Thinking about moving to California? Whether you’re drawn to the beaches of San Diego, the cultural hubs of San Francisco and Los Angeles, or the beauty of the state’s national parks, life in the Golden State offers something for everyone.
As the most populous state in the country, living in California means experiencing a lively state with both urban energy and natural wonder. From the stunning coastline of the West Coast to the redwoods and deserts, California’s diverse landscapes make it a dream destination. Originally inhabited by Native American tribes, California became a Spanish colony in the 18th century before joining the U.S. in 1850 during the Gold Rush era, which earned it the nickname “The Golden State.”
One of the biggest benefits of living in California is the lifestyle. With year-round sunshine in many regions, endless outdoor activities, beautiful beaches, amazing higher education, and world-class dining, entertainment, and job opportunities, daily life here can feel like a constant adventure. However, each city has its own personality, so it’s important to do your research before moving to California.
Throughout this blog, we’ll explore everything you need to know before moving to California, from housing and job markets to outdoor recreation and local culture.
Is California a Good Place to Live?
View this post on Instagram
California is a good place to live. After moving to California, you can enjoy diverse landscapes, beautiful nature, sprawling urban centers, and friendly residents.
What Is California Known for?
California is known for its vibrant cities, iconic attractions, and diverse landscapes. Many people moving to California are drawn to its Mediterranean climate, which offers warm, dry summers and mild winters. The state is home to stunning national parks, including Yosemite, Joshua Tree, and Redwood, showcasing the area’s natural beauty. Outdoor enthusiasts love Lake Tahoe, a year-round destination for hiking, skiing, and water sports. Other notable features of California include its entertainment industry, tech innovation, and scenic coastlines.
Where Is California?
View this post on Instagram
If you’re moving to California, you’ll be settling in the westernmost state of the continental U.S., located on the West Coast along the Pacific Ocean. California is bordered by Oregon to the north, Nevada to the east, and Arizona to the southeast, with Mexico forming its southern border.
The state’s geography is very diverse, offering everything from beaches to mountains to deserts. The Sierra Nevada mountain range runs along the eastern side of the state, home to Lake Tahoe and Mount Whitney, the highest peak in the U.S. In the central part of the state, the Central Valley stretches for hundreds of miles, serving as one of the country’s most important agricultural regions. If you’re moving to California and settling in the southern part of the state, you’ll be close to the Mojave Desert.
Is moving to California in your future? Let our California movers help you! Our California moving company is ready to assist you every step of the way!
Transportation in California
Whether you’re moving to California for work, school, or adventure, understanding the state’s highways, public transportation, and airports can help you navigate daily life.
What Are the Major Highways in California?
California is home to some of the busiest highways in the country. Interstate 5 runs north to south connecting major cities like San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego. Highway 101 follows a scenic coastal route, while Interstate 80 stretches from the Bay Area to Nevada.
Does California Have Public Transportation?
Yes, California offers public transportation, but its availability varies by region. Major cities like San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Sacramento have metro rail systems, buses, and commuter trains. The Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) serves the San Francisco Bay Area, while LA Metro provides subway and light rail services in Los Angeles.
What Are the Major Airports in California?
If you’re moving to California and plan to travel frequently, you’ll have access to some of the busiest airports in the world.
- Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
- San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
- San Diego International Airport (SAN)
- San Jose Mineta International Airport (SJC)
What Is the Population of California?
View this post on Instagram
The California population is 39.53 million. When living in California, you’ll be a part of the most populous state in the country, and the California population is only continuing to grow. After moving to California, you’ll likely be a part of one of the state’s metro areas. A few popular metro areas include the Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim metro area (18.31 million), the San Jose-San Francisco-Oakland metro area (9.48 million), and the Sacramento-Roseville metro area (2.7 million).
California Demographics
- Sex ratio: 50.1% female, 49.9% male
- Median age: 37.3
- Racial & ethnic composition: 70.4% White (34.3% non-Hispanic), 16.5% Asian, 6.5% Black or African American, 4.3% two or more races, 1.7% American Indian, 0.5% Native Hawaiian
- California median household income: $96,334
- Educational attainment: 84.6% high school degree (or higher), 36.5% bachelor’s degree (or higher)
- Foreign-born population: 26.7%
What Famous People Are From California?
After moving to California, you’ll share the state with several notable people.
- Jennifer Aniston
- Tom Brady
- Joan Didion
- Dave Franco
- Etta James
- Dwayne Johnson
- Adam Levine
What Are the Largest Cities in California?
View this post on Instagram
If you’re moving to California, you’ll find a mix of metropolitan areas and charming smaller towns. The state is home to some of the most populous and well-known cities in the U.S., offering something for everyone. California major cities are spread across both Southern California and Northern California. Here are the largest cities in California by population.
