California is best known for its stunning natural beauty and amazing opportunities. The beautiful coastline and vibrant cities of CA are captivating. However, affordability is one of the main concerns for living in California. The living costs in California are 30% higher than the national average. This is a genuine concern for some which makes them hesitant to relocate in the state. Should you also give up your California dream?
Don’t worry, we got you. There are some great affordable cities in California. You can enjoy the unique beauty of CA without breaking the bank. In this article, we will explore the 9 cheapest places to live in California.
Are There Any Affordable Cities in California?
California is a highly desirable state. The diverse culture and community, education, and job opportunities of CA captivate all. The housing cost is sky-high in CA. You have to consider the increasing tax rate, transportation, health, and other costs before relocating.
Cost-of-living index is used to measure the relative cost of living in different areas. This measure takes into account all the expenses of living in a particular area. Housing costs, transportation, healthcare, utilities, taxes, and other expenses are included. The average home value in CA is $786,730 which is 6.8% higher than the previous year. California’s individual tax rate is the highest in the country.
The good news is that cost of living highly varies across cities in CA. For example- the house market value in southern California is much higher due to the demand. In the tech hub San Francisco, the average home value is $1,292,126. But in Fresno, the average home value is $386,069. You need to choose a place according to your needs. Young professionals who want advanced career opportunities choose urban developed cities. Whereas, retirees may choose laid-back suburban areas.
The Cheapest Places to Live in California
Now we will discuss California’s hidden gems for affordable living. It will help you to avoid the high price tag and find your dream place.
The Central Valley
Bakersfield
| Cost of Living Compared to the State Average | 20% lower |
| Average Home Value | $387,759 |
| Average Median rent | $1,950 |
Bakersfield is located in southern California. It is well-known for its agricultural hub and oil industry. Job opportunities in the agricultural, energy, healthcare, and logistics sectors are notable. Kern Medical Center is one of the biggest employers in Bakersfield. The city is also known for its musical heritage which allures the cultural enthusiasts. You can also indulge in Basque cuisine here. There are many great places to visit in this city like the Kern County Museum, Bakersfield Museum of Art, and Kern River Parkway Trail. The Sequoia National Park is only two hours north of Bakersfield.
Bakersfield is one of the best affordable cities in California. The cost of living is 20% lower than the state average, making it one of the most affordable places to live in California.
Fresno
| Cost of Living Compared to the State Average | 21% lower |
| Average Home Value | $386,069 |
| Average Median rent | $1,799 |
Fresno is the fifth largest city in California. The agriculture industry thrives in this area. It is an attractive place due to its proximity to the Yosemite National Park. Community Regional Medical Center, Deloitte, and JCPenny are some of the major employers of Fresno. Popular places are Fresno Chaffee Zoo and Woodward Park where you can enjoy your day out. You can visit the Fresno Art Museum to witness the cultural heritage.
You can enjoy the diversity of Fresno without burning a hole in your pocket. Fresco is the cheapest place to live in California central valley.
Modesto
| Cost of Living Compared to the State Average | 18% lower |
| Average Home Value | $449,907 |
| Average Median rent | $1,850 |
Modesto is known for its agricultural output and close-knit community. McHenry Museum, Tuolumne River Regional Park, and the Great Valley Museum are popular places to visit here. Gallo and Memorial Medical Center are key employers of Modesto. There are job opportunities in agricultural, manufacturing, and healthcare industries.
The cost of living in Modesto is 18% lower than the state average. It is a great choice for people seeking affordability and community spirit.
There are some common trade-offs of the Central Valley. These cities experience high temperatures during the summer. Also, they have a slower pace of life compared to the other metropolitan cities.
The Inland Empire
Riverside
| Cost of Living Compared to the State Average | 8% lower |
| Average Home Value | $646,244 |
| Average Median rent | $2,600 |
Riverside has a family-friendly atmosphere. It is an affordable city close to Los Angeles. It has a diverse and growing economy offering jobs in different sectors. Kaiser Permanente and University of California, Riverside are the major employers here. Top places to visit in Riverside include the Riverside Art Museum, Mount Rubidoux, and California Citrus State Historic Park.
The average house value in Riverside is significantly lower than Los Angeles. But Riverside’s residents often face longer commutes due to traffic congestion.
