California is a dream destination for many retirees. From the beauty of the coast to the vineyards of wine country, the Golden State offers a lifestyle that’s not only desirable but also diverse. But where can you find reasonable housing costs and live in a community with essential amenities—all while staying within your budget?
The good news is California boasts many areas that cost less than the typical star-studded, beachfront, glitz-and-glam spots. In this post, we highlight some of the state’s more financially accessible areas, including the Inland Empire and Bakersfield. Read on to explore the cheapest place to retire in California and 55+ communities where you can find the perfect balance of affordability and California vibes!
Inland Empire Area
The Inland Empire is one of the cheapest places to retire in California. Nestled just inland from Southern California’s iconic coastline, this region features lower housing costs than many parts of the state along with a warm, sunny climate, and easy access to shopping, health care and outdoor recreation.
Cheapest 55+ Communities in the Inland Empire
- Panorama Village – This Hemet community features affordable homes with golf course access and community events.
- El Grande Estates – Also located in Hemet, this small, quiet community includes a clubhouse and pool.
- Banning Estates – Explore budget-friendly manufactured homes with resort-style amenities in this Banning community.
- Village Grove – This active lifestyle community in Corona features walking trails and social clubs.
- Jess Ranch – Located off Apple Valley Road in the high desert area, this gated community consists of low-maintenance homes and recreational facilities.
- Casa Blanca Villas – Explore cozy, affordable villas with a focus on community living in this Menifee community.
- Highland Springs Country Club – This Cherry Valley golf course community offers reasonable home prices.
- Wyndham Rose – Close to many shops and restaurants, this well-maintained, gated community features a clubhouse and fitness center.
- Palmilla on The Greens – Experience a small, friendly neighborhood with a relaxed atmosphere in this Menifee community.
- Serrano Del Vista – This affordable, active adult community in Banning features modern amenities.
- Maravilla Estates – Located in San Jacinto, this newer 55+ development offers low HOA fees and great amenities.
Palm Springs Area
If your California dream includes endless sunshine and laid-back desert vibes, check out Palm Springs. This desert oasis features a lower cost of living than the state’s coastal cities. Here, you can enjoy easy access to world-class golf courses, scenic hiking trails, and exciting entertainment. For example, Coachella takes place in nearby Indio, which is just 25 miles east of Palm Springs.
Cheapest 55+ Communities in the Palm Springs Area
- Desert Vista Village – Explore budget-friendly manufactured homes with community pools and activities.
- Desert Highlands – Enjoy a peaceful atmosphere in this affordable desert community in Desert Hot Springs.
San Diego Area
It’s easy to see why America’s Finest City is so appealing—this coastal city offers beautiful beaches, a near-perfect climate, and the quintessential California experience. While these perks come with a sometimes-steep price tag, you can find affordable pockets within San Diego, especially within 55+ communities. Retiring in San Diego means you’ll have access to top-tier health care, numerous coastal attractions, and a rich cultural scene, from museums to theaters.
Cheapest 55+ Communities in the San Diego Area
- Villa Sao Miguel – Check out budget-conscious apartments for retirees in a central location.
- Regency Villas – Explore low-maintenance condos with resort-style amenities.
Stockton-Modesto Area
Close enough for a day trip into San Francisco, the Stockton-Modesto area offers significantly lower housing costs than what you’ll find in the Bay Area, making it one of cheapest place to retire in California. The region’s strong agricultural roots give it a small-town feel while still providing solid healthcare options and a laid-back vibe.
Cheapest 55+ Communities in the Stockton-Modesto Area
- Villa Theresa – This affordable community in Stockton features a small-town feel.
- Four Seasons at Los Banos – Explore this gated community with newer homes and modern amenities.
- Regency Park – This active adult neighborhood offers walking trails and community events.
Bakersfield Area
With one of the state’s lowest costs of living, Bakersfield stands out as a gem for active adults who want to enjoy one of the cheapest places to retire in California and enjoy a California lifestyle without draining their savings. Here, you can enjoy a warm climate nearly all year, excellent health care facilities, and a growing retiree population. And since Bakersfield is fairly centrally located, you can easily get to big cities like LA and San Diego, whether you go for the day or plan a longer road trip.
Cheapest 55+ Communities in the Bakersfield Area
- Kern City – One of Bakersfield’s original 55+ communities, Kern City offers low-cost homes.
- Four Seasons at Bakersfield – This gated community features resort-style amenities.
- Solera at Kern Canyon – Enjoy an active lifestyle and affordable homes with modern designs within Solera at Kern Canyon.
Live the California Dream Without the High Costs
You don’t need a fortune to enjoy the California lifestyle you’ve always dreamed of. From the sunny Inland Empire to the desert oasis of Palm Springs, the Golden State offers plenty of affordable retirement spots. Consider Bakersfield and Stockton-Modesto as some of the cheapest places to retire in California. Even parts of San Diego offer coastal charm without a hefty price tag.
Explore real estate listings in budget-friendly cities or connect with us to find the perfect 55+ community for your lifestyle and budget. We’ll help you find just the right place to start your next chapter under the California sun.
