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Dreaming of sunshine, surf, and startup culture? Living in California means embracing a lifestyle where scenic coastlines, towering redwoods, snow-capped mountains, world-class cities, and laid-back beach towns collide in one unforgettable place.
Whether you're drawn to the tech-driven energy of Silicon Valley, the cinematic charm of Los Angeles, or the natural beauty of the Sierra Nevada, moving to California offers endless possibilities. But before packing your bags, it’s important to know what daily life is like as a California resident, from the cost of living and job opportunities to traffic, housing, and climate.
Here's what you want to know to decide if living in California is the right move for you.
Table of Contents
Is California a Good Place to Live?
California can be a fantastic place to live - if it fits your lifestyle and budget. The state offers a unique blend of natural beauty, diverse cultures, and booming industries, making it ideal for outdoor lovers, creatives, entrepreneurs, and tech professionals. With access to beaches, mountains, deserts, and lush forests, the variety of landscapes is unmatched.
California's major cities, like L.A., San Diego, San Francisco, and Sacramento, offer distinct lifestyles and career opportunities. However, the high cost of living, housing prices, and traffic congestion in urban areas can be challenging for some.
Ultimately, living in California is about finding the right balance between opportunity and affordability in one of the most iconic states in the country.
What Is California Known for?
California is known for its beautiful beaches and scenery, from dramatic Pacific waves breaking against sheer cliffs to towering redwoods, majestic mountains, and stark desert landscapes. It's also known for iconic California landmarks like Lake Tahoe, Yosemite, Hollywood, and the Venice and Santa Monica Boardwalks.
As the nation’s leading producer of fruits, vegetables, and nuts, it also boasts incredible agricultural abundance, particularly in the Central Valley. California is a global innovation leader thanks to its world-renowned tech hubs like Silicon Valley and Silicon Beach. The Golden State is equally famous for its entertainment industry in Hollywood, vibrant cultural diversity, and progressive lifestyle that draws millions of visitors - and new residents - every year.
Where Is California?
California is located on the West Coast of the United States, bordered by Oregon to the north, Nevada to the east, Arizona to the southeast, the Pacific Ocean to the west, and Mexico to the south. Stretching over 800 miles from top to bottom, there are several distinct California regions:
Northern California (NorCal) is home to the North Coast (and the undeveloped Lost Coast area), the San Francisco Bay Area (including tech-driven Silicon Valley and Wine Country), the Emerald Triangle area known for its cannabis production, Gold Country, and the Sacramento Valley
Central California includes the fertile Central Valley (and the San Joaquin Valley), the Central Coast (including the Monterey Bay area), and part of the Sierra Nevada region
Southern California (SoCal) is home to the Los Angeles area (including the San Fernando Valley, San Gabriel Valley, and Antelope), Orange County, San Diego County, and the Inland Empire (centered on Riverside and San Bernardino counties, the Victor Valley, and the Coachella Valley)
Eastern California is a more rural region aside from the Lake Tahoe area and major population centers, which are closer to Los Angeles. The counties to the east of the Sierra Nevada have a drier climate.
The mountainous Sierra Nevada region is mostly in Central and Eastern California but extends into Northern Cali.
The Deserts region includes the Mojave Desert, the Colorado Desert, and the Great Basin Desert, covering the southeastern portion of the state.
Regions of California by Wrh2, LtPowers, and Cacahuate, CC BY-SA 1.0
Transportation in California
Getting around California can be both exciting and challenging, depending on where you live. While living in California, you'll want to quickly familiarize yourself with the network of major highways and interstates, including:
I-5 runs north-south from the Oregon border to Mexico
I-80 runs east-west, connecting San Francisco to the East Coast
I-15 runs north-south, connecting Los Angeles with the Inland Empire and Nevada
I-10 runs east-west from Los Angeles to the East Coast
I-405 runs through the western section of Greater Los Angeles to Irvine and San Diego
The iconic Pacific Coast Highway (PCH, or SR 1 in some areas) follows the Pacific Ocean coast for 656 miles
US 101 is a north-south highway stretching from L.A. to Washington State
California public transportation is robust in some regions and limited in others. Areas with the best public transit include:
The Bay Area, served by (Bay Area Rapid Transit), Caltrain, Muni (San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency) trolleys and trains, local buses, and ferries
Iconic Pacific Coast Highway (PCH or SR 1) near Big Sur, California
How Many Airports Are in California?
