California is more than Hollywood glamor and picturesque beaches. It’s a melting pot of cultures, landscapes, and opportunities, making it one of the most sought-after destinations for living in the United States.
California has something for everyone, whether you’re single, part of a couple, raising a family, studying, or enjoying your golden years. It is an economic powerhouse, with a strong job market anchored by the tech industry, entertainment, and agriculture.
If you’re seeking the perfect blend of city life, coastal living, beautiful weather, and a cleaner environment, consider buying a California home in one of these cities, considered the best places to live in the Golden State in 2023.
Best Places to Live in California
From coastal city life to the tranquility of Yosemite National Park, we’ve explored the length and breadth of California to curate this list of the best places to live in 2023.
San Francisco
Often referred to as the “crown jewel” of California, San Francisco has loads to offer. Known for its rich history, diverse cultural backgrounds, and steep housing prices, this city appeals to singles and families due to its abundance of restaurants, exceptional public schools, and well-maintained public parks.
Tech companies and startups abound in this bustling city, offering ample job opportunities to professionals. And the city’s access to opportunity is also reflected in its above-average median household income. For outdoor activities, residents can enjoy beautiful parks like the Golden Gate Park or walk up to the Coit Tower for a panoramic view of the city.
Los Angeles
Los Angeles, the city of angels and the entertainment epicenter of the world, is one of the largest cities in the U.S. Known for its sunny weather, beautiful beaches, and diverse population, Los Angeles offers a strong sense of community for families, ample job opportunities in the entertainment and tech industries, and a vibrant nightlife for singles.
The cost of living can be high, with median prices of homes in Los Angeles among the steepest in the state, but the city offers a wide range of housing options from single-family homes in Los Angeles suburbs to apartments in bustling city center neighborhoods. L.A. is also known for its strong public school system, making it an appealing option for families.
The city offers numerous public parks for recreational activities, Griffith Park being the largest, and beautiful beach fronts for those who enjoy outdoor recreation.
San Diego
Fondly referred to as “America’s Finest City”, San Diego is a picturesque city with an appealing mix of urban life and stunning coastline. Known for its amazing weather, beautiful beaches, including the renowned Coronado Beach, and a lower cost of living compared to other major cities in California, San Diego’s appeal is broad.
Families can enjoy abundant family-friendly activities at Balboa Park or the world-renowned San Diego Zoo, while retirees may appreciate the city’s slower pace and beach town feel. San Diego State University and UC San Diego offer top-notch education for students.
The city’s strong job market, fueled by the tech and biotech industries, is a draw for young professionals. The city offers diverse housing options across several San Diego suburbs and neighborhoods like North Park and Ocean Park.
Palo Alto
Known as the “Birthplace of Silicon Valley”, Palo Alto is a city where innovation and culture merge. This charming city is an excellent choice for families, tech professionals, and students. Home to Stanford University, it offers access to world-class education.
Although housing prices can be steep, with median prices higher than much of California, the city’s high median income helps offset this cost. Palo Alto’s rich history is evident in its well-preserved buildings and the vibrant art scene, while the tech industry provides ample job opportunities.
The city’s beauty and parks, including the beautiful Barron Park neighborhood and top-rated public schools, make it a desirable place to raise a family.
Santa Barbara
Often referred to as the “American Riviera”, Santa Barbara is a coastal city between the Santa Ynez Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. It is perfect for individuals who enjoy outdoor activities and scenic beauty.
The city is ideal for retirees, outdoor enthusiasts, and college students, as it is home to UC Santa Barbara and Santa Barbara City College. Despite being a smaller city, Santa Barbara offers many cultural, recreational, and educational opportunities. Residents can explore the historic Old Mission Santa Barbara, relax on stunning beaches, or enjoy an active nightlife.
Housing varies from affordable options in the city center to more upscale homes in the hills. The city’s strong sense of community, small-town feel, and high-quality public schools make it a great place for families.
Irvine
Renowned as one of the safest cities in the country, Irvine is a model city in Orange County, designed with families and working professionals in mind. This city is home to various tech companies, adding a bustling feel to the city life.
With an array of single-family homes and a low crime rate, it offers a safe environment for families. For education, the city boasts excellent public schools and is home to the prestigious University of California, Irvine, making it an ideal city for families and students alike. Other higher education options include Pepperdine University.
