Top 7 Major Cities to Live in California with the Best quality of life – 2024

• Population: 1,381,069
• Crime rate: 21.20 crimes per 1,000 people
• Median 1-bed apt rent: $2,399
• Median property buying cost: $878,363

With a population of over 1.3 million people, San Diego takes the crown for our list of best cities to live in California. Considering its population, San Diego has a low crime rate of 21.20 crimes per 1,000 people.

As Mayor Todd Gloria shared, San Diego is a place of opportunity for young families and children, especially with its well-known educational institutions like the University of California and top public schools such as Patrick Henry High School.

Locals love spending time participating in outdoor activities, like visiting La Jolla Cove beach. The city experiences sunshine year-round, making it perfect for surfing, swimming and spending time with your family.

As of October 2023, the median property buying cost is $878,363 and the median cost of a 1-bedroom apartment is $2,399 as of November 2023.

Zillow (Nov 2023), Rockethomes (Oct 2023) & City of San Diego (Dec 2022)

Learn more about living in San Diego

• Population: 3,849,297
• Crime rate: 32.47 crimes per 1,000 people
• Median 1-bed apt rent: $2,195
• Median property buying cost: $967,514

The City of Angels, also known as Los Angeles, holds a captivating vibe. Renowned for its Hollywood stars, and beautiful beaches such as Venice Beach and the Santa Monica Pier, this city embodies the West Coast charm. Each area in Los Angeles offers residents a unique experience with entertainment options, like the Dodger Stadium.

As the largest city in California and the second-largest urban area in the United States, Los Angeles is also committed to its education. There are over 106 colleges within 50 miles of LA, including the University of California. With a crime rate of 32.47 per 1000 people, it is a city of dreams, sun, surf, sand, and Hollywood.

As of October 2023, the median property buying cost is $967,514 and the median cost of a 1-bedroom apartment is $2,195 as of November 2023.

Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (Dec 2023), Zillow (Nov 2023) & Rockethomes (Oct 2023)

• Population: 1,015,785
• Crime rate: 14.56 crimes per 1,000 people
• Median 1-bed apt rent: $2,220
• Median property buying cost: $1,299,981

San Jose, California’s connection to Silicon Valley, offers abundant tech job opportunities and a high average income for locals. With a population of just over one million, it is a hub for tech companies and startup businesses, making it an ideal location for tech professionals and entrepreneurs.

While San Jose has many advantages, it’s important to note the high cost of living, primarily due to its proximity to all basic amenities. However, for those in tech or looking for a vibrant and diverse community, this area is an ideal choice. As noted by many locals, San Jose is a safe city with a low crime rate of 14.56 crimes per 1000 people.

As of October 2023, the median property buying cost is $1,299,981 and the median cost of a 1-bedroom apartment is $2,220 as of November 2023.

Zillow (Nov 2023), Rockethomes (Oct 2023) & San Jose Crime Statistics (Dec 2022)

• Population: 952,352
• Crime rate: 0.15 per 1,000 people
• Median 1-bed apt rent: $1,800
• Median property buying cost: $749,929

East San Gabriel Valley is located in Los Angeles County, California. Due to Hispanic and Latino ancestry, the second most spoken language in East San Gabriel Valley, after English, is Spanish. Locals appreciate the supermarkets in the city, where fresh produce and goods can be purchased from diverse cultures, including Hawaiian.

You can expect to find mostly two-bedroom homes and four-bedroom homes, with the population mostly ranging from 29 years or older. East San Gabriel Valley is also known for its great schools, specifically as they are in the San Gabriel Unified School District with many elementary schools and high schools. Locals have noted to be extra vigilant when driving in this city, as there are many car accidents that happen daily. As for safety, East San Gabriel Valley has an extremely low crime rate of 0.15 per 1,000 people.

As of October 2023, the median property buying cost is $749,929 and the median cost of a 1-bedroom apartment is $1,800 as of November 2023.

Crime Statistics (Nov 2023), East San Gabriel Valley (Nov 2023), Zillow (Nov 2023) & Rockethomes (Oct 2023)

• Population: 515, 986
• Crime rate: 40.35 per 1,000 people
• Median 1-bed apt rent: $950
• Median property buying cost: $372,390

Fresno is a major city in California that has received mixed reviews from both past and present residents. Locals suggest that depending on your lifestyle, Fresno can either be a great place or a boring location to move to. One of the advantages is easy accessibility to the beaches and mountains, like Moss Landing or Santa Cruz. Fresno’s unique location places it 2-3 hours away from major cities including Los Angeles, San Francisco and Monterey.

Residents note that summers in Fresno are long, dry and brutal due to the heat. It is highly recommended to purchase an accommodation with an AC unit or a pool amenity. Locals also mention how there is a large homeless population and lower quality schools.

In terms of safety, Fresno has a crime rate of 40.35 per 1,000 people, with a population of 515,986. As of October 2023, the median property buying cost is $372,390 and the median cost of a 1-bedroom apartment is $950 as of November 2023.

Zillow (Nov 2023), Rockethomes (Oct 2023) & Fresno Crime (Nov 2023)

• Population: 1,161,413
• Crime rate: 0.30 per 1,000 people
• Median 1-bed apt rent: $2,252.50
• Median property buying cost: $976,362

Located to the east of the San Francisco Bay Area, Central Contra Costa County is known for its suburban atmosphere with a mix of residential and commercial areas. There are a variety of parks, hiking trails and recreational areas for outdoor activities like the Contra Costa Trail, a 13.6 mile trail. The community is mostly middle-working class with a large Hispanic community. As for safety, the city has a crime rate of 0.30 per 1,000 people. 

Residents have noted the high cost of living and high property prices in Central Contra Costa County. As of October 2023, the median property buying cost is $976,362 and the median cost of a 1-bedroom apartment is $2,252.50 as of November 2023. Rent can be rather expensive, making the area more suitable for professionals rather than families. The city also has a high sales tax which can increase the cost of goods and services.

Locals have also pointed out that Central Contra Costa County is extremely close to the Buchanan Field Airport, leading to loud noises, air pollution, and safety concerns for residents.

FBI – Crime of the US (Dec 2016), Zillow (Nov 2023) & Rockethomes (Oct 2023)

• Population: 852,469
• Crime rate: 52.36 per 1,000 people
• Median 1-bed apt rent: $2,903
• Median property buying cost: $1,124,666

The major city in California that is considered the worst to live in is San Francisco, with a relatively high crime rate of 52.36 per 1,000 people. San Francisco faces challenges when it comes to homelessness, cleanliness issues, rising crime rates, high cost of living and business closures. In fact, California’s violent crime rate increased by 6.1% in 2022, while San Francisco experienced a higher surge, with a 7.45% crime rate increase.

If you are thinking of moving to San Francisco, it is crucial to be aware of the rise in crimes, particularly burglaries in parked cars and on public transportation. Many locals have noted the outstanding increase in the homeless population, so managing risks is essential for a relatively safe experience in the city.

When moving to San Francisco, it’s essential to find a neighborhood where you can feel comfortable and safe. Despite its challenges, the city does have neighborhoods with fewer safety concerns, such as Inner Sunset and Parkside, making it a feasible option for those looking to move with their families or seek LGBTQ-friendly communities.

As of October 2023, the median property buying cost is $1,124,666 and the median cost of a 1-bedroom apartment is $2,903 as of November 2023.

Zillow (Nov 2023), Rockethomes (Oct 2023), Crime in California (Dec 2022), PPIC (Nov 2022) & San Francisco Police Department (Nov 2023)