These Small Cities in Southern California Are Actually Affordable
Southern California is famous for its stunning landscapes and vibrant lifestyle, but also its notoriously high cost of living. Yet, don’t write off the dream of calling SoCal home just yet. There are affordable places to live in Southern California — if you know where to look.
Here’s a surprising-but-probably-not-unexpected statistic for you: 38 of the 100 most expensive zip codes in the United States are located in Southern California, with a staggering 20 of them within Los Angeles County. Yikes, right?
While this part of the country is pricey, that doesn’t mean it’s impossible to find an affordable place to live in the greater Los Angeles area and other parts of Southern California.
From seaside towns to quirky inland communities, affordability can look different here than it does in other parts of the U.S. Without a doubt, the cost of living in these California communities is higher than in other parts of the country. Still, relative to the area, you can get more bang for your buck.
And while Southern California might have a reputation for being home to free spirits and wanderers, it’s actually a great place to lay down roots. See which of these small cities might be a fit for you:
In This Article
Lancaster, California
Located just north of L.A., Lancaster boasts a median home price under $500,000, which is nearly unheard of in this area (not to mention half the median home price in L.A.). This growing city offers residents more than just affordability. Here, you’ll find a tight-knit community, great job opportunities and a shared passion for sustainability and environmentalism that is truly inspiring. Lancaster locals can take advantage of the city’s more than 265 sunny days a year with all of the outdoor amenities in and around town, including visits to the Prime Desert Woodland Preserve and Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve. Add to that great restaurants and a booming job market, and it’s no wonder why people love planting roots in Lancaster.
Victorville, California
Nestled in the High Desert region of the state and roughly 85 miles East of L.A. is Victorville, a community that often catches the eye of those hoping to settle down in the Golden State without breaking the bank. The city’s cost of living is notably lower than that of many coastal California cities, making it an excellent option for those seeking a more budget-friendly lifestyle. The median cost of a home in Victorville is approximately $386,930, which is roughly one-third of the cost in Los Angeles.
But just because the town is more affordable doesn’t mean the 136,000 people who call Victorville home skimp out on fun! Beautiful landscapes, including the Mojave Desert and the San Bernardino Mountains, surround the city, and outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage with hiking, camping and off-road adventures. Victorville offers a variety of shopping options, well-regarded educational institutions and a growing arts and culture scene, providing residents with a well-rounded quality of life. It’s an affordable place to live in Southern California where you won’t have to sacrifice amenities.
Oxnard, California
Situated along the Southern California coast in Ventura County, Oxnard is a seaside city with a lot of character. It’s 70-acre Henry T. Oxnard Historic District is included in the National Register of Historic Places. With nearly a dozen miles of beautiful coastline, you’ll find good surfing spots here, and the gorgeous sand dunes have appeared in numerous films. Additionally, residents can enjoy year-round sunshine and a mild climate, with temperatures rarely dipping below 50°F or rising above 80°F. Oxnard’s diverse community of residents brings something special to the city’s culinary scene, which offers a wide range of cuisines and fun festivals like the Oxnard Salsa Festival and California Strawberry Festival. Oxnard has a population of around 200,000, and the median cost of a home in Oxnard is $658,737 — over $341,000 less than the median price in L.A.
Redlands, California
With a population under 75,000, Redlands is a growing city that offers residents a high quality of life. The Greater Los Angeles area includes Redlands, where the median home cost is $577,673, about half the price of L.A. Redlands has a booming economy and diverse cultural attractions. Known for the University of Redlands, it has a rich history that’s showcased in the well-preserved Victorian-era homes and the numerous California Historical Landmarks, such as the A.K. Smiley Library and the Barton School House. The city also offers excellent educational opportunities and boasts a robust job market, featuring an assortment of locally owned restaurants, boutiques, and galleries.
Joshua Tree, California
Joshua Tree is on the smaller side, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in scenery. Located in the High Desert of California in San Bernardino County, Joshua Tree is known for its namesake trees and the iconic national park in its backyard. Gorgeous Joshua Tree National Park has distinct rugged mountains and desert plains that attract visitors from all over the U.S. and beyond.
The median home price in Joshua Tree is $431,830. Joshua Tree is an affordable place to live in Southern California that is not only surrounded by natural beauty, it is also a thriving artists’ community. A Joshua Tree Art Walk is held on the second Saturday of each month, and the area features several art galleries that are open year-round. Unusual and quirky museums, such as the World Famous Crochet Museum and the Beauty Bubble Salon and Museum, are part of what makes it a fun place to call home.