California is America’s most populous state, a massively important area with an economy that would be the fifth-largest in the world if it were its own country. It is a state with a reputation as a destination for those looking to relocate, and there’s a good reason why. The California sun shines all year long, the beaches are some of the best in the country, and the ocean is never too far away.
Much of the chatter about the best places in California seems to be centered around the major cities. Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego are all top-notch places to live or visit, great American cities that have incredible culture and attractions. But there is much more to California than just the biggest and best-known cities. Some of the lesser-known towns and small cities also have a ton to offer.
Let’s explore some of the stunning California towns that offer a great lifestyle for those looking to make a home in the Golden State, with a particular focus on Northern California.
First, let’s start with the lovely Carmel-by-the-Sea, Mendocino, and St. Helena. Carmel-by-the-sea is a town that looks like it was taken from the pages of a fairytale. It is a classic California paradise known for its vibrant art scene, picturesque look, and great beaches.
Mendocino is a Northern California town known for its oceanfront cliffs, sandy beaches, and art galleries. It also has nearby parks with giant Redwood trees and great trails. St. Helena is a small city in the heart of Napa Valley. This makes it the ideal destination for wine lovers. The city also has a pleasant downtown, great nearby trails, and upscale shopping boutiques.
Other towns include Nevada City, Ferndale, and Redding. Nevada City is a Northern California city not far from Reno and the Nevada border. Nevada City is a small city home to about 3,000, known for its relaxed vibe and great local culture. It is near the Sierra Nevada Range, so it is great for fishing, hiking, or kayaking.
Ferndale is a tiny city home to over 1,300 in far Northern California. It is a quiet place with a distinct look. The town has preserved Victorian architecture with homes and stores that look historic and unique. Redding is a Northern California city on the Sacramento River. The town has a gold-rush history and proximity to some stunning natural scenery. Whiskeytown National Recreation Area and Shasta State Historic Park hold wonderful exploration opportunities.
Eureka, Red Bluff, and Ukiah offer more incredible Northern California lifestyles. Eureka is a port city on the water known for its boating and fishing. The Old Town district has picturesque Victorian-style houses, and at Sequoia Park, you’ll find the famed Northern California redwoods. Red Bluff is a small city home to roughly 14,000. It is located along the Sacramento River and has a stunning Victorian look. With a great downtown and nearby wineries, there’s much to do here. Ukiah is a small city in Mendocino County with tree-lined streets and a quaint feel. The town has great food options and top-notch wine, and there are museums, hiking and biking trails, and a nearby golf course.
Garberville, Crescent City, and Yreka are other small towns that make great places to put down roots. Garberville is a quiet little town home to under 1,000. It is a peaceful community with dense woods and the nearby Eel River. It is also known to be a common sighting place for Bigfoot, so keep an eye out.
Crescent City is a small city with a unique location sandwiched between the Pacific Ocean and ancient redwood forests. It is well known for its picturesque landscapes with craggy shores and winding trails. Yreka is a historic little town home to about 7,500. It has numerous homes still standing from the turn of the century with a very walkable downtown. There are also great trails and parks within, and the town is only a short drive from the Oregon border.
Lastly, we have Placerville and Chico. Placerville is a pretty little town in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. It is not far from beaches or Lake Tahoe. It has a rich history and has been a mining and agricultural hub throughout the ages. Now, it is best known for its wineries. Chico is a bustling little city in Northern California. It is a family-friendly town with great activities, including the Gateway Science Museum and the National Yo-Yo Museum. Bidwell Park is also a must-see, with great heavily wooded trails.
