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Do you want to enjoy sunshine, ocean breezes, and a laid-back lifestyle in your retirement? Moving to California might be the perfect decision. As one of the most diverse and desirable states in the country, California offers something for every retiree, from quiet mountain towns and charming wine regions to relaxing beaches along the West Coast.
Known for its mild year-round climate, the Golden State also offers potential tax benefits for retirees, specifically those with Social Security income and specific pension types. Whether you’re relocating from out of state or considering a new area within, exploring the best places to retire in California can help you find the lifestyle that suits you best. From peaceful coastal towns to exciting retirement communities in California, there’s the best place to retire in California for every kind of person.
Ready to find your perfect spot? Let’s explore your options and start planning your ideal living situation in retirement. Once you’ve found the best place to retire in California, get in touch with our expert senior movers.
Table of Contents
Is California a Good Place to Retire?
When considering retirement, California stands out as one of the top spots to consider. From the Central Valley to Napa Valley, from bustling city life in Sacramento to peaceful coastal towns, the Golden State has something for everyone. But are the best places to retire in California truly some of the best spots in the country? Let’s discuss some of the key benefits to help you decide.
Climate and Lifestyle
California’s temperate climate is one of the biggest draws for retirees, especially those looking for the best warm places to retire. With mild winters and warm, sunny summers in many other parts of the state, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy year-round recreation. Many of the best places to retire in California also offer walkable neighborhoods, beautiful parks, and active senior centers. This means a higher quality of life and better access to the outdoors and community engagement.
Retirement Communities and Housing Options
There is a large selection of 55 and older communities in California, ranging from resort-style developments to quiet neighborhoods with nearby amenities. However, housing costs can vary widely. While coastal cities like San Diego or San Francisco tend to be more expensive, the Central Valley and cities like Sacramento offer more affordable options, making them ideal if you’re wondering, “How much do you need to retire in California?”
Taxes and Other Financial Considerations
Understanding how tax laws affect your income in retirement in California is essential. Social Security income is not taxed in California, while other forms of retirement income, like pensions and 401(k)s are subject to state tax. Additionally, there’s no special exemption for retirees, but property tax rates are relatively low compared to home values, and some seniors may qualify for reductions through California’s Property Tax Postponement Program.
Unfortunately, sales tax in California is among the highest in the nation, so this will affect how much you pay for goods.
Recreation and Amenities
California is home to some of the best nature in the country, and retirees can enjoy:
Over 270 state parks and several amazing national parks
Fun festivals and events throughout the year
Endless options for golf, hiking, and community outings
What Age Can You Retire in California?
In California, full Social Security benefits are accessible when you are 67 if you were born after 1960. You can start receiving benefits at age 62, but they will be reduced.
The Best Places to Retire in California
Ready to find the best place to retire in California for your needs? Here are just a few of the best places to retire in California.
San Diego | One of the Best Places to Retire in Southern California
San Diego is often ranked among the best places to retire in California, and it’s easy to see why. With a gorgeous location along the Pacific Ocean in San Diego County, the city offers mild weather, beautiful beaches, and a relaxed lifestyle. While housing costs average around $990,000, the city’s amenities make the cost worth it. You can check out cultural attractions like Balboa Park, the San Diego Museum of Art, and the Old Globe Theater. According to Census Bureau data, San Diego has a growing senior population and is the best place to retire in California for active living.
Population: 1.38 million
Share of population 65+: 14.2%
Crime rate: 2,248 crimes per 100,000 people (20.9% lower than state average and 3.3% lower than national average)
Average home price: $990,000
Carmel-By-the-Sea | One of the Best Places to Retire in California for Beach Lovers
Carmel-by-the-Sea is one of the best places to retire in California for those seeking a coastal lifestyle. While housing prices are high, the town’s walkability, safety, and beautiful scenery make it a contender for the best retirement city in California. This scenic town along the Pacific Ocean offers the perfect location and features boutique shops, gourmet dining, and friendly residents. It’s one of the most popular places to retire in California, with a senior population of 45%.
Population: 14,239
Share of population 65+: 45.0%
Crime rate: 1,958 crimes per 100,000 people (31% lower than state average and 14% lower than national average)
Average home price: $2.9 million
San Francisco | Often Considered the Best Place to Retire in Northern California
San Francisco is a top contender among the best places to retire in California. Located in the northern region of the state, San Francisco offers iconic attractions like Golden Gate Park, the de Young Museum, and incredible dining. The city’s excellent public transportation and access to top-tier healthcare make it ideal for seniors.
When comparing San Diego vs San Francisco, the Bay Area offers a more cosmopolitan lifestyle with cooler weather (and steeper hills). So, for those seeking a walkable city experience, San Francisco may be the best place to retire in California.
