What Are the Largest Cities in California? 🏙️ | 10 Biggest Cities in California By Population

Are you thinking about moving to the Golden State or just planning a visit? Whether you're chasing career opportunities, beautiful beaches, or just a change of scenery, exploring the largest cities in California can help you find the perfect place to land. From coastal metropolises to inland powerhouses, these California cities offer a wide range of lifestyles, climates, and cultures to explore. Here are the 10 biggest cities in California by population and what makes each unique.

What Are the Largest Cities in California?

California is the most populous state in the country, with a population of 39.54 million in 2020, according to the United States Census Bureau. Nearly one out of every nine people in the U.S. lives in California! Here are the largest cities in California to explore.

#1. Los Angeles

• Population: 3,898,747
• Area: 498 square miles
• Metro population: 12.8 million

Los Angeles is the largest city in California and a global center for entertainment, business, and culture. With a population of 3.9 million, it’s the heart of the Los Angeles Metropolitan Area, which stretches across five counties and is home to 12.8 million people. The Los Angeles metro area offers everything from world-class beaches to mountain trails, making it one of the most dynamic places to live or visit in the Golden State.

Downtown Los Angeles is a vibrant hub of arts, culture, and commerce. It's home to iconic landmarks like the Walt Disney Concert Hall and the Broad Museum. Just beyond the city center, you'll find neighborhoods that reflect the city's famous cultural diversity, including Koreatown, Little Tokyo, and Boyle Heights.

Los Angeles County is incredibly varied, and it’s not just urban sprawl: it also includes surprising green spaces. In Compton, for example, you’ll find urban farming communities that are transforming empty lots into local food sources and community hubs. It’s part of a broader movement toward sustainability and self-reliance in traditionally underserved areas. There are even several equestrian communities in the county offering a rural atmosphere!

In the Greater Los Angeles area, you'll also find Ontario Mills, the region's largest shopping mall with 28 million visitors per year, the Angeles National Forest, the famous beach city of Malibu, and Hawthorne, home to the Beach Boys Historic Landmark.

At the edge of the Greater Los Angeles metro area is the Inland Empire, a metro area anchored by Riverside and San Bernardino and bordering Los Angeles, Orange, and San Diego counties. Riverside is part of both the Inland Empire and Los Angeles metro area and best known as the birthplace of California's citrus industry.

#2. San Diego

• San Diego population: 1,386,932
• Area: 372 square miles
• Metro population: 3.27 million (San Diego County)

San Diego, one of the three largest cities in California, is known for its stunning beaches, mild year-round climate, laid-back coastal vibe, and strong military presence. As a cultural hub of Southern California, it offers an exciting mix of attractions for residents and visitors. The city is home to the world-famous San Diego Zoo, located in the heart of Balboa Park, a massive urban park filled with museums, gardens, and theaters.

Just south in Chula Vista, the Living Coast Discovery Center brings people closer to the region’s unique coastal wildlife and ecosystems. The nearby coastal resort city of Carlsbad is home to LEGOLAND California and the picturesque South Carlsbad State Beach.

#3. San Jose

• San Jose population: 1,013,240
• Area: 181 square miles
• Metro population: 2 million (San Jose–Sunnyvale–Santa Clara)

As the third largest city in California and the biggest in Northern California, San Jose sits at the heart of Silicon Valley. Known for its thriving tech industry, it's home to many of the world's leading tech companies and startups. The city offers high-paying jobs and a fast-paced, innovation-driven lifestyle that attracts professionals from around the globe.

San Jose also balances its high-tech vibe with family-friendly attractions like the Tech Interactive Museum, lush parks, and a walkable downtown area filled with eateries and cultural spots. If you're looking for one of the largest cities in California where you can balance the perks of a high-paying career and suburban life, San Jose is a great choice.

#4. San Francisco

• San Francisco population: 873,965
• Area: 232 square miles
• Metro population: 4.56 million (San Francisco Bay Area)

Famous for its steep hills, colorful architecture, and the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco is the cultural and economic heart of the San Francisco Bay Area. Despite its compact size, the city is packed with iconic landmarks, from historic cable cars to Alcatraz Island. It’s a favorite for urban dwellers who love walkability, diversity, and stunning waterfront views.

With a vibrant cultural scene, strong job market, and proximity to tech giants, San Francisco continues to be a desirable, if expensive, place to live for opportunity and adventure.

#5. Fresno

• Fresno population: 542,107
• Area: 116 square miles
• Metro population: 1.16 million (Fresno and Madera counties)

Located in the San Joaquin Valley, Fresno is the county seat of Fresno County. It's not just one of the largest cities in California: Fresno is the most populous city in Central California and the most populous inland city in the state. It's also the country's third-largest majority-Hispanic city.

Known for its agricultural roots, the city is a major producer of fruits, vegetables, and nuts that feed the nation. Fresno also acts as a gateway to Yosemite National Park, making it a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts. With a lower cost of living compared to coastal cities and growing cultural and business scenes, Fresno is a great option for families and individuals looking for space and affordability.

