Living in California is costly; Zillow’s August 2023 data reveals homes average $744,280, and rent hits $2,950. Retiring there may seem challenging, but pockets of affordability exist for Social Security-dependent couples. While an oceanfront lifestyle remains a dream, specific California locales cater to those with only a monthly Social Security benefit—no extra assets or savings needed. Explore the 18 Best Places in California for a Couple To Live Only on Social Security, managing a monthly income of $3,581.12 (twice the average monthly Social Security benefit of $1,790.56).
Bellflower
Nestled between Los Angeles and Long Beach, Bellflower, a Southern California bedroom community, shifted from agricultural to residential in the 1940s. Present-day Bellflower offers residents costs for rent, healthcare, and utilities below the national average. According to Zip Atlas, the Per Capita Income in Bellflower stands at $28,918, with median family and household incomes reaching $80,445 and $75,379, respectively. This makes Bellflower an appealing locale with economic factors favoring its residents’ financial well-being.
Hanford
Merely 20 miles due east of Visalia lies Hanford, where living expenses are almost equivalent between the two communities. Although rent in Hanford is approximately $200 more per month, this disparity is offset by lower healthcare costs, amounting to a Monthly Healthcare Cost Per Couple of $526.66. This balance of the expenses makes Hanford a comparable option for those seeking close proximity to Visalia with a manageable difference in overall living expenses.
South Gate
Located merely 12 miles from Bellflower, South Gate is another suburb in Los Angeles County. Remarkably similar in terms of costs, South Gate residents experience a $130 monthly reduction in rent, contributing to the variance in living expenses. As reported by Data USA, in 2021, South Gate had a population of 93.3k people, with a median age of 33.3 and a median household income of $59,647. The average rental property in South Gate is priced at $1,798 monthly.
Taft
Nestled in the foothills of the San Joaquin Valley, Taft emerges as a delightful abode for retirees. Small-town enthusiasts will find it particularly appealing, relishing the comfort and connections fostered over the years. The town’s unique charm lies in its smallness, fostering a sense of community where everyone knows each other. With mild winters and hot summers, Taft offers a variety of climates. Just a two-hour drive from Los Angeles, the town also boasts proximity to numerous parks and lakes, providing ample opportunities for day-long excursions. The average rent for an apartment in Taft is $927.
Modesto
In 2023, Modesto’s average monthly rent, $1,965, positions it as an affordable California city for Social Security-dependent individuals. Surrounded by farmlands yielding lettuce, almonds, and grapes, this primarily residential community, located 80 miles south of Sacramento, offers easy access to California’s iconic sites. From the Golden Gate Bridge to Lake Tahoe’s scenic landscapes, Modesto’s monthly rental cost, slightly below the national average, adds to its appeal. According to Macrotrends, Modesto’s metro area population 2024 increased by 1.18% from 2023, reaching 427,000.
Turlock
Turlock, the second-largest city in Stanislaus County, is a 20-minute drive from Modesto, hosting a population of over 70,000 residents, succeeding Modesto. The distinction in living expenses between the two is negligible, hovering at around $40 monthly, with the average rental pegged at $1,945. This proximity and affordability make Turlock a viable option for those seeking an alternative within the vicinity.
Three Rivers
Three Rivers, California, stands out as one of the prime California locales for a couple relying solely on social security. Positioned in proximity to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, this town captivates retirees with its awe-inspiring scenery—featuring giant sequoia trees, mountains, and the picturesque Kaweah River. The town’s appeal extends to outdoor enthusiasts, providing easy access to hiking, camping, fishing, and more in the surrounding areas. Beyond its natural beauty, Three Rivers is celebrated for its vibrant arts community, serene ambiance, and cozy small-town atmosphere.
Redding
Redding offers a harmonious blend of advantages, boasting one of the lowest average monthly rents and the highest livability score among cities on the list. Nestled approximately 140 miles south of the Oregon border, Redding is enveloped by national forests. Visit Redding claims it to be the sunniest city in California, basking in more than 250 days of sunshine annually. Retirees with a penchant for fishing can indulge in trout fishing along the Sacramento River. It is renowned for its stock of rainbow trout thriving in its cold waters.
