Find Your Family’s Perfect California Home
Dreaming of sunny beaches, vibrant cities, or quaint small towns? The Golden State, offers 483 unique cities and towns, each with its own charm, making it a top destination for families. Whether you’re relocating or exploring, our comprehensive guide to cities in California simplifies your search. With a complete list organized by county, top picks for families, and answers to common questions, this guide helps you find the ideal place to call home. Navigate easily, discover family-friendly communities, and start your California adventure today.
Top Cities for Families in California
Based on WalletHub’s 2024 study, several California cities excel for families due to their schools, safety, and amenities. Here are five top picks:
- Fremont: Ranked the best U.S. city for families, Fremont offers high median incomes, low poverty, and schools rated 7/10 or higher (WalletHub). Its parks and summer camps are perfect for kids.
- Irvine: Known for low crime rates and top-rated schools, Irvine boasts family events and a safe environment (CityofIrvine).
- San Jose: Silicon Valley’s hub provides job opportunities, diverse culture, and quality schools, ideal for tech-savvy families.
- San Diego: With beaches, the San Diego Zoo, and strong schools, it’s a family favorite for recreation and education.
- Huntington Beach: Offers excellent schools, surf culture, and a tight-knit community vibe.
List of counties in california
| County Name |
|---|
| Alameda |
| Alpine |
| Amador |
| Butte |
| Calaveras |
| Colusa |
| Contra Costa |
| Del Norte |
| El Dorado |
| Fresno |
| Glenn |
| Humboldt |
| Imperial |
| Inyo |
| Kern |
| Kings |
| Lake |
| Lassen |
| Los Angeles |
| Madera |
| Marin |
| Mariposa |
| Mendocino |
| Merced |
| Modoc |
| Mono |
| Monterey |
| Napa |
| Nevada |
| Orange |
| Placer |
| Plumas |
| Riverside |
| Sacramento |
| San Benito |
| San Bernardino |
| San Diego |
| San Francisco |
| San Joaquin |
| San Luis Obispo |
| San Mateo |
| Santa Barbara |
| Santa Clara |
| Santa Cruz |
| Shasta |
| Sierra |
| Siskiyou |
| Solano |
| Sonoma |
| Stanislaus |
| Sutter |
| Tehama |
| Trinity |
| Tulare |
| Tuolumne |
| Ventura |
| Yolo |
| Yuba |
List of Cities by California Counties
California’s 483 municipalities span 58 counties, from urban Los Angeles to rural Alpine. Due to space, a sample table is shown.
| City Name | County | Population (2020) |
|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | Los Angeles | 3,898,747 |
| San Diego | San Diego | 1,386,932 |
| San Jose | Santa Clara | 1,013,240 |
| San Francisco | San Francisco | 873,965 |
| Fresno | Fresno | 542,107 |
| Sacramento | Sacramento | 524,943 |
| Oakland | Alameda | 440,646 |
| Anaheim | Orange | 346,824 |
| Santa Ana | Orange | 310,227 |
| Riverside | Riverside | 314,998 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many cities are there in California?
As of May 2025, California has 483 incorporated municipalities, including cities and towns, with Mountain House as the latest addition in July 2024.
What is the largest city in California by population?
Los Angeles, with approximately 3.9 million residents, is the largest.
What is the smallest city in California?
Amador City, with about 200 residents, is the smallest incorporated city.
Which cities in California have the best schools?
Palo Alto, Cupertino, and Saratoga are renowned for top-rated schools.
What are the safest cities in California for families?
Danville, Aliso Viejo, and Rancho Santa Margarita have low crime rates.
How does the cost of living vary across California cities?
Coastal cities like San Francisco are pricier, while Central Valley cities like Fresno are more affordable. Compare at Numbeo.
Are there cities in California with affordable housing?
Modesto, Merced, and Victorville offer more affordable housing options.
What is the oldest city in California?
Sacramento, incorporated in 1850, is the oldest.
What are the newest cities in California?
Mountain House, incorporated in 2024, is the newest.
Interesting Facts About California Cities
- San Francisco: A unique city-county, famous for the Golden Gate Bridge and cable cars.
- Los Angeles: Hollywood’s home, the global entertainment hub.
- Sacramento: The state capital, rich in Gold Rush history.
- California City: Third-largest by land area but sparsely populated.
- Yountville: Napa Valley’s culinary gem with Michelin-starred restaurants.
Your California Journey Starts Here
This guide to cities in California equips families with helpful information needed to find the perfect home. From the complete list of cities in California to top family-friendly picks and practical resources, you’re ready to explore the Golden State’s diverse communities.
