Thinking about a move to California? Though California is the third most expensive state to live in, you shouldn’t feel discouraged from moving to the Golden State. There are several affordable places to live in California with safe neighborhoods, big-city amenities, and excellent West Coast attractions. Here are nine of the most affordable cities to live in California!
Bakersfield
- Population: 379,879
- Home Price: $258,700 median purchase price; $1,124 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 16% of California cities
- Unemployment Rate: 4.8%
- Distance from Beach: About 126 miles (Channel Islands Beach)
The ninth-largest city in the state and about two hours north of Los Angeles, Bakersfield is a rapidly growing, affordable place to live in California. Families relocating to California can find affordable housing and job opportunities at companies in Bakersfield—such as Bolthouse and Sturgeon Services International—in top industries like oil and agriculture. Not only does this affordable California city provide a family-friendly community for its residents, but it’s also earned the nickname of “Nashville West” for its contributions to the “Bakersfield sound,” a West Coast style of country music popularized by Buck Owens and Merle Haggard.
Things to Do in Bakersfield
Get tickets for cult-classic films, international cinema, country concerts, and international ballet productions at Bakersfield Fox Theater. Support conservation and research efforts with a visit to the California Living Museum Zoo, which houses non-releasable native wildlife, including black bears, foxes, birds of prey, and more. Stay active at local Bakersfield golf courses like the North Kern Golf Course, Kern River Golf Course, and The Links at Riverlakes Ranch. Take the family to a farmer’s market, garden event, or to grab a treat at the Big Red Barn at Murray Family Farms. Start your day off right with Steak Rancheros, a Hot Link Sandwich, or Avocado Omelette at 24th Street Cafe. Grab an afternoon pick-me-up like a Nitro Cold Brew, Matcha Latte, or a PB & Joe Shake at Cafe Smitten. Take a bite of award-winning Bakersfield BBQ dishes like Brisket, Pulled Pork, and Pit Beef at Bakersfield BBQ Co. Fill up on Basque cuisine with dishes like Brochette of Beef, Tri Tip, and Oxtail Stew at Wool Growers Restaurant & Cocktail Lounge. Or enjoy farm-to-table dishes like the Western Burger, Chicken Aioli Sandwich, or Pulled Pork Cowboy Tacos at Locale.
Chico
- Population: 98,683
- Home Price: $349,300 median purchase price; $1,145 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 28% of California cities
- Unemployment Rate: 4.8%
- Distance from Beach: About 191 miles (Muir Beach)
Looking for affordable West Coast living with plenty of opportunities to enjoy some fresh air? Less than two hours from Sacramento, you’ll find Chico, one of the best and most affordable places to live in California! Known as the City of Trees, Chico is bursting with almond trees blooming in pink and white. California State University Chico is the cornerstone of this town, and it’s a major draw for those hoping to obtain degrees from the school’s top-rated nursing and fine arts programs. In addition to the gorgeous trees and convenient access to higher education, the Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. headquarters and the California craft beer scene that goes along with it will help convince you that Chico is a great place to live!
Things to Do in Chico
Go hiking, horseback riding, or stargazing in the 3,670-acre Bidwell Park. See the world’s biggest yo-yo and other unique memorabilia at the National Yo-Yo Museum. Get baked goods, fresh produce, and local crafts at the Chico Certified Farmers Market. Watch drivers race to the finish line and monster trucks cause havoc at the Silver Dollar Speedway. Enjoy local breakfast favorites like Blueberry Cornmeal Pancakes, Cortez French Toast, and Roast Beef Hash at local Chico hot spot, Sin of Cortez. Experience brick oven pizza like the Bronx Bomber, Wild Mushroom, and the White Pie at Crush. Fulfill your hunger cravings with the Blackened Chicken Quesadilla, Carnitas Tacos, and the Rancher Burger at The Pour House. Or sip classic cocktails like a Manhattan while feasting on Stuffed Chicken Breast, Maine Lobster, and Grilled Vegetable Ravioli at 5th Street Steakhouse.
