22 Best Places to Live in California [2024]

Ready for the adventure of living in California? With so many options to choose from in the Golden State, finding the perfect apartment can feel daunting. Don't worry, we've got your back!

To start your move to California, you'll need to pick a city that aligns with your lifestyle and goals. Lucky for you, we've curated the ultimate guide to the best places to live in California. Buckle up and enjoy the scenic route to your dream apartment!

(By the way, our transportation score data comes from walkscore.com!)

Best Places to Live in California

1. Sacramento

• Median 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,400
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,769
• Median Household Income: $78,954
• Population: 526,384
• Walk Score: 49
• Transit Score: 34
• Bike Score: 67
• Cost of Living: 19% Higher than the National Average (read more in our Sacramento Cost of Living Guide)

With over half a million residents, Sacramento attracts individuals from all around the world with its universities, financial center status, and developmental growth. Although it’s often overlooked compared to other major cities like Los Angeles, Sacramento has an electic vibe - a mix of urban, artsy, modern, and hipster. If you want to get that modern city experience without the overwhelming crowds in a major city, Sacramento is a good choice for your next home.

There is plenty to explore in the city, including a growing art scene, a collection of celebrated museums, and a large LGBTQ population that loves to reside in the Lavender Heights neighborhood. You'll find Sacramento's annual Pride Parade there too. Plus, it's also one of the cheapest places to live in California.

One of our favorite things about Sacramento is the farmer's markets. You'll get amazing produce and local goods to make healthy, delicious, seasonal meals. The local restaurants will represent too.

Part of the reason Sacramento has some of the best produce is because it also has some of California's best weather: mild all year long, with dry, warm summers and chilly (but not freezing) winters. Between the weather and the well-regarded public transit system, Sacramento is also a decent place to live if you don't want to drive a car.

Learn more about other neighborhoods in Sacramento.

2. Santa Rosa

• Median 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,473
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,985
• Median Household Income: $92,604
• Walk Score: 44
• Transit Score: 27
• Bike Score: 51
• Population: 175,845
• Cost of Living: 51.8% higher than the national average

Located in the heart of Sonoma County, Santa Rosa is a diverse town, home to an immigrant population that makes up 20% of the city as well as a large LGBTQ community. There are loads of great places to live in Santa Rosa, from beautiful new apartment communities with all of the modern amenities like pools, indoor gyms, and rooftop lounges, to single-family homes.

While Santa Rosa's economy is stable, you won't find many tech companies or startups within city limits like you would in other California cities. Most of the major employers include local schools, local government, and health facilities. Of course, Santa Rosa is a dream destination for wine lovers due to its close proximity to Fountain Grove vineyards and wineries.

Santa Rosa, along with all of its vineyards, is in the flatlands, and ideally situated between the beach and the mountains. You can take beautiful highways or backroads to get to either destination, all while experiencing the more relaxed suburban feel of wine-town.

3. San Francisco

• Median 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $2,752
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $3,262
• Median Household Income: $136,689
• Walk Score: 89
• Transit Score: 77
• Bike Score: 72
• Population: 808,988
• Cost of Living: 25% Higher than the national average (read our Cost of Living in San Francisco Guide to learn more)

Cue the theme song to Full Housetext in italic**! In San Francisco, every resident lives within a 10-minute walking distance from a park and a quarter-mile (or 5-7-minute walk) from a transit stop, making it one of the most popular northern California cities. San Francisco is diverse in both people and businesses, making it the West Coast hotspot for startups and social butterflies.

Throughout San Francisco, you’ll find plenty of gorgeous parks and beaches, perfect for outdoor buffs and fitness lover. Cyclists can rejoice too, as the city's updated bike infrastructure means commuters and hobbyists enjoy smooth, safe rides throughout the city. As for socializing, San Francisco is home to a bustling nightlife scene and its fair share of favorite national destinations, including Fisherman's Wharf (get the clam chowder and sourdough, you won't be sorry), Chinatown, the Golden Gate Bridge, and Ocean Beach.