There are 27 commercial airports in California and more than 210 general aviation airports. There are nine major international airports in California. While living in California, you'll be served by the following major airports.
LAX serves almost 77 million passengers per year. It's the West Coast's largest and busiest airport and the 11th busiest in the world. It's the only U.S. airport to rank in the top five for cargo and passenger traffic.
San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport or McChesney Field (SBP)
Charles M. Schulz–Sonoma County Airport (STS)
Monterey Regional Airport (MRY)
How Many People Live in California?
The population of California is 39,538,223 as of the 2020 census, with more than 14.2 million households. California is the most populous state, with 12% of the U.S. population. That means one in eight US residents are living in California. People living in California speak 130+ languages.
The state has no majority ethnic group or race. The racial and ethnic composition is 40% Hispanic or Latino, 34% non-Hispanic white, 16% Asian or Pacific Islander, 6% Black or African American, 3% two or more races, and less than 1% Native American or Alaska Native.
About 27% of Californians are foreign-born compared to the national average of 12%. Almost half of children living in California have at least one immigrant parent. More than half of foreign-born residents are naturalized U.S. citizens, and most others are legal permanent residents.
Foreign-born residents are concentrated in major coastal communities, accounting for at least one-third of residents in counties like Los Angeles, San Francisco, Alameda, and San Mateo.
About half of California's immigrants are from Latin America, but most recent arrivals are originally from Asia. Major countries of origin include Mexico, the Philippines, China, India, and Vietnam.
What Are the Largest Cities in California?
The Golden State is home to some of the country's most dynamic urban centers, with 37 major California cities of at least 150,000 people. From iconic coastal communities to inland hubs of innovation and industry, California's largest cities offer diverse lifestyles, cultures, and economic opportunities.
If you're considering living in California, it may help to explore the largest California cities by population.
Ahead of moving to California, you have an important decision to make: which city to call home. Choosing where to live in California depends on your lifestyle, career goals, and budget. From quiet suburbs and scenic mountain towns to bustling urban centers, there's something for everyone. Here are some great options across both northern and southern California.
Overall Best Cities to Live in California
If you want the perfect balance of culture, economy, and quality of life, here are popular options for living in California with access to great amenities and strong job markets:
Irvine: A master-planned city in Orange County known for top-ranked schools, very low crime, and clean neighborhoods
San Diego: A vibrant coastal city with unbeatable weather, beach access, and a strong biotech and military economy
San Jose: The capital of Silicon Valley, ideal for tech professionals and families
Santa Barbara: A luxurious seaside city with Spanish-style architecture and a relaxed coastal lifestyle
Best Places to Live in California for Families
Looking for excellent schools, safety, and family-friendly amenities? Consider these beautiful cities.
Folsom: A suburb of Sacramento with top schools, plenty of parks, and a strong sense of community
Pleasanton: A quiet East Bay town with great schools, a historic downtown, and family-focused neighborhoods
Irvine: Worth mentioning again for its family-oriented design, green spaces, community events, and one of the lowest crime rates among large cities
Carlsbad: Just north of San Diego, Carlsbad offers beaches, top-rated schools, and a slower suburban pace
Carlsbad, California
Best Places to Live in California for Young Adults
For recent graduates, entrepreneurs, and creatives, these cities are among the best places to live in California for young adults:
San Francisco: A hub for tech, finance, and arts, perfect for career-driven individuals and nightlife seekers
Los Angeles: With its entertainment scene, startups, and diversity, L.A. is ideal for young adults chasing big dreams
Sacramento: More affordable than coastal cities, Sacramento has a growing food scene and a youthful downtown
Oakland: Trendy neighborhoods, diverse culture, and proximity to tech jobs make Oakland popular with young professionals
Best Places to Live in Northern California
If you love redwoods, rolling hills, and tech-driven communities, these are some of the best places to live in northern California:
Palo Alto: The heart of Silicon Valley, known for innovation and beautiful residential areas
Davis: A college town near Sacramento with bike-friendly streets and a close-knit vibe
Santa Rosa: Located in wine country, offering small-town charm and access to nature
Berkeley: Home to UC Berkeley, the city has a progressive, intellectual atmosphere with arts and activism
Best Places to Live in Southern California
Prefer beaches and sunshine year-round? These are some of the best places to live in Southern California:
Santa Monica: A vibrant beach city with luxury condos, nightlife, and easy access to L.A.
