California is renowned for its elevated cost of living, yet this doesn’t imply that retirees on a tight budget must relinquish their dream of residing in the Golden State. There are specific locations in California where a couple can comfortably live solely on their Social Security income, without delving into their savings or other assets.
In this article, we will delve into eight of the finest cities in California for a couple to subsist solely on Social Security, considering factors such as livability, affordability, and amenities. Additionally, we will offer insights on how to maximize your retirement experience in California, irrespective of your chosen settling place.
What Social Security Income Can You Anticipate in California?
As per the Social Security Administration, the average monthly benefit for a retired worker in California was $1,790.56 as of December 2023. For a couple, this equates to $3,581.12 monthly or $42,973.44 annually.
However, your actual benefit might differ based on your work history, the age at which you claim, and potential additional income sources that could influence your taxes or benefits. Utilize the Social Security calculator to estimate your benefits tailored to your individual circumstances.
How to Choose the Optimal Residence for Social Security Living in California
When searching for the optimal place to live on Social Security in California, several factors warrant consideration, including:
- Cost of living, notably housing, utilities, groceries, healthcare, and transportation.
- Quality of life, encompassing climate, crime rates, healthcare facilities, educational opportunities, and recreational and cultural activities.
- Personal preferences, such as proximity to family and friends, availability of public transportation, population diversity, and the political and social environment.
To assist in narrowing down options, we have curated a list of eight California cities offering a harmonious balance of affordability and livability for retirees relying on Social Security. Utilizing data from diverse sources like BestPlaces, AreaVibes, and GOBankingRates, we compare cities based on cost of living, livability score, and average monthly rent. Each city includes highlights, drawbacks, and tips on savoring retirement.
8 Top Cities in California for a Couple to Rely on Social Security
Here are the eight prime California cities for a couple to reside solely on Social Security, ranked from most to least affordable.
1. Redding
- Livability Score: 75
- 2023 Average Monthly Rent: $1,608
- Monthly Grocery Cost Per Couple: $389.37
- Monthly Healthcare Cost Per Couple: $587.01
- Monthly Utilities Cost Per Couple: $345.37
- Monthly Necessities Cost Per Couple: $2,929.75
Redding, the largest city in the Shasta Cascade region, situated in the northern part of the state, is enveloped by natural beauty like the Sacramento River, Shasta Lake, and Lassen Volcanic National Park. Redding is recognized for its mild climate, characterized by four distinct seasons and abundant sunshine.
Pros of living in Redding:
Low cost of living, particularly in housing, 35.4% below the state average.
Abundance of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, boating, and golfing.
Cultural and historical attractions like the Sundial Bridge, Turtle Bay Exploration Park, and Cascade Theatre.
Cons of living in Redding:
High crime rate, 85.9% above the national average.
Limited public transportation, potentially restricting mobility and accessibility.
Limited diversity, with 83.6% of the population being white.
Tips for living in Redding:
- Join a senior center like the Redding Senior Citizens Hall for socializing and engaging in various activities and events.
- Make the most of free or low-cost health and wellness programs provided by the Shasta County Health and Human Services Agency.
- Explore nearby attractions such as Whiskeytown National Recreation Area, Burney Falls, and Mount Shasta.
2. Chico
- Livability Score: 72
- 2023 Average Monthly Rent: $1,688
- Monthly Grocery Cost Per Couple: $389.37
- Monthly Healthcare Cost Per Couple: $587.01
- Monthly Utilities Cost Per Couple: $345.37
- Monthly Necessities Cost Per Couple: $3,009.75
Chico, a lively college town housing California State University, Chico, is positioned in the Sacramento Valley, approximately 90 miles north of Sacramento. Known for its vibrant downtown, agricultural heritage, and diverse community, Chico offers a unique living experience.
Pros of living in Chico:
- Moderate cost of living, particularly in housing, 28.8% below the state average.
- Abundant educational and cultural opportunities, including the Chico Museum, Chico Art Center, and Chico Performances.
- Diverse and friendly population, with 19.4% of residents being 65 years or older.
Cons of living in Chico:
- High crime rate, 49.9% above the national average.
- Poor air quality that may impact health and comfort.
- Limited public transportation, potentially necessitating reliance on a car or bike.
Tips for living in Chico:
- Join a senior center such as the Chico Area Recreation and Park District for various programs and services tailored to older adults.
- Utilize free or low-cost health and wellness resources from Enloe Medical Center and Butte County Public Health Department.
- Explore nearby attractions such as Bidwell Park, Lake Oroville, and Feather River Canyon.
3. Hanford
- Livability Score: 73
- 2023 Average Monthly Rent: $1,708
- Monthly Grocery Cost Per Couple: $389.37
- Monthly Healthcare Cost Per Couple: $587.01
- Monthly Utilities Cost Per Couple: $345.37
- Monthly Necessities Cost Per Couple: $3,029.75
Hanford, a small city in the San Joaquin Valley about 35 miles south of Fresno, serves as the county seat of Kings County and the economic and cultural hub of the region. Known for its historic downtown, agricultural production, and proximity to Sequoia National Park, Hanford offers a tranquil lifestyle.
Pros of living in Hanford:
- Low cost of living, particularly in housing, 34.9% below the state average.
- Peaceful and quiet atmosphere with a population of only 57,703 people.
- Historic and architectural attractions such as Hanford Carnegie Museum, Hanford Fox Theatre, and China Alley Historic District.
Cons of living in Hanford:
- High crime rate, 41.4% above the national average.
Poor air quality that may impact health and comfort.
Limited public transportation, potentially requiring reliance on a car or taxi.
Tips for living in Hanford:
- Join a senior center like the Kings County Commission on Aging for access to various programs and services catering to older adults.
- Utilize free or low-cost health and wellness resources provided by Adventist Health Hanford and Kings County Department of Public Health.
- Explore nearby attractions such as Kings River, Tachi Palace Casino Resort, and Lemoore Naval Air Station.
4. Visalia
- Livability Score: 71
- 2023 Average Monthly Rent: $1,708
- Monthly Grocery Cost Per Couple: $389.37
- Monthly Healthcare Cost Per Couple: $587.01
- Monthly Utilities Cost Per Couple: $345.37
- Monthly Necessities Cost Per Couple: $3,029.75
Visalia, the largest city in Tulare County and the gateway to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, is situated in the San Joaquin Valley, about 45 miles south of Fresno. Known for its agricultural and industrial economy, historic downtown, and diverse community, Visalia offers a well-rounded living experience.
Pros of living in Visalia:
- Moderate cost of living, particularly in housing, 28.8% below the state average.
- Convenient location with easy access to national parks, Sierra Nevada mountains, and the Pacific coast.
- Cultural and recreational opportunities such as Visalia Fox Theatre, ImagineU Children’s Museum, and Mooney Grove Park.
Cons of living in Visalia:
- High crime rate, 36.7% above the national average.
- Poor air quality that may impact health and comfort.
- Limited public transportation, potentially requiring reliance on a car or bus.