Top 10 Cities to Live in California
Moving to the Golden State in 2026 is a massive step, but it's a great time to make it happen. California is still the place for anyone who wants world-class innovation and that famous West Coast beauty. The job market is still a powerhouse in tech and green energy, and a fresh wave of housing inventory in key suburbs is finally making it easier to snag a spot. You can find a life here that fits pretty much any speed, from the misty redwood forests up north to the sun-drenched surf spots down south. These ten cities are our top picks for 2026 because they offer a solid mix of career growth and that classic California lifestyle without all the usual stress.
The 10 Best Cities to Live in California
Irvine
Irvine is the gold standard for master-planned living in Orange County and it's constantly named one of the safest cities in the country. It's a massive hub for technology and healthcare, so it's the main spot for people chasing high-paying tech jobs in Irvine. You'll find villages like Turtle Rock that are super organized with parks and shopping centers just a short walk away. The city was built for staying active, so you've got bike paths everywhere and community centers that actually stay busy. Being home to UC Irvine keeps the energy fresh and the local economy really stable. You're only minutes from the beach in Newport, but you get to come home to a quiet, secure neighborhood.
Best for: Families, Solo Professionals, Multi-generational Households.
Explore California Guides →Sacramento
Sacramento isn't just a government town anymore; it's become the go-to "value" pick for people leaving the coast. The state capital has a huge farm-to-fork food scene and a tech sector that's growing fast. If you're hunting for affordable homes for sale in Sacramento, neighborhoods like Land Park offer that historic, tree-lined charm without the Bay Area price tag. The riverfront is getting a big makeover right now, so there's always something happening near the Golden 1 Center. You're also in the perfect middle ground for travel, since Lake Tahoe and Napa Valley are both easy day trips. It's a place where you can actually afford a mortgage and still have a life.
Best for: Young Couples, Families, Solo Professionals.
Explore California Guides →San Diego
San Diego is arguably the most livable big city in the U.S. because the weather is basically perfect every day. It's a global leader in biotech and defense, which means there are tons of career opportunities in San Diego for specialized pros. You'll probably spend your weekends at Balboa Park or just hanging out at the beach in La Jolla. The vibe here is much more laid-back than LA, and the different neighborhoods like North Park have a great local brewery and arts scene. It's got a massive military presence that keeps the community tight-knit and patriotic. It's the kind of city where you can work a high-powered job and still feel like you're on vacation.
Best for: Solo Professionals, Young Couples, Retirees.
Explore California Guides →Roseville
Roseville is a standout suburb just north of Sacramento that's famous for its high quality of life and great shopping. It's a big hit with families because the local infrastructure is top-notch and the parks are everywhere. You'll find some of the top-rated public schools in California here, which is why so many people move in from the Bay Area. The city has its own electric utility, which usually means lower monthly bills compared to the rest of the state. Downtown Roseville has been revitalized with cool new restaurants and walkable spots. It's the perfect place if you want a big house and a safe neighborhood without being completely disconnected from the city.
Best for: Families, Multi-generational Households, Young Couples.
Explore California Guides →Palo Alto
If you want to be at the absolute center of the tech universe, Palo Alto is the place to be. It's the home of Stanford University and countless startups, making it the top spot for Silicon Valley real estate if you have the budget. You'll be living among the world's biggest thinkers in a city that feels like a leafy, academic dream. The school system here is legendary, and the downtown area on University Avenue is always buzzing with energy. It's definitely expensive, but the proximity to companies like Google and Meta is unbeatable. Residents love the blend of high-tech convenience and quiet, historic residential streets.
Best for: Solo Professionals, Families, Young Couples.
Explore California Guides →Carlsbad
Carlsbad offers that quintessential Southern California beach life without the intense crowds of the bigger cities. It's a hub for the golf and action sports industries, providing some unique lifestyle-focused jobs in Carlsbad. You've got amazing beaches, the flower fields, and a charming village area that's perfect for weekend brunching. The city is very family-friendly, especially with Legoland right there and highly rated schools. It's also known for its focus on sustainability and green spaces, giving it a very clean, healthy feel. It's the perfect spot for anyone who wants to start their morning with a surf and still be in the office by nine.
Best for: Families, Young Couples, Retirees.
Explore California Guides →Clovis
Clovis is the "Gateway to the Sierras" and offers some of the best bang-for-your-buck in the state. Part of the Fresno metro area, it's known for its incredibly high safety ratings and a "way of life" that feels more like a small town. You'll find plenty of affordable housing in Clovis CA while still being just over an hour from Yosemite National Park. The schools are some of the best in the Central Valley, which keeps families flocking to the area. Old Town Clovis is a charming spot for antique shopping and local events like the annual rodeo. It's a fantastic home base for outdoor lovers who want to be close to the mountains without breaking the bank.
Best for: Families, Multi-generational Households, Young Couples.
Explore California Guides →Santa Clarita
Just north of Los Angeles, Santa Clarita offers a reprieve from the city's hustle while staying within commuting distance. It's a master-planned community that prioritizes safety and family fun, making it a staple on lists of best places to raise kids in California. You've got Six Flags Magic Mountain for thrills and miles of "paseos" - elevated walking paths that connect neighborhoods without crossing streets. The city is a favorite for people in the film and television industry since many local ranches are used as movie sets. It has a very clean, suburban feel with plenty of modern shopping and dining at the Town Center. It's a great choice if you work in LA but want a quiet, safe place for your family to grow.
Best for: Families, Young Couples, Solo Professionals.
Explore California Guides →Folsom
Folsom is much more than just a famous prison; it's a high-tech suburb with a massive heart for the outdoors. Large employers like Intel have a huge presence here, providing a steady supply of professional jobs in Folsom. You've got Folsom Lake for boating and a historic downtown that's been beautifully preserved with shops and bars. The American River bike path starts here and goes all the way to Sacramento, which is a dream for cyclists. The schools are excellent, and the city is known for being very safe and well-maintained. It's a perfect mix of modern tech industry and gold-rush history.
Best for: Families, Solo Professionals, Young Couples.
Explore California Guides →Pleasanton
Pleasanton lives up to its name by offering one of the most comfortable lifestyles in the East Bay. It's home to major corporate headquarters and a highly educated workforce, making it a great spot for career growth in the East Bay. The downtown area is one of the most picturesque in the state, featuring regular street fairs and a very communal vibe. Two BART stations make it easy to get into San Francisco or Oakland without dealing with traffic. The city invests heavily in its parks and libraries, so there's always a high-quality place to spend your weekends. It's an upscale, stable community that feels established and welcoming.
Best for: Families, Empty Nesters, Solo Professionals.
Explore California Guides →Should You Move to California?
Deciding where to plant roots is a big move, and California makes the choice easy with its mix of booming job markets and legendary natural beauty. The red rocks of the north and the resort-style living in the south provide a community for every personality. It's a state where your outdoor adventures don't have to wait for the weekend and the local culture is as vibrant as the sunsets. Find your perfect fit with our neighborhood tool to see which California city matches your goals.
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