The 7 Best Cities to Live in California

There are few places more iconic than California, and for a nation of fifty states, that’s saying something! This state is lauded for its diverse population, eclectic entertainment scene, and vivid scenery encompassing everything from the tallest snowcapped mountains to the sunniest beaches. There seems to be a near-endless list of things to do and places to see. Considering the unique cultures and identities that the state takes on, it is no wonder that Californians are so proud. Whether you’re asking ‘where in California should I live’ or searching for the best cities to live in California, this guide will highlight some of the most sought-after options in 2025.

As a result of being one of America’s biggest states, both in terms of physical size and population, there are many sites to choose from when it comes to settling down. For those looking at California as a potential home base, there are a variety of considerations to make when weighing a decision. Some may value safety and community, while others could not care less and just want to club all night. More factors like climate, recreation, and, certainly for most, proximity to the sea will be major considerations.

What Makes a California City Great?

Before diving into our rankings, let’s understand what metrics we use to evaluate California’s best cities:

1. Cost of Living: Housing costs, utilities, groceries, and transportation expenses
2. Safety: Crime rates and community security measures
3. Education: Quality of public schools and access to higher education
4. Employment: Job opportunities and economic growth
5. Healthcare: Access to quality medical facilities
6. Climate: Temperature, precipitation, and natural disaster risks
7. Recreation: Parks, entertainment, dining, and cultural attractions
8. Transportation: Public transit options and commute times

Using these criteria, we’ve assigned each city a HOMEiA score out of 10 to help you compare them objectively. Let’s explore the 7 best cities to live in California, ranked from lowest to highest HOMEiA score.

The 7 Best Cities to Live in California

1. Santa Barbara: The American Riviera

Population: 88,255 (2023 estimate)
Median Home Price: $1,800,000 (2024)
Median Household Income: $106,485 (2023)
Unemployment Rate: 3.2% (2024)

To start, we are going to the coast for one of California’s most emblematic towns. Santa Barbara is nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Ynez Mountains and is an integral part of the so-called American Riviera. It has a mild climate, and though it can be considered a part of SoCal, it has more moderate temperatures than its southern counterparts. It is known for its relaxed beach culture and historic Spanish architecture. The city has over 88,000 residents, though it is often teeming with out-of-town visitors.

The best for…

As you may have captured from above, Santa Barbara is a great city for recreation. The mountains that tower over it can be explored through trails, caves, and even hot springs. The beaches are also great, as besides lying on the sand, there are several viewpoints that overlook the waves. SB has a major university with many bars and art venues to go with it. Better still, residents live out every day to the background noise of Amtrack trains chugging through town.

As a tourist destination, there are plenty of restaurants, lodging options, and activities at your disposal, including marine boating and kayaking. Despite its popularity, Santa Barbara serves as an escape from the heavy traffic California is known for. It isn’t crowded at all unless we are talking about charming homes and beautiful gardens. Considering the city’s historic sites and overall artistic vibe, Santa Barbara might just be the perfect place to live.

Recent Statistics & Developments

• Tourism: Attracts 7.2 million visitors annually, generating $1.9 billion in economic impact
• Wine Industry: The surrounding Santa Ynez Valley features 275+ wineries contributing $1.7 billion to the local economy
• Education: UC Santa Barbara ranks among the top 10 public universities in the United States
• Climate: Enjoys 283 sunny days per year with average temperatures ranging from 55°F to 77°F

What Residents Are Saying

“Santa Barbara combines the best of small-town living with world-class amenities. The Spanish architecture, ocean views, and perfect weather make every day feel like a vacation.” – Santa Barbara resident since 2010

2. San Francisco: An Urbanist’s Dream

Population: 808,437 (2023 estimate)
Median Home Price: $1,450,000 (2024)
Median Household Income: $126,187 (2023)
Unemployment Rate: 3.4% (2024)

Yes, I had to include this one. One of the most famous cities in the country and the world, San Francisco has much to offer. Located on the tip of a peninsula, this city is connected to the rest of California by its extremely long and famous bridges. San Francisco is close to islands and forests, and contrary to the state’s fame, it is known for having a cooler climate with more clouds than clear skies much of the year. The city has a prominent skyline and varied neighborhoods, and it is incredibly dense in population with over 800,000 residents, it is a part of the larger Silicon Valley Bay Area with cities such as Berkeley, Oakland, and San Jose. Many consider San Francisco to be among the best towns to live in California, thanks to its unique blend of amenities and culture. San Francisco has earned its place as one of the top cities to live in California, balancing quality of life with natural beauty.