San Bernardino
| Cost of Living Compared to the State Average | 17% lower |
| Average Home Value | $489,999 |
| Average Median rent | $1,950 |
San Bernardino is a reasonable place that is famous for outdoor adventures. It attracts outdoor enthusiasts with places like San Bernardino National Forest and Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. The First Original McDonald’s Museum is situated in San Bernardino. Stater Bros. Market, Amazon, and San Bernardino Country are the key employers of this city.
The cost of living in San Bernardino is 17% lower than the state average, making it the cheapest place to live in California Inland Empire.
Ontario
| Cost of Living Compared to the State Average | 11% lower |
| Average Home Value | $676,209 |
| Average Median rent | $2,900 |
Ontario is known as a gateway to southern California. It is a great choice for people wanting access to both urban facilities and affordability. The city has Cucamonga-Guasti Regional Park, the Ontario Museum of History and Art, and many other popular places. Amazon, Toyota, and the Ontario Mills shopping center are major employers in Ontario.
One disadvantage is Ontario’s proximity to Los Angeles and major freeways result in longer commutes.
Northern California Cheap Cities
Redding
| Cost of Living Compared to the State Average | 21% lower |
| Average Home Value | $393,848 |
| Average Median rent | $1,699 |
Redding is known for its scenic beauty and vibrant community. It is a small town with diverse amenities. Turtle Bay Exploration Park and Lassen Volcanic National Park are must-visits here. The major job sectors here are healthcare, education and retail. Key employers include Shasta College, and Shasta Regional Medical Center.
The city is quite reasonable with a 21% lower cost of living compared to the state average. It is one of the cheapest places to live in California.
Chico
| Cost of Living Compared to the State Average | 31% Lower |
| Average Home Value | $465,797 |
| Average Median rent | $1,650 |
Chicho is known as a college town for its notable educational opportunities. California State University, Chico is one of the most renowned universities in the state. The city provides rich cultural experiences. Bidwell Park, Chico History Museum, and DeGarmo Park are popular attractions in Chico. Thursday night farmers market is another charm of Chico. Key employers of Chico are Sierra Nevada Brewing Company and Sisco Enterprises. Downtown Chico offers a variety of restaurants and cultural venues.
The cost of living is 31% lower than the state average. Chico is a little-known wonder for budget-conscious people. This makes it the cheapest place to live in California.
Eureka
| Cost of Living Compared to the State Average | 16% lower |
| Average Home Value | $426,146 |
| Average Median rent | $1,500 |
Eureka is a charming small town that offers coastal beauty and historic Victorian Homes. Sequoia Park, and Humboldt Bay are the center of attractions. The fishing industry is important to the local economy. The town has outstanding opportunities for outdoor experiences.
Eureka is fairly affordable considering the quality of life it offers. House values in Eureka have decreased 4.9% from previous year. It is a budget-friendly haven for people who want to save their money.
Northern California’s unique natural beauty and lower cost of living mesmerizes all. But there are some drawbacks of this area. Limited job opportunities and distance to major metropolitan areas are the major downsides.
Strategies for Living Affordably in CA
You will need the right strategies to live affordably in CA. Let’s have a look at how you can maximize affordability besides looking into the cheapest places to live in California.
- Consider living in condos and townhomes. These are available at lower purchase prices.
- Rent a house to avoid the high cost of buying a house. Renting will help to avoid increasing property tax and other buying costs.
- Live with roommates to share housing costs. You can split the household costs. Thus you can live in a place that will otherwise be unaffordable.
- Choose public transport. Carpooling, biking or simply walking to avoid higher transport costs.
- Utilize the budgeting tools like Mint and PocketGuard to track and control your expenses.
- Prioritize needs over wants and cut down avoidable expenses.
Find Your Dream Home in California with CA Flat Fee
Are you confused about finding an affordable place in CA? Don’t worry, AZ Flat Fee will guide you to ease all of your difficulties. We have local expertise in finding affordable housing options according to your budget. From finding a cheap location to moving into the house, we will help you in every step. Reach out to us to get a free consultation and personalized assistance. Our agents will do their best to locate the cheapest places to live in California at your budget.
Conclusion
California is the home of some of the most expensive cities in the U.S. But you can still relocate in the affordable cities that we have mentioned. Each of the cities has its pros and cons. That’s why it is important to choose based on your priorities. Local knowledge and appropriate strategies are important to choose affordable places in CA. A competent real estate agent can guide you in this journey. Are you ready to move to California? Then contact our company for expert guidance. We will make your dream to live in California a reality!