Randsburg
Situated in the Mojave Desert, Randsburg is a quaint mining town with a rich history, catering to individuals drawn to unique architecture and historic charm. The close-knit community fosters a relaxed pace of life for its residents. The distinctive desert landscape provides an ideal backdrop for outdoor activities like off-roading and hiking. Notably, the area has seen the emergence of art galleries and similar installations, adding cultural elements to the town’s appeal and creating a well-rounded environment for those seeking a distinctive living experience.
Lemon Cove
Nestled in the Sierra Nevada Mountains’ foothills, Lemon Cove stands as another idyllic small town where the cost of living is 0.4% lower than the national average, facilitating a comfortable life for retired couples relying solely on social security. The surrounding natural beauty creates a serene and tranquil environment and grants retirees ample opportunities to relish the outdoors. As reported by Best Neighborhood, the average rent in Lemon Cove stands at $1,115 per month, contributing to its appeal for those seeking an affordable and picturesque retirement haven.
College City
Retirees seeking seclusion and privacy may find an ideal haven in College City, where a mere 200 residents create a peaceful environment, perfect for those eager to escape big-city commotion. The town exudes a rural ambiance, with most residents owning their homes, providing a charming and intimate setting. Nestled in the heart of a farming community, College City appeals to those enamored with the rural lifestyle. Despite its serene atmosphere, all essential amenities are readily available, and the nearby Colusa City is just a half-hour drive away.
El Centro
As the largest city in Imperial Valley, El Centro holds a central position in the El Centro Metropolitan area, enjoying a warm desert climate abundant in sunshine. Its proximity to attractions like the Salton Sea and Anza-Borrego Desert State Park affords retirees numerous recreational activities, fostering an active lifestyle. With a low crime rate, access to fresh produce, and an array of excellent Mexican restaurants, the area caters to various needs. Boasting a cost of living 1.1% lower than the national average, El Centro offers affordable real estate compared to other Californian cities.
Dorris
Nestled amid picturesque landscapes, Dorris emerges as an optimal retirement destination for those valuing rural settings and a leisurely pace of life. With a cost of living 8.3% lower than the national average, the town beckons retirees with a diverse recreation base encompassing mountain lakes, forests, streams, and abundant wildlife. Nature enthusiasts among seniors would find this locale particularly appealing. The downtown area offers charming shops, restaurants, and cafes, enhancing the overall appeal of the region with its quaint, rural hometown ambiance—a perfect fit for seniors seeking a slow-paced lifestyle.
Chico
Situated approximately 90 miles north of Sacramento, Chico is home to what the local chamber of commerce touts as the 26th-largest municipal park in the United States—the expansive 3,670-acre Bidwell Park. This park presents various recreational activities for active retirees, ranging from mountain biking and hiking to rock climbing, swimming, and horseback riding. Alternatively, residents can engage in leisurely pursuits such as shopping at farmers’ markets, enjoying art exhibits, and immersing themselves in the sounds of local music festivals.
Tulare
Nestled in Tulare County, Tulare emerges as a small town providing retired couples an opportunity to maximize their retirement incomes. Positioned in the heart of California’s agricultural region, renowned for its farms and orchards, Tulare boasts rural and agricultural surroundings often appreciated by retirees. Centrally located in the San Joaquin Valley, the town facilitates easy access to outdoor activities and natural attractions, with Sequoia National Park nearby. Local events, parks, and community activities ensure residents have various engaging options to stay occupied.
Bakersfield
Bakersfield, situated alongside the Kern River, is on our list of the best California cities for a couple living solely on social security. Boasting over half a year of sunny days, the city beckons residents to relish its diverse landscapes and partake in various outdoor activities. Bakersfield offers excellent healthcare facilities, along with an abundance of amenities and recreational opportunities. The city’s lively arts and culture scene and a bustling calendar of events and activities contribute to its overall appeal for retirees.
Vina
Situated in Tehama County, choosing Vina for retirement promises seniors a distinctive and secluded experience. The small but lively community, hosting over 200 residents, provides a serene and peaceful environment. Seniors revel in a leisurely pace of life, surrounded by Vina’s agricultural allure, featuring expