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Ready to surf the beach or hike in the mountains? California is a dream come true, especially for movie fanatics. Older adults who dreamt of a with a stroll along the famous Hollywood Boulevard and iconic filming locations.
In 2024, we ranked many California cities as top retirement places, but if you crave community, you can spend your golden years in retirement villages in California. You may wonder…
What makes retirement living in California worthwhile?
For retiring, the scenic beauty and Hollywood charm won’t fit the bill – pun intended. There are tax costs to consider, as well as healthcare availability, your budget, compatibility, and lifestyle choices. Lucky for you, here’s a breakdown of what you need to know to be prepared:
Pros of retirement living in California:
1. Tax-exemptions:
While taxes here are high, retirees can still enjoy certain California sales and housing tax exemptions. For example:
- Sales tax exemption: Prescription drugs and groceries.
- Housing tax exemption: $6,800-7,000.
- Other exemptions: As per meeting income requirements, property tax payment will be deferred.
2. Availability of quality healthcare:
California has some of the country’s top hospitals for health needs, such as assistance with activities of daily living(ADLs), including UCLA Medical Center, Cedars-Sinai, and Stanford Health Care.
Type of Medical Service/Cost | Monthly Expense |
Average medical cost | $2,500 – $3,000 |
$3,500 – $10,500
| |
$1,500 – $4,000 | |
$4,000 – $12,000 | |
$5,500 – $15,000 | |
$17 – $76 per hour |
3. Unlimited outdoor and adventure options:
This state has several national parks for you to explore and get that necessary exercise. Not only that, if you’re more of a beach lover, you can spend your free time floating through the waves while catching the sun! Skiing is also an option if you prefer sports in the cold, wintry mountains!
4. Culture and entertainment:
The culture of independence and creativity attracts everyone from free-spirited individuals to hard-working entrepreneurs. Home to Hollywood and famous musicians like Guns N’ Roses to The Doors, the state has lively arts, theaters, and attractions, including San Francisco’s art spots and Disneyland—great places to enjoy with your grandkids!
5. Best weather and food:
If you love the sun and don’t mind working on your tan, this is your dream state for retirement. Southern California is known for steady weather all year compared to other states. You can explore healthy diet options of multiple cuisines at every corner!
Cons for retirees living in California
1. High taxes:
You may need more than just relying on social security, and you can consider other retirement income options such as pensions or a 401K.
Tax Type | California(2024) | National Average(2024) |
Income Tax Rates | 1% to 12.3% (9 brackets), plus 1% on income over $1M | 0% to 37% (federal brackets) |
Sales Tax | 8.85% average (7.25% state + local additions) | 6.35% average |
Property Tax | 0.75% of assessed value (average) | 1.1% of assessed value
|
Social Security Tax | Exempt from state taxes | Exempt nationwide |
Pension Income Tax | Fully taxable except for Social Security | Varies by state; some states are exempt |
Retirement Withdrawals | Taxed as ordinary income | Taxed as ordinary income
|
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2. High cost of living:
It is around 50% higher than the national average, with a cost-of-living index of 149.9.
3. Unbearable hot summers:
Some cities away from the coast, such as Fresno, can be a bit difficult to live in because of the heat. However, heatproofing your home and proper ventilation can help.
4. High cost of housing:
In California, the median cost price of a house well exceeds the national average.
- The median house cost is $900,000. Before you worry about not being able to live the California Dream, there are beautiful cities like Roseville where the average house price is budget-friendly.
- Average rent in California: $2,48
What are the best retirement communities in California?
Based on your lifestyle and personal preferences, retirement homes you look for in California can vary to a degree. Some may be luxury settings, others will be well-known gated communities, while in smaller cities, the facilities will be smaller, more close-knit.
We have compiled some of the most ideal retirement communities depending on the average preference of retirees.
5 Top retirement communities in California in the North
1. Trilogy at Rio Vista (Rio Vista)
- Amenities: Golf course, swimming pools, fitness center, social events
- Estimated Monthly Cost: $2,500 – $4,000
- Notable Landmarks: Delta Waters State Park, Sacramento River
- Places to Visit: San Francisco, Napa Valley, Lake Tahoe
“I love living here. The amenities are fabulous, and there’s a class that fits every interest you have. I am extremely happy with the local pharmacy, grocery store, and nail salon. Everyone here is so friendly!” –Maria Marguet.
2. Sun City Roseville (Roseville)
- Amenities: Golf courses, swimming pools, fitness centers, social events
- Estimated Monthly Cost: $2,500 – $4,000
- Notable Landmarks: Roseville Galleria, Folsom Lake
- Places to Visit: Sacramento, Tahoe City, Westfield Galleria Mall, Folsom Lake.
“I love living in this resort-style community and playing at the golf courses. Timbers is a great restaurant, and I love their food and reasonable pricing! The community feeling is strong here. There are around 50 clubs here, and I am starting my own! Feeling blessed to live here!” –Sherri Walker.
3. Four Seasons at Westshore (Elk Grove)
- Amenities: Clubhouse, swimming pools, fitness center, social events
- Estimated Monthly Cost: $3,000 – $5,000
- Notable Landmarks: Elk Grove Regional Park, Sacramento Zoo
- Places to Visit: Sacramento, Folsom Lake, Napa Valley
“I enjoy my time at the clubs with the friendly folks there. In the afternoons I love to go swimming. Great neighborhood.” — Arthur Cole.
4. Westmont of Chico (Chico)
- Amenities: Independent and assisted living, memory care, on-site dining, and wellness programs.
- Estimated Monthly Cost: $3,500 – $5,000
- Nearby Landmarks: Bidwell Park, Sierra Nevada Brewery.
- Places to Visit: Bidwell Mansion, Chico State University Arboretum.
“The environment is welcoming here. I enjoy attending Guitar class! There are lots of fun activities to enjoy hereafter retirement!” –Alexander Griffin.
5. Quail Lodge Retirement Community (Grass Valley)
- Amenities: Independent living, gardens, walking paths, and various social clubs.
- Estimated Monthly Cost: $2,800 – $4,200
- Nearby Landmarks: Nevada County Fairgrounds, Empire Mine State Historic Park.
- Places to Visit: Yuba River, Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park.
“The best place to be. We have our independence, and the community has vibrant and friendly people. It feels very safe here too!” — Adam Morgan.
Are there affordable retirement communities in Southern California?
While you can find budget-friendly options, it must be noted that the living costs may be higher than the national average. For reference,
- The national average monthly cost for retirees is $1,700
- State average monthly cost for retirees: $2,400
These are some affordable retirement communities in California in the Southern region:
1. Leisure World Seal Beach (Seal Beach)
- Monthly cost: $1,700 – $1,900
- Amenities: Tennis courts, swimming pools, golf course, clubhouse
- Nearby: Seal Beach Pier, Huntington Beach Pier, Disneyland, Long Beach Aquarium
2. Sun City (Manifee)
- Monthly cost: $1,400 – $1,600
- Amenities: Golf courses, pools, fitness centers, clubs
- Nearby: Riverside, Temecula Wine Country, Mission Inn Hotel, Ramona’s Winery
3. Friendly Valley Santa Clarita (Santa Clarita)
- Monthly cost: $1,500 – $1,700
- Amenities: Pools, fitness centers, clubs, hiking trails
- Nearby: Six Flags Magic Mountain, Universal Studios Hollywood, Santa Clarita Botanic Garden, William S. Hart Museum
4. Sun City Apple Valley by Del Webb(Apple Valley)
- Monthly cost: $1,200 – $1,400
- Amenities: Golf courses, pools, fitness centers, clubs
- Nearby: Joshua Tree National Park, Mojave National Preserve, Calico Ghost Town, Victor Valley Museum
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Fun things to do in California for retirees
California opens opportunities for you to achieve your dreams from your bucket list. Be sure to check these out, too:
- Visit Legoland California Resort.
- Take a trip to the San Diego Botanic Garden.
- Be amazed by the beauty at Carlsbad Flower Fields.
- Sample wine at famous wineries: Raymond Vineyard, Helwig Vineyard, Silver Oak Cellars, etc.
- Visit the iconic Hollywood Sign.
- Have fun at Belmont Park.
- Be enchanted by the Los Angeles County Museum.
- Stroll along with the stars on The Hollywood Walk of Fame
- Enjoy a day at Disneyland Park.
- Go on an adventure at Universal Studios Hollywood.
- Hike through Joshua Tree National Park.
- Visit famous golf courses such as Pebble Beach Golf Links and Torrey Pines Golf Course.
- Ride through the Golden Gate Bridge.
- You can enjoy kayaking along Monterey Bay, the “Serengeti of the Sea,” and other state rivers and lakes.
Final thoughts
Here’s the bottom line!
While California may offer retirees scenic beauty, recreational opportunities, and incredible healthcare services, this dreamy landscape also comes with high living costs and expensive taxes.
It may seem challenging whether you are looking for retirement communities in southern California or the north; know this: the grass here is not green but golden. Just let it sit there and see how your retirement dreams unfold in your imagination.
FAQ
Which part of California is perfect for low-budget retirees?
The cost of living in the Central Valley of California is relatively lower than in metropolitan and coastal areas. Cities like Fresno are California’s cheapest places for retirement, offering a cost of living 21% lower than the state average. Bakersfield can also be a great choice alongside Chico (31% lower than the state average).
Which areas in Los Angeles are the best places to retire to?
In the City of Angels, along with care homes for dementia patients, you can find affordable places with accessible quality healthcare facilities for retirement, such as:
- Lancaster: The growing senior community and various outdoor activities can be appealing. Summers can be hot, but the median home price is around $350,000, less than the state average, and so is the cost-of-living index.
- Palmdale: Enjoy the suburban life and family-friendly neighborhoods in this city. The median home price is $380,000, and the lower cost of living makes it a budget option with quality medical care.
- Inglewood: Ideal for retirees who enjoy mingling with a diverse community and exploring cultural attractions. Housing costs are cheaper here than in the state average.
Where’s a safe and affordable place to live in California?
Both Bakersfield and Clovis rank closely in safety and affordability preferences. In contrast, the crime rate in Clovis is lower, with a slightly higher cost of living than Bakersfield (but less than the state average). This city has more amenities with a strong sense of community. The median home price here is $498,000, and the median rent is $2,250.