The city’s high median household income and strong job market, primarily fueled by the tech industry, also attract young professionals. Irvine also features multiple beautiful parks, farmers markets, and many restaurants, making it an attractive place to live. In fact, the city prides itself on its award-winning park system.
Sacramento
Sacramento, California’s capital city, is a gem for individuals from all walks of life. This affordable city is steeped in history, offering a cultural epicenter with museums, historical sites, and rich diversity.
Known for its sunny weather and tree-lined streets, Sacramento provides a mix of city life and outdoor adventure, with the American River Parkway providing biking, fishing, and hiking opportunities.
The city’s public schools rank high for families, and Sacramento State offers excellent higher education opportunities. The housing market is less intimidating than in larger cities, with more affordable housing options and a lower cost of living. There are also incredible suburbs in Sacramento worth checking out.
With its vibrant downtown area, ample job opportunities, and easy access to public transit, Sacramento offers a balanced and enriching living experience.
Santa Monica
Santa Monica, popular as the “city by the beach,” offers coastal living and urban sophistication. Renowned for its beautiful beaches and Santa Monica Pier, it’s a popular spot for singles and couples who enjoy outdoor activities and the beach city lifestyle. Santa Monica is located in Los Angeles County.
The city’s excellent public transportation, vibrant art scene, and entertainment options make it desirable for young professionals. Despite being one of the more expensive cities in California, Santa Monica boasts strong job opportunities, particularly in tech and entertainment industries.
The city is home to many high-profile tech companies, making it an ideal spot for tech professionals looking to make a career move. Moreover, the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District is highly rated, offering an advantage for families with school-going children.
It’s also home to some of the best universities in the country, such as UCLA and USC, which makes it attractive to students and professionals alike. Santa Monica is a great place for those looking to enjoy the beach lifestyle while still having access to plenty of amenities and opportunities.
Napa
Napa is a charming city in the heart of California’s wine country, offering a strong sense of community and a small-town feel. This picturesque city is perfect for retirees and couples seeking a slower pace of life amid beautiful scenery.
The city boasts numerous wineries, gourmet dining options, and plenty of outdoor recreation, from biking trails to golf courses. Prices of real estate in Napa can be steep, but the higher cost is offset by the high quality of life, cleaner environment, and access to the beautiful Napa Valley.
Berkeley
Known for its vibrant college town atmosphere, Berkeley is an intellectual hub home to the University of California, Berkeley. The Central Berkeley neighborhood, in particular, is popular among students, faculty, and staff.
However, Berkeley is more than just a city for students. It offers a strong sense of community wellness, perfect scores in beauty & parks, and plenty of public parks for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The city is a cultural melting pot, with diverse cultural backgrounds and a variety of dining and entertainment options daily.
Housing in Berkeley varies from single-family homes to apartments, providing options for different lifestyles and budgets. Despite being one of the more expensive cities in the area, it’s offset by the high income per capita and the opportunities for educational advancement and cultural enrichment.
Lake Tahoe (South Lake Tahoe or Truckee)
Lake Tahoe, particularly the towns of South Lake Tahoe and Truckee, is a haven for outdoor adventure enthusiasts. It’s a popular destination for families, couples, and singles who love skiing, hiking, and boating. It offers residents tranquility and excitement with breathtaking landscapes, beautiful parks, and various recreational activities.
The area has a vibrant community, known for its friendliness and active lifestyle. The housing prices vary widely, from luxury lakeside properties to more affordable homes in the nearby towns. The strong sense of community, the amazing city services and the abundance of family-oriented activities, make Lake Tahoe a great place to live.
San Luis Obispo
San Luis Obispo, often dubbed “SLO,” has loads of charm and a laid-back lifestyle. It’s an excellent choice for retirees, students, and families seeking a balance of city life and outdoor amenities.
The city is home to California Polytechnic State University, known for its robust engineering and agriculture programs, making it an ideal city for students and educators. Additionally, the city offers plenty of public parks, farmers markets, and beach access, enhancing the overall quality of life.
San Luis Obispo provides a range of housing options, from single-family homes to affordable housing units for students, making it an affordable city compared to other major California cities. The city’s Mediterranean climate, beautiful weather, rich history, and clean environment further enhance its desirability.
Huntington Beach
Known as “Surf City USA,” Huntington Beach is a paradise for singles and families who enjoy coastal living. With its beautiful beaches, sunny weather, and vibrant surf culture, this coastal city offers a unique and active lifestyle.