Temecula: Affordable, family-friendly, and known for wineries and suburban growth
Redondo Beach: Coastal living with a tight-knit beach town feel and one of the state's best school districts
Pasadena: Historic homes, great restaurants, and proximity to Los Angeles with a more relaxed pace
What Is the Cost of Living in California?
The average cost of living in California is about 50% higher than the national average, especially in major urban areas like San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego. Housing is the biggest factor. Home prices and rent are some of the highest in the country, often making it difficult for first-time buyers or renters on a tight budget. Everyday expenses like groceries, utilities, transportation, and healthcare also tend to be higher than in many other states.
On top of that, people living in California face a heavier tax burden. California has a state income tax with one of the highest top rates in the nation at 12.3%, plus an extra 1% on income over $1 million. The statewide sales tax rate is 7.25%, but the combined rate is as high as 10.50% to 11.25%, particularly in areas of Los Angeles and Alameda counties. You can check California city and county tax rates before moving.
While property taxes are relatively moderate due to Proposition 13, the high cost of homes means the actual tax bills can still be substantial. Combined with high taxes overall, it’s important to carefully evaluate your income and budget before moving to California.
Where Is the Cheapest Place to Live in California?
Living in California may be expensive, but some areas are more affordable than others. As a general rule, the most affordable cities in California tend to be located inland or in the northern parts of the state. Looking for the cheapest places to live in California where you can enjoy the benefits of the Golden State without breaking the bank?
Cities like Bakersfield, Fresno, and Visalia in the Central Valley consistently rank among the most affordable, with a lower cost of housing. Chico, Redding, and Eureka in Northern California are also budget-friendly options that offer access to nature and a strong sense of community. A couple of smaller communities - Merced and Hanford - even offer a cost of living in California below the U.S. average.
Keep in mind many of these cities have housing that's actually below the U.S. median, but it's somewhat offset by much higher utility costs and other expenses.
Historic downtown Eureka, California
California Real Estate & Housing Market
The California housing market is notoriously expensive. Buying a home in California is challenging due to already high housing prices, average home values that are rapidly rising, mortgage rates that are also rising fast, and stiff competition in some markets. Housing prices in most areas price out many would-be buyers. In 2024, the California Association of Realtors found that a homebuyer would need to earn $511,600 to afford the median home price in San Mateo County, $349,000 in Orange County, and $251,200 in San Diego County.
What Is the Average Home Price in California?
The median home price for a mid-tier home in the U.S. is $361,000, but $789,000 in California. Even bottom-tier home prices in California are unaffordable to many at $479,000 on average. In 2025, the monthly mortgage payment for a typical home reached $5,861 - an astounding 82% increase from 2020.
Monthly mortgage payments on a two-bedroom home are 71% more than renting.
The median sales price for a home in California is now $832,500, up 6% year-over-year. The median price for a condo is $660,700 - still almost double the typical price for a home in the United States. 39% of recently sold homes sold above list price.
Here are median home prices in select cities:
Irvine: $1.84 million
Fremont: $1.5 million
San Jose: $1.3 million
San Francisco: $1.27 million
Los Angeles: $1.25 million
San Diego: $979,000
Sacramento: $525,000
Merced: $422,500
Visalia: $421,500
Bakersfield: $420,000
Fresno: $414,000
What Is the Average Rent in California?
The average apartment rent in California was $2,481 in April 2025, according to Redfin, up $65 from the previous month. Here are the average rents you can expect while living in California:
Irvine: $3,781
San Francisco: $3,417
Los Angeles: $3,285
Temecula: $3,134
San Diego: $3,116
Long Beach: $2,280
Sacramento: $1,999
The good news is that California law limits how much landlords can increase rent. Beginning August 1 of each year, rent can be increased by the lower of 5% plus inflation or 10%. Some cities, like L.A., have their own rent restrictions.
What's the Weather Like in California?
