Moving to the West Coast? California, Washington, Alaska, and Oregon are home to some of the best cities on the West Coast—filled with outdoor recreation, thriving job markets, amazing eateries, and beautiful weather. Whether you’re looking for a beach town or a mountain city, check out these eight best places to live on the West Coast!
| Cities | Population | Median Purchase Price | Median Monthly Rent | Safer than % of U.S. Cities | Unemployment Rate |
| Anchorage, AK | 292,090 | $320,100 | $1,310 | 3% | 3.5% |
| Eugene, OR | 170,457 | $304,500 | $1,075 | 18% | 4.7% |
| Portland, OR | 650,380 | $438,500 | $1,325 | 4% | 3.8% |
| San Diego, CA | 1,414,545 | $629,500 | $1,770 | 25% | 3.8% |
| San Francisco, CA | 874,784 | $1,152,300 | $2,010 | 4% | 3.3% |
| San Jose, CA | 1,029,409 | $925,800 | $2,232 | 15% | 3.2% |
| Santa Barbara, CA | 90,911 | $1,082,300 | $1,874 | 22% | 2.4% |
| Seattle, WA | 741,251 | $713,600 | $1,702 | 3% | 3% |
Anchorage, AK
When you think about the best places to live on the West Coast, Alaska may not be the first state that comes to mind—but its most populous city is a great place to settle down. Anchorage isn’t only one of the best cities for summer vacation—it’s also a fantastic year-round home for those who enjoy cool weather and outdoor recreation. With up to 19 hours of daylight and access to unique things to do like Chugach State Park, Anchorage is an outdoor lover’s dream. Diverse native heritages are also celebrated here, with plenty of places to experience and learn about them. More opportunities for growth, education, music, and fun are offered by tons of Anchorage festivals every year, including the Fur Rendezvous, a winter festival celebrating the pioneering spirit of Alaskans. And with proximity to higher education options like the University of Alaska Anchorage—which features more than 100 academic programs—young adults starting school or ready to kick off their careers can find success. Major industries in Anchorage include the oil industry, in addition to opportunities within the government, tourism, and healthcare sectors. Some of the best places to work in Anchorage, Alaska include the Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium, Premier Alaska Tours Inc, and the Chenega Corporation.
Things to Do in Anchorage
Get up close with black bears, wood bison, foxes, and other Alaskan wildlife at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. Visit the largest Alaska museum to learn about The Last Frontier’s history, or check out the Living Our Cultures exhibit and local art at the Anchorage Museum. See breathtaking views of Downtown Anchorage, the Chugach Mountains, Mt. McKinley, and more while hiking or biking the 11-mile Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. Take flightseeing tours any time of the year to see the gorgeous Alaskan landscape. Enjoy a Tundra Scramble, Nuevos Huevos, and Stuffed French Toast for breakfast from Snow City Cafe. Order the Pesto Supreme, Lu-Wow, or Amazing Apricot pizza from Moose’s Tooth Pub & Pizzeria. Eat fresh Alaskan seafood dishes like Alaska Smoked Salmon Dip, Chili Lime Shrimp Salad, and Bering Sea King Crab Legs from Glacier Brewhouse. Or sip craft beers like the 907 Pale Ale, Blonde Eagle Ale, or Solstice IPA at 49th Street Brewing.
Eugene, OR
Home to the University of Oregon, Eugene is filled with plenty of charm and college-town vibes, helping to make it one of the best West Coast cities to live! Art lovers can spend time discovering the vibrant Eugene arts and culture scene, foodies will love exploring the wide range of culinary options, and beer enthusiasts will have their pick at local Eugene breweries along the Eugene Ale Trail. Given its lush, green landscape, Eugene is often referred to as The Emerald City, boasting great outdoor recreation at nearby places like Willamette National Forest, Fern Ridge Reservoir, and Spencer Butte Park. Plus, it’s only about an hour away from the coast if you want to spend a day at the beach! Beyond its entertainment value, families can rest assured knowing their kids will get a top-tier education at Eugene public schools like Charlemagne French Immersion School, Roosevelt Middle School, and South Eugene High School. And when it comes to employment, job seekers can find opportunities in key sectors—including wood products, manufacturing, and technology—with some of the top places to work in Eugene, like Murphy Plywood, Willamette Valley Company, and Pipework Studios.