The best for…

As such a densely populated city, San Francisco is known for being a place you don’t really need a car. Most neighborhoods are walkable, public transit is great, and most places are easy to get to in a brief period of time. As a center of culture, there are lots of diverse food and entertainment options, as well as a range of unique neighborhoods to explore (think Castro, Lower Haight). Although parts of the city seem to always have tourists, some of the less-frequented areas offer much more authentic experiences.

Given the local climate, San Francisco isn’t as ideal for beachgoers as other cities Yet, similar to New York, the city has a lot to offer in terms of cuisine, culture, nightlife, and general urban layout. There are even huge green spaces, such as Golden Gate Park, to visit when you need a break from it all. Nature reserves, hiking trails, and small coastal towns are a short trip away.

It has gotten a bad rep for homelessness in recent years, but outside of a few specific areas, the city remains well-kept and aesthetically breathtaking in its appearance and architecture. For a mix of great urbanism and pristine landscapes, San Fran is one of the best in all of California.

Recent Statistics & Developments

• Tech Industry: Home to over 9,000 startups and tech companies that collectively contribute $150+ billion to the local economy
• Walkability: Ranks as the 2nd most walkable city in the U.S. with a walk score of 89/100
• Green Initiatives: Has reduced carbon emissions by 41% since 1990 while growing its economy by 111%
• Housing Initiatives: Recently approved plans to build 82,000 new housing units by 2031

What Residents Are Saying

“San Francisco is compact enough to explore on foot but diverse enough that you’re always discovering something new. The fog, the hills, the views—it’s unlike anywhere else in California.” – SF resident of 12 years

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3. Santa Cruz: Surf City

Population: 62,956 (2023 estimate)
Median Home Price: $1,200,000 (2024)
Median Household Income: $89,986 (2023)
Unemployment Rate: 3.5% (2024)

Now on the northern end of the Central Coast, this “Santa” is a world-class refuge for surfers and nature lovers. Santa Cruz is located about midway between Silicon Valley and Monterey and is about as emblematically Californian as it gets. Sure, there is the coast with its wharf and boardwalk; every town’s got to have a mission or two, and a mountain backdrop lays hold to the state’s redwood giants. If those weren’t enough, the city is named after a saint—in Spanish. Again, this is a California icon. It has a cooler, more marine climate than most cities on this list, but it is slightly sunnier (though somehow rainier) than San Francisco. Many consider Santa Cruz to be among the best city to live in California, thanks to its unique blend of amenities and culture. Frequently listed among the best towns to live in California, Santa Cruz continues to attract newcomers with its lifestyle perks.

The best for…

With a relatively small population of over 60,000, Santa Cruz has much of the same appeal as Santa Barbara. It is a small city with minimal congestion, a tucked-away college town with lively arts and entertainment scenes. The boardwalk is popular for its theme park, which sits at the mouth of the San Lorenzo River; the river itself curves through the heart of town and splits an arboreal riverwalk.

Given its location on the coast and proximity to forested mountains, this city may appeal to those hoping to live in a smaller, cozier setting along the coast. Santa Cruz is a great place to enjoy an active or relaxing lifestyle, per your preference, while still being close to some of the state’s most iconic natural features. You also get the benefit of living centrally between Monterey, Carmel-by-the-Sea, Silicon Valley, and San Francisco Bay.

Recent Statistics & Developments

• Tourism: The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk attracts 3 million visitors annually
• Education: UC Santa Cruz is ranked among the top 20 public universities for research impact
• Environmental Leadership: The city has committed to 100% renewable energy by 2030
• Recreation: Features 14 state parks and beaches within a 20-mile radius

What Residents Are Saying

“Living in Santa Cruz means having access to world-class surfing, beautiful redwood forests, and a creative community all in one place. It’s expensive, but the lifestyle is unmatched.” – Santa Cruz local of 8 years

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4. Irvine: The Suburbs

Population: 307,670 (2023 estimate)
Median Home Price: $1,350,000 (2024)
Median Household Income: $115,607 (2023)
Unemployment Rate: 2.9% (2024)

To mix it up now, let’s look at a place known for its suburbs. Irvine is a core city within Orange County, a region just south of and somewhat continuous with Greater Los Angeles. Irvine is reported as one of the safest cities in the state and is home to many parks and trails for recreation. Being inland and south of LA, the city has a consistently warm and pleasant climate. Though surrounded by other towns, Irvine itself has about 307,000 residents. Many consider Irvine to be among the places in California to live, thanks to its unique blend of amenities and culture. For those wondering about the best city to live in California, Irvine regularly makes the cut thanks to its unique charm.