Clovis
- Population: 112,663
- Home Price: $341,800 median purchase price; $1,247 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 77% of California cities
- Unemployment Rate: 4.1%
- Distance from Beach: About 160 miles (Del Monte Beach)
Known as the “Gateway to the Sierras,” Clovis is one of the least expensive places to live in California! Part of the Fresno metro, this central California city is comfortably sized, full of young families, and just a little over an hour away from Yosemite National Park. Clovis also benefits from the San Joaquin Valley’s rich soil, so its all-year growing season supports fresh produce and plenty of work in the agricultural industry. With highly-rated schools, beautiful weather, and affordable housing, Clovis is an inexpensive California city you’ll love!
Things to Do in Clovis
Adventure out to California’s largest water park and stay cool with the Blue Wave Pool, Banzai Pipeline, and the Sidewinder at Wild Water Adventure Park. Smell the flowers and delight in the beautiful volunteer-tended blooms at the Clovis Botanical Garden. Visit the annual ClovisFest, a local celebration with hot air balloons, hundreds of food and art vendors, and cultural dance performances. Head to Old Town Clovis, where you can find vintage boutiques, antique stores, a year-round farmers market, and events like Glorious Junk Days. Try creative twists on a breakfast classic with a Bacon Jalepeno Cheddar Waffle, S’mores Waffle, or Churro Waffle at Old Town Waffle. Sip the Honey Pot Blonde craft brew and order Korean BBQ Pork Tacos, the Backyard Burger, and a Bavarian Pretzel at The Mad Duck. Fill up on gourmet burgers like the JUJU Bleu, Athena, and Betsy Ross at House of Juju. Or treat yourself to ice cream, frozen yogurt, and gelato flavors like Cookies & Cold Brew, Horchata, and Caramel Sea Salt at Sweet Frog.
Fontana
- Population: 212, 704
- Home Price: $393,200 median purchase price; $1,368 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 71% of California cities
- Unemployment Rate: 3.9%
- Distance from Beach: About 55 miles (Newport Beach)
If you want to move to one of the most affordable cities in California with a deep-rooted history in racing, look no further than Fontana. These West Coasters take pride in being a city of speed! Fontana was known for drag racing in the 1950s, and the racing spirit continues today with NASCAR and IndyCar races at Auto Club Speedway. Located about 50 miles from Los Angeles, Fontana is an affordable spot to live in California while still providing almost everything LA has to offer. With job opportunities at top employers like California Steel Industries, Fontana Unified School District, and Burrtec, as well as proximity to the beach and incredible food, you’ll love living in this affordable city in California!
Things to Do in Fontana
Work out in the indoor gymnasium, swim laps in the 14-lane competition pool, or practice tricks in the skate and BMX park at Fontana Park. Tee off at the driving range or challenge yourself on the 18-hole course at Sierra Lakes Golf Club. See photography, paintings, and other work from up-and-coming artists at the Art Depot Gallery. Admire birds and native plants, walk the nature trail, and learn about local geology at the Mary Vagle Nature Center. Start your day off with a homestyle breakfast of Chocolate Chip Pancakes, the Red Hill Omelette, or a Breakfast Burrito at Red Hill Coffee House. Enjoy Vegetarian Spring Rolls, Fried Tofu, and Seafood Pho at Sierra Noodle House. Add a little spice to your life with Taquitos Dorados, Fajitas, and Carne Asada at El Baja. Or satisfy your hunger with authentic Punjabi dishes like Chicken Vindaloo, Fish Curry, and Samosa Chat at family-owned restaurant Spice Jar.
Fresno
- Population: 526,147
- Home Price: $256,000 median purchase price; $1,041 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 8% of California cities
- Unemployment Rate: 5.9%
- Distance from Beach: About 141 miles (Moss Landing State Beach)
If you’re looking for one of the best places to live in central California, you should consider moving to Fresno! This affordable California city is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream, with three national parks within an hour’s drive: Sequoia National Park, Yosemite National Park, and Kings Canyon National Park. Fresno itself offers small-town charm with big-city amenities, a flourishing art scene, and more than a dozen wineries. Plus, the Fresno County area is home to over 1.88 million acres of farmland and contributes over $8 billion to California’s economy. What started out as a railway station in 1872 has quickly become one of the best cities to live in California!
