11 Cheapest Places to Live in California

6) San Bernardino

The city of San Bernardino is a smart option for people who really want to live in California but cannot afford the typical high prices.

The cost of living index here is much lower than California’s 135, at 104. In fact, housing costs are lower than even the national average, with the median house or condo value sitting just over $200,000. The median household income is accordingly lower than in California overall, at just under $36,000. The city is home to many attractions, both natural and manmade. For instance, if you are a nature lover, you can go fishing by the mountains and visit some hot springs. If you are more interested in the city atmosphere, there are areas downtown that are great for walking around and passing time with friends. San Bernardino is also home to many annual festivals, including hip hop performances, electronic music events, and Ozzfest. Furthermore, there are so many different restaurants in the city serving up a variety of types of cuisine.