Are you moving to California or around within the state? In that case, grasping the varying living expenses across different cities is essential. Regardless of whether your budget allows for the finest luxuries or you're looking to steer clear of pricey areas, examining the priciest cities in California could prove quite informative.
The cost of living in California ranks as one of the highest in the United States, exceeding the national average by about 30%. Nonetheless, the scarcity of reasonably priced homes significantly contributes to these substantial pricing discrepancies.
Expensive areas in California
The compilation of pricy regions within California draws upon information sourced from Fly Homes along with The Travel. This review encompasses several aspects such as accommodation costs, medical expenses, travel fees, and food prices—all notably higher than the nationwide averages. Hence, what are the costliest spots in California?
| City | Cost of living (compared to the national average) |
| San Francisco | 169.9% |
| Palo Alto | 169.9% |
| Santa Barbara | 154.7% |
| Newport Beach | 150.3% |
| Beverly Hills | 149.1% |
| San Jose | 149.1% |
| Santa Monica | 149.1% |
| Malibu | 149.1% |
| San Diego | 142.5% |
| Oakland | 140% |
1. San Francisco
The cost of living in San Francisco stands at 169.9% of the national average, rendering it the highest-priced city in California. Housing costs in this city exceed the U.S. average by approximately 190%, with utility expenses being roughly 35% higher as well. Essentials such as apparel, sustenance, and provisions come out to be around 20% dearer here too.
Furthermore, the wealthiest neighborhood isPresidio Heights, where the median household income stands at$209,750.
2. Palo Alto
The cost of living in Palo Alto is approximately 169.9% of the national average, rendering it the most opulent area within California. The substantial monthly expenses arise primarily due to costs related to accommodation, meals, transit, energy, medical care, as well as various additional products and services.
The median home price in Fairmeadow stands at $3,002,646, with a typical rental cost of $2,776, making it the priciest neighborhood in Palo Alto.
3. Santa Barbara
Boasting its “American Riviera” nickname, Santa Barbara captivates visitors with its beautiful coastline and offers numerous picturesque and sunny shores. With a high cost of living at 154.7%, it ranks among the priciest places in California. Among neighborhoods, Campanile stands out as the most costly area, featuring a median home price of $4,303,781.
4. Newport Beach
The cost of living in Newport Beach is 150.3% of the national average. Investors receive greater returns in Newport Beach compared to other pricey areas in California.
The urban districts offer competitive pricing, enabling investors to acquire properties at reduced costs. Furthermore, the pleasant weather and attractive shorelines attract millions of visitors to the city annually.
5. Beverly Hills
Considered among the most affluent cities in Los Angeles, California, Beverly Hills boasts a living cost that stands at approximately 149.1% of the national average.
The city's historical buildings coupled with its opulent facilities attract people seeking extravagant living. Primarily, it lures the affluent and renowned, such as stars and notable personalities.
6. San Jose
The cost of living in San Jose is approximately 149.1% of the national average, which makes it one of the priciest places in the country. The typical house here sells for around $706,295, translating to a median price of about $541 per square foot. Among the most costly neighborhoods in San Jose are West San Jose, Almaden Valley, and Cambrian Park.
7. Santa Monica
Santa Monica stands out as one of the most picturesque neighborhoods in California, boasting a figure that's 149.1% higher than the national average when it comes to affluence. Its privileged position along the coast, combined with high-end facilities and robust economic opportunities, contributes significantly to this wealth. In terms of real estate, the typical home here sells for around $1,635,000, translating to an impressive median cost of $986 per square foot.
8. Malibu
The cost of living in Malibu is approximately 149.1% of the national average, making it quite expensive. Known for its stunning shorelines, this city boasts more than 20 beaches such as Surfrider Beach and Zuma Beach.
Carbon Beach, often referred to as Billionaire's Beach, is regarded as one of the most affluent areas in Malibu. The cost of homes here varies between roughly $10 million and upwards of $100 million.
9. San Diego
The cost of living in San Diego stands at 142.5% of the national average. This city boasts large properties, cliff-top residences, and a tight-knit community atmosphere. Among its neighborhoods, Point Loma is the wealthiest, featuring houses averaging around $1.31 million. Its inhabitants benefit from proximity to harbors, shores, and culinary options.
10. Oakland
The cost of living in Oakland is approximately 140% of the national average, which positions it as one of the priciest cities in California. The neighborhood of Fairview Park stands out as the most costly area within the city, boasting a median home value of $1,570,657 and a typical monthly rent at $2,235.
Nevertheless, the whole of Oakland provides a distinctive and varied experience, distinguished by its vibrant culture that differentiates it from other cities in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Wrapping up
The priciest cities in California owe their status to several elements such as robust employment sectors, notably within tech and media fields, an appealing weather pattern, and abundant cultural and leisure activities. Grasping these underlying forces is essential for decision-makers, future inhabitants, and financiers when dealing with the intricacies of existence and business operations in these costly metropolitan areas.
Chandaokey News.co.ke has released an article detailing the priciest African urban centers for foreign professionals. Individuals employed overseas rely heavily on accessible information regarding expenses when considering locations to relocate. Various aspects must be taken into account such as exchange rates, financial opportunities, and currency valuation. To view the full list of these costly metropolises across Africa designed specifically for expatriates, check out this piece.