13 Affordable Places in California Where Expats Can Thrive

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I know what you’re thinking—affordable and California don’t belong in the same sentence. But after spending months exploring this state, I found spots where you can actually live well without selling a kidney. From sunny college towns to chill desert communities, these are the best places in California where your money goes way further than you’d expect.

Take Riverside, where I crashed with friends and totally fell for the local vibe. The rent won’t make you cry, and the food scene is insane. Plus, Sacramento surprised me with its super cool neighborhoods where people can still afford actual houses while staying close to both surf and snow. Trust me, that California dream isn’t dead yet—you just need to know where to look.

Most Affordable Places to Live in California

Looking for the best places to live in California? Enjoy a vibrant college-town atmosphere in Chico, known for its parks and community spirit. Experience a family-friendly environment in Clovis, offering excellent schools and a suburban feel. Settle in Holtville, a quiet agricultural town with a strong sense of community. Embrace coastal charm in Eureka, surrounded by redwoods and a thriving arts scene. Whether you prefer a lively city, suburban comfort, or small-town tranquility, these are some of the top places to live in California.

1. Chico

• 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,800 – $3,600
• 🌟 Unique Features: College town vibe 🎓, Bidwell Park 🌳, and a strong arts scene 🎨
• 📅 Best Time to Live There: Year-round 🌞
• 🏆 Perfect For: Students 📖, young professionals 💼, and outdoor lovers 🚴

Blending college-town energy with affordability, Chico is one of California’s best-kept secrets. Home to California State University, Chico, this vibrant city offers a lower cost of living compared to other parts of the state, with median home prices around $430,000 and rental rates well below major metro areas.

Grocery costs here are 10-15% cheaper than in larger cities, making everyday expenses more manageable. Public transportation is also budget-friendly, with an efficient bus system serving students and residents alike. Those who prefer an active lifestyle will love Bidwell Park, one of the largest municipal parks in the country, offering hiking, swimming holes, and scenic picnic spots.

With a strong sense of community, a thriving local arts scene, and easy access to Sacramento’s amenities, Chico is a perfect mix of affordability and livability. Whether you’re a student, professional, or retiree, this city lets you enjoy California without breaking the bank.

2. Clovis

• 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $2,000 – $4,200
• 🌟 Unique Features: Family-friendly neighborhoods 🏡, great schools 🏫, and proximity to Yosemite ⛰️
• 📅 Best Time to Live There: Year-round ☀️
• 🏆 Perfect For: Families 👨‍👩‍👧, professionals 💻, and nature lovers 🌲

Located just outside Fresno, Clovis combines suburban comfort, outdoor access, and an affordable cost of living. With median home prices around $390,000 and rent averaging $1,200 per month, it’s a budget-friendly alternative to pricier Central California cities.

What makes Clovis special is its proximity to natural wonders. Residents are just a short drive from Yosemite National Park, Kings Canyon, and the Sierra National Forest, making it an ideal location for hikers, campers, and nature lovers. Grocery costs are about 20% lower than in Fresno, and transportation is easy with bike-friendly streets and low-cost public transit.

Despite its affordability, Clovis doesn’t compromise on quality of life. Its historic Old Town features local boutiques, farmers’ markets, and lively community events. With great schools, safe neighborhoods, and a welcoming atmosphere, Clovis offers a fantastic blend of small-town charm and outdoor adventure—without the California price tag.

3. Holtville

• 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,500 – $3,000
• 🌟 Unique Features: Small-town charm 🏡, agricultural roots 🌾, and warm weather ☀️
• 📅 Best Time to Live There: Fall – Spring 🍂
• 🏆 Perfect For: Retirees 🌅, farmers 🚜, and those seeking quiet living 🌿

For those looking for affordable small-town living, Holtville in Imperial County is a hidden gem. With median home prices around $250,000 and rent averaging just $900 per month, it’s one of California’s most budget-friendly places to call home.