Things to Do in Eugene
See rotating art exhibitions, view the European Art Collection, or take an art class at the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art. Watch a show in the Planetarium, enroll your kids in the school break programs, or explore the Discovery Room at the Eugene Science Center. Enjoy live music while shopping for local goods or eating from the international food court when you spend your day at the Eugene Saturday Market. Go disc golfing, walk along the paths, or teach the kids how to fish at Alton Baker Park. Start your morning off with one of the best breakfasts in Eugene from local joints like Only Yolking, where you can enjoy sandwiches like Just the Classic, The Beat, The Big Cheese, and more. Indulge in Tarte Flambée, Steak Frites, a Seafood Tower, and more at Marche, a French bistro. Grab a slice of the Bombo, Brooklyn, and Cheese pizzas at Hey Neighbor! Pizza House. Or get a taste of Eugene craft beer when you try the Fringe Benefits Extra Pale Ale, Pivot! IPA, and Miss Mary Mack at Gratitude Brewing.
Portland, OR
Not only is Portland one of the best West Coast cities to live in—it’s also one of the best big cities in the U.S. as a whole! With reasonable housing prices, amazing live music venues, a huge art scene, and one-of-a-kind nightlife, there’s something in Portland for everyone. Thanks to its established tech industry, Portland has been coined the “Silicon Forest,” offering employment opportunities with companies like Airbnb, Xerox, Nike, and eBay. Oregon’s biggest city is making major efforts toward sustainability, too. A majority of the city’s power comes from renewable energy sources, and the city also has over 22,000 bike commuters—made possible by The City of Roses’ 400+ miles of bikeways. Plus, the city offers plenty of places to explore Portland’s great outdoors, including Forest Park and Columbia River Gorge.
Things to Do in Portland
See exotic animals like the Amur tiger, Asian elephant, and chimpanzee at the Oregon Zoo. Get tickets to see performances from artists like Tanya Tucker, Bleachers, and Walk the Moon at McMenamins Crystal Ballroom, a nationally-recognized music venue. Find your next read at Powell’s City of Books, the largest used and new bookstore in the world! Stroll through the Tea Garden or Sand & Stone Garden before grabbing a snack at the Umami Cafe at the Portland Japanese Garden. Try British-inspired brunch with the Full English Breakfast, Eton Mess Pancakes, or Holli’s Hashbrown Casserole at Kingsland Kitchen. Eat Green Onion Pancakes, Mandarin Crispy Chicken, or Hot & Spicy Chow Mein from Duck House Chinese Restaurant. Enjoy the Italian Board, Manila Clams, or Braised Lamb Neck for dinner at Olympia Provisions. Or sip tropical cocktails like the Slowdive, Run Rabbit Run, and Key Largo at Rum Club.
San Diego, CA
If Southern California is on your radar for places to live on the West Coast, you’ll want to consider San Diego! As one of the best cities for year-round weather with amazing beaches and fun attractions, it’s easy to see why San Diego is called America’s Finest City. If you love being outside, outdoor recreation in San Diego offers everything from surfing areas, to hiking trails, fishing spots, and more. There are great options for higher education here, too—institutions like the University of San Diego and San Diego State University are perfect for anyone pursuing a degree or looking for a career in education. If you’re looking to start a career, look into top San Diego employers like Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, MedImpact Healthcare Systems, and San Diego Gas and Electric.
Things to Do in San Diego
See kangaroos, cheetahs, pandas, and other amazing animals at the San Diego Zoo. Cheer on the San Diego Padres (MLB) at Petco Park. Visit shops along the two-mile boardwalk, ride the roller coaster at Belmont Park, or go boogie-boarding at Mission Beach—San Diego’s classic boardwalk town. Enjoy a game of golf with views of the Pacific Ocean at Torrey Pines Golf Course. Grab a pal for brunch over the weekend, and order the Avocado Scramble, Surfer Breakfast Burrito, and Brioche French Toast at Madison. Eat the best tacos in San Diego like the Birria, Veggie, and Keto Tacos at Mike’s Red Tacos. Try out the Kung Pao Three, Chicken with Garlic Sauce, and Egg Drop Soup at Hong Kong BBQ Dim Sum & Kitchen. Or take in a gorgeous rooftop view while you sip craft beers like the Hop on Board IPA, You Down With OBP? Robust Porter, or Tres Tres Mexican Lager on the rooftop at Ocean Beach Brewery.