Things to Do in Fresno
Travel underground to see a hand-built network of passageways, Ancient Roman-style architecture, and fruit-producing trees at the Forestiere Underground Gardens. See animals from around the world like the colobus monkey, emu, and the king cobra at Fresno Chaffee Zoo. Explore over 300 acres of parkland at Woodward Park, featuring trails, playgrounds, and fishing spots. Cheer on local sports teams like the Fresno Grizzlies (MiLB) and the Fresno State Bulldogs (NCAA D-I). Eat breakfast classics like Ham & Eggs, Chili Verde Omelette, and California Benedict at Fresno Breakfast House. Fill up on some of the best Mediterranean food in Fresno with dishes like Beef Kebob, Mediterranean Chicken, and the Greek Burger at Mediterranean Grill & Cafe. Enjoy Fresno BBQ favorites like the Tri-Tip Sandwich, ABC Burger, and The Pig Sandwich at Dog House Grill. Or munch on the Baby Back Ribs, Pecan Crusted Pork Chop, and Red Oak Grilled Salmon at Yosemite Ranch.
Hemet
- Population: 84,686
- Home Price: $213,000 median purchase price; $1,157 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 35% of California cities
- Unemployment Rate: 5.9%
- Distance from Beach: About 75 miles (Newport Beach)
If you are looking to move to one of the most affordable cities in the Southern California Inland Empire, consider Hemet. With job opportunities supported by major employers in healthcare, education, and municipal services, and essential amenities nearby, Hemet offers an appealingly low-cost way to enjoy Southern California living. This community is rooted in affordability, making it a popular city for retirees and great for families seeking a quieter lifestyle away from coastal costs. Hemet’s average cost of living is about 22% lower than the rest of California, making it an excellent choice for first-time homebuyers and those seeking financial relief. Though the city itself is a bit more inland, Hemet offers proximity to scenic spots like the San Jacinto Mountains and nearby wine regions, including the popular Temecula Valley.
Things to Do in Hemet
Experience beautiful coastal trails, boating, and fishing at Diamond Valley Lake Marina. Create lasting memories while trampolining, tackling ninja courses, or entering a world in Verse Immersive at Airtopia Adventure Park. Step back in time and tour antique wedding gowns through the ages, have high tea, or shop for consignment wedding gowns at the Victorian Bridal Museum. See fossils, learn about the magic of archaeology, and explore exhibits like Prehistoric Pathways, which allows you to walk through a Cretaceous forest, at Western Science Center. Start your day with a Breakfast Burrito, California Benedict, or Chicken Fajita Omelette at Abby’s Cafe. Chow down Carne Asada Fries, Flautas, and Fruit Empanadas at Los Vaqueros Cantina & Grill. Enjoy Mexican classics like Lenguas, Pechuga Con Mole, and Carnitas at Arturos Grill. Or dig in to a Braised & Slow Roasted Pot Roast, Meatloaf Sandwich, or Salmon Burger at Rockin’ K Ranch.
Modesto
- Population: 214,485
- Home Price: $300,700 median purchase price; $1,254 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 14% of California cities
- Unemployment Rate: 5.2%
- Distance from Beach: About 95 miles (Baker Beach)
Often viewed as the “Gateway to the Bay Area,” Modesto offers significantly lower housing costs than coastal California while remaining close enough for commuters and those seeking cultural access. Modesto Junior College (MJC) offers affordable associate degrees, vocational training, and seamless transfer pathways to the CSU and UC systems. As the heart of the Stanislaus County agricultural industry, major employers like Frito-Lay and Conagra help Modesto’s stable economy. Modesto boasts a vibrant art scene as the birthplace of George Lucas and the setting for the iconic film American Graffiti, a legacy celebrated annually during the high-energy Graffiti Summer festival. Outdoor enthusiasts will also find a rich outdoor lifestyle with over 70 public parks and miles of scenic paths available for walking and cycling. Water-lovers can also enjoy boating, fishing, and camping at the nearby Modesto Reservoir and Woodward Reservoir.
Things to Do in Modesto
See classic shows like the Nutcracker and Into the Woods, or family-fun musicals like Dog Man: The Musical, and more at the Gallo Center for the Arts. Step back in time by touring the beautifully restored Victorian-Italianate McHenry Mansion, built in 1883. Explore exhibits like the Color Story Train, Tall Tales Stage, and Adventure Climber at the Modesto Children’s Museum. Lace up your shoes or grab your bike for a scenic outing on the Dry Creek Trail or the Virginia Corridor Trail. Satisfy your craving for donuts 24/7 with the wide selection at Mr. T’s Donuts. Savor a Chorizo Skillet, Crab Benedict, or French Toast at The Secret Garden. Enjoy Fish and Chips, Reuben, or Blackened Sole Fish Tacos at Harvest Moon. Or try Pork Belly, Buffalo Cauliflower, and Lamb Pie alongside beers on tap at Bauhaus.
