Around 4.9 million people moved to California between the years 2010 and 2020. The Golden State is home to sandy beaches, giant redwood trees, spectacular views, and wonderful skiing options. It’s no wonder that thousands of people each year decide to move out to the West coast.
If you’re thinking about moving to California, it might get overwhelming. The state is massive and there are a variety of different types of towns to choose from.
This guide will discuss the best California counties to move to. We’ll take into consideration crime rates, cost of living, and various pieces of demographic data.
- Marin County
Marin County is one of the best places to live in northern California. The county has the lowest unemployment rate in the state. Residents who live there have a high household income with median home prices.
There are also many different educational options in the county. You can check out the Dominican University of California or the College of Marin. The high school graduation rate is also around 92%.
A large portion of the count is open space. There are plenty of protected wilderness areas and parks for you to explore.
You can also head over the bridge to San Francisco for a day in the city. You can also venture north to explore the wine country. Marin County is conveniently located and a great place to live.
- San Luis Obispo County
Let’s head a little farther south to explore San Luis Obispo County. There you’ll find the Mission San Miguel Arcangel and Pismo Beach. It’s also home to Cal Poly, a highly esteemed university.
San Luis Obispo County’s unemployment rate is the fifth-lowest in the state. It’s also home to some of the lowest commute times in California.
The area is one of the most beautiful places in the country. The residents there are polite, caring, and compassionate.
You won’t see any skyscrapers that you’ll find in other areas of the state. View gorgeous blue sky and picturesque beach scenes from multiple places in the county.
- Santa Clara County
While Santa Clara County is one of the most expensive counties to live in, it’s home to some major cities. These cities include:
- Los Altos
- San Jose
- Palo Alto
If you’re looking for a job in the tech industry, this is the place to be. Companies like Google and Apple have headquarters in this county. It’s also a short drive away from San Francisco.
Are you a sports fan? Check out a San Jose Sharks or San Jose Giants game.
While the area does have a huge population, there are quiet little communities throughout the area. You’ll feel as if you’re living in a small town when you’re actually right in the hub of Silicon Valley.
Finding a home in California, especially in this area, can be difficult. That’s because it’s such a highly sought-after area. Working with a company like Dash Buyers will make your transition process even easier.
- Ventura County
Down in southern California, Ventura County is a wonderful place to live. The cost of living is high, but that’s because it’s one of the hottest spots in the state to move to. You’re right by the beach and close to countless restaurants and outdoor activities.
There are also numerous national forests in Ventura County for you to explore. Ventura County is also home to numerous beach towns that give you a cozy and safe vibe.
One town to set roots down in is Ojai. There are plenty of little cafes and wineries that you can visit during the weekend.
- Napa County
Napa County is known for being the premier wine country and with good reason. The best wines in the world, at least some of them, come from this region. Going wine tasting is an experience like no other.
However, there’s more to this area than just grapes. The culinary options are superior due to the fresh produce that’s grown in the area. You can also stay active with hiking, horseback riding, and rock climbing.
The unemployment rates in the county are also the seventh lowest, with poverty levels being low as well. Home prices are high since it’s such a desirable area to call home.
- Placer County
World-famous skiing spots in the Lake Tahoe area call Placer County home. It’s also a great place to visit if you want to learn more about the history of the state. As you drive through windy mountain roads, you’ll get to see some jaw-dropping mountain views.
The poverty and unemployment rates are low in Placer County. The average household income is the eighth highest in the state.
What’s interesting is the median home price is around $354,000, which is fairly decent when compared to other places in the state. That means you can get into one of the most sought-after areas in the state for a reasonable price.
- Santa Barbara County
Santa Barbara County is one of the most picturesque areas in the state. You’ll find unique architecture, palm trees, fun attractions, and beaches when you visit the area. There are plenty of things for both tourists and residents to do in the area.
Unemployment in Santa Barbara County is around the eighth lowest in the state. The housing prices are quite high, which is to be expected of such a desirable county.
What’s great about Santa Barbara County is the weather. The temperatures remain mild throughout the year. The commute times are also fairly low when compared with other well-populated areas.
Explore Multiple California Counties to Find the Right Fit for You
There are so many California counties for you to choose from. Which one you choose depends upon your individual needs and goals.
Have you been asking yourself, “is California a good place to live?” As you can see, California has a lot to offer every type of person.
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