California captivates thousands of people every year. From the warm climate to the theme parks to music festivals, pop culture and the job market, people of all ages and races are driven to California. Many people love living in California because of its warm weather, laid-back culture, easy access to beaches and the endless number of activities and things to do. Over 38 million people call this place home.

Because of large cities like Los Angeles, San Diego and San Francisco, California can be an expensive place to live depending on which city and neighborhood you choose to live in. No matter what part of the state you choose to live in, you’ll have access to practically anything you need and want.

If you’re looking for a state with a great social scene, indoor and outdoor amenities, and a lot of restaurants, coffee shops and bakeries, you’ll love living in California. Here are four of the best places to live in California.

Los Angeles

As the second largest city in the United States, Los Angeles is a sunny oasis full of restaurants, outdoor activities, concerts and more. Known as the top city where many celebrities and influencers reside. Because it’s one of the largest cities and home to a lot of major companies and job opportunities, the average home price in L.A. is expensive, around $902,605.

Explore the many restaurants, shops, museums and activities that LA has to offer. If you’re an adventurer, take a hike to the Hollywood sign or head over to Malibu Beach or Santa Monica for some surf and sun. Explore Beverly Hills for some designer shopping or tour celebrity homes in Calabasas. Check out Erewhon Market for some delicious smoothies or In-N-Out for their famous burgers.

• Population: 3,822,238
• Public School Rating: B
• Average Home Price: $920,605
• Walkability: Moderate to High

For Black Families: Los Angeles is a diverse melting pot, with around eight percent of Black residents living in the city and six percent living in LA County. With an abundance of nearby beaches, indoor and outdoor activities, museums and events, LA is the perfect city for raising a family. There are also suburban neighborhoods in the area for families who don’t want to be directly in the city.

For Young Professionals: For young professionals pursuing career opportunities in entertainment, music, hospitality and tourism, tech, law and healthcare, you can thrive working in these sectors. The city is also home to plenty of bars, nightclubs, restaurants, museums and shops that draw in young professionals. Since LA is expensive, the average rent in the city is around $2,719, of course, this is dependent on the area, square footage and type of apartment.

San Francisco

Another expensive city in the state, but one of the best places to live in California is San Francisco. With a booming job market and incredible weather year-round, San Francisco is known to be a great city for families, singles and young professionals. In San Francisco, homeownership comes at a steep price with the average price being $1.3 million.

• Population: 808,437
• Public School Rating: B
• Average Home Price: $1.3 Million
• Walkability: High

For Black Families: San Francisco is a slightly diverse California city. Around five percent of Black residents have made San Francisco their home. With major attractions like the Golden Gate Bridge and cable cars, along with plenty of restaurants, breweries, bars, museums and more, this place makes raising an active family fun.

For Young Professionals: San Francisco is one of the best cities to move to for young professionals wanting to make a decent income and work in a thriving job market. Professionals in tech, hospitality and tourism, finance, healthcare, biotech and marketing will thrive in this city. Although the job market is great, the cost of living is higher in San Francisco. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city is around $3,267.

San Diego

Because of the warm climate, a wide range of beaches, and plentiful indoor and outdoor activities, San Diego is one of the best places to live in California. Located right on the southern California coastline, this beach city has something for everyone. Whether you’re into sports, scenic walks on the beach, casual drinking or shopping, San Diego has something for everyone, including families, couples and singles. Coming at a steep price, homeownership in this area can cost over $800,000.

• Population: 1,381,162
• Public School Rating: A
• Average Home Price: $873,000
• Walkability: Moderate

For Black Families: With the cost of living being slightly lower in this California city, San Diego is a more affordable option for families. This area is also diverse, with around six percent of Black residents living in the city. Between the beach, shopping, eating, parks and watersports, there are plenty of activities for every family to enjoy.

For Young Professionals: Another great city for working young professionals, San Diego is great for those who want to live by the beach. The lower rent prices (around $2,895), the thriving job market, and activities and nightlife are drawing points for young people moving to California

Sacramento

For people looking to move to California without breaking the bank, Sacramento is a more affordable area in the state. Located in northern California, this area is home to a thriving job market, great universities, amenities and attractions for multiple age groups and family-friendly communities and neighborhoods. The typical price for a home in this city is around $453,000, making it one of California’s most affordable cities for families and couples.

• Population: 528,001
• Public School Rating: A
• Average Home Price: $453,000
• Walkability: Moderate

For Black Families: If you’re looking for a family-friendly affordable community, Sacramento is one of the best places to live in California. With close proximity to San Francisco and plenty of museums, hiking trails and art to explore, this quieter California city is perfect for families. Sacramento is also more diverse than other cities in California, with 12 percent of Black residents.

For Young Professionals: If you’re looking to move to California, but want to live in an affordable area, Sacramento just might be the perfect city. From outdoor water activities to biking and hiking, this is an outdoor-friendly city. The city offers plenty of restaurants, clubs, museums, and events geared to young professionals in the area.