California may be known for its high cost of living, but it also offers some of the most desirable places to retire in the United States. Whether you want coastal views, quiet countryside, or access to vibrant arts and culture, California has something for every retiree.
Here are six of the best cities to consider for your retirement in the Golden State:
1. Carlsbad – Coastal Beauty and Active Living
Carlsbad, located just north of San Diego, is a coastal gem offering over 7 miles of oceanfront and stunning cliffs. While it’s popular with tourists, it’s also a great spot for active retirees.
You can enjoy bike-friendly roads, state parks, and nature preserves. Carlsbad has a small-town feel but offers easy train access to the buzz of San Diego through the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner.
Cost Note: Living here isn’t cheap, but it comes with excellent senior living options—from independent living to memory care.
2. Fresno – Affordable Living With Outdoor Perks
If budget is important, Fresno in Central California is a more affordable choice. Located in the San Joaquin Valley, it offers a balanced mix of city amenities and outdoor adventures.
You’ll find golf courses, parks, and nearby national parks like Yosemite and Sequoia. Fresno is also home to great hospitals and senior care facilities, making it a smart pick for retirees.
3. Monterey – Coastal Charm and Culture
Monterey is a beautiful seaside city famous for its Monterey Bay Aquarium, Cannery Row, and Pebble Beach Golf Course. It’s perfect for retirees who love nature, culture, and the arts.
Activities like kayaking, hiking, and golfing are popular here. Healthcare is top-notch, with facilities like the Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula nearby.
Note: It’s one of the pricier retirement destinations, but it offers unmatched scenic beauty and quality of life.
4. Hemet – Small Town with Big Benefits
Hemet, located in San Jacinto Valley, is a quieter city with around 85,000 residents. It’s ideal for those who prefer a slower lifestyle, yet want access to outdoor spaces like Diamond Valley Lake.
There’s a vibrant local scene, too. Catch a concert at Ramona Bowl Amphitheatre or visit the Western Science Center. Hemet also offers more affordable housing and senior living options than many other parts of the state.
5. Corte Madera – Small Village with Big Views
For retirees who want peace and quiet but still want access to a big city, Corte Madera offers the best of both worlds. With fewer than 11,000 residents, this small town offers a tight-knit community atmosphere.
Located just a short drive from San Francisco, it’s perfect for those who enjoy art galleries, theatre, and nature walks in nearby Ring Mountain Open Space Preserve.
It’s a calm, scenic place to enjoy retirement without the rush of city life.
6. Santa Rosa – Wine Country Bliss
Santa Rosa, located in Sonoma County, is perfect for retirees who love wine, arts, and nature. With rolling vineyards, outdoor trails, and top-quality medical facilities, it offers a balanced and joyful retirement lifestyle.
From the Charles M. Schulz Museum to the Luther Burbank Center for the Arts, there’s always something happening. Families with grandchildren will also enjoy kid-friendly attractions like the Children’s Museum of Sonoma County.
Santa Rosa has a great mix of independent, assisted, and memory care living options, making it a smart long-term retirement spot.
California may not be the cheapest place to retire, but it offers unbeatable scenery, healthcare, and lifestyle choices for seniors. Whether you’re dreaming of coastal sunsets, wine country weekends, or quiet small-town charm, one of these six cities could be your perfect match.
Before you decide, consider your budget, lifestyle preferences, and access to medical care. With a bit of planning, you can enjoy a rewarding and peaceful retirement in the Golden State.
