Top 10 Best Places to Retire in California: Finding Your Perfect Fit for Comfort, Affordability, and Adventure

by Herb Rim

Top 10 Best Places to Retire in California: Finding Your Perfect Fit for Comfort, Affordability, and Adventure

Deciding where to retire is one of the most significant choices many people face as they approach their golden years. In California, a state known for its stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and diverse climates, finding the perfect place to settle down can be both exciting and overwhelming. Whether you’re drawn to the serenity of coastal towns, the peacefulness of mountain communities, or the accessibility of suburban areas near major cities, California offers a wide variety of retirement destinations. While factors like affordability, climate, health, and access to recreation are key considerations, it’s important to remember that retirement is a deeply personal decision. Some retirees may prioritize being close to family, building community connections, or having access to their favorite recreational activities.

Additionally, climate change has become a critical factor, as the increasing frequency of heatwaves, wildfires, and extreme weather can impact retirees' quality of life. Access to healthcare is another essential element, especially for aging populations who may require specialized care or proximity to top medical facilities. It's also important to consider the flexibility of your retirement plan, as needs and preferences often evolve over time. Planning for adaptability—whether it involves downsizing, moving closer to healthcare, or shifting recreational interests—can ensure a fulfilling retirement.

To help make this important decision easier, we’ve ranked the top 10 best places to retire in California based on these practical factors, providing a variety of environments to suit every retirement dream and ensure a comfortable, adaptable, and enjoyable lifestyle.

1. Crescent City, Del Norte County

Climate: 0 days above 100°F
Health & Wellness: Poor (bottom 20%)
Recreation: 75% of residents live near parks or open spaces
Affordability: Home value: $361,000; Rent: $1,500

Why retire here?
Crescent City offers affordability and coastal living. Though far from urban centers and lacking in healthcare infrastructure, it provides a low-cost living option with easy access to nature, making it ideal for budget-conscious retirees.

2. Grass Valley, Nevada County

Climate: 19 days above 100°F
Health & Wellness: Below average (bottom 40%)
Recreation: 50% of residents live near parks or open spaces
Affordability: Home value: $516,000; Rent: $1,737

Why retire here?
Grass Valley appeals to retirees who enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and camping. With its Gold Rush history and proximity to Lake Tahoe, it offers a scenic yet slightly isolated lifestyle for the adventurous.

3. Fair Oaks, Sacramento County

Climate: 56 days above 100°F
Health & Wellness: Very good (top 15%)
Recreation: 80% of residents live near parks or open spaces
Affordability: Home value: $616,000; Rent: $1,992

Why retire here?
Fair Oaks combines suburban charm with access to beautiful nature spots along the Sacramento River. Though it can get hot during the summer, its parks and river views offer a refreshing environment for retirees.

4. Signal Hill, Los Angeles County

Climate: 4 days above 100°F
Health & Wellness: Above average (top 40%)
Recreation: 95% of residents live within a half-mile of parks or open spaces
Affordability: Home value: $792,000; Rent: $2,082

Why retire here?
Signal Hill’s central location near Long Beach provides stunning views and close proximity to beaches, marinas, and local attractions. Despite its compact size, it’s perfect for those who want urban conveniences with a suburban feel.

5. Big Bear Lake, San Bernardino County

Climate: 0 days above 100°F
Health & Wellness: Above average (top 40%)
Recreation: Around 67% of residents live near parks or open spaces
Affordability: Home value: $587,000; Rent: $2,000

Why retire here?
Big Bear Lake is ideal for retirees who want a mountain retreat with year-round activities like hiking, water sports, and skiing. It’s less than two hours from Los Angeles, offering seclusion with accessibility to urban amenities.

6. Arcata, Humboldt County

Climate: 0 days above 100°F
Health & Wellness: Above average (top 40%)
Recreation: 95% of residents live within a half-mile of parks or open spaces
Affordability: Home value: $510,000; Rent: $1,700

Why retire here?
Arcata, with its coastal location and youthful atmosphere from the nearby college, provides an affordable, nature-filled lifestyle. Though it’s far from big cities, it offers a peaceful environment for retirees who enjoy coastal living.

7. Eureka, Humboldt County

Population: ~30,000
Climate: 0 days above 100°F
Health & Wellness: Average (top 50%)
Recreation: 90% of residents live within a half-mile of parks or open spaces
Affordability: Home value: $419,000; Rent: $1,516

Why retire here?
Eureka’s coastal charm, affordability, and cooler climate make it an attractive option for retirees. It offers excellent access to parks and nature, making it perfect for those who enjoy the outdoors.

8. Emeryville, Alameda County

Climate: 1 day above 100°F
Health & Wellness: Excellent (top 10%)
Recreation: 95% of residents live within a half-mile of parks or open spaces
Affordability: Home value: $524,000; Rent: $2,935

Why retire here?
Emeryville is a great choice for retirees who want to stay close to major population centers like San Francisco and Oakland. Its excellent health and recreation scores, along with good public transportation, make it an urban retiree’s dream.

9. Benicia, Solano County

Climate: 11 days above 100°F
Health & Wellness: Excellent (top 10%)
Recreation: 95% of residents live within a half-mile of parks or open spaces
Affordability: Home value: $820,000; Rent: $2,406

Why retire here?
Benicia offers the perfect blend of suburban living with proximity to the Bay Area’s urban amenities. It’s a quiet, scenic place with access to nature and wine country while still being close to major cities.

10. Belmont, San Mateo County

Climate: 2 days above 100°F
Health & Wellness: Stellar (top 5%)
Recreation: 90% of residents live within a half-mile of parks or open spaces
Affordability: Home value: $2,145,000; Rent: $2,731

Why retire here?
Belmont is ideal for retirees who can afford a higher cost of living and want access to the best quality of life metrics. With proximity to San Francisco and Silicon Valley, it’s great for those who want to stay connected to urban centers while enjoying a high standard of living.

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Herb Rim

Realtor | License ID: 01870707

+1(818) 699-9175