From sun-kissed beaches and redwood forests to rugged mountains, snowy peaks, and harsh desert climates, living in California means experiencing a wide range of climates and landscapes. The California climate is one of the biggest draws for people moving to the state.
Much of the state enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and dry, sunny summers. The southeast area has harsh hot desert and cold desert climates.
Summer in California often means long days of sunshine and beach weather, especially in coastal areas, while winter in California tends to be mild and rainy in the north and pleasantly cool in the south. Inland regions and deserts, like Palm Springs or the Central Valley, experience intense summer heat, with average daily highs easily topping 90°F or more.
Thanks to its size and varied geography, the average daily temperature in California can range widely depending on the region. Coastal cities like San Diego and San Francisco enjoy mild weather year-round, while mountain towns like Lake Tahoe experience snowy winters perfect for skiing.
California's Central Valley
How Cold Does It Get in California?
It can get quite cold in the mountains and high desert regions of the state. The coldest place in California is typically Bodie, a former gold-mining town in the Sierra Nevada that has recorded temperatures as low as -30°F in winter.
How Hot Does It Get in California?
Summer heat in California can be intense, especially inland and in desert regions. Coastal regions usually enjoy pleasant temperatures in the 70s and 80s, but areas like the Central Valley and desert communities can regularly see triple digits. The warmest place in California, and one of the hottest places on Earth, is Death Valley, where summer highs often exceed 120°F.
What Natural Disasters Occur in California?
There are several types of natural disasters in California, many of which are tied to the state’s dry climate and seismic activity. Wildfires are one of the most common threats, especially during late summer and early fall when vegetation is dry and winds are high. Earthquakes are another major risk, as the state sits on several fault lines, including the San Andreas Fault. Flooding, drought, mudslides, and power outages linked to weather events also occur, particularly during or after the rainy season.
Things to Do in California
While living in California, you'll enjoy endless outdoor activities, hiking trails in diverse landscapes, and stunning beaches, not to mention world-class cultural attractions. Here are some of the best places to visit in California:
If you’re planning activities and exploring local attractions,BetterTrips is a great resource for finding vacation rentals, curated experiences, and hidden gems across California.
Living in California is a dream for sports fans. There are more professional sports teams in California than in any other state.
California NFL teams:
San Francisco 49ers
Los Angeles Rams
Los Angeles Chargers
California NBA teams:
Los Angeles Lakers
Los Angeles Clippers
Golden State Warriors
Sacramento Kings
California MLB teams:
Los Angeles Dodgers
San Francisco Giants
San Diego Padres
Los Angeles Angels
California NHL teams:
Los Angeles Kings
San Jose Sharks
Anaheim Ducks
California MLS teams:
LA Galaxy
Los Angeles FC
San Jose Earthquakes
San Diego FC - first season played in 2025
California Economy
California has the largest state economy in the United States and the 4th largest economy in the world. The California GDP exceeds $4 trillion, with economic growth exceeding the top three economies. From tech and entertainment to agriculture and renewable energy, the major industries in California drive innovation and fuel a booming job market that attracts talent from across the globe.
There are dozens of Fortune 500 companies in California, including tech giants like Apple, Google, Meta, and Intel, along with global brands like Disney, Chevron, and Wells Fargo. In addition to Silicon Valley’s influence, the Central Valley supports thousands of jobs in California through agriculture. With world-renowned universities, California also offers robust job opportunities in research, healthcare, education, and biotechnology.
What Is the Average Salary in California?
How much do you need to earn to afford living in California? It depends on where you live.
The national average hourly pay is $32.66. The average hourly wage for companies employing in California is $40.93, according to the most recent data. While average income in California is higher, it's usually not proportionate to the higher cost of living in California. Due to the higher cost of living, it is relatively unusual for employees in California to work remotely for an out-of-state employer, though this can be facilitated through a California PEO. The average pay in California depends on the metro area. Here's the average hourly pay by major metro area:
San Francisco area: $48.15
San Diego area: $37.85
Sacramento area: $36.66
Los Angeles area: $36.64
Per capita income varies by region. In 2023, the per capita income in the Bay Area was $131,000. That was more than double the average in the Inland Empire, Central Valley, and NorCal areas.
The median household income in California is $89,870.