San Francisco, CA
With some of the best-known attractions of California—including The Painted Ladies, Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and much more—San Francisco is one of the best cities to live on the West Coast. The Bay Area’s healthy job market is bursting with various job opportunities at major companies like Salesforce, Charles Schwab, PayPal, and more. And while foodies feel right at home in a city known for world-class restaurants, San Francisco’s reputation as “The World’s Gay Mecca” is also a huge draw for many residents. The most LGBT+ friendly city in the U.S. is home to a huge Pride festival and tons of gay-owned businesses. With plenty of outdoor things to do in San Francisco, residents here love to stay active by exploring over 1,000 acres of open space at Golden Gate Park or climbing the trails for great views from the top of Twin Peaks. With iconic hilly streets and fun neighborhoods like Chinatown, the Castro, Fisherman’s Wharf, and more, there’s no doubt that San Francisco is one of the best West Coast cities to live in!
Things to Do in San Francisco
Watch the San Francisco Giants (MLB) at Oracle Park, the San Francisco 49ers (NFL) at Levi’s Stadium, or the Golden State Warriors (NBA) at Chase Center. Hike the Muir Woods to see giant Redwood trees. Let the kids learn and play with hundreds of interactive exhibits at the Exploratorium. Stroll through works of modern art or attend events at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art. Check out marine wildlife before shopping in the collection of stores at Pier 39. Chow down the Gulf Shrimp, Tuna Poke, or Fried Rice at Liholiho Yacht Club. Eat Steamed Clams, Award Winning Clam Chowder, and Fish & Chips at Fog Harbor Fish House, one of the most popular seafood restaurants in SF! Make reservations to enjoy fresh-carved roast beef table-side and fill up on fresh seafood at House of Prime Rib. Or drink craft cocktails like Camping with Hipsters while snacking on Crispy Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Cheddar Fries at Alchemist Bar & Lounge.
San Jose, CA
Deep in the heart of Silicon Valley, you’ll find San Jose, a leading city for innovation and one of the best cities to live in on the West Coast. Residents can find fantastic jobs in San Jose at companies like Google, Adobe, Cisco Systems, eBay, and more. Outside of the tech sector, you’ll be able to start in careers at Cupertino Electric, Heritage Bank of Commerce, and Sharks Sports and Entertainment. Those looking for a degree or career in higher education can find their opportunity at local colleges like San Jose State University or San Jose City College. If you’re moving to San Jose, plan to spend plenty of time enjoying outdoor adventures—from hiking at Alum Rock Park to exploring the Santa Cruz Mountains, located less than an hour away. You’ll also find plenty of diverse San Jose neighborhoods, including Vietnam Town and Japantown, which offer unique cultural and dining experiences you won’t find anywhere else. And when it comes to community participation, San Jose residents typically have full social calendars with festivals like the San Jose Greek Festival, San Jose Jazz Summer Fest, and Water Lantern Festival.
Things to Do in San Jose
Book a tour to look around the mysterious Winchester Mystery House, a reportedly haunted house known for its architectural oddities, including staircases that lead to nowhere. Get outside to check out local wildlife, walk your dogs, and go fishing at Hellyer County Park. Experience shopping in San Jose on Santana Row, an area filled with stores like Best Buy, Casper, and Loft. Head over to the SAP Center—lovingly referred to as the Shark Tank by fans—to cheer on the San Jose Sharks (NHL) as they aim for a hat trick and victory. Start your morning with a freshly brewed Americano, Cortado, or A-A-Ron Latte at Hannah Coffee. Fill up on Eggplant Rollatini, Classic Meatballs, and Spicy Gem Salad at Rollati Ristorante. Treat yourself on Friday and Saturday to Steak Bites, Veggie Stir Fry, and Grilled Atlantic Salmon at Loft Bar & Bistro. Or enjoy fresh tortillas and other Mexican cuisine like Ceviche Tostada, Crispy Shrimp Tacos, and Street Corn at Olla Cocina.