Holtville is best known for its agricultural roots and strong community spirit. Every year, the town comes alive for the famous Carrot Festival, celebrating its role in California’s farming industry. Fresh, locally grown produce is readily available, making grocery shopping cheaper and healthier compared to larger cities.

While it offers a quiet, rural lifestyle, Holtville is just 20 minutes from El Centro, providing access to shopping, dining, and medical facilities. With minimal traffic, a strong sense of community, and an ultra-low cost of living, Holtville is perfect for those seeking a peaceful, affordable escape in Southern California.

4. Eureka

• 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,700 – $3,400
• 🌟 Unique Features: Redwood forests 🌲, Victorian architecture 🏛️, and a coastal vibe 🌊
• 📅 Best Time to Live There: Spring – Fall 🍃
• 🏆 Perfect For: Nature enthusiasts 🏕️, history buffs 📜, and artists 🎭

Perched along California’s northern coast, Eureka is a city where Victorian charm meets coastal beauty—without the high price tag. Renters can find apartments for around $1,100 per month, while homebuyers enjoy lower property costs compared to the rest of the state.

Eureka’s historic Old Town features well-preserved Victorian architecture, art galleries, and waterfront cafés, creating a walkable and inviting downtown. The city is surrounded by redwood forests, with Humboldt Bay offering stunning coastal views and fresh seafood at unbeatable prices.

The cost of living in Eureka is significantly lower than in cities like San Francisco, yet it still provides access to high-quality amenities, farmers’ markets, and a growing arts scene. With mild year-round weather, outdoor adventures, and a tight-knit community, Eureka is a perfect choice for those who want an affordable coastal lifestyle with small-town charm.

• Read next: 13 Magical Northern California Destinations That Feel Like Another World

5. San Pablo

• 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $2,200 – $4,500
• 🌟 Unique Features: Bay Area access 🌉, diverse community 🌍, and job opportunities 💼
• 📅 Best Time to Live There: Year-round ☀️
• 🏆 Perfect For: Commuters 🚆, professionals 💻, and families 👩‍👩‍👧

Nestled in the Bay Area, San Pablo offers affordable living without sacrificing city convenience. With median home prices around $550,000—far lower than neighboring San Francisco—it’s one of the most budget-friendly options in Northern California. Renters can also find apartments for about $1,500 per month, making it an attractive spot for those who want Bay Area access without the sky-high costs.

Public transportation is a major perk here. The city is well-connected through AC Transit and BART, with bus fares averaging just $2.50 per ride. Commuters can easily reach Oakland, Berkeley, and San Francisco, cutting down on car expenses.

Beyond affordability, San Pablo has a growing dining scene, diverse culture, and nearby outdoor spaces like Wildcat Canyon Regional Park. For those who want big-city proximity, a lower cost of living, and reliable transit options, San Pablo offers an ideal balance of affordability and accessibility.

6. Sacramento

• 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $2,300 – $4,800
• 🌟 Unique Features: Capital city 🏛️, vibrant food scene 🍽️, and riverside beauty 🌊
• 📅 Best Time to Live There: Spring – Fall 🍂
• 🏆 Perfect For: Government workers 🏢, food lovers 🍷, and families 👨‍👩‍👦

As California’s capital, Sacramento surprises many with its affordable cost of living and high quality of life. Home prices average $450,000, while renters enjoy apartments around $1,400 per month, making it one of the most budget-friendly major cities in the state.

Sacramento is a leader in the farm-to-fork movement, offering locally sourced food at reasonable prices. Farmers’ markets are abundant, helping residents save on groceries while enjoying fresh, high-quality produce. The city’s public transportation system, including buses and light rail, keeps commuting costs low, with fares around $2.50 per ride.

Outdoor lovers appreciate Sacramento’s riverfront parks, biking trails, and close proximity to Lake Tahoe and Napa Valley. With historic Old Sacramento, vibrant nightlife, and a growing job market, Sacramento has an urban lifestyle with a relaxed, community feel—without the hefty California price tag.

