Moving to California

Your complete guide to relocating to the Golden State

About California

Population

39.5M

Major Cities

10+

Avg. Move Cost

$2,500-$4,000

California offers diverse opportunities from tech hubs in Silicon Valley to entertainment in Los Angeles, finance in San Francisco, and everything in between. While costs are high, the state offers unparalleled lifestyle, weather, and career opportunities.

Major California Cities

Los Angeles

Pop: 3.9M

$$$$

Entertainment, beaches, diverse culture

Move Cost: $2,500-$3,500

San Francisco

Pop: 875K

$$$$$

Tech, finance, innovation

Move Cost: $3,000-$4,500

San Diego

Pop: 1.4M

$$$$

Military, biotech, perfect weather

Move Cost: $2,400-$3,400

San Jose

Pop: 1M

$$$$$

Silicon Valley, tech jobs

Move Cost: $2,800-$4,000

Sacramento

Pop: 525K

$$$

State capital, affordable

Move Cost: $2,200-$3,200

Oakland

Pop: 433K

$$$$

Diverse, artsy, Bay Area

Move Cost: $2,600-$3,600

Cost of Living in California

California has one of the highest costs of living in the U.S., but varies significantly by region. Coastal cities are most expensive, while inland areas are more affordable.

High Costs

  • • Housing (2-3x national average)
  • • Gas prices ($4.50+/gallon)
  • • State income tax (up to 13.3%)
  • • Utilities (higher in some areas)

Benefits

  • • No sales tax on groceries
  • • Strong job market
  • • Excellent weather
  • • Diverse culture & amenities

California Regions

Northern California

Cities: San Francisco, San Jose, Sacramento, Oakland

Vibe: Tech-focused, progressive, higher costs

Best for: Tech professionals, entrepreneurs, high earners

Southern California

Cities: Los Angeles, San Diego, Orange County

Vibe: Entertainment, beaches, diverse industries

Best for: Entertainment industry, military, families

Central California

Cities: Fresno, Bakersfield, Modesto

Vibe: Agriculture, more affordable, inland

Best for: Budget-conscious movers, families

Moving to California Tips

  • ✓Budget for higher costs - housing is the biggest expense
  • ✓Research neighborhoods thoroughly - prices vary dramatically
  • ✓Update vehicle registration within 20 days
  • ✓Prepare for state income tax - update withholding
  • ✓Consider earthquake insurance - standard home insurance doesn't cover it
  • ✓Research school districts if moving with children
  • ✓Be prepared for traffic - especially in LA and Bay Area
  • ✓Update driver's license within 10 days of establishing residency
  • ✓Research wildfire risk if moving to certain areas
  • ✓Join local groups to meet people and learn the area

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