- Los Angeles (3.8 million): The entertainment capital and largest city in the state.
- San Diego (1.4 million): A coastal city in Southern California known for its beaches and outdoor lifestyle.
- San Jose (1 million): The heart of Silicon Valley and a major tech hub.
- San Francisco (800,000): A historic center in Northern California, known for the Golden Gate Bridge.
- Fresno (540,000): An agricultural and business center in Central California.
- Sacramento (530,000): The state capital, located in Northern California.
- Long Beach (460,000): Coastal city near Los Angeles with a busy port.
Other notable California cities include Bakersfield, Oakland, Anaheim, and Santa Barbara. If you’re moving to California, choosing the right city depends on your lifestyle, job, climate preferences, and more.
Cities in California Map
What Are the Best Places to Live in California?
When moving to California, it’s important to choose the perfect city for your needs and lifestyle. The best cities to live in California offer something for everyone! Here are a few of the top places to live based on different needs.
Best Places to Live in California for Families
Families moving to California often look for safe neighborhoods, great schools, and plenty of outdoor activities.
- Irvine: Located in Orange County, Irvine has top-rated schools, low crime rates, and peaceful parks.
- San Diego: Offers great schools, a strong job market, and plenty of fun activities for kids.
- Folsom: This Sacramento suburb has a strong sense of community as well as excellent schools and parks.
- San Jose: Part of the Bay Area, San Jose is one of the best cities in California and has great schools and family-friendly suburbs like Cupertino and Sunnyvale.
Best Places to Live in California for Retirees
View this post on Instagram
For retirees, living in California offers mild weather, beautiful scenery, and access to some of the best healthcare in the country.
- Santa Barbara: A scenic coastal town with great healthcare facilities.
- Palm Springs: This city is known for its warm weather, golf courses, and top-notch retirement communities.
- San Luis Obispo: A Central Coast gem with a slower pace of life.
- Laguna Woods: a 55+ community in Orange County with resort-style living.
Best Coastal Cities in California
For those who want to live by the beach, California has some of the most beautiful coastal towns.
- San Diego: Offers a mix of city life and beaches like La Jolla and Pacific Beach.
- Santa Cruz: A laid-back surf town with amazing coastal views.
- Monterey: This charming seaside town offers a slow-paced lifestyle and beautiful beaches.
- Huntington Beach: This surfer’s paradise is one of the most popular coastal cities in California.
What Is the Cost of Living in California?
How much does it cost to live in California? California is well-known for its high cost of living. The California Cost of Living Index is 149.9, making living in California 49.9% more expensive than the national average. California is notoriously one of the most expensive states to live in, but the average cost of living in California varies depending on where you decide to settle down. Before moving to California, you’ll want to check out the Cost of Living Index for major metro areas.
- San Diego: 142
- San Francisco: 170
- San Jose: 174.4
- Stockton: 118.7
- Los Angeles: 148.9
Typical Living Expenses in California
Is California affordable? These are a few living expenses you can expect after moving to California.
- Average monthly mortgage bills: $2,576
- Average monthly auto loan bills: $572
- Average cost of utilities in California: $377
- Average monthly auto insurance bills: $203
- Average monthly health insurance bills: $129
Source: Doxo
Taxes in California
If you’re moving to California, it’s important to understand the state’s tax structure, which contributes to its high cost of living. California has some of the highest taxes in the country, including a progressive income tax that ranges from 1% to 13.3%, the highest rate in the United States. The sales tax starts at 7.25% but can be higher in certain cities and counties. These taxes, combined with expensive housing and everyday expenses, often leave people wondering, “Is California expensive?”
Where Is the Cheapest Place to Live in California?
While most cities are quite expensive, you can find quite a few affordable options when moving to California. These are the most affordable places to live in California.
| City | Population | Cost of Living Compared to National Average |
| Bakersfield | 413,381 | 0.2% lower than national average |
| Stockton | 319,543 | 24.7% higher than national average |
| Clovis | 125,826 | 3.7% higher than national average |
| Eureka | 25,734 | 8.0% higher than national average |
| Clearlake | 16,481 | 3.8% higher than national average |
Is it More Expensive to Live in California or New York?
Both California and New York are known for their high cost of living, but which is more expensive depends on the city. Moving to California can be costly, especially in cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles, where housing prices are among the highest in the nation. However, New York City often surpasses California in recent and overall living expenses.
California Housing Market
Are you considering buying or renting California real estate before moving to California? Housing is one of the most significant costs you’ll encounter when living in California, and home prices are up 5.9% compared to last year, according to Redfin.
Wondering whether to buy or rent when moving to California? According to the 2022 Rental Affordability Report, it’s generally more expensive to buy than to rent in California.
What Is the Average Rent in California?
