Moving to a new country can be both exciting and overwhelming, and the USA is one of the most sought-after destinations for expats, particularly California. However, choosing the right place to settle in California requires careful consideration, and it’s not something you should rush into. From lifestyle preferences to the cost of living, we’ve taken a look at some key things to keep in mind when you’re planning your move.
The Best Places in California for Expats
California is known for its diversity, booming economy and stunning landscapes, so it’ll come as no surprise that it’s one of the most popular destinations for expats relocating to the USA. It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for a vibrant city life, a laid back beach town relocation, or to start afresh in a family-friendly suburb, California has something for everyone.
San Francisco
San Francisco is a popular choice for expats, particularly those in the tech industry. With Silicon Valley nearby, there are plenty of job opportunities in tech, finance and startups. The city also offers a vibrant cultural scene, excellent public transportation and a liberal, diverse community. However, the cost of living is high, so budgeting is important.
Los Angeles
Los Angeles is famous for Hollywood, but it is also a hotspot for expats moving to the USA from the UK. With sunshine throughout the year, a dynamic job market and diverse neighbourhoods, LA has something for everyone. Areas like Santa Monica and Pasadena are popular among expats for their safety, good schools and quality of life. However, the traffic congestion is a downside, and it’s something many people find challenging.
San Diego
For expats looking for a relaxed lifestyle with beautiful beaches, San Diego is an excellent choice. The city boasts a thriving economy, excellent schools and a strong international community. With a lower cost of living compared to San Francisco and LA, plus an equally sunny climate, it’s an ideal location for families and professionals alike.
Irvine
Irvine is one of the safest cities in the USA, and it’s known for its top schools, clean environment and strong job market, especially in tech and healthcare. It’s a popular area for expat families looking for a high quality of life, as it tends to tick a lot of boxes. The planned city structure also provides a balance between amenities and green spaces.
Palo Alto
Palo Alto is a destination that expats in the tech industry pay a lot of attention to. Home to Stanford University and some of the world’s biggest tech companies, it offers a thriving professional scene. The city is safe, education-focused and offers an impressive array of top schools. However, the cost of housing is higher than in other parts of California.
Sacramento
For expats seeking affordability, but without sacrificing city conveniences, Sacramento is worth considering. As California’s state capital, it has a strong job market in government, healthcare and technology. It also offers a slower pace of life compared to major cities in California, whilst still providing a vibrant food scene, cultural events and outdoor activities.
Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara is a common choice for expats who want a mix of luxury and a relaxed coastal lifestyle. With stunning beaches, a mild climate and a thriving arts scene, it’s a popular pick for retirees and professionals. It’s one of the more expensive places to live in California, so it’s not within everyone’s budget.
Oakland
Oakland is often seen as an alternative to San Francisco, offering more affordable housing while still being close to the Bay Area job market. With a rich cultural history, a thriving arts scene and a diverse community, Oakland is becoming increasingly popular among expats.
Choosing Your Ideal Place to Live in California, USA
Moving to California as an expat is an exciting adventure, but choosing the right place to live is key to making the most of your experience. California offers a wide range of locations, each with its own unique characteristics, as we’ve taken a look at below.
Lifestyle
California is known for its diverse lifestyles, from fast-paced city living in Los Angeles and San Francisco, to the relaxed coastal vibes of San Diego and Santa Barbara. Consider what kind of daily routine and activities you enjoy most. If you love nature and outdoor activities, places like Sacramento and Palo Alto offer excellent hiking trails and parks.
Proximity to Work
If your job is in Silicon Valley, cities like Palo Alto, San Jose or Mountain View are ideal choices. Los Angeles is a hub for entertainment and media, making areas like Burbank and Hollywood attractive. If you’re in government or healthcare, Sacramento offers strong employment opportunities. Living close to work can help reduce long commute times, which can be a significant factor in quality of life.
Cost of Living
California is known for its high cost of living, particularly in cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles. This is why a lot of expats opt for more affordable options, like Sacramento and parts of the Inland Empire. Consider housing costs, taxes and general living expenses when choosing your new home.
Expat Communities
Expats often find it easier to settle in areas with established international communities. San Francisco, Los Angeles and Irvine have thriving expat networks where you can connect with people from the UK. This can be a great way to ease the transition and feel more at home, helping you to settle into your new life in California.
Family
If you’re moving with family, access to good schools and safe neighbourhoods is sure to be a priority. Cities like Irvine and Palo Alto are known for their excellent education systems and family-friendly amenities, making them popular amongst those with young children. Suburban areas tend to offer larger homes and more space for children to play, compared to busy cities.
Accessibility
Having access to reliable public transport, highways and airports can make life much easier when you move to California. San Francisco has one of the best public transport systems in California, while cities like San Diego and Los Angeles rely more on cars. If you plan to travel frequently, consider living near major airports, such as LAX or SFO. Living close to a major airport can also make it easier to organise your removals to California, especially if you’re planning to take a lot of luggage with you.
Weather
California’s climate varies a lot by region, so it’s something to consider when you’re planning your move. If you prefer warm, sunny weather throughout the year, Southern California is likely to be the best choice. San Francisco and the Bay Area have cooler, foggier climates, while places like Sacramento experience hot summers and mild winters.
Make Your Move to California a Stress-Free One
Choosing where to live in California as an expat requires balancing lifestyle preferences, job location, budget and personal needs. Whether you prioritise vibrant city life, affordability or a strong expat community, you shouldn’t struggle to find an area that ticks a lot of boxes. Planning ahead is key to a successful move, and this should include hiring international removal experts, like United International Removals, to make the transition as smooth as possible. Get in touch to find out more.