4. San Jose

• Median 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $2,503
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $2,969
• Median Household Income: $136,010
• • Population: 969,655
• Walk Score: 49
• Transit Score: 41
• Bike Score: 62

San Jose, the center of Silicon Valley, is bursting with tech jobs. The trade off? You'll see a supremely high cost of living. You'll most likely find yourself renting with a roommate until you're able to establish yourself financially.

For graduating college students or those breaking into the tech industry, San Jose is the perfect place to land an internship or secure a job with major employers like eBay, PayPal, Zoom, Adobe, Samsung, and Acer.

San Jose also offers many recreation and entertainment options for those who live by the motto of "work hard, play hard." The nightlife scene in San Jose is impressive, featuring many bars, bistros, and nightclubs for those seeking good eats and great cocktails.

5. Santa Cruz

• Starting Rent: $2,250
• Median Household Income: $104,409
• Walk Score: 62
• Transit Score: 37
• Bike Score: 84
• Population: 261,547
• Cost of Living: 86% higher than the national average

Santa Cruz is your classic beach town, brimming with outdoor enthusiasts who live their water sports. Expect to rub shoulders with surfers, kayakers, paddle boarders, divers, and swimmers, as well as skaters and cyclists, thanks to local staples like Santa Cruz Bicycle and Santa Cruz Skateboard.

You'll also be a hop, skip and a jump away from the stunning Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. Surround yourself with humbling beauty every day in Santa Cruz.

Like any beach town, a fair portion of the economy is rooted in tourism, though Santa Cruz is also home to prominent agriculture, education, and technology employers. And while your commute time will vary, the average Santa Cruz resident spends just under 24 minutes commuting one way.

6. Fresno

• Median 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,082
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,335
• Median Household Income: $64,196
• Walk Score: 45
• Transit Score: 32
• Bike Score: 59
• • Population: 542,107

Fresno is uniquely located at the center of California, perfectly situated for anyone who has to travel throughout the state. Outdoor enthusiasts also love that it’s only 60 miles away from Yosemite National Park, where they'll have the best outdoor adventure of their lives. Plus, with so many thriving industries, like healthcare, government, and education, Fresno has plenty of job opportunities.

That said, it's not uncommon to commute outside the city for work. Be prepared for a lengthy commute and rising gas costs. On your days off, a trip to the Fulton Mall or Tower District is a great way to experience what Fresno has to offer, including of plenty of free public events for the whole family.

7. Santa Barbara

• Starting Rent: $2,395
• Median Household Income: $98,346
• Walk Score: 61
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: 66
• • Population: 86,499
• Cost of Living: 54.7% above the national average

Finding a job in Santa Barbara isn't difficult if you work in one of its major industries, like aerospace and defense, city and county government, or the University of California Santa Barbara (UCSB). Although there is no recorded transit score for Santa Barbara, its public transportation system is top-notch, including bus lines that serve the University of California, Santa Barbara, and Santa Barbara City College.

Nestled among rolling green hills and coastal sunsets, Santa Barbara is known for its distinct culture, which features a thriving arts and museum scene, and its enthusiasm for outdoor recreation. You’ll find an annual International Film Festival, a massive Bastille Day festival, and several annual music festivals in Santa Barbara.

8. Santa Monica

• Median 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $2,320
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $2,781
• Median Household Income: $106,797
• Walk Score: 83
• Transit Score: 60
• Bike Score: 88
• Population: 89,922
• Cost of Living: 113% higher than the national average (read more about Cost of Living in Santa Monica)

Santa Monica is more than a California beachfront city. It offers some of the best opportunities to jumpstart your career with industry giants like PUBG, Activision, and Naughty Dog. You’ll also find venture capital-funded startups in the area, as well as established media companies like Hulu, Universal Music Group, and Lionsgate Films, which are headquartered in the city.

