The 10 Most Affordable Places To Live In California

Brentwood is a fast-growing suburb in eastern Contra Costa County, blending small-town charm with modern suburban convenience. Known for its safe neighborhoods, well-kept parks, and highly rated public schools, it's a popular choice for families looking for space and a strong community feel. The city has a lively downtown with local shops, restaurants, car shows, concerts in the park, and more. Brentwood is also known for its agricultural heritage, featuring orchards and a farmers' market that offers fresh produce and hosts seasonal festivals. Residents enjoy plenty of outdoor activities, from neighborhood trails to nearby Delta waterways for boating and fishing.

Brentwood's location offers a balance between quiet living and access to the Bay Area. The Antioch BART station is about 10 minutes away, making commuting to major job centers like Oakland, San Francisco, or San Jose easier. The city continues to grow, with new housing developments, expanding retail options, and community events that bring neighbors together. Summers can be hot, but the area's sunny weather supports its agricultural roots, including local farm stands and u-pick orchards. With its combination of safety, good schools, and family-friendly amenities, Brentwood appeals to those who want a suburban lifestyle with a touch of rural charm but want to be still close enough to the Bay Area. 

Redding is a Northern California city known for its natural beauty and access to outdoor recreation. Surrounded by mountains, lakes, and rivers, it's a popular spot for hiking, boating, fishing, and camping. Landmarks like the Sundial Bridge, Whiskeytown Lake, and nearby Mount Shasta and Lassen Volcanic National Park make it a destination for nature lovers year-round. The region has dozens of waterfalls, including Burney Falls, often called one of the most beautiful in the state. The Sacramento River runs through the city, adding to its scenic charm.

Redding has a dense suburban feel, with most residents owning their homes. The community includes families, young professionals, and retirees. Public schools in the area are rated above average, and there are many parks, coffee shops, and local gathering spots. The city's location along Interstate 5 makes it a convenient base for exploring Northern California, with the coast, mountains, and national parks all within a few hours' drive. 

Summers in Redding are hot and dry, while winters are mild with occasional snow in nearby higher elevations. Redding is also about 120 miles from Oregon and a several-hour drive to Crater Lake. For those who value nature, space, and a slower pace, Redding offers a unique blend of small-city living and big outdoor adventure.

Chico is a lively city in Butte County that blends a college-town vibe with a strong sense of community. Home to California State University, Chico, the city has an energetic atmosphere fueled by students, local events, and a thriving arts scene. Its downtown is walkable and filled with coffee shops, restaurants, boutiques, and venues that host live music and theater. The presence of the university also brings cultural diversity and a steady calendar of festivals, lectures, and performances.

One of Chico's biggest draws is Bidwell Park, one of the largest municipal parks in the country. Spanning over 3,600 acres, it offers hiking and biking trails, swimming holes, picnic areas, and scenic spots that make outdoor recreation a daily part of life. The city's location in the Sacramento Valley means hot, dry summers and mild winters, perfect for year-round activities.

Chico's neighborhoods range from historic homes near downtown to newer developments on the outskirts, giving residents a variety of living options. Local farmers' markets, art walks, and seasonal events keep the city connected and vibrant. With its combination of natural beauty, cultural life, and a welcoming atmosphere, Chico appeals to students, families, and professionals who want a balance of small-city convenience and easy access to the outdoors.

Eureka is a historic coastal city in Humboldt County known for its Victorian architecture, artistic culture, and proximity to the towering redwoods of Northern California. The city has a sparse suburban feel, with a mix of long-time residents, young professionals, and a strong community of artists and makers. Its Old Town district, set along Humboldt Bay, features restored 19th-century buildings, art galleries, boutique shops, and restaurants, and hosts regular festivals, markets, and cultural events.

Nature is a major part of life in Eureka. Residents enjoy quick access to the Pacific Ocean, six nearby rivers, and countless hiking trails through redwood forests. The bay itself is a hub for fishing, boating, and waterfront dining. The climate is mild year-round, with cool summers and damp winters, making it ideal for those who prefer a temperate coastal environment.

Public schools are rated above average, and the area offers a variety of outdoor and cultural activities. For those who appreciate small-town living with rich history, vibrant arts, and unmatched access to Northern California's natural wonders, Eureka offers a unique blend of coastal charm and rugged outdoor adventure.

Fresno is best known as the economic and cultural hub of California's Central Valley, with deep roots in agriculture and easy access to some of the state's most famous natural landmarks. Fresno's location is one of its biggest advantages. It's within a few hours' drive of beaches, mountains, and major cities. It's the largest inland city in California and is a gateway to Yosemite, Kings Canyon, and Sequoia National Parks. Home to California State University, Fresno, the city is diverse and culturally rich. 

Known for its agricultural products, it offers residents access to some of the freshest produce in the country. Fresno County is the top agricultural-producing county in the U.S., growing almonds, grapes, pistachios, peaches, milk, poultry, and more, and exporting to over 100 countries. The city has a dense suburban feel and is home to many families, young professionals, and students.

Locally, residents enjoy numerous parks, seasonal events like Christmas Tree Lane, and community traditions such as the Big Fresno Fair. The city's public schools are rated above average, and the city's diversity, central location, and growing cultural scene make it a unique place to live for those who value both convenience and connection to California's natural landmarks.

Modesto is a vibrant city in the heart of the Central Valley, known for its deep agricultural roots and strong community identity. Almond orchards, dairy farms, and vineyards surround the area, making agriculture a key part of its economy and culture. The city blends suburban convenience with small-town friendliness, offering a variety of parks, local events, and neighborhood gatherings that bring residents together.

Historic Downtown Modesto is a focal point, featuring locally owned shops, restaurants, and colorful murals that celebrate the city's history. It's also home to the monthly Downtown Modesto (DOMO) First Fridays, where streets close for live music, dancing, food vendors, and family activities. Modesto's connection to filmmaker George Lucas and the classic car culture showcased in "American Graffiti" is a point of pride, celebrated through annual car shows and festivals.

Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy nearby rivers, regional parks, and easy access to the Sierra Nevada foothills. While summers are hot, the city's location allows for day trips to San Francisco, Sacramento, or Yosemite National Park. Modesto is a diverse and culturally rich community with a slower pace of life compared to larger urban centers. Its mix of agricultural heritage, local pride, and central location makes it a unique place to live for those who value both tradition and accessibility.

Bakersfield is a fast-growing city in Kern County that blends a suburban feel with a strong sense of local identity. Known for its role in agriculture, oil production, and country music history, it offers a mix of urban amenities and small-town familiarity. Many residents own their homes, and the city has numerous parks, family programs, and community events that bring people together. Public schools are rated above average, and neighborhoods range from newer developments to long-established areas with mature trees and wide streets.

The city's location in the southern Central Valley makes it a hub for both industry and travel, with easy access to Los Angeles, the Sierra Nevada, and the Central Coast.  It's one of the nation's top hubs for oil and natural gas production and one of the most productive agricultural regions in the U.S., famous for almonds, grapes, citrus, and especially carrots — home to Grimmway Farms, the world's largest carrot producer. Bakersfield's climate features hot, dry summers and mild winters, which support year-round outdoor activities. 

Local attractions include the Kern County Museum, CALM Zoo, and nearby nature preserves like Wind Wolves and Panorama Vista. Bakersfield's diversity, growing economy, and community pride make it an appealing destination for those seeking a lower cost of living, a central location, and a balance between city conveniences and outdoor activities.

Fontana is a large and diverse city in San Bernardino County that offers a dense suburban feel with a strong family-oriented community. Most residents own their homes, and the city features numerous parks, sports fields, and recreational spaces that make it appealing for active lifestyles. Public schools in Fontana are rated above average, and the area has multiple school districts, giving families a range of educational options.

The city's location is a major advantage — it sits near major freeways, providing access to Los Angeles, the Inland Empire, and nearby mountain and desert destinations. Fontana is also home to the Auto Club Speedway, which hosts major racing events and draws visitors from across Southern California. Residents enjoy a variety of community events, including summer concerts, cultural festivals, and programs at local parks.

Fontana's neighborhoods vary widely, and many residents value its diversity, resilience, and sense of community. With its mix of suburban comfort, recreational amenities, and proximity to both urban centers and natural areas, Fontana appeals to families, commuters, and those seeking a balance between affordability and Southern California access.

San Bernardino is a diverse city set at the base of the San Bernardino Mountains, offering a mix of an urban setting and access to outdoor recreation. The city has a dense suburban feel, with just over half of residents renting their homes, and is known for its many parks and green spaces. Families make up a large part of the community, and public schools are rated above average. The city is home to California State University, San Bernardino, which brings educational opportunities and cultural events to the region.

San Bernardino's location is one of its strengths — it sits along major transportation routes, has its own international airport, and serves as a gateway to mountain destinations like Big Bear Lake. The city's downtown blends historic architecture with government buildings, shops, and restaurants, while neighborhoods such as Verdemont and Northpark offer quieter, more residential settings.

Residents enjoy a variety of community programs, cultural festivals, and outdoor activities, from hiking in the nearby mountains to attending events at local venues. With its combination of educational institutions, transportation access, and natural surroundings, San Bernardino offers a unique balance of city living and outdoor adventure.