California is known for its beautiful beaches, sunny weather, and fun cities, but it is also known for being very expensive. Some people think you have to be rich to live in California, but that is not true. There are still many places where you can live without spending a lot of money. If you are looking for the cheapest places to live in California, this guide will help you.
In this blog, we will show you the top 7 most affordable cities where you can live comfortably, save money, and enjoy everything California has to offer.
What Makes a Place Affordable?
When people talk about the cheapest places to live in California, they usually look at things like how much it costs to buy or rent a home, how expensive groceries and gas are, and how much people pay in taxes. Some cities are cheaper because they have more homes to buy, fewer people, or they are far from big, busy cities like Los Angeles or San Francisco.
Here are some things people think about when deciding if a place is affordable:
- How much it costs to buy or rent a home
- How much you spend on food, gas, and healthcare
- How close you are to schools and jobs
- How much you pay in taxes
Now let’s look at the most affordable places to live in California.
Top 7 Most Affordable Places to Live in California
1. Bakersfield, California
Bakersfield is often called the cheapest city to live in California because homes here are much cheaper than in most other parts of the state. Many people like Bakersfield because it is a friendly city with a lot of parks, schools, and places to shop. It is also close to mountains and farms, so it feels like a mix of city and country life.
People who move to Bakersfield often say they like how affordable it is, especially compared to places like Los Angeles.
2. Fresno, California
Fresno is in the middle of California. It is one of the most affordable places to live in California because you can still find homes that are not too expensive. Fresno has many parks, schools, and jobs. It is also close to nature, like Yosemite National Park, so people who love the outdoors enjoy living here.
Fresno is a good choice if you want to live somewhere with big-city features but small-town prices.
3. Oxnard, California
Oxnard is close to the beach, but it is cheaper than other beach cities like Santa Monica or San Diego. This makes Oxnard a great place if you want to live near the water without spending too much. Many people move to Oxnard because it feels peaceful, but it is still close enough to bigger cities if you need to travel for work.
Oxnard has a lot of parks, good schools, and places to shop, making it one of the cheapest places to live in California by the beach.
4. Chico, California
Chico is a small town with a big heart. People love living here because it is affordable and friendly. The town has a famous college, California State University Chico, and a big park called Bidwell Park where people go to hike, bike, and swim.
Homes and apartments in Chico cost less than in other parts of California, which is why it is known as one of the cheapest places to live in California. It is a great place for students, families, and retired people.
5. Sacramento, California
Sacramento is the capital of California, but it is still more affordable than other big cities like San Francisco or Los Angeles. There are many neighborhoods where you can find cheap homes or apartments. Sacramento also has good schools, parks, and lots of job opportunities.
Because it is the state capital, there are many government jobs here. That is why people looking for work and a cheaper place to live often pick Sacramento. It is often named as one of the most affordable places to live in California for families.
6. Eureka, California
Eureka is a small town near the beach and forests in Northern California. It is far from the busy cities, but that is what makes it cheaper. Eureka is a good place for people who love nature and want to live in a calm, quiet area.
Homes here cost less than in most parts of California, and people enjoy being close to the redwood forests and the ocean. It is a popular spot for retirees, artists, and people who work from home.
7. Redding, California
Redding is another affordable city in Northern California. It is known for its beautiful outdoors with lakes, mountains, and trails. People move to Redding because it is less expensive to live here and it feels like a small town where neighbors know each other.
If you enjoy outdoor activities and want to save money, Redding is one of the cheapest places to live in California.
Why Are These Places the Cheapest in California?
These cities are more affordable because they are not as crowded as places like Los Angeles or San Francisco. There are more homes for sale, which helps keep prices lower. In bigger cities, fewer homes and more people are trying to buy them, which makes prices go up fast.
In these cheap places to live in California, you will find lower prices for:
- Houses and apartments
- Groceries and gas
- Healthcare and utilities
These places also offer a slower, more peaceful lifestyle which many people prefer.
How to Choose the Best Affordable City for You
When picking a new city to move to, think about what is most important for you and your family. Ask yourself these questions:
- Are there good schools for my kids?
- Is there a hospital nearby in case I get sick?
- Can I find a job close to home?
- Do I want to live near the mountains, the beach, or in the city?
- Will this place make it easy for me to save money?
Different cities offer different things. Some are better for families, some for people who love the outdoors, and others for those who want to be close to schools or work.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the cheapest city to live in California?
Bakersfield is often named as the cheapest city to live in California because homes there cost much less than in most of the state.
2. Are there affordable places to live in California near the beach?
Yes, Oxnard and Eureka are two cities where you can live near the ocean without paying high prices like in Los Angeles or San Diego.
4. Which cities offer the best combination of affordability and things to do?
Cities like Fresno and Sacramento are affordable and also have schools, jobs, and fun activities for families.
4. How can I find affordable housing in California?
Start by looking at homes in the cities listed here. Work with a real estate expert who knows these areas and can help you find homes in your budget.
5. Are property taxes lower in these cities compared to LA or San Francisco?
Property taxes are based on how much your home is worth, so in these cheaper cities, your property taxes will usually be lower than in expensive places like LA or San Francisco.
Affordable Places to Live in California Can Help You Save
Living in California does not always mean paying high prices. These top 7 most affordable places to live in California prove that you can still enjoy the Golden State while saving money. Whether you want to live near nature, the beach, or a quiet town, there is a place for you.
At Matt Buys Houses, we help homeowners sell quickly so they can move to a new city without stress. If you want to sell your house fast and get cash, we are here to help. Reach out today at (559) 978-2241 to learn how easy it can be.