7. Stockton

• 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $2,000 – $4,100
• 🌟 Unique Features: Affordable housing 🏡, Delta waterways 🚤, and a growing economy 📈
• 📅 Best Time to Live There: Year-round ☀️
• 🏆 Perfect For: Families 👩‍👩‍👧, young professionals 💻, and boaters ⚓

Located in the San Joaquin Valley, Stockton offers big-city amenities at a fraction of the cost. With median home prices around $360,000 and rentals averaging $1,100 per month, it’s among California’s most affordable metro areas.

Despite its lower cost of living, Stockton boasts a vibrant arts scene, a scenic waterfront, and year-round festivals. The Stockton Marina and Joan Darrah Promenade provide beautiful riverfront views, while the Haggin Museum highlights the city’s rich history. Farmers’ markets and local restaurants offer fresh, budget-friendly dining options.

Transportation is another plus. Car rentals start at $30-40 per day, and Stockton’s central location makes it an ideal home base for weekend getaways to San Francisco, Napa, or Yosemite. For those seeking a diverse community, affordable housing, and a lively cultural scene, Stockton delivers a great mix of value and convenience.

8. Murrieta

• 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $2,200 – $4,600
• 🌟 Unique Features: Safe neighborhoods 🏡, excellent schools 🏫, and proximity to wineries 🍷
• 📅 Best Time to Live There: Year-round ☀️
• 🏆 Perfect For: Families 👨‍👩‍👧, retirees 🌅, and commuters 🚗

For those craving Southern California sunshine without the high price tag, Murrieta is a fantastic choice. Located between Los Angeles and San Diego, it offers affordable suburban living with median home prices around $480,000 and rent averaging $1,600 per month—significantly lower than coastal cities.

Murrieta is a family-friendly city known for its top-rated schools, safe neighborhoods, and abundance of parks. Outdoor enthusiasts will love its proximity to Temecula’s wine country, Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve, and year-round hiking trails.

Transportation is another budget win—commuters can take advantage of affordable bus passes and carpool lanes to nearby job hubs. The city also boasts a low crime rate and strong sense of community, making it a great place to settle down. With suburban comfort, outdoor adventure, and cost-effective living, Murrieta delivers the California lifestyle—without the California price tag.

9. Imperial

• 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,600 – $3,200
• 🌟 Unique Features: Desert beauty 🌵, agricultural industry 🚜, and a quiet lifestyle 🌄
• 📅 Best Time to Live There: Fall – Spring 🍁
• 🏆 Perfect For: Retirees 🌅, farmers 🌾, and those seeking affordability 💰

Deep in California’s desert region, Imperial offers low-cost living, warm weather, and a welcoming small-town feel. With median home prices around $300,000 and rent averaging $1,200 per month, it’s one of the most budget-friendly places in the state.

Despite its quiet surroundings, Imperial has plenty to offer. The nearby Imperial Sand Dunes attract off-road enthusiasts, while local parks and farmers’ markets create a strong sense of community. Winters are mild and sunny, making outdoor activities enjoyable year-round.

El Centro, just minutes away, provides access to major shopping centers, healthcare, and dining. The town’s affordable cost of living, safe neighborhoods, and steady growth make it ideal for those looking to escape high prices while staying connected to essential amenities. If you’re seeking a peaceful lifestyle with room to breathe, Imperial is a hidden gem worth considering.

10. Vacaville

• 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $2,200 – $4,500
• 🌟 Unique Features: Central location 📍, outlet shopping 🛍️, and outdoor recreation 🚴
• 📅 Best Time to Live There: Year-round ☀️
• 🏆 Perfect For: Families 👨‍👩‍👧, commuters 🚗, and shoppers 🛒

Positioned between San Francisco and Sacramento, Vacaville strikes the perfect balance between small-town charm and big-city convenience. With median home prices around $500,000 and rent averaging $1,700 per month, it’s a cost-effective choice compared to its pricier neighbors.

Vacaville’s bustling downtown features local boutiques, farm-to-table restaurants, and community events, creating a lively yet relaxed atmosphere. Outdoor lovers can explore Lagoon Valley Park’s hiking trails and picnic spots, while shoppers enjoy discounts at the Vacaville Premium Outlets.

