1. Redding
Average rent: $1,142
Redding is one of the cheapest places to live in California, with an average rent of $1,142. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Redding is $1,115, and a two-bedroom apartment averages $1,395.
In Redding, major employers include Shasta Regional Medical Center and Simpson University. Families should be sure to check out Turtle Bay Exploration Park, which offers an affordable and educational experience for all ages.
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2. Turlock
Average rent: $1,351
Turlock has an average rent of $1,351, making it one of the more affordable cities in California. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $855, and a two-bedroom apartment averages $1,847.
California State University, Stanislaus, is one of the city’s largest employers and the driving force behind Turlock’s college town vibe. Be sure to explore the Stanislaus County Fairgrounds or take a walk around Donnelly Park. The Turlock Historical Society Museum is another solid, budget-friendly spot.
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3. Lodi
Average rent: $1,358
Lodi offers affordable living with an average rent of $1,358. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,349, and a two-bedroom apartment averages $1,725.
Larger employers in Lodi include Lodi Memorial Hospital and the Lodi Unified School District. For low-cost fun, visit the Lodi Lake Park or take a stroll through the city’s charming downtown area. The Lodi Wine & Visitor Center is also a great spot for affordable wine tasting experiences.
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4. Bakersfield
Average rent: $1,367
Bakersfield is another city known for its affordability. With an average rent of $1,367, it is an excellent option for those looking to cut housing costs. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,520, and a two-bedroom apartment averages $1,685.
The city is home to major employers like Kern Medical Center and California State University, Bakersfield. When it comes to budget-friendly activities, you have options. We recommend a visit to the Kern County Museum or a day on the Bakersfield River Walk.
Apartments for Rent in Bakersfield | Houses for rent in Bakersfield | Homes for sale in Bakersfield
5. Yuba City
Average rent: $1,375
Yuba City offers an attractive average rent of $1,375, making it a top contender for affordable living. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,150, and a two-bedroom apartment averages $1,600.
Key employers in Yuba City include Fremont-Rideout Health Group and Yuba Community College District. For a cheap day out, check out the scenic beauty of the Sutter Buttes, a truly stunning natural display.
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6. Merced
Average rent: $1,481
Merced ha an average rent of $1,481, making it one of the more affordable cities in California. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,570, and a two-bedroom apartment averages $1,692.
The University of California, Merced, is one of the city’s largest employers, along with Mercy Medical Center. For cheap and free entertainment, explore the Merced Multicultural Arts Center or take a walk around Lake Yosemite.
Apartments for Rent in Merced | Houses for rent in Merced | Homes for sale in Merced
7. Modesto
Average rent: $1,546
With an average rent of $1,546, Modesto offers a cost-effective living option. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,599, and a two-bedroom apartment averages $1,825.
Key employers in Modesto include E&J Gallo Winery and Memorial Medical Center. For inexpensive activities, take a trip to the McHenry Museum or the Great Valley Museum, each a great option for a lowkey day with family or friends.
Apartments for Rent in Modesto | Houses for rent in Modesto | Homes for sale in Modesto
8. Fresno
Average rent: $1,430
Fresno is known for its affordability, with an average rent of $1,430. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Fresno is $1,405, and a two-bedroom apartment averages $1,590.
Two of the largest employers in Fresno are Community Medical Centers and California State University, Fresno. Check out the Fresno Chaffee Zoo or take a stroll in Woodward Park for a low-cost day out and about.
Apartments for Rent in Fresno | Houses for rent in Fresno | Homes for sale in Fresno
9. Clovis
Average rent: $1,627
Clovis, with an average rent of $1,627, is another affordable city in California. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,541, and a two-bedroom apartment averages $1,712.
The city’s major employers include the Clovis Unified School District and Community Regional Medical Center. Clovis Old Town Trail is a local favorite for a free day of fun.
Apartments for Rent in Clovis | Houses for rent in Clovis | Homes for sale in Clovis
10. Citrus Heights
Average rent: $1,755
Citrus Heights’ average rent of $1,755 makes it a relatively affordable place to live in California. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,755, and a two-bedroom apartment averages $2,036.