Of course, the entertainment and recreation offerings are almost endless in Santa Monica, including the famed Palisades Park, the Santa Monica Track Club, the Santa Monica Pier, and the vibrant downtown nightlife. There's a reason classics like Forest Gump, The Big Lebowski, and Baywatch were all filmed in the city. Relive the moments yourself when you move there!

9. Los Angeles

• Median 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,885
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $2,404
• Median Household Income: $76,244
• Walk Score: 69
• Transit Score: 53
• Bike Score: 59
• Population: 3,820,914
• Cost of Living: 51% higher than the national average (Read more about Cost of Living in LA)

Los Angeles is the state's largest and most famous city, offering an unbeatable combination of cultural experiences and big-city excitement. While the city is known for being the home of Hollywood, there's a lot more to living in LA that you should know. You'll likely be able to find employment at some of the biggest Los Angeles employers, including healthcare facilities, the University of Southern California, UCLA, and a few notable aerospace technology companies.

Catch a ball game, shop along Rodeo Drive or stroll along the Walk of Fame, dine at great restaurants with more outdoor seating than indoor due to the sunny weather, and find news ways to network with the busy professionals around you. LA has it all, including vibrant global enclaves, like Little Ethiopia, Little Tokyo, Little Koreatown, and many more unique Los Angeles neighborhoods.

10. San Diego

• Median 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,982
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $2,484
• Median Household Income: $98,657
• Walk Score: 51
• Transit Score: 37
• Bike Score: 43
• Population: 1,388,220
• Cost of Living: 44% higher than the national average (read more about Cost of Living in San Diego)

San Diego is one of California's largest cities with a lot to offer a prospective renter. From its busy metropolis to a beautiful downtown waterfront, it's one of the best places to live in SoCal. If that wasn’t enough, you’ll find a great mix of all the best bits of the state, including Pacific Ocean views, west coast living, excellent year-round weather, and a variety of recreation options.

San Diego is home to many museums, including the renowned San Diego Museum of Art, and a popular sports scene that includes the San Diego Padres MLB team. You'll never run out of things to do. Gaslamp Quarter (or District, if you’re a native), which is located Downtown, is home to the city's major nightclubs and bars. It’s one of San Diego’s most popular neighborhoods.

San Diego locals are serious about their craft beer and gastropubs, so make sure you save space for some hops in your daily routine. Your family and friends will also love visiting the famous San Diego Zoo, Safari Park, SeaWorld, and Legoland.

11. Sonoma

• Starting Rent: $2,900
• Median Household Income: $99,266
• Walk Score: 95
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: 64
• Population: 481,812
• Cost of Living: 51.8% higher than the national average

If you're looking for a picturesque place to call home, Sonoma, California should definitely be on your list! Situated in the stunning Northern California region, Sonoma has that relaxed way of life that comes with breathtaking scenery.

Sonoma locals are serious about maintaining the area's rustic charm and agricultural heritage, even less than an hour’s drive away from San Francisco. Home to a famous historic center, iconic cultural events, and unforgettable California wineries, Sonoma is a great place to build strong ties with an engaged community. Support local businesses, start one yourself, and enjoy the feeling of connection to people and land.

12. Redlands

• Starting Rent: $1,126
• Median Household Income: $94,473
• Walk Score: 40
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: 53
• Population: 72,566
• Cost of Living: 18.6% above the national average

You can find just about anything you’re looking for in the city of Redlands. With a beautiful scenic view and a relatively quiet city life, it’s a great option for anyone looking for a more affordable place to call home in California. The city has a vibrant downtown area with unique shops, making for a fun afternoon walkabout.

However, what Redlands is truly known for is its orange orchards. If you’re looking for a small-town feel without giving up accessibility to nearby attractions and activities, check out Redlands in your next apartment search.