Palmdale
- Population: 153,240
- Home Price: $302,800 median purchase price; $1,333 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 32% of California cities
- Unemployment Rate: 4.4%
- Distance from Beach: About 80 miles (Zuma Beach)
Palmdale offers a unique high-desert lifestyle, with extensive outdoor access, a relaxed atmosphere, and proximity to LA’s amenities. The cost of living in Palmdale is 12% below the California median, making this still-developing California city an affordable option—especially for those looking to work in the tech sector! Known as the “Aerospace Capital of America,” Palmdale anchors the region’s engineering economy through industry giants like Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman, and provides seamless travel via easy access to the Palmdale Regional Airport, making it a great Southern California living option.
Things to Do in Palmdale
Explore the great outdoors at the Angeles National Forest and California Poppy Reserve. Check out events like family movie nights, concert series, and the Kaleidoscope Fall Festival at the Palmdale Amphitheater. Learn about the history of aerospace technology and the Air Force Flight Test Museum at Blackbird Airpark. Cool off in the Big Rock River, slide down Dusty’s Mineshaft Racer, and watch your kids play in Little Miner’s Camp at DryTown Water Park. Try a Ropa Vieja, Vaca Frita, or the signature Baracoa Cubano at Baracoa Cuban Restaurant. Grab a bento box, udon, or Spicy Tuna Roll for lunch at Joy’s Japanese Kitchen. Sink your teeth into a Korean Ribeye, Thai Grilled Pork Chop, or Chicken Enchilada Stack at Yard House. Or experience playful Creole takes like Mac & Cheese Balls with Crab, Red Snapper & Oyster Po Boy, and Jambalaya Shrimp at Lee Esther’s.
Redding
- Population: 92,025
- Home Price: $274,800 median purchase price; $1,112 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 10% of California cities
- Unemployment Rate: 3.4%
- Distance from Beach: About 95 miles (Mad River Beach Co. Park)
Redding is a city growing in popularity for those seeking affordable cities in Northern California. As the sunniest city in California—and the second sunniest in the U.S.—it offers the perfect climate for residents to take full advantage of its status as the hiking trails capital of California and the unofficial capital for kayaking. Beyond the outdoors, the city’s character is defined by a wealth of public art and a thriving creative community anchored by The Art Hunger, a gallery dedicated to local artists. The social scene stays vibrant year-round with First Friday gallery openings and 4th Friday Concerts. The presence of major medical centers like Mercy Medical and Shasta Regional Medical Center makes it a great city for active healthcare professionals. And Shasta College offers residents the opportunity to pursue higher education without leaving the city.
Things to Do in Redding
Go boating, fishing, or camping at Shasta Lake or explore the nearby caverns in Lakewood. Travel one hour north of the city to enjoy the majestic views from Mount Shasta. Visit the iconic Sundial Bridge, a world-famous pedestrian bridge and public art installation that crosses the Sacramento River. Wander through gardens, meet animals during encounters, or see exhibits like Sea Monsters Unearthed at the Turtle Bay Exploration Center. Look forward to brunch with the Bantam Breakfast, Pork Chops & Waffles, and a Brunch Burger at The Bantam Kitchen. Spice things up with dishes like Methi Malai Panner, Goat Curry, and Vegetable Masala at Spice Garden. Enjoy mouthwatering Lamb Burritos, Chicken Bowls, and Steak Wraps at 2 Guys and a Grill. Or delight in a dinner of Cuban Spaghetti, Yellow Curry Seafood Stew, or Beef Oscar at Market Street Blade & Barrel.
***
Looking for a cheap place to live in California? Extra Space Storage has convenient storage facilities throughout Northern, Central, and Southern California, so we can help with your transition. Find a storage unit near you!
The team at Extra Space Storage understands that moving to a new city can be stressful, which is why we’ve created our Best Places to Live selections to help make the process easier. We’ve done the research for you—considering factors like cost of living, job market, local attractions, and education—to provide a well-rounded and accurate view of each metro area. Check out our methodology page today to learn more about how we select the best places to live.
City statistics from AreaVibes