#6. Sacramento

• Sacramento population: 524,943
• Area: 100 square miles
• Metro population: 2.4 million (Greater Sacramento)

Sacramento, the state capital, is located in Sacramento Valley in Northern California and anchors the Sacramento metropolitan area. It’s a city with a rich history as a former Gold Rush boom town. It remains one of the largest cities in California and is now home to a growing government, healthcare, and tech workforce.

Downtown Sacramento blends modern living with historic charm, from the vibrant Midtown district to the preserved Old Sacramento Waterfront. The city also offers more affordable housing than most major California cities, making it an appealing option for young professionals and families.

#7. Long Beach

• Long Beach population: 466,742
• Area: 80 square miles

Long Beach is a major port city in the Gateway Cities region of LA County. It's home to one of the world's busiest shipping ports, and it's built over an oilfield with many wells under the city and offshore. The city is home to attractions like the Aquarium of the Pacific, the Queen Mary, and a bustling arts and music scene.

Long Beach is one of the largest cities in California that is not the anchor of a metro area or a county seat. It's part of Greater Los Angeles and the Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim CSA. Its waterfront location, diverse communities, and strong economy make it a great choice if you want to be near Los Angeles but enjoy a more laid-back atmosphere.

#8. Oakland

• Oakland population: 440,646
• Area: 78 square miles
• Metro population: 7.8 million (Bay Area)

Oakland is one of the largest cities in California and the third-largest of Bay Area cities. Situated across the bay from San Francisco in the East Bay area, Oakland is a vibrant, diverse city with a growing population and a unique cultural identity. The city boasts a thriving food scene, world-class sports venues, and a rich history rooted in activism and the arts.

Oakland's neighborhoods offer everything from scenic hillside views to bustling urban centers, and its real estate is generally more affordable than its San Francisco neighbor, making it a great alternative for Bay Area living.

#9. Bakersfield

• Bakersfield population: 403,455
• Area: 151 square miles
• Metro population: 909,000 (Kern County)

Located in Kern County, Bakersfield is known for its role in agriculture, oil production, and especially country music. Often referred to as the birthplace of the “Bakersfield Sound,” the city has deep musical roots and hosts regular concerts and festivals.

Among the largest cities in California, Bakersfield is also one of the most affordable, appealing to families, retirees, and young professionals looking for space and lower housing costs in California's Central Valley.

#10. Anaheim

• Anaheim population: 346,824
• Area: 51 square miles
• Metro population: 12.7 million (LA metro area)

Rounding out the list of the 10 largest cities in California is Anaheim, the largest city in Orange County, or the OC. Best known as the home of Disneyland, Anaheim is a family-friendly OC city. It’s a popular tourist destination with good schools and a growing business hub, especially in tourism, healthcare, and tech. Anaheim also boasts major sports teams like the Anaheim Ducks and Los Angeles Angels.

Anaheim is close to other great OC communities like Huntington Beach, an Orange County coastal city known as Surf City USA, and Santa Ana, the county seat known for its historic downtown.

Anaheim combines family-friendly living with Southern California’s sunny lifestyle, making it a top destination for both visitors and those looking to settle down in a dynamic, entertainment-rich community.

Map of the 10 Largest Cities in California

Other Major Cities in California

While the ten largest cities in California are the most well-known, there are 37 cities in California with at least 150,000 people. Here are other beautiful cities to explore.

FAQ

What Is the Biggest City in California?

Los Angeles is the largest city in California by population, with around 4 million residents. It’s at the heart of the largest cities in California in the SoCal area and known for its diverse cultural scene, entertainment industry, and economic influence.

What Are the Three Largest Cities in California?

Most of California’s largest cities are in Southern California or the Bay Area of Northern California. The three largest cities in California by population are:

1. Los Angeles: 4 million
2. San Diego: 1.4 million
3. San Jose: 1 million

What Is the Largest City in California by Area?

Los Angeles is also the largest city in California by land area. The city covers over 500 square miles, stretching from the Pacific coastline to the inland valleys, making it both vast and diverse in geography.

What Is the Least Populated City in California?

The least populated city in California is Amador City in Amador County, part of the Sierra Nevada area, with a 2020 census population of 200. The next-smallest cities in California are Vernon and the City of Industry, both located in Los Angeles County. These cities have fewer than 300 residents but are home to many industrial businesses.

What Is the Most Populated Area of California?

Southern California is the most populated area of the state. It includes several of California’s most populous cities, such as Los Angeles, San Diego, and Anaheim, and is home to tens of millions of people across sprawling urban and suburban regions.

Which of California's Largest Cities Is Right for You?

From tech hubs like San Jose to coastal getaways like San Diego and Long Beach, the biggest cities in California offer something for everyone. Does one of the largest cities in California seem like the perfect place to call home? Republic Moving & Storage is here to help with your move.

We're the best San Diego movers for a seamless, worry-free move. Call our team today at (619) 591-0079 for a free, personalized moving quote.