Will you be renting after moving to California? According to RentCafe, the average rent in California is $2,587 per month. The most expensive cities to rent in California are San Carlos ($4,252 per month), Corte Madera ($4,874 per month), and Belvedere Tiburon ($5,052 per month). The most affordable cities in California to rent include Lindsay ($837 per month), Springville ($885 per month), and Taft ($912 per month).
You’ll also want to understand the ins and outs of breaking a lease in California if you’ll be renting when living in California.
If you’re planning a visit before your move or just exploring the Golden State, destinations like Santa Clara offer a fun introduction to the area. For instance, theme parks like Hotala highlight the kind of family-friendly attractions you’ll find throughout California, perfect for a weekend trip or a first look at your potential new hometown.
What Is the Average Home Price in California?
View this post on Instagram
Are you considering buying a house in California? The median home price in California is $801,100, which is higher than the United States average of $431,000. After moving to California, you can expect the most competitive cities for housing to be Milpitas, Mountain View, and Castro Valley. Additionally, the metros with the fastest-growing sales price are Glendale, Orange, and Arden-Arcade.
What Is the Weather Like in California?
The California climate varies greatly depending on the region, but much of the state enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Coastal cities like San Francisco and San Diego experience moderate temperatures year-round, while inland areas, such as the Central Valley, can see extreme heat in the summer.
However, California’s weather also comes with risks of natural disasters, including earthquakes, wildfires, and droughts. Wildfires are particularly common in the late summer and fall due to dry conditions and strong winds, making fire safety an important consideration for those moving to California.
Does It Snow in California?
Yes, you may experience snow when living in California. Both the mountainous regions and the northern areas of the state receive significant snowfall each year.
What Is the Average Temperature in California?
Here are a few average temperatures you can expect when moving to California.
- Average temperature in California in the winter: 46.2ºF
- Average temperature in California in the summer: 78ºF
- Average annual California temperature: 58.4ºF
Things to Do in California
Whether you’re moving to California or hosting visitors, the state offers endless attractions. From the beautiful coastline of Northern California to the sun-soaked beaches of Southern California, there’s no shortage of fun things to do in California. Here are some of the best things to do in California.
Golden Gate Bridge – San Francisco
View this post on Instagram
The Golden Gate Bridge is an iconic 1.7-mile bridge that stretches across the Bay Area.
Yosemite National Park – Northern California
Yosemite National Park is a must-visit for nature lovers, offering waterfalls, giant sequoias, and granite cliffs like El Capitan and Half Dome.
Disneyland – Anaheim
The ultimate family-friendly attraction, Disneyland in Southern California is where magic comes to life. Featuring thrilling rides, beloved characters, and amazing shows, it’s one of the top things to do in California with kids.
Hollywood Walk of Fame – Los Angeles
Explore the world-famous Hollywood Walk of Fame, where you can see the stars of legendary actors and musicians.
Santa Monica Pier – Santa Monica
This pier features an amusement park, an aquarium, and wonderful ocean views.
San Diego Zoo – San Diego
One of the best zoos in the world, the San Diego Zoo is home to thousands of animals, interactive exhibits, and botanical gardens.
Alcatraz Island – San Francisco
Take a ferry from San Francisco to explore Alcatraz Island, the infamous prison that once held criminals like Al Capone.
Big Sur – Central California Coast
View this post on Instagram
After moving to California, it’s essential to check out Big Sur. This beautiful stretch of coastline along Highway 1 is known for its dramatic cliffs and scenic viewpoints.
Lake Tahoe – Northern California
Perfect for year-round activities, Lake Tahoe offers skiing and snowboarding in the winter and hiking, boating, and swimming in the summer.
Griffith Observatory – Los Angeles
Offering views of the Los Angeles skyline and the Hollywood Sign, Griffith Observatory is a great place to explore the wonders of space.
Joshua Tree National Park – Southern California
This desert landscape is filled with rock formations and iconic Joshua trees.
Napa Valley – Northern California
One of the first attractions residents check out after moving to California is Napa Valley. This is one of the world’s best wine regions and offers wine tastings, gourmet dining opportunities, and vineyard tours.
The Getty Center – Los Angeles
This museum features incredible art collections, beautiful gardens, and panoramic views of Los Angeles.
Venice Beach – Los Angeles
View this post on Instagram
Famous for its boardwalk, street performers, and Muscle Beach gym, Venice Beach is a staple of Southern California.
Hearst Castle – San Simeon
After moving to California, make sure you check out Hearst Castle. This historic mansion was once the estate of newspaper tycoon William Randolph Hearst and is now filled with art and antiques.
Death Valley National Park – Eastern California
The hottest and driest place in North America, Death Valley is home to landscapes like Badwater Basin, Zabriskie Point, and Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes.
