Are you on the hunt for cheap places to live in California? Well, you’re in luck! With 14 cities and towns offering surprisingly affordable living options, there is bound to be a place that fits both your lifestyle and pocketbook. In this blog post, we will share our top picks of the most budget-friendly locations throughout California that are still beautiful, safe and full of culture
1. Eureka - $328,000
Eureka , with its majestic redwoods and rugged coastlines, is not only known for its natural beauty but also for its affordability. One notable aspect of living in Eureka is the availability of cost-effective housing options. With a median home price of around $328,000, Eureka offers an opportunity for individuals to own a home at a price well below the state average. This affordability factor attracts many people looking for an inexpensive place to live in California.
2. Stockton - $335,000
Stockton, located in the Central Valley, stands out as an affordable option for those seeking inexpensive living in California. While the city may not boast the same picturesque landscapes as some of its neighbors, it compensates with a growing downtown scene and an affordable housing market. The median home price in Stockton is approximately $335,000, which is significantly lower than what you would find in many other cities across the state.
3. Clovis - $375,000
Clovis, situated in the San Joaquin Valley, offers a unique blend of affordability and charm. Besides its affordable housing market, one distinguishing feature of Clovis is its collection of stunning Victorian-style homes. These architectural gems add a touch of character to the city and make it an appealing choice for individuals looking for an affordable yet aesthetically pleasing place to call home. The median home price in Clovis is a modest $375,000, making it an attractive option for those on a budget.
4. Sacramento - $399,000
As the capital of California, Sacramento offers a range of activities, attractions, and amenities for its residents. Despite being a vibrant and populous city, Sacramento maintains its affordability compared to many other urban areas in the state. The median home price in Sacramento is approximately $399,000, which is relatively lower than what one might expect in other major Californian cities. This affordability factor makes Sacramento an enticing option for individuals looking for a budget-friendly place to live.
5. Vallejo - $440,000
Vallejo , as a bustling waterfront city in the Bay Area, stands out for its affordability and convenience. One of its distinct features is its proximity to San Francisco, offering residents easy access to the bustling metropolis without the high housing costs associated with living in the city itself. The median home price in Vallejo is approximately $440,000, making it an attractive option for those seeking affordable housing options near a major urban center.
6. Redlands - $458,000
Redlands, located in the Inland Empire region of California, offers a unique advantage of accessibility to both Los Angeles and San Diego. This strategic location provides residents with the opportunity to enjoy the benefits and cultural offerings of two major cities while residing in a more affordable community. With a median home price of around $458,000, Redlands offers a relatively lower-cost alternative to living directly in the neighboring urban areas.
7. Murrieta - $484,000
Murrieta is a city located in Southwest Riverside County and offers access to some of the best hiking and biking trails around. It also boasts an impressive array of parks, lakes, and golf courses. And with a median home price of $484,000 – it’s one of the most affordable cities on our list.
8. Vacaville - $496,000
Vacaville, located in Northern California, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions. The city is known for its lush green hills, which provide a picturesque backdrop for outdoor activities such as hiking and biking. Vacaville is also home to some of the best wineries in the region, allowing residents to indulge in wine tasting and explore the renowned wine country. Furthermore, the historic downtown area of Vacaville offers a charming atmosphere with its quaint shops, restaurants, and community events. With a median home price of just $496,000, Vacaville provides an affordable opportunity to enjoy the beauty of Northern California.
9. San Pablo - $520,000
San Pablo is located in the Bay Area and offers stunning views of the San Francisco skyline. The city also boasts a variety of parks, trails, and open spaces that make it an ideal destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The median home price here is $520,000.
10. Oxnard - $530,000
Oxnard , located in Ventura County, is renowned for its access to some of the best beaches in California. Its beachside location and Mediterranean climate make it an ideal destination for those seeking a coastal lifestyle. Residents can enjoy activities such as surfing, sunbathing, and beachcombing. The city also offers a bustling downtown area with a variety of shopping and dining options, providing residents with a vibrant social scene. With a median home price of $530,000, Oxnard provides an affordable opportunity to live in a beachside community.
11. Temecula - $540,000
Temecula is a city known for its picturesque vineyards and wineries, making it a popular destination for wine lovers. The city offers wine tasting tours, festivals, and events that showcase the region's thriving wine industry. Additionally, Temecula provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, horseback riding, and hot air balloon rides. With a median home price of $540,000, Temecula offers an affordable living option in a wine country setting.
12. Long Beach - $640,000
Long Beach, a bustling port city in Southern California, offers a diverse range of attractions and amenities. The city is famous for its beautiful beaches, including the popular Belmont Shore and Naples Island. Long Beach is also home to the renowned Aquarium of the Pacific, which showcases marine life from the Pacific Ocean. In addition, the city hosts various cultural events and has a vibrant arts scene, with numerous art galleries and theaters. Despite its urban offerings, Long Beach remains relatively affordable, with a median home price of $640,000.
13. Anaheim - $672,000
Anaheim is renowned as the home of world-famous theme parks, including Disneyland Resort and Disney California Adventure Park. These attractions draw millions of visitors each year, making Anaheim a hub of entertainment and tourism. In addition to the theme parks, Anaheim features a bustling downtown area known as the Anaheim Packing District, which offers a wide range of dining options and a vibrant food hall. With a median home price of $672,000, Anaheim provides an opportunity to live near iconic attractions while still maintaining relatively affordable living costs.
14. Placentia - $765,000
Placentia, located in Orange County, is known for its top-rated schools and family-friendly environment. The city provides residents with a safe and welcoming community, making it an attractive place for families to settle down. Placentia also offers a diverse culinary scene, with a range of international restaurants and local eateries. With a median home price of $765,000, Placentia represents a higher-end option on the list, reflecting its desirable location and quality of life.
FAQs about Cheap Places To Live In California
What amenities do cheaper cities in California offer compared to more expensive ones?
Cheaper cities in California typically offer more affordable housing, lower taxes, and a higher quality of life. They tend to have fewer amenities such as restaurants and shops than more expensive cities, but they do offer access to nature and outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and camping.
In addition, cheaper cities often have lower crime rates and better educational opportunities for children. Finally, cheaper cities also tend to have shorter commutes and greater access to public transportation.
Are there affordable cities in California with top-rated schools or universities?
Yes, there are many affordable cities in California with top-rated schools and universities. Some of these include Davis ($399,000), Redlands ($458,000), Murrieta ($484,000) and Vacaville ($496,000). All of these cities offer access to excellent educational opportunities along with great amenities and affordability.
What cost of living factors are important in cheaper cities in California?
In cheaper cities in California, the cost of living factors that are important include housing costs, food, transportation costs, taxes, utilities, and healthcare.
Generally speaking, cities with lower housing prices tend to have a more affordable cost of living overall. Additionally, access to public transportation can help lower daily commuting costs. Finally, taxes and utility costs should also be taken into consideration when budgeting for your move.
What is the program to help pay utility bills in California?
LIHEAP, a program funded by the federal government, aids low-income families in covering the costs of heating or cooling their homes. In addition to providing financial support for energy bills, LIHEAP also offers weatherization services to improve energy efficiency, as well as to enhance health and safety within the home.
Conclusion
Thank you for taking the time to read our blog post on cheap places to live in California!
California is an expensive state, but there are still plenty of affordable cities to choose from. From Vallejo to Oxnard, this list highlights 14 cities with median home prices under $800,000. So whether you’re looking for a bustling city or a quiet suburb – California has something for everyone.
