Are there the cheapest places to live in California? With a pleasant climate, incredible natural beauty, and many cultural activities, California has become many people’s ideal place to live. However, the high cost of living makes it discouraging for people to move there. Actually, there are still pockets of affordability to be found throughout California. In this blog, we will explore the least expensive places to live in California. Come and see our wonderful offerings now.
Living in California: A Quick Overview
Located on the West Coast of the United States, California is the third-largest and most populous state in the United States. It is known not only for its magnificent natural beauty, diverse culture and economic vitality but also for its innovative spirit and open-mindedness that attracts people from all over the world.
Natural Beauty
California has beautiful natural views, from Sequoia National Park in the north to Yosemite National Park in the center to Death Valley National Park in the south, They are all the great masterpiece of nature. California’s long and winding coastline and beautiful beaches, such as Santa Monica Beach and Half Moon Bay, attract countless tourists for sightseeing and recreation.
Educational Resources
California is home to many world-class universities and research institutions, such as Stanford University, UC Berkeley, and the University of Southern California. The rich and advanced educational resources are also one of the reasons that many people all over the world want to settle down in California.
Cost of Living
As one of the most economically advanced states in the US, California has a relatively high cost of living. Accommodation costs make up the bulk of household expenses in California. According to Zillow, as of October 2024, the median rent for all property types in California is $2,800, which is $795 higher than the national median. Among California’s major cities, San Diego, San Francisco, and Los Angeles have particularly high rent levels, with average rents all exceeding $3,000 monthly.
Lifestyle
California is known for its relaxed, healthy and diverse lifestyle. Residents here love outdoor activities, including hiking, surfing and biking. You are sure to find your favourite thing to do in the inclusive place. Besides, California’s culinary culture is also extremely rich, with delicious dishes from all over the world, from fine dining to street food.
List of Cheapest Places to Live in California
Our list of the best cheap places to live in California is made according to the Cost of Living Index, a numerical measure that compares a city’s cost of living to the U.S. national average of 100. It is obtained after taking factors such as rent, fees for childcare, transportation and food into consideration. California’s overall cost of living index is 149.9, 49.9% higher than the national average.
1. Clearlake
Cost of living index: 94.8
Median home price: $216,029
Average apartment rent: $973 monthly
Closest metropolitan city: San Francisco, roughly 2.5 hours away
With a cost of living index of 94.8, 6% lower than the national average and 55.1% lower than the California average, Clearlake is the cheapest city to live in California. Named for nearby Clear Lake, the city is known for its beautiful lakeside views, superb fishing, and easy access to Napa Valley wineries.
Clear Lake is by far the best place to explore in Clearlake. It is one of the largest lakes in California and one of the oldest lakes in North America, with half a million years of history. Visitors come from all over to explore the lake for great water sports and fishing.
Clearlake is also known for its beautiful parks, such as Rosebud Park and Library Park, as well as its many wineries. For example, Gregory Graham Winery and Cache Creek Vineyards and Winery are among the best wineries in the area.
2. Bakersfield
Cost of living index: 99.8
Median home price: $388,206
Average apartment rent: $1,060 monthly
Closest metropolitan city: Los Angeles, a two-hour drive away
One of the absolute cheapest places to live in California is the lovely town of Bakersfield, located about 2 hours north of Los Angeles. Dotted with beautiful palm trees, this Central Valley town is known for its affordability, with a cost of living index of just 99.8.
Bakersfield residents are known for its incredible cultural offerings, including the Bakersfield Museum of Art, the Buena Vista Museum of Natural History and Science, and the California Living Museum. One of the most beautiful natural attractions here is Hart Memorial Park, which is known for its beautiful blue-green lake and bike trails.
3. Eureka
Cost of living index: 103.2
Median home price: $423,791
Average apartment rent: $1,100 monthly
Closest metropolitan city: San Francisco, about five hours to reach
Eureka is a cheaper place to live in California. It is beautiful and affordable. The word “Eureka” means ” I have found it” in Greek. Located just a short distance from the Oregon border, this waterfront city boasts incredible views, exciting activities, and amazing wildlife. One of the best things to do here is to visit the Sequoia Park Zoo, home to great animals like spider monkeys, flamingos, otters and pandas.
4. Clovis
Cost of Living Index: 103.7
Median home price: $514,578
Average apartment rent: $1,320 monthly
Closest metropolitan city: San Jose, situated about three hours away
Are you looking for nice but cheap places to live in California? Clovis is one of the most suitable options for you with the cost of living index of 103.7. There is a typical attraction in Clovis: the Clovis Botanical Gardens. This 3-acre garden features a Mediterranean garden, a cactus garden, and a tranquil sensory garden.
The town is also located near the Sierra National Forest, making it a great place for visitors to explore California’s amazing mountain wildlife.
5. Fresno
Cost of Living Index: 103.7
Median home price: $384,076
Average apartment rent: $1,060 monthly
Closest metropolitan city: Los Angeles, less than two hours away
Fresno is a cheap safe city to live in California. Among many cities, it has a low cost of living index of 103.7, just 3.7% above the national average and 46.2% below the California average.
The city is one of the most populous in California, with tons of great amenities and attractions for you to explore. One of the best perks of living in the area is the easy access to some of the best natural landmarks in the U.S., including Yosemite National Park, Kings Canyon National Park, Sequoia National Park and the Sierra National Forest.
6. Chico
Cost of Living Index: 110.3
Median home price: $465,852
Average apartment rent: $1,020 monthly
Closest metropolitan city: San Francisco, about a three-hour drive away
One of Northern California’s hidden gems is the affordable city of Chico. With a cost of living index of 110.3, Chico is not only one of the least expensive cities to live in California but also one of the most beautiful places in the US. The downtown area of Chico is known throughout the state for its stunning vintage architecture from the early 1900s as well as many stores and restaurants.
Its Bidwell Park, known for its rocky cliff sides, lakes, and rich biodiversity, including bats, hawks, and lizards, can realize people’s interaction with the wildlife. If you are interested in history, you can explore Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park, where you will see a late Victorian mansion with ornate pink Italianate architecture.
7. Modesto
Cost of Living Index: 116.3
Average apartment rent: $1,110 monthly
Modesto is a nice but cheap places to live in California. Its cost of living index is 116.30 and you will get a relatively easy feeling in this palce. Modesto has a lovely downtown area.
Modesto is home to E and J Gallo Winery, the largest family-owned winery in the country. The city also boasts a vibrant arts scene, including the Gallo Center for the Arts and the Modesto State Theatre. There are also some famous parks, such as Thousand Oaks Park, Tuolumne River Regional Park, and the San Joaquin River National Wildlife Refuge.
8. Fontana
Cost of Living Index: 118.6
Median home price: $635,635
Average apartment rent:$1,710 monthly
Closest metropolitan city: Los Angeles, less than one hour away
For those who want an affordable city to live in California that is known for its sporting events, Fontana is your place. With a cost of living index of 118.6, this city is perfect for those who want to put their money into adventure rather than high-cost areas.
Its residents can enjoy the Pacific Electric Inland Empire Trail, a 20-mile bike and trail that runs close to the city. If you are an outdoor enthusiast, you can explore the Martindale Tudor Jurupa Hills Regional Park and the Maryvale Nature Center, both of which are great places to see California wildlife. In addition, Fontana is warm in winter, so you can enjoy yourself outdoors year-round.
9. Sacramento
Cost of Living Index: 127.2
Median home price: $489,224
Average apartment rent: $1,420 monthly
Closest metropolitan city: San Francisco, roughly 1.5 hours away
Sacramento is one of the cheapest cities to live in California. There are many different affordable attractions to explore. Some of the best museums in California are located here, such as the Crocker Art Museum, the Stanford Museum, the California State Capitol Museum, and the State Indian Museum. New Sacramento residents can also enjoy exploring the William Rand Regional Park and the Sacramento Zoo, which is a peaceful place for residents to get in touch with nature!
10. San Jacinto
Cost of Living Index: 131.2
Median home price: $479,144
Average apartment rent: $1,390 a month
Closest metropolitan city: Los Angeles, over one hour away
San Jacinto is a great affordable place to live in California for those who like hot weather. Its cost of living index is 131.2, 10% lower than the average cost of living in California. Its temperature in January is about 20-30 degree celsius. If you are tired of cold weather for years and looking for a warm place to live, San Jacinto is your perfect choice.
The city is known for its historic architecture and beautiful gardens. It is also close to the Temecula Valley, which is considered one of the best wine regions in Southern California. The area is also close to San Jacinto Mountains State Park, which is a great place for visitors to hike and camp.
Conclusion
Above is 10 cheapest places to live in California with lower living expenses. Whether you want to be a new resident and settle down in the ancient forests of the northern part of the state, or you are a visitor looking for short-term accommodation, there are plenty of affordable and lovely towns to choose from. It’s important to note that the cultural opportunities and surrounding facilities vary in different areas. Therefore, you are advised to weigh the pros and cons of living in cheap places before your move.
FAQ
What city in California has the lowest cost of living?
Clearlake is the cheapest place to live in California. According to the statistics, its cost of living index is 94.8, which is lower than the national average. Besides, the average apartment rent in Clearlake is $973 a month, which is an affordable price lower than that in other California cities.
Where is like California but cheaper?
Texas.
Generally, the cost of living in Texas is lower than in California, especially in areas like Houston, Austin, and Dallas. Texas is known for its vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and various outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and swimming. Besides, similar as California, Texas boasts a vast landscape, including beaches, mountains, forests, and plains. Living in Texas, you can enjoy yourself and have fun at a lower cost.
Is it still worth it to move to California?
Yes, it is still worth to move to California.
California is one of the most developed states in the US. It has rich educational resources and well-equipped amenities. At the same time, there are lots of big companies in California, providing many job opportunities for people. California is one of the best options for moving.