The city provides a range of housing options, from beachfront city properties to more affordable options further inland. It also boasts excellent public schools, making it a popular family choice.
Huntington Beach offers a variety of entertainment options, including the iconic pier, various restaurants, and annual surf competitions, all contributing to its exciting city life.
Mountain View
Mountain View, located in Santa Clara County, is a city with a strong sense of community and is a tech industry haven. This is the home of several high-profile tech companies, including Google.
It’s an ideal city for tech professionals and families, offering a strong job market and excellent public schools. The city’s residents enjoy a high median household income and a relatively low unemployment rate.
Despite its steep housing prices, the access to opportunity and the proximity to amenities such as public parks and public transit make Mountain View a desirable place to live.
Carmel-by-the-Sea
Carmel-by-the-Sea, commonly known as Carmel, is a charming city perfect for retirees, artists, and those searching for a quieter lifestyle.
Its picturesque city views, art scene, and rich history offer a unique small-town feel while still providing city amenities. Its beautiful scenery includes white sandy beaches, quaint cottages, and stunning architecture.
Despite the relatively high median home price, the city’s beauty, parks, and high community wellness score make it a desirable place to live. Carmel is also known for its exceptional dining and shopping experiences, adding to the charm of this coastal city.
Frequently Asked Questions: Best Places to Live in California
Here are a few commonly asked questions about the best places to live in California:
What part of California is the best to live in?
The best part of California to live in largely depends on your preferences and lifestyle. If you’re in the tech industry, cities like San Francisco and Palo Alto in the Bay Area might be attractive.
San Diego and Huntington Beach in Southern California would be ideal for those seeking a sunny beach life. Families often find suburbs in Orange County or Riverside County appealing due to their excellent school districts and abundance of family-friendly activities.
Where is the prettiest place to live in California?
California is filled with picturesque places to live. Still, some standout locations include Santa Barbara with its Santa Ynez Mountains and stunning beaches, Carmel-by-the-Sea for its charming architecture and ocean views, and Lake Tahoe for its breathtaking mountain and lake scenery.
Where is the cheapest place to live in California?
While California is known for its expensive cities like San Francisco and Palo Alto, there are also more affordable options. Cities such as Sacramento and Yuba City offer a lower cost of living while still providing a high quality of life.
Remember, the cheapest city is only sometimes the best fit, as job market and lifestyle preferences are important factors to consider.
Is it a good idea to move to California?
Moving to California can be a great idea depending on your circumstances. The state offers a strong job market, particularly in the tech industry, diverse cultural backgrounds, beautiful weather, and a wide range of outdoor activities.
However, the cost of living is high in many areas, so it’s essential to consider this and plan accordingly. Speaking to a local eXp agent can provide valuable insights into the real estate market and various neighborhoods.
Where do the happiest people live in California?
Happiness can be subjective and dependent on individual preferences. Still, studies often cite cities such as San Luis Obispo and Santa Rosa as having some of the happiest residents, thanks to a strong sense of community, access to recreational activities, and a balanced lifestyle.
Where is the richest place to live in California?
Beverly Hills and Palo Alto are often considered some of the wealthiest areas in California, boasting a high median household income. These cities are home to numerous high-net-worth individuals, thanks to the thriving tech companies in Palo Alto and the entertainment industry in Beverly Hills.
Where is the best place in California to retire?
Many retirees favor places like Santa Barbara, with its beautiful scenery and mild weather, and San Diego, known for its vibrant retirees’ community and excellent healthcare facilities. However, the best place to retire will depend on your individual needs, including cost of living, access to healthcare, and lifestyle preferences.
Wrapping Up
California is a diverse state with a place for everyone. Whether you’re single and chasing a career in the tech industry, looking for a family-friendly suburb, or seeking the perfect beach town to retire, the best places to live in California offer a range of options to fit your lifestyle in 2023.
From the bustling streets of San Francisco and Los Angeles to the peaceful beachfront in Santa Monica, the tech hubs in San Jose and Palo Alto, the beautiful city of Santa Barbara, or the sunny weather in San Diego, California is truly a place filled with opportunity, diversity, and beauty.
Check out the eXp Realty property listings to explore the best places to live in California. If you’ve already found a home or condominium to your liking, contact a local eXp agent for personalized advice and to receive guidance in the homebuying process.
