Where’s the best place in California to retire? Check out these 8 budget-friendly towns

Angela Rodriguez
·4 min read
2

Looking for the ideal place to retire? California is home to eight of the best budget-friendly towns for retirees, according to WorldAtlas.

“California is a warm, inviting destination perfect for enjoying your retirement,” said WorldAtlas, a publishing resource that covers topics including geography, sociology, demography, environment and travel.

“Even with a strict budget, you can still find towns throughout that have no shortage of fantastic amenities, charming local businesses, premium health care options and fun activities sure to keep your days busy,” WorldAtlas said.

California is one of the most expensive states in the nation to retire based on annual expenses, according to personal finance service GoBankingRates.

However, the Golden State still offers affordable spots to settle down.

Here are eight budget-friendly California towns perfect for retirees, according to WorldAtlas:

1. Clearlake

Clearlake, a “picturesque community” in Northern California, sits along the shores of Clear Lake, according to WorldAtlas.

Three parks offer fishing, a boat launch and “prime beach access,” the site said.

Other outdoor activities include golfing and visiting nearby wilderness areas.

The average home price in Clearlake is approximately $275,000.

The city “hosts a ton of events, outdoor activities, and indoor activities throughout the year,” WorldAtlas said.

Residents can enjoy a variety of events, such as carnivals, seasonal parades and concerts in the park, and explore numerous locally-owned restaurants and shops.

Amenities include parks for fishing, a boat launch, picnic areas, golfing and beach access.

2. Eureka

The coastal town of Eureka boasts “history, art from around the world and plenty of community events,” WorldAtlas says, as well as major retailers and three hospitals.

Opportunities to get outdoors and stay active include parks, hiking trails and outdoor activities, such as kayaking and fishing.

“Embrace the arts with Friday Night Markets, art walks, a summer concert series, and popular festivals such as kite festivals, Forest Moon Festival and sculpture races,” WorldAtlas said.

The average home price in Eureka is approximately $475,000.

3. Alturas

Alturas, a Northern California city near the Nevada border, is “free from a heavy tourist population, leaving you able to enjoy your community to the fullest without big crowds and hefty price tags,” WorldAtlas said.

Popular events and activities include the Fandango Days car show, Modoc County Library book sales, ; Balloonfest, a hot air balloon festival, and visiting the Desert Rose Casino.

The average home costs approximately $265,000 in Alturas.

4. Susanville

Susanville sits along the Nevada border in Northern California.

“The town of Susanville has all the big city amenities without the busy streets, big price tags and fast-paced lifestyle” of larger communities, WorldAtlas said.

Outdoor attractions include the Diamond Mountain Golf Course, a community swimming pool and dog parks.

“Adventurers can explore the Rice Canyon (Off-Highway Vehicle) Area and nearby Eagle Lake for kayaking and fishing,” WorldAtlas said, while “history enthusiasts can visit the Lassen Historical Museum.”

Home costs average around $302,500 in Susanville.

5. Brawley

Brawley is a “quaint town with lots to see and do” in Southern California, according to WorldAtlas.

Popular events include the Cattle Call Rodeo and a Christmas tree lighting ceremony.

There’s also a plethora of outdoor attractions, such as the Glamis Sand Dunes, Baja California and the Salton Sea, WorldAtlas said.

The average home costs approximately $399,000 in Brawley.

6. Barstow

Barstow in Southern California offers “natural wonders and recreational opportunities,” WorldAtlas said.

Barstow is near historic California highway Route 66, as well as Calico Ghost Town and Mojave National Preserve and its hiking trails.

Amenities include a fitness center, parks, sports fields, medical facilities and shopping malls.

The average home there costs approximately $280,000.

7. Lakeport

Lakeport sits along the shores of Clear Lake in Northern California and “boasts tons of beautiful beach access points,” WorldAtlas said.

Residents can explore walking trails and bike paths in the South Cow Mountain Recreation Area and the Highlands Springs Recreational Area.

Community events to attend include rodeos, farmers markets, festivals and corn mazes.

Home costs average around $499,000 in Lakeport.

8. Crescent City

You’ll “feel like you’re on a never-ending vacation in Crescent City,” along the coast of Northern California. WorldAtlas said.

The town offers beaches, forests, parks, rivers and more.

Popular destinations include the Marine Mammal Center, Beachfront Park, Battery Point Lighthouse and Museum and Ocean World aquarium.

The average home costs approximately $485,000 in Crescent City.