The best for…

When it comes to this city, the key point is safety. Given its suburban layout, Irvine is more sought out by those with an established family or who want a lowkey place to live and thrive. It is an important hub for business conduction and youth sports, and a few renowned universities also call the city home. Another key when it comes to Irvine is its proximity to other amenities.

It is a short drive from the OC’s beach cities, considered among the best on the West Coast. It is also close to Disneyland and adjacent Disney attractions, and the county’s main regional airport is right next door.

Recent Statistics & Developments

• Safety: Ranked as the safest city of its size in the United States for 18 consecutive years by the FBI
• Education: Home to UC Irvine, which ranks in the top 10 public universities in the U.S.
• Employment: Houses headquarters for major companies like Blizzard Entertainment, Taco Bell, and Edwards Lifesciences
• Recreation: Features 16,000 acres of parks and preserves, with over 300 miles of on-road and off-road bikeways

What Residents Are Saying

“The master-planned community approach really shows in Irvine. Everything feels thoughtfully designed, from the neighborhoods to the shopping centers. It’s perfect for raising children.” – Irvine family of four

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5. Los Angeles: Capital of Entertainment

Population: 3,822,238 (2023 estimate)
Median Home Price: $1,050,000 (2024)
Median Household Income: $71,358 (2023)
Unemployment Rate: 4.7% (2024)

A list of great California cities would be incomplete without a mention of this juggernaut—and not just because it’s my hometown. Los Angeles is one of the biggest and most sought-after places to live in the US, and for good reason. It is the economic and cultural core of Southern California, located between the coast and a few different mountain ranges. By way of Hollywood, the city has been a center for music, film, and various other industries for decades, making it deserving of the moniker “The Entertainment Capital of the World.” The city proper has well over 3 million people, with many millions more in the wider metropolitan area. Many consider Los Angeles to be among the top places to live in California, thanks to its unique blend of amenities and culture. It’s easy to see why Los Angeles is included in discussions about the places in California to live—it offers something for everyone.

The best for…

The city and its suburbs are always bubbling with an event, show, sporting competition, or anything in between. Though it is certainly more car-dependent than San Francisco, LA provides a wide array of neighborhoods, lifestyles, and activities to choose from. For many residents, that and the weather alone are reason enough to live here. A lot happens in California, and LA is at the center of it all.

Recent Statistics & Developments

• Entertainment Industry: Contributes $160 billion annually to the local economy, employing over 640,000 people
• Diversity: No single ethnic group makes up a majority, with 48.5% Hispanic/Latino, 28.5% White, 11.6% Asian, and 8.9% Black
• Transportation: Major investments in public transit with the expanding Metro system serving 93.5 million annual riders
• Climate: Enjoys 284 sunny days per year with average temperatures ranging from 57°F to 75°F

What Residents Are Saying

“There’s never a dull moment in LA. One day you’re hiking Runyon Canyon, the next you’re at a film premiere, and then you’re enjoying authentic cuisine from literally anywhere in the world.” – LA resident since 2015

6. Sacramento: The Actual Capital

Population: 525,041 (2023 estimate)
Median Home Price: $465,000 (2024)
Median Household Income: $73,518 (2023)
Unemployment Rate: 3.8% (2024)

Somewhat of an unsung hero as far as Cali cities go, Sacramento is the capital of our marvelous state. It isn’t typically known as a large city, but Sacramento has around 2.3 million people in its metro area. Despite this, the city is quite spread out and is known for tree-lined streets, riverside parks, and its gold-rushing past. In the upper expanse of California’s Central Valley, the city has moderately warm weather, though more temperate than in the south. What Sacramento lacks in seaside beaches, it makes up for with its “coast” along the Sacramento and American rivers, which merge right near Downtown. Many consider Sacramento to be among the best places to live in CA, thanks to its unique blend of amenities and culture. With its standout features, Sacramento ranks high among the top places to live in California for 2025.