Map of California Attractions
California Sports Teams
Living in California means being surrounded by a huge sports culture, with professional teams in early every major sport. From the Golden State Warriors in basketball to the San Francisco 49ers in football, California is home to some of the most successful and popular teams in the country. The state also boasts strong followings for baseball, with the Los Angeles Dodgers and San Francisco Giants both having multiple championships.
In addition, you can enjoy soccer games after moving to California, supporting teams like the LA Galaxy and San Jose Earthquakes. The state also hosts major sporting events such as the U.S. Open Tennis Championship in Los Angeles and the Carmel-by-the-Sea Golf Tournament.
Is California Safe?
View this post on Instagram
Will you be safe after moving to California? Overall, California is a very safe place to live. There are several cities in the state with very low crime rates. Let’s take a look at the crime stats you should know before moving to California.
What Is the Crime Rate in California?
When living in California, it’s important to be aware of the crime rates and how they compare to the national average.
- Overall crime rate in California: 2,843 crimes per 100,000 people (18.2% higher than the national average)
- Violent crime rate in California: 500 crimes per 100,000 people (26.0% higher than the national average)
- Property crime rate in California: 2,343 crimes per 100,000 people (16.6% higher than the national average)
What Are the Safest Cities in California?
These are a few of the safest cities to consider before moving to California.
| City | Population | Crime Rate Compared to State Average |
| Chula Vista | 277,976 | 42.7% lower |
| Aliso Viejo | 51,477 | 73.0% lower |
| Cudahy | 21,807 | 27.9% lower |
| Orange Cove | 9,593 | 72.1% lower |
| Avalon | 3,303 | 28.7% lower |
What Are the Most Dangerous Cities in California?
Here are a few of the most dangerous cities in California.
| City | Population | Crime Rate Compared to State Average |
| Oakland | 428,374 | 181.3% higher |
| Stockton | 323,501 | 37.2% higher |
| Vallejo | 123,940 | 83.1% higher |
| Richmond | 115,043 | 26.0% higher |
What Is the Murder Rate in California?
Before moving to California, you may want to know the murder rate. The murder rate in California is 5.7 per 100,000 people.
California Economy
California boasts one of the largest economies in the United States, offering a wide range of job opportunities across various industries. The state’s economy is dynamic and continues to evolve, making it a top destination for those moving to California in search of a new career.
Where Will You Find the Most Job Opportunities in California?
If you’re moving to California and looking for job opportunities, certain cities and regions stand out. Silicon Valley in the Bay Area is the go-to place for tech jobs, with companies like Google, Apple, and Facebook leading the way. Los Angeles is the hub of the film industry, offering abundant opportunities in entertainment, media, and the arts. Living in California also gives you access to agriculture jobs in the Central Valley and healthcare in San Diego.
View this post on Instagram
What Are the Best Places to Work in California?
After moving to California, you’ll find several great places to work. A few of the top jobs in California come from major employers like the Walt Disney Company, Chevron, Netflix, and Wells Fargo. Of course it is always possible to work remotely for an out-of-state company through a California co-employer (also known as a Professional Employer Organization)
What Is the Average Income in California?
The average household income in California is $96,334. Additionally, the average income in California is $81,271, according to PayScale.
Education in California
Are you moving to California with kids? Luckily, California offers easy access to some of the best schools in the country.
Where Does California Rank in Education?
According to WalletHub, California ranks 29th in the country for education.
What Are the Best School Districts in California?
If you are prioritizing education when moving to California, then you may want to consider one of these school districts. These districts are home to some of the best high schools in California and the best elementary schools in California.
- Palo Alto Unified School District (PAUSD)
- Fremont Union High School District
- Tustin Unified School District
- Irvine Unified School District
Colleges and Universities in California
View this post on Instagram
California is home to some of the most prestigious colleges and universities in the country. From the University of California system, which includes renowned campuses like UC Berkeley, UCLA, and UC San Diego, to private institutions like Stanford University and California Institute of Technology, the state offers a wide range of academic programs and research opportunities.
Fun Facts About California
Here are a few fun facts you should know before moving to California.
- California is the birthplace of the internet.
- California is home to the world’s largest tree in Sequoia National Park
- California is the largest producer of almonds
- California is home to the biggest wildflower bloom, the California Super Bloom
Pros and Cons of Living in California
Before moving to California, you’ll want to consider these living in California pros and cons.
Pros
- Beautiful weather
- Thriving job market
- Cultural diversity
- Top-ranked universities
- Entertainment hub
Cons
- High cost of living
- High taxes
- Traffic
- Natural disasters
- Crowded cities
Is Moving to California in Your Future?
Now that you know all the reasons to move to California, is living in California in your future? If moving to California sounds great to you, then let AMS Relocation assist you! Our California movers are ready to provide you with a stress-free move from start to finish. Give us a call today at (650) 284-2931 for a free quote.