13. Lake Tahoe

• Starting Rent: $1,632
• Median Household Income: $67,686
• Walk Score: 46
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: 66
• Population: 21,079
• Cost of Living: 18% higher than the national average

Lake Tahoe borders California and Nevada, with South Lake Tahoe falling within the California state lines. Lake Tahoe is known for its year-round beauty, with great hikes and sightseeing during the warmer months of the year and snow sports, including skiing and snowboarding, through winter.

The outdoor enthusiast will love all of the opportunities for adventure in Lake Tahoe, including wakeboarding, paddleboarding, snow-shoeing and more. But living in such a beautiful place doesn’t mean having to give up on your amenities. South Lake Tahoe has a lively bar and restaurant scene. Plus, you’re a stone's throw away from the Nevada side of the lake, which offers 24-hour casinos. Win big!

14. Irvine

• Median 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $2,553
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $3,130
• Median Household Income: $122,948
• Walk Score: 47
• Transit Score: 32
• Bike Score: 83
• Population: 314,621
• Cost of Living: 81.1% higher than the national average

Irvine is one of the best places to live in Orange County, partly because it's one of the happiest cities in the country! The city has lots of family-friendly activities, good schools and universities (including the UC-Irvine), a rapidly growing job market, and safe streets, making it a great place to raise a family.

When you choose to live in Irvine, you get to take advantage of Orange County’s unbeatable weather all year long. In fact, the city sees an average of over 280 sunny days each year! As the cherry on top, the strong job market in Irvine has created a hub for many tech giants, including big names like Toshiba, Amazon, Blizzard Entertainment, and Google.

15. Pasadena

• Median 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $2,148
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $2,764
• Median Household Income: $97,818
• Walk Score: 69
• Transit Score: 51
• Bike Score: 70
• • Population: 133,560
• Cost of Living: 67% higher than the national average

Home to CalTech, Sheldon Cooper and the motley Big Bang crew, the suburban city of Pasadena is nestled in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains. Besides its proximity to LA, one of the major draws to Pasadena is its historic charm. Once filled with a vast expanse of ranch land and farmlands, the area became popular in the early 1900s, making craftsman-style homes quite common.

The Southern California sunshine, coupled with the city’s plains, valleys, and hills, makes for some of the best outdoor spaces in the area. Plus, Historic Route 66 strolls through Pasadena along some of the famous parks in the area, including Grant Park, Memorial Park, and Central Park, to name a few.

16. Temecula

• Median 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,818
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $2,018
• Median Household Income: $111,881
• Walk Score: 30
• Transit Score: 14
• Bike Score: 29
• Population: 110,682
• Cost of Living: 67% higher than the national average

While Temecula is known for its wineries, you don’t have to be an avid wino to enjoy the views of rolling hills at every turn. In addition to unbeatable sight lines, Temecula is home to some of the best food, music, and people in the state, drawing visitors in with its welcoming small-town feel.

Aside from its vineyards, Temecula offers countless golf courses, shopping, restaurant, and grocery options. As such, traffic can get congested at times, though you can rest assured you have your amenities nearby when needed. Temecula also has lower crime rates and good schools, making it a great place for singles and families.

17. Newport Beach

• Median 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $2,678
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $3,325
• Median Household Income: $149,471
• Walk Score: 49
• Transit Score: 27
• Bike Score: 53
• Population: 82,637
• Cost of Living: 64.9% higher than the national average

Newport Beach regularly ranks highly in the top safe places in California, making it one of the best places to live in California for families. The picturesque beachfront city enjoys year-round sunsets over the Pacific Ocean and easy access to some of the major stopping points in the state.

Located along Pacific Coast Highway, you can easily get to San Diego to your south or Los Angeles to your north if you’re willing to sit in the traffic. Newport Beach locals take advantage of the sunny weather to surf the coastline, enjoy food and sunshine at Balboa Pier, and outdoor community activities happen regularly, such as the summertime Sunset Jazz Series and the annual Newport Beach Jazz Festival, or the Christmas Boat Parade in winter.