The best for…

For the purposes of this list, Sacramento can be considered the “Irvine” of Northern California. The city is more sought after for its suburban, family-oriented appeal. Now, the city does have good urban fabric, particularly in the Downtown and Midtown neighborhoods, but it is a standout for California history enthusiasts or those who seek work for the state. Sacramento has a considerable number of museums and government buildings for these purposes.

Still, this place shines for its availability of laidback, residential areas. It is notably cheap to live in compared to the nearby Bay cities, but with a quality of life that’s higher than in more southerly Central Valley cities, like Stockton or Fresno. Another great plus to Sacramento is its proximity to amazing national forests and nature, including the pristine Lake Tahoe. In many ways, Sacramento is a typical, middle-of-the-road American city, and for some, this may be the perfect choice.

Recent Statistics & Developments

• Housing Market: Sacramento’s housing prices have grown 5.7% year-over-year, but remain significantly below coastal California cities
• Economic Growth: State government employment provides stability with 75,000+ workers in the region
• Education: California State University, Sacramento serves 31,000+ students and contributes $1.2 billion annually to the local economy
• Transportation: The city has expanded its light rail system with 43 stations across 42.9 miles of track

What Residents Are Saying

“Sacramento gives us the perfect balance of city amenities without the crushing cost of the Bay Area. We love the farm-to-fork culture and how easy it is to get outdoors.” – Local resident since 2019

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7. San Diego: Jewel of the West Coast

Population: 1,402,233 (2023 estimate)
Median Home Price: $970,000 (2024)
Median Household Income: $89,457 (2023)
Unemployment Rate: 3.1% (2024)

For our last saint, we will look at the city that all other West Coast towns want to be. For those who have not visited, San Diego often gets lumped together with Los Angeles for being so close by. However, San Diego is generally sunnier, warmer, and less crowded than LA. Keep in mind this is still California. The city is the third largest in the state, with over 3 million people in the metro area and over a million in the city proper. The geography is mostly hilly and stocked with beaches; Downtown sits on a bay across from the uniquely placed Coronado Island, to which it connects by a curved bridge. The outskirts of town lie along the Mexican border, making it a sort of twin city with Tijuana. Many consider San Diego to be among the best cities in California, thanks to its unique blend of amenities and culture. If you’re exploring the best places to live in CA, San Diego’s mix of amenities and community appeal makes it a top contender.

The best for…

Similar to Sacramento, San Diego provides big-city amenities without the headaches that are consistent with living in a megacity. Being so close to Mexico, the city has rich historical and contemporary cultures influenced by our neighbors to the south. Besides this, San Diego has been a center for migrations from all over the country and the world. Then again, with so much sun and all of those beaches, who wouldn’t move there?

A variety of fun districts and calm residential areas are amplified by Balboa Park, which is filled with museums, gardens, and historic buildings to explore. For a city that holds its own among the state’s largest while maintaining its laidback, West Coast roots, San Diego is among the best in this state and the United States.

Recent Statistics & Developments

• Military Presence: Home to the largest concentration of military personnel in the world, contributing $35 billion annually to the local economy
• Biotech & Life Sciences: Second-largest biotech hub in the U.S., with 1,225+ companies employing over 68,000 people
• Quality of Life: Ranked as the #1 city for work-life balance in the United States in 2024
• Recreation: Features 70 miles of beaches and 40,000+ acres of parks and open space

What Residents Are Saying

“San Diego gives you the perfect California lifestyle without the chaos of LA or the cost of San Francisco. The beaches are pristine, the weather is perfect year-round, and the neighborhoods each have their own distinct personality.” – San Diego resident of 15 years

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Pros and Cons of Living in California

Pros:

• Climate: Most cities enjoy mild, sunny weather year-round
• Diversity: Cultural richness and authentic experiences from around the world
• Recreation: Unparalleled access to beaches, mountains, deserts, and forests
• Economy: Home to major industries including tech, entertainment, agriculture, and tourism
• Education: World-class universities and research institutions

Cons:

• Cost of Living: Among the highest in the nation, especially housing costs
• Traffic: Major metropolitan areas face significant congestion
• Natural Disasters: Earthquakes, wildfires, and drought concerns
• Taxes: Higher state income and sales taxes than many other states
• Water Resources: Ongoing challenges with water supply and conservation

How to Choose the Right California City for You

When deciding where to settle in California, consider these factors:

1. Budget Realities
   • Be realistic about housing costs in your target area
   • Factor in state income tax (up to 13.3% for high earners)
   • Consider transportation expenses (gas prices average 20-30% higher than national average)
2. Lifestyle Priorities
   • Urban vs. suburban vs. small town
   • Beach access vs. mountain proximity
   • Cultural amenities vs. natural surroundings
3. Career Opportunities
   • Research industry clusters in different regions
   • Consider commute times and remote work options
   • Evaluate salary expectations against cost of living
4. Family Considerations
   • School district quality and educational options
   • Family-friendly amenities and recreational opportunities
   • Safety statistics and community environment

Conclusion

As a local and lifelong resident, I hope I have provided some value in your search for a new city. California is the most populous state in the country and has more major and minor cities than anyone might imagine. This list includes seven of the cities that I believe are the best, but remember that dozens of other options could be just as ideal.

Here, I focused on some of the larger, more well-known locations. Yet, many of the cities have smaller suburbs or nearby locales that share similar climates, cultures, and characteristics as those included. There are also regions I did not cover, like the deserts, the lower Central Valley, or the smaller towns of Northern California. So, there is a lot more to explore. No matter what style of city you are looking for, this state has you covered. Whatever you choose, make sure to have fun and enjoy life in the Golden State!

Frequently Asked Questions About Living in California:

1. Where is the nicest and safest place to live in California?
   Cities like Irvine are often recognized for combining safety, cleanliness, and a strong sense of community—making them top choices for peace of mind.
2. What kind of income do you need to live comfortably in California?
   In places like Sacramento or Clovis, a modest income can go further than in high-cost metros like San Francisco. Think six-figure household income for coastal hubs, less inland.
3. Where is the lowest crime rate in California?
   Suburban communities such as Irvine and Clovis frequently appear on lists of California’s safest cities, thanks to well-funded police departments and strong local engagement.
4. What cities might be affected by the San Andreas Fault?
   Major urban centers like Los Angeles, San Bernardino, and parts of San Francisco are near the San Andreas Fault and take earthquake preparedness seriously with modern building codes.
5. Which California city has the best cost of living?
   If you’re looking for affordability with amenities, Sacramento offers a lower cost of living while still giving you access to urban parks, state jobs, and proximity to Lake Tahoe.
6. What city in California has the lowest income?
   Some smaller cities in the Central Valley, such as Delano or Coalinga, report lower median incomes, but they also offer some of the most affordable housing in the state.
7. What California city has the nicest people?
   While it’s subjective, Santa Cruz and San Diego are known for their relaxed, friendly vibes and strong sense of community.
8. Where is like California but cheaper?
   States like Arizona and Nevada offer similar climates and outdoor access—but for many, there’s no true replacement for California, especially when it comes to lifestyle and culture.
9. What’s the best place to live financially?
   Consider cities like Sacramento, Clovis, or Hesperia for lower housing costs, growing job markets, and overall livability.
10. What is the most unaffordable city in California?
    Unsurprisingly, San Francisco leads the pack when it comes to cost, with sky-high housing and daily living expenses—even by California standards.
11. What is the #1 best state to live in?
    That depends on your priorities, but California still ranks high for diversity, scenery, and opportunity—if you can afford it.
12. Can you live in California on $2,000 a month?
    You’d have to be selective. Smaller inland cities and rural towns may offer basic living at that budget, especially if housing is shared.
13. Where should I move if I want to start over?
    If you’re looking for a fresh start, Santa Cruz, Sacramento, or even Santa Barbara can offer a new pace and a fresh environment to grow into.
14. Which state is worth moving to these days?
    California still checks the boxes for lifestyle, weather, and opportunity—but it depends on what you value most.
15. What’s the best place to start a new life?
    For creatives, try Los Angeles. For quiet and culture, Santa Barbara. For affordability and balance, Sacramento. California has a flavor for every chapter of life.
16. What is the most perfect place to live?
    Perfection is personal, but places like San Diego come pretty close with their mix of sun, surf, parks, and urban comfort.

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