For commuters, Vacaville provides easy access to major highways and public transit, making trips to Sacramento, Napa, or the Bay Area convenient. The city also emphasizes sustainability and green living, with eco-friendly initiatives and expanding transit options. With its family-friendly feel, strong local economy, and lower cost of living, Vacaville delivers a well-rounded lifestyle without the premium price.

11. Auburn

• 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $2,000 – $4,000
• 🌟 Unique Features: Gold Rush history ⛏️, scenic foothills 🌄, and outdoor activities 🚣
• 📅 Best Time to Live There: Spring – Fall 🍂
• 🏆 Perfect For: History lovers 📜, adventurers 🏕️, and retirees 🏡

Rich in Gold Rush history and outdoor adventure, Auburn is a scenic foothill town with an affordable cost of living. Homebuyers enjoy median home prices around $550,000, while renters find apartments for about $1,500 per month—a bargain compared to the Bay Area.

Auburn’s historic downtown is lined with charming cafés, antique shops, and farmers’ markets, preserving its small-town charm while offering modern conveniences. As the “Endurance Capital of the World”, Auburn attracts trail runners, cyclists, and outdoor enthusiasts, with world-class hiking, rafting, and mountain biking in the nearby American River Canyon.

With a tight-knit community, excellent schools, and easy access to Sacramento, Auburn is perfect for those who want a peaceful, adventurous lifestyle with rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re exploring hidden trails or enjoying local wineries, Auburn offers a balance of affordability, nature, and small-town charm.

• Read next: 12 Stunning Hidden Gems in the Sierra Nevadas You Need To See

12. Coalinga

• 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,500 – $3,000
• 🌟 Unique Features: Rural living 🌾, affordable housing 🏡, and warm climate ☀️
• 📅 Best Time to Live There: Fall – Spring 🍃
• 🏆 Perfect For: Retirees 🌅, farmers 🚜, and those looking for a quiet lifestyle 🌿

Set in California’s Central Valley, Coalinga is a small agricultural town known for its low cost of living and peaceful lifestyle. With median home prices around $250,000 and rent averaging $900 per month, it’s one of the most affordable places to live in the state.

Coalinga has a tight-knit community where residents enjoy local festivals, farmers’ markets, and small-town hospitality. The area is home to Harris Ranch, one of the largest beef producers in the West, meaning locals have access to fresh, high-quality food at reasonable prices.

Though it’s a quiet town, Coalinga offers easy access to Fresno and the Central Coast, providing big-city amenities within a short drive. If you’re looking for affordability, a slower pace of life, and a strong sense of community, Coalinga is a hidden gem in California’s heartland.

13. Oxnard

• 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $2,400 – $5,000
• 🌟 Unique Features: Coastal beauty 🌊, fresh seafood 🦞, and stunning beaches 🏖️
• 📅 Best Time to Live There: Year-round ☀️
• 🏆 Perfect For: Beach lovers 🏄, families 👨‍👩‍👧, and professionals 💼

Dreaming of affordable coastal living? Oxnard delivers with beachside charm at a fraction of the cost. Renters can find apartments for around $1,800 per month, while homebuyers enjoy prices far lower than in nearby Los Angeles or Santa Barbara.

With uncrowded beaches, a historic downtown, and a vibrant cultural scene, Oxnard offers a relaxed seaside lifestyle. Residents love kayaking at Channel Islands Harbor, surfing at Silver Strand Beach, and exploring local farmers’ markets featuring fresh seafood and produce. The city’s mild Mediterranean climate makes outdoor activities enjoyable year-round.

Public transportation options, including the Metrolink commuter rail, make commuting to LA feasible without the high cost of city living. With affordable housing, coastal beauty, and a laid-back atmosphere, Oxnard is an ideal spot for those wanting Southern California’s beach lifestyle without the sky-high prices.

• Read next: 19 Bucket List Things To Do in Southern California