownership with great terms and without the need to provide down payment.
Final Thoughts about best places to live in California
From tech-centric cities like San Jose to peaceful getaways like Palm Springs, California is filled with incredible places to live. Whether you’re looking for career opportunities, a more casual lifestyle, housing affordability, or close proximity to the military, the Golden State has a city or town that accommodates your needs.
Before you settle on a location, spend some time investigating what each place has to offer and weigh your long-term goals for yourself, even if you’re considering buying land, taking out a VA loan or planting down next to a military base.
With such diversity and so much to do, it’s no wonder so many people dream of living in California.