The living wage in California is $27.32 per hour for a single adult with no children and $64.17 for a single adult with two kids. Two working adults with no children need to earn $38.53 per hour, or $51.15 each with two children.
California's school system presents a mixed picture. The California education ranking is #24 overall, according to US News. It ranks #5 in the country for higher education but #38 for Pre-K-12 education. However, public schools vary significantly by metro area and city. Of the top 50 best high schools in California, 10 were ranked among the 100 best in the country.
California Academy of Mathematics & Science in Carson (#24 nationally)
Girls Academic Leadership Academy: Dr. Michelle King School for STEM in University Park, Los Angeles (#44 nationally)
Troy High School in Fullerton (#45 nationally)
Henry M. Gunn High School in Palo Alto (#56 nationally)
Canyon Crest Academy in Pacific Highlands Ranch, San Diego (#58 nationally)
Here are the best school districts in California:
Los Gatos-Saratoga Joint Union High School District (Los Gatos, CA)
Palo Alto USD (Palo Alto, CA)
La Cañada USD (La Cañada, CA)
Mountain View-Los Altos Union High School District (Mountain View, CA)
San Dieguito Union High School District (Encinitas, CA)
Carmel USD (Carmel, CA)
San Marino Unified School District (San Marino, CA)
Arcadia USD (Arcadia, CA)
Fremont Union High School District (Sunnyvale, CA)
Redondo Beach USD (Redondo Beach, CA)
How Many Colleges Are in California?
There are 750+ higher education institutions in California, including private and public California colleges and universities, community colleges, and vocational schools.
Public California universities include:
10 campuses in the University of California (UC) system, including prestigious institutions like UC Berkeley and UCLA, are among the best colleges in California and the U.S.
Ready to brush up on your knowledge of the Golden State ahead of living in California? Here are some interesting facts about California:
California produces over 80% of all U.S. wine, with Napa Valley and Sonoma as leading wine regions.
California is home to the world's oldest living tree, tallest living tree, and largest living tree: a Great Basin bristlecone pine named Methuselah in the White Mountains (approx. 4,855 years old), a coast redwood named Hyperion in the Redwood National Park (380.8 ft tall), and a giant sequoia named General Sherman in the Sequoia National Park (52,500 cubic feet by volume, 102.6’ circumference at the ground).
California’s state animal is the California grizzly bear (Ursus arctos californicus), which is now extinct but still featured on the state flag.
It's home to the highest and lowest points in the contiguous United States: Badwater Basin in Death Valley (282' below sea level) and Mt. Whitney (14,494' elevation).
California is the birthplace of fortune cookies, Barbie dolls, wetsuits, Frisbees, blue jeans, skateboarding, electric guitars, hula hoops, and the internet.
It's the only state to host the Summer and Winter Olympics: the 1932 and 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles and the 1960 Winter Olympics in Squaw Valley.
Napa Valley wine country in Northern California
Pros and Cons of Living in California
Here's a quick look at the key pros and cons of living in California to help you decide if moving to the Golden State is the right choice for you.
Pros of living in California:
Mild weather and sunshine year-round, especially in coastal regions
Access to world-class beaches, mountains, forests, and deserts
Strong job market with opportunities in tech, entertainment, healthcare, and renewable energy
Great educational opportunities with top-ranked California universities and diverse K-12 options
A diverse, multicultural population with vibrant arts, food, and music scenes
Endless options for outdoor recreation, like hiking, surfing, skiing, and biking
Leading hub for innovation and startups
Rich in cultural landmarks, historical sites, and iconic tourist attractions
Robust public transportation systems in metro areas
Cons of living in California:
The cost of living in California is significantly higher than the national average, with high housing costs
High taxes, including income, sales, and fuel taxes
Heavy traffic and long commutes in urban areas
Overcrowding in some cities with strained infrastructure
Risk of natural disasters, including earthquakes, wildfires, and droughts
Water shortages and ongoing environmental concerns in some regions
Moving to California? Get Started With a Free Moving Quote
Ready to experience everything the Golden State has to offer? If you have settled on living in California, Republic Moving & Storage is here to help you chase the California dream. Our San Diego movers offer full-service moving solutions and top-notch customer service, no matter where you are settling down.
Call us today at (619) 591-0079 to request your free moving quote and start your journey to California with confidence!
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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