Key employers in Citrus Heights include the San Juan Unified School District and Mercy San Juan Medical Center. A visit to Rusch Park is a must if you’re looking for a full day of fun under the California sun. The Citrus Heights Community Center offers plenty of free and low-cost activities for residents.
Apartments for Rent in Citrus Heights | Houses for rent in Citrus Heights | Homes for sale in Citrus Heights
11. Compton
Average rent: $1,948
With an average rent of $1,948, Compton is another affordable city in California. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,750, and a two-bedroom apartment averages $2,095.
Major employers in Compton include the Compton Unified School District and Martin Luther King Jr. Community Hospital. Compton Creek Natural Park is a nice spot to escape the bustle of the city.
Apartments for Rent in Compton | Houses for rent in Compton | Homes for sale in Compton
12. Pittsburg
Average rent: $1,979
Pittsburg’s average rent of $1,979 makes it a relatively affordable place to live in California. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,909, and a two-bedroom apartment averages $2,255.
Key employers in Pittsburg include the Pittsburg Unified School District and Los Medanos College. Outdoorsy locals enjoy hiking in the nearby Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve. For a less strenuous activity, the Pittsburg Historical Society Museum offers a glimpse into the area’s past and is free to visit.
Apartments for Rent in Pittsburg | Houses for rent in Pittsburg | Homes for sale in Pittsburg
13. Sacramento
Average rent: $2,001
The average rent in Sacramento sits at $2,001, offering a relatively affordable living option in California. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,930, and a two-bedroom apartment averages $2,282.
Major employers in Sacramento include the State of California and Sutter Health. Be sure to visit the California State Capitol Museum or take a stroll along the Sacramento Riverfront for some low-cost, family friendly fun.
Apartments for Rent in Sacramento | Houses for rent in Sacramento | Homes for sale in Sacramento
14. Stockton
Average rent: $2,024
With an average rent of $2,024, Stockton offers a relatively affordable living option in California. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,299, and a two-bedroom apartment averages $1,625.
Major employers in Stockton include the University of the Pacific and Dameron Hospital. Stockton hosts a number of free community events throughout the year, like the Stockton Asparagus Festival, providing fun without a high price tag.
Apartments for Rent in Stockton | Houses for rent in Stockton | Homes for sale in Stockton
15. Upland
Average rent: $2,052
Upland’s average rent of $2,052 makes it a relatively affordable place to live in California. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $2,112, and a two-bedroom apartment averages $2,322.
Key employers in Upland include San Antonio Regional Hospital and Upland Unified School District. Upland Memorial Park is a safe bet for a fun day outside, or take a hike in the nearby San Gabriel Mountains.
Apartments for Rent in Upland | Houses for rent in Upland | Homes for sale in Upland
16. Whittier
Average rent: $2,056
Whittier has an average rent of $2,056. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,960, and a two-bedroom apartment averages $2,447.
Major employers in Whittier include Whittier Hospital Medical Center and Whittier College. For inexpensive activities, visit the Whittier Greenway Trail or the Whittier Museum.
Apartments for Rent in Whittier | Houses for rent in Whittier | Homes for sale in Whittier
17. Visalia
Average rent: $2,070
Visalia’s average rent of $2,070 makes it a relatively affordable place to live in California. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,895, and a two-bedroom apartment averages $2,245.
Key employers in Visalia include the Kaweah Delta Health Care District and Visalia Unified School District. Consider a visit to the Mooney Grove Park or take a hike in the nearby Sequoia National Park. The Visalia Farmers Market offers fresh, local produce at reasonable prices.
Apartments for Rent in Visalia | Houses for rent in Visalia | Homes for sale in Visalia
18. La Habra
Average rent: $2,298
La Habra’s average rent of $2,298 makes it a relatively affordable place to live in California. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $2,787, and a two-bedroom apartment averages $2,408.
Key employers in La Habra include the La Habra City School District and St. Jude Medical Center. For low-cost fun, visit the La Habra Children’s Museum or take a hike in nearby Powder Canyon.
Apartments for Rent in La Habra | Houses for rent in La Habra | Homes for sale in La Habra
Methodology
All cities must have over 50,000 residents per the US Census and have an average rent price under the median rent price for the state – which is $2,481 per month according to Redfin data. Average rental data from Rent.com July 2024.