18. Salinas

• Starting Rent: $2,000
• Median Household Income: $75,747
• Walk Score: 55
• Transit Score: 30
• Bike Score: 50
• Population: 159,506
• Cost of Living: 51.9% higher than the national average

With the self-proclaimed nickname, the “Salad Bowl of the World,” who wouldn’t want to live in Salinas? You’ll find a lot of farms in Salinas, including flowers, grapes, broccoli, and strawberries.

Salinas is also home to The Grapes of Wrath author, John Steinbeck. You'll see a lot of his work come to life while living there. On top of its fresh produce and cultural history, the great weather in Salinas means there are countless activities year-round. For example, Toro Park boasts 4,756 acres and countless hiking trails, and locals can enjoy checking out the Monterey Zoo or the First Fridays Art Walk held each month.

19. Modesto

• Average Apartment Rent: $1,419
• Median Household Income: $73,375
• Walk Score: 48
• Transit Score: 30
• Bike Score: 48
• Population: 218,915
• Cost of Living: 18% higher than the national average (compare Modesto to Sacramento)

If you’re looking for quiet residential neighborhoods in a culturally rich city center, look no further than Modesto, California. Though the area is known for its agricultural industry, what many don’t know is that it's home to actors Timothy Olyphant, Jeremy Renner, and filmmaker George Lucas.

The central location of Modesto makes it a great spot for adventurers who like quick access to other major destinations. You’re never far from Yosemite National Park, San Francisco, and Lake Tahoe. Although higher than the national average, the cost of living in Modesto is far below many of the more densely populated metropolitan coastal areas, like Los Angeles and San Francisco.

20. Bakersfield

• Average Apartment Rent: $1,219
• Median Household Income: $73,827
• Walk Score: 37
• Transit Score: 25
• Bike Score: 44
• Population: 413,381
• Cost of Living: 9% higher than the national average (read more about Cost of Living in Bakersfield)

To the right of the famous Sequoia National Forest, you will find Bakersfield, California. Located in Kern County, Bakersfield is a southern California city that is known for affordable housing and high quality of life.

Bakersfield might not be able to offer residents the nightly sunsets on the Pacific, but it still has that unbeatable southern California weather and countless opportunities in entertainment and business. Plus, modern country fans will feel right at home, as Bakersfield is known as the “country music capital of the west coast."

21. Visalia

• Starting Rent: $765
• Median Household Income: $75,658
• Walk Score: 39
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: 48
• Population: 144,998
• Cost of Living:

In the Central Valley of California, you’ll find Visalia. Nestled between Bakersfield and Fresno, Visalia offers an abundance of culture, nightlife, education, and recreational activities. It’s also home to a multitude of celebrations of the arts, like the Taste the Arts Festival. As such, this small city often boasts a big-city feel without the price tag. Outdoor enthusiasts will certainly enjoy its proximity to the Sequoia National Forest and Kings Canyon National Park.

22. Stockton

• Average Apartment Rent: $1,342
• Median Household Income: $71,612
• Walk Score: 44
• Transit Score: 25
• Bike Score: 52
• Population: 322,120
• Cost of Living: 22% higher than the national average (compare Stockton to Tracy)

If you’re looking for affordable places to live in California, Stockton might be a good fit. With a diverse community offering locals everything from the first Sikh temple in the US to Japanese grocery stores, Stockton is truly a melting pot. It’s one of the few cheap places to live in California, especially for the northern region of the state. Surrounded by local organic produce and vineyards, Stockton has plenty of fresh food and beverage all around. For those looking to work in major cities like San Jose, Sacramento, or San Francisco, Stockton might be a more affordable option to consider.

Make Your Move to California

California is one of the most exciting places to live in the United States, from the hustle and bustle of major cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco to the laid-back charm of towns like Santa Cruz and Sonoma. Whether you’re looking for great schools, outdoor recreation, or a vibrant nightlife, you’ll be able to find it in California. Make sure to take our quiz to find the perfect California apartment to fit your needs and lifestyle!