Santa Barbara, CA
With stunning ocean views, a rich history, and laidback beach lifestyle, Santa Barbara is an ideal California city and one of the best coastal towns to live on the West Coast. It’s also commonly called “The American Riviera” thanks to its Mediterranean climate and amazing Santa Barbara beaches like Arroyo Burro Beach, Butterfly Beach, Goleta Beach Park, and more. Santa Barbara is also surrounded by the Santa Ynez mountains, so hikers and nature enthusiasts will be delighted with the variety of outdoor recreation opportunities! If you’re considering moving to one of the best West Coast cities, don’t let Santa Barbara’s steeper housing prices turn you away from this beach town, as there are neighborhoods like Westside that offer more affordable housing options. If you’re pursuing higher education or looking for a career in academia, the University of California Santa Barbara brings in students and educators from all around the U.S. Other top companies in Santa Barbara include Raytheon Technologies and Sansum Clinic Healthcare.
Things to Do in Santa Barbara
Play sand volleyball, do a round of beach frisbee, or bask in the sun at East Beach. Schedule a boat tour with Condor Express to go whale-watching, or enjoy other unique experiences like a Broadway Musical Cruise or Opera Cruise. Learn more about science at exhibits like the Tech Track and Fantastic Forces Courtyard at MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration & Innovation. Buy bait and tackle to cast your line, check out unique storefronts, or embark on a boat ride at Stearns Wharf. Wake up with a Flash Brew, Iced Tres Leches, or Shakerato from Dune Coffee Roasters. Have Spanish dishes like Croqueta de Jamon, Patatas Bravas, and Chorizo y Pollo Paella at Loquita Santa Barbara. Taste fresh seafood like Garlic Baked Clams, Lobster Rolls, and Steamed Clams from Santa Barbara Shellfish Company. Or relax on the weekend with a Charcuterie Plate while tasting craft beers like the Blood Orange Wheat, Lindsay’s Lager, or Golden Bear IPA at Brass Bear Brewing & Bistro.
Seattle, WA
Want to live in a city with outdoor recreation? Seattle is one of the best cities for outdoor recreation and one of the most livable cities on the West Coast! Whether it’s hiking, fishing, mountain climbing, or skiing, Seattle has it all. While Seattle does get quite a bit of rain—37 inches per year, just above the national average of 31 inches per year—that doesn’t keep residents from exploring the city. Seattle also has a deep history in the coffee industry, with many popular coffee spots like Starbucks, Seattle’s Best Coffee, and Tully’s being founded here. Coffee isn’t the only thing Seattle is known for, either—it’s also one of the top foodie cities in the U.S., with one-of-a-kind food experiences at the renowned Pike Place Market. When it comes to employment, the Seattle job market is steady, with salaries higher than the national average. You’ll be able to find careers in industries like tech and manufacturing at companies like Microsoft and Boeing.
Things to Do in Seattle
Don your blue and green to cheer on the Seattle Seahawks (NFL) at Lumen Field. Hike over 35 miles of trails, and take in views of Lake Sammamish or the Seattle skyline at Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park. Visit the Museum of Pop Culture to learn more about music icons, the movie industry, video games, and more. See aquatic life like sea otters, moon jellies, and moray eels up close at the Seattle Aquarium. Spend the day at the iconic Pike Place Market, where you can shop local goods at the Crafts Market, visit the original Starbucks, and find fresh seafood at City Fish. Pick up Chorizo & Cheese, Salsa Roja Pork, or Sweet Corn Tamales from Frelard Tamales. Try the Chopped Brisket Sandwich, Pork Back Ribs, and a side of Gumbo at Brileys BBQ & Grill, some of the best barbecue in Seattle. Experience fine dining in Seattle while building your own four-course meal from dishes like Lamb, Halibut, and American Wagyu at Canlis. Or sip craft cocktails like the Early Bird, Ube Thurman, and Black Walnut Old Fashioned at Liberty.
***
Moving to the West Coast? With convenient storage facilities located across the country, Extra Space Storage can help with your transition. Find a self storage facility near you!
City statistics from AreaVibes
