If you're looking for the cheapest place to live in California, you won't find it on this list. But if you're looking to move without money or work, there are still ways to make it happen. Instead of just moving now, if your current situation allows, consider setting a “target date in the future” that allows you to build up your savings or find a job first. In this post, you'll learn exactly what it takes to make your big move and how to maximize your chances of a successful relocation to California. Bakersfield is the ninth largest city in the state and one of the most affordable cities in California.
It's a fast-growing place to live about two hours from Los Angeles. There are also quite a few pockets in and around San Diego that are still affordable to live in. Whether this part of California works for you will depend on your values, ability to develop relationships and a sense of community, and unique living circumstances. If you can apply your negotiation skills efficiently, finding a cheap spot in California near the beach isn't impossible. Cities like Rancho Cucamonga, Yucca Valley, San Bernardino and Bakersfield have relatively low cost of living.
If you're Canadian but have lived in the United States for many years, consider getting married in California and driving around the state. The smog and crime rate can be an issue, but if you consider living near the California State University area, it can be a great place to live in beautiful surroundings. High-paying jobs with state and local government, high-tech companies, biotechnology and a diversified economic base provide a good employment base and opportunities to afford a very comfortable lifestyle in the city. This makes it one of the cheapest places to live in Northern California. There are also several affordable cities with safe neighborhoods and great West Coast services. If you don't have money or work, you can still make it work by using your skills.
Some people have come to California with nothing but a guitar and have done live performances for coffee shops, hotels, restaurants, etc. You can also explore Bidwell Mansion State Park which is home to the Victorian home that once belonged to California pioneers John and Annie Bidwell. Nestled in the foothills of the mountains is an ancient wine-producing region that has become a growing metropolis. It's an affordable college city in California where utilities, healthcare, and transportation cost on average less than the national average. This makes it an ideal stop on a road trip and an affordable place to live.
