Thinking about making the move to California? While the Golden State is known for its high cost of living—especially in major cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles—there are still plenty of affordable places to call home. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly community, access to outdoor adventures, or a vibrant local culture, you can find a California city that fits your budget. View our list of California Movers.
Here are some of the most affordable cities in California:
- Bakersfield
- Chico
- Clovis
- Eureka
- Fontana
- Fresno
- Sacramento
- Stockton
Bakersfield: A Growing City with a Country Vibe
- Population: 367,555
- Median Home Price: $214,600
- Median Rent: $1,005
- Unemployment Rate: 6.5%
- Distance to Nearest Beach: 126 miles (Channel Islands Beach)
Bakersfield offers an affordable cost of living along with a booming job market in agriculture and energy. The city is known for its country music heritage, earning the nickname “Nashville West.” Families enjoy the city’s parks, museums, and strong sense of community.
Things to Do in Bakersfield:
- Catch live music at Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace
- Explore local wildlife at the California Living Museum (CALM)
- Play a round of golf at Kern River Golf Course
- Enjoy Basque cuisine at Wool Growers Restaurant
Chico: College Town Meets Outdoor Paradise
- Population: 89,377
- Median Home Price: $270,900
- Median Rent: $955
- Unemployment Rate: 6%
- Distance to Nearest Beach: 191 miles (Muir Beach)
Home to California State University, Chico, this city blends college-town energy with outdoor adventure. Chico’s lush parks and tree-lined streets make it a great choice for nature lovers. It’s also home to Sierra Nevada Brewing Co., a staple of California’s craft beer scene.
Things to Do in Chico:
- Go hiking or biking in Bidwell Park
- Visit the quirky National Yo-Yo Museum
- Shop for local goods at the Chico Farmers Market
- Try craft beer at Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.
Clovis: Gateway to the Sierras
- Population: 102,148
- Median Home Price: $263,500
- Median Rent: $1,093
- Unemployment Rate: 5.4%
- Distance to Nearest Beach: 160 miles (Del Monte Beach)
Part of the Fresno metro area, Clovis offers a small-town feel with access to big-city amenities. The city is known for its excellent schools and is just over an hour from Yosemite National Park.
Things to Do in Clovis:
- Visit the Clovis Botanical Garden
- Enjoy the rides at Wild Water Adventure Park
- Explore Old Town Clovis, full of antique shops and farmers markets
- Try the famous Bacon Cheddar Waffle at Old Town Waffle
Eureka: Coastal Living Without the High Price Tag
- Population: 27,002
- Median Home Price: $241,700
- Median Rent: $844
- Unemployment Rate: 6%
- Distance to Nearest Beach: 5 miles (Samoa Beach)
Nestled along the Northern California coast, Eureka is a charming harbor town with a cool climate and a rich history. Surrounded by Redwood National and State Parks, it’s a dream for outdoor enthusiasts.
Things to Do in Eureka:
- Stroll along the waterfront at Humboldt Bay
- Explore the Sequoia Park Zoo
- Admire Victorian architecture in Old Town Eureka
- Grab fresh pastries at Cherry Blossom Bakery
Fontana: Affordable Living with a Racing Spirit
- Population: 205,228
- Median Home Price: $289,400
- Median Rent: $1,167
- Unemployment Rate: 6.7%
- Distance to Nearest Beach: 55 miles (Newport Beach)
Fontana is an Inland Empire city with a strong economy and a love for motorsports. Home to Auto Club Speedway, the city has a long history of racing culture and is close to major job hubs in Southern California.
Things to Do in Fontana:
- Catch a NASCAR race at Auto Club Speedway
- Enjoy a round at Sierra Lakes Golf Club
- Explore the Art Depot Gallery
- Try the Seafood Pho at Sierra Noodle House
Fresno: Affordable Living in the Heart of California
- Population: 513,807
- Median Home Price: $187,500
- Median Rent: $901
- Unemployment Rate: 7.8%
- Distance to Nearest Beach: 141 miles (Moss Landing State Beach)
Fresno is an agricultural powerhouse and a gateway to some of California’s best national parks, including Yosemite, Kings Canyon, and Sequoia. With a growing arts scene and a cost of living well below the state average, it’s a great place to call home.
Things to Do in Fresno:
- Tour the Forestiere Underground Gardens
- Visit exotic animals at the Fresno Chaffee Zoo
- Explore Woodward Park’s scenic trails
- Grab breakfast at Fresno Breakfast House
Sacramento: California’s Capital with a Budget-Friendly Vibe
- Population: 525,000
- Median Home Price: $380,000
- Median Rent: $1,325
- Unemployment Rate: 6.1%
- Distance to Nearest Beach: 90 miles (Sacramento River Delta)
Sacramento offers the perks of living in the state capital without the sky-high costs of cities like San Francisco. Known for its history, parks, and vibrant arts scene, Sacramento offers a great balance of urban amenities and suburban comfort.
Things to Do in Sacramento:
- Visit the California State Railroad Museum
- Explore Old Sacramento Historic District
- Take a walk along the American River Parkway
- Enjoy the Farm-to-Fork Festival celebrating local food
Stockton: A Thriving City with Growing Opportunities
- Population: 323,761
- Median Home Price: $360,000
- Median Rent: $1,200
- Unemployment Rate: 7.2%
- Distance to Nearest Beach: 90 miles (Santa Cruz)
Stockton is known for its diverse community and affordable housing options. Located in the heart of the Central Valley, it’s an ideal location for those who want to be close to the Bay Area and other parts of California without the hefty price tag.
Things to Do in Stockton:
- Take a scenic boat ride on the Stockton Delta
- Visit The Haggin Museum for art and history
- Explore the Stockton 99 Speedway for exciting races
- Relax at Oak Park or take a stroll in Victory Park
Ready to Make Your Move? National Van Lines Can Help!
Moving to California doesn’t have to be stressful. Whether you’re relocating for work, family, or a fresh start, National Van Lines has the expertise to get you there smoothly. Our experienced movers handle everything from packing to transportation, ensuring a hassle-free move to your new home.
📞 Call us today for a free quote!
