5 Best Places to Live in California

California is known for its iconic hot spots, but you may have wondered what it's like to call this place home? From the bustling city life of Los Angeles to the laid-back surfer vibes of San Diego, California truly has something for everyone. Whether you want to experience the rich culture and history of San Francisco, or enjoy the breathtaking natural beauty of Big Sur why not make the move to the Golden Coast and see all that California has to offer?

New Homes in California

Take a journey through the Golden State, where opportunities are as vast as its land. With over 163,000 square miles to explore, California boasts nearly 40 million residents and countless places to call home. But don't let its size intimidate you - if you are looking for a new home in California we recommend breaking it down into two manageable regions: Northern and Southern California, each with its own unique flair. Whether you're ready to embark on the journey of a lifetime or simply dreaming of endless possibilities, California is waiting for you. So, pack your bags, buckle up, and get ready to explore some of the best neighborhoods California has to offer.

Top Places to Live in California Summary

• San Jose

• Alameda

• San Mateo

• Irvine

• Menifee

New Homes in Northern California

Explore picturesque Northern California and be mesmerized by the Bay Area's eclectic mix of laid-back vibes and bustling high-tech industry. From its Northern tip down to the enchanting coastline, this region boasts lush greenery of eucalyptus and pine trees amidst its cool ambiance. Discover why the Bay Area has become a hub for innovation and creativity while taking in the refreshing breeze from the bay. Welcome to Northern California, an absolute paradise waiting to be explored and appreciated.

If you're on the hunt for a lovely new abode in Northern California, we've got the inside scoop for you! Here are the cream-of-the-crop cities that caught our eye:

San Jose

Attention all adventurers, explorers, and tech enthusiasts - San Jose, also known as the "Capital of Silicon Valley," is one of the top contenders for your next new home. You may think this city is all about job opportunities, but hold on tight because there is a whole world of excitement waiting for you. Go on a wild adventure and get lost in the mysterious 160-room Winchester Mystery House, hunt for treasures at the 120-acre flea market, or even take your game night up a notch by playing on a life-sized Monopoly board. San Jose is a fantastic city that offers something for everyone, so come and experience the adventure yourself. If you are an outdoor lover, you’ll appreciate San Jose's prime location near the scenic Santa Cruz Mountains, Diablo Range, and jaw-dropping ocean views. But San Jose doesn't only impress nature enthusiasts - it's been recognized by U.S. News and World Report as one of the top 25 cities to live in. Sure, new homes in San Jose may come at a higher price point, but with endless opportunities for entertainment and adventure, you'll definitely get your money's worth. So don’t settle for a mundane city when you can have it all in San Jose.

Brentwood

It's no secret that Brentwood is a blossoming town that's perfect for families of all shapes and sizes. Situated in the East Bay region of San Francisco, its size has doubled in just two decades. But there's more to it than that. Locals rave about the variety of parks and trails, while new residents are in for a treat with the area's agricultural background shining through in the abundance of fresh produce available at the farmers' market. And while the commute to San Francisco may take you around 40 minutes, it's a small price to pay for the quality school districts and safe environment that families cherish. Plus, with plenty of new homes in Brentwood to choose from, everyone can find their perfect match.

Walnut Creek

There is nothing more important than finding the perfect place to settle down and call home. Look no further than Walnut Creek for the ultimate balance of suburban living and urban convenience. Located just outside of San Francisco, this city boasts beautiful open spaces, bike trails, and golf courses for those who love the great outdoors. And don't worry shopaholics - there's plenty of retail therapy available at the Broadway Plaza. But what really sets Walnut Creek apart is its public schools and easy access to the big city. Don't just take our word for it - young families are flocking to this gem of a city, recently ranked as one of the top 10 places to move in Northern California. Trust us, a new home in Walnut Creek is the perfect spot to build the life you envision.

New Homes in Southern California

While many people may flock to the bright lights of Hollywood and the allure of the SoCal lifestyle, there's something to be said for the quieter, more wholesome communities in Southern California. From top-rated schools to safe neighborhoods nestled among picturesque palm trees, there's a lot to love about the suburban charm of this sunny region. So, if you're looking to put down roots and live your best life in SoCal, don't be afraid to look beyond the glitz and glam and find a community that truly speaks to your heart.

Irvine

Welcome to Irvine, the ultimate destination for new homes in Orange County. This master-planned community is the epitome of balance, blending a thriving tech sector with a diverse range of higher education institutions. With over 15,000 companies in the area, Irvine boasts a robust job market that keeps the city bustling with energy. And with Concordia University as a cornerstone of the community, there's no better place to foster your intellectual curiosity and pursue your dreams. 

Outside of some excellent job opportunities, remarkable schools and low crime rates also beckon many to call Irvine home. As you explore this city, you'll discover that Irvine's public schools produce some of the higer SAT scores in the state and a whopping 97% of high school graduates continuing on to college. And, despite its urban setting, Irvine has earned a reputation for being incredibly safe, boasting the lowest violent crime rates in America for over a decade. 

With so many things to do and places to explore, a new home in Irvine is the perfect place for families who crave adventure and excitement. From delicious restaurants to world-class sports facilities, there's never a dull moment for those who live in this vibrant city. Whether you're looking for a fun day out with the kids or a relaxing evening with friends, Irvine has something for everyone to enjoy. Don’t settle for an ordinary life when you can experience the thrill of Irvine. Come and see for yourself and get ready to be amazed.

Menifee

The charming city of Menifee sits in the southwest of Riverside County, with one foot in Los Angeles and the other in San Diego. This location makes it a hub of all the fantastic things that SoCal has to offer. From the glitz and glamour of LA to the laid-back beach vibes of San Diego, Menifee is undoubtedly at the heart of it all. 

Enjoy a bustling marketplace boasting dozens of stores, restaurants, and specialty merchants, or take advantage of Menifee’s access to breathtaking parks and serene lakes. The views, and the shopping are truly unbeatable. 

And, if you're a growing family in search of a new home without sacrificing your budget, then Menifee is where it's at. Known for their affordability, Menifee new homes offer a unique value that other areas outside of Los Angeles just can't match. Imagine having more space for your family to grow, without breaking the bank. Let's face it, most would want a little extra room for fun family nights, spontaneous dance parties, or a cozy movie night in. Don’t wait - come and see why Menifee is the perfect place for you and your family to call home sweet home.

With so many stunning cities to choose from in California, we hope you've found some inspiration for your next adventure. Whether you're yearning for an ocean breeze or sunny slopes, the Golden State has something for everyone. So go ahead and start imagining yourself sipping coffee in San Francisco or wandering along the shores of San Diego – because the perfect new home in California is waiting for you.

Discover stunning floor plans and check out Pulte's new home communities in California today! For more design tips, local attraction guides, and homeowner lifestyle articles, check out the Pulte Homes blog for inspiration.