Population: 873,965
Share of population 65+: 17.2%
Crime rate: 6,942 crimes per 100,000 people (144.2% higher than state average and 198.7% higher than national average)
Average home price: $1.45 million
Del Webb Rancho Mirage | One of the Top-Rated California Retirement Communities
If you’re looking for the best California 55+ communities, then check out Del Webb Rancho Mirage. This amazing community is located in Rancho Mirage, which is often considered one of the best places to retire in California. It’s the perfect spot for nature lovers and is right outside of Joshua Tree National Park. The community contains single-family homes ranging from 1,324 to 3,051 square feet and includes amenities like a resort-style pool, pickleball and bocce courts, and a world-class fitness center.
Population (Rancho Mirage): 16,999
Share of population 65+ (Rancho Mirage): 49.9%
Crime rate (Rancho Mirage): 4,483 crimes per 100,000 people (57.7% higher than state average and 92.9% higher than national average)
Average home price: Starting from $507,990
Palm Springs | One of the Best Small Towns for Retirement in California
Palm Springs is one of the best places to retire in California, especially for those looking for sunshine and affordability. With a median home price of $690,000, it’s among the more budget-friendly metropolitan areas in the state and is often considered the best place to retire in California on a budget.
Located just two hours from Los Angeles, it offers retirees resort-style amenities with golf courses, spas, art galleries, and the famous Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. The cost of living is also relatively manageable compared to coastal cities, and the area boasts strong health care options.
Population: 44,575
Share of population 65+: 33.8%
Crime rate: 5,655 crimes per 100,000 people (98.9% higher than state average and 143.3% higher than national average)
Average home price: $690,000
Santa Barbara | One of the Best Places to Retire in California for a Laid-Back Lifestyle
Santa Barbara is often ranked among the best places to retire in California, offering retirees excellent health care and a high quality of life. Known for its Mediterranean architecture and mild winters, this Golden State gem features amazing beaches and cultural attractions like the Santa Barbara Museum of Art and the historic Mission.
While the median home price is higher (often exceeding $1 million), the beauty and amenities make it worth considering. When comparing Santa Barbara vs San Diego, Santa Barbara offers a quieter, small-town feel with a higher cost of living.
Population: 88,665
Share of population 65+: 20.1%
Crime rate: 2,500 crimes per 100,000 people (12.1% lower than state average and 7.6% higher than national average)
Average home price: $1.87 million
The Meadows at Marsh Creek | One of the Best 55 and Over Communities in California
Retirees love The Meadows at Marsh Creek, which is often considered one of the best places to retire in California. One of the most popular 55+ communities in California, retirees can live the retirement dream here with newly built single-story duet-style homes ranging from 1,633 to 1,772 square feet. Homes include two to three bedrooms, two bathrooms, one half bath, and a two car garage.
The community also features a clubhouse, green space, an outdoor pool, and a dog park. You’ll also be just a short drive away from top-rated medical care at places like Sutter Delta Medical Center and Brentwood Health Center. It’s also one of the best places to retire in California for outdoor activities and is set against the foothills of Mount Diablo State Park.
Population (Brentwood): 64,292
Share of population 65+ (Brentwood): 15.1%
Crime rate (Brentwood): 2,377 crimes per 100,000 people (16.4% lower than state average and 2.3% higher than national average)
Average home price: Contact for pricing
Santa Rosa | Offers Residents a Small-Town Feel With Big-City Amenities
Santa Rosa is one of the best places to retire in California, especially for those seeking both small-town charm and wine country elegance. Located in Sonoma County, this city offers a peaceful setting where retirees can enjoy world-class wineries, scenic trails, and top-rated restaurants.
Retirees love access to regional parks, like the Luther Burbank Center for the Arts and the Charles M. Schulz Museum. While it feels worlds away, you’re never too far away from big-city amenities and fun things to do in Northern California.
Population: 178,127
Share of population 65+: 18.6%
Crime rate: 1,698 crimes per 100,000 people (40.3% lower than state average and 26.9% lower than national average)
Average home price: $745,000
Map of the Best Places to Retire in California
Here’s a full map of the best places to retire in California.
Give Us a Call for Help With Your California Move
Now that you know all of the best places to retire in California, where will you plant your roots? After you’ve found the best place to retire in California, give the experts at Republic Moving & Storage a call.
Our San Diego movers will make your life easier before, during, and after your moving day, allowing you to start enjoying your retirement quickly. To discuss your move and receive a free quote, give us a call at (619) 591-0079.
Bill Lovejoy
Bill Lovejoy is the president of Republic Moving and Storage. Purchasing the assets of Republic Relocations in May 2008. In 2008, Republic did $700K of business and today is over $15 Million. Republic was named AMSA’s 2010 Agent of the Year for Service Excellence after only two years in business.
Bill is proud that he grew up doing every facet of the business from a local mover, over the road driver, salesperson, operations manager, and general manager. (and just about everything else in between) Before purchasing Republic, Bill was with Bekins Moving and Storage where he served as a Senior Vice President and was a partner. He was responsible for three HHG companies as well as two logistics companies.
A proud Father of six children, and a lovely wife, Carol, Bill constantly works to keep a balance between work and family Life. Bills “stress relieving” hobbies include racket ball, basketball, tennis, and golf.
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