The Cheapest Places To Live In California

California is known for its bustling cities, stunning beaches, and thriving entertainment industry. However, living in the Golden State can have a hefty price tag.

If you’re looking for an affordable place to call home, don’t despair. There are hidden gems throughout California that offer a high quality of life without breaking the bank.

From the stunning mountain views of the Sierra Nevada to the charming beach town of Oxnard, we’ve compiled a list of the top 5 cheapest places to live in California. Not only are these cities budget-friendly, but they also offer plenty of job opportunities, great schools, and a vibrant community.

So if you’re ready to explore all that California has to offer without spending a fortune, read on to discover the hidden gems of the Golden State.

The Cheapest Places To Live In California 2023

Cost of Living in California

California is known for its high cost of living. The state has some of the country’s highest housing costs, taxes, and healthcare expenses.

According to a report by CNBC, California ranks as the third most expensive state to live in, with an average cost of living of 52% higher than the national average. However, several cities in California are more affordable than others.

Top 5 Cheapest Places to Live in California

• Bakersfield
• Fresno
• Oxnard
• Redding
• Visalia

Bakersfield

Bakersfield is a city located in the southern part of California, known for its agriculture and oil production. It has a population of over 380,000 and a median home price of $258,000.

Bakersfield is an affordable city with a low % unemployment rate of 7.2% and a growing job market in the healthcare, education, and government sectors. Bakersfield has a rich cultural heritage, with several museums, art galleries, and theatres.

The city is also home to the Kern County Fair, which attracts thousands of visitors annually. The cost of living in Bakersfield is 12% lower than the national average, making it an ideal place for families and retirees looking for affordable living in California.

Fresno

Fresno is a city located in central California, with a population of over 500,000 people. The median home price in Fresno is $261,000, making it one of the most affordable cities in California.

Fresno has a low % unemployment rate of 7.1% and a growing healthcare, education, and agriculture job market. Fresno has several attractions, including the Fresno Chaffee Zoo, the Fresno Art Museum, and the Forestiere Underground Gardens.

The city also hosts several events yearly, including the Fresno Greek Fest and the Fresno Film Festival. The cost of living in Fresno is 13% lower than the national average, making it an ideal place for families and young professionals looking for affordable living in California.

Oxnard

Oxnard is a city located in southern California, with a population of over 200,000 people. The median home price in Oxnard is $525,000, which is higher than some of the other cities on this list, but still more affordable than other cities in California.

Oxnard has a low unemployment rate of 6.1% and a growing job market in the healthcare, education, and hospitality sectors. Oxnard is a charming beach town with several attractions, including the Channel Islands Harbor, the Carnegie Art Museum, and Heritage Square.

The city also hosts several events throughout the year, including the Oxnard Salsa and Strawberry Festival. The cost of living in Oxnard is 8% lower than the national average, making it an ideal place for retirees and families looking for affordable living in California.

Redding

Redding is a city located in northern California, with a population of over 90,000 people. The median home price in Redding is $297,000, making it one of the most affordable cities in California. Redding has a low % unemployment rate of 5.6%, and a growing job market in healthcare, education, and government sectors.

Redding has several attractions, including the Sundial Bridge, the Turtle Bay Exploration Park, and the Sacramento River Trail.

The city also hosts several events yearly, including the Redding Beer and Wine Festival and the Redding Rodeo. The cost of living in Redding is 9% lower than the national average, making it an ideal place for families and retirees looking for affordable living in California.

Visalia

Visalia is a city in central California with over 130,000 people. The median home price in Visalia is $281,000, making it one of the most affordable cities in California. Visalia has a low unemployment rate of 7.5%, and a growing job market in healthcare, education, and retail sectors.

Visalia has several attractions, including the Visalia Adventure Park, the Imagine U Children’s Museum, and the Visalia Farmers Market.

The city also hosts several events throughout the year, including the Visalia Greek Festival and Christmas Parade. The cost of living in Visalia is 13% lower than the national average, making it an ideal place for families and young professionals looking for affordable living in California.

Summary 

California may be known for its high cost of living, but several hidden gems throughout the state offer a high quality of life without breaking the bank. From the stunning mountain views of the Sierra Nevada to the charming beach town of Oxnard, each city has its unique culture, attractions, and amenities.

With affordable housing, growing job markets, and a vibrant community, these five cities are some of California’s best places to live for those who want to explore all the Golden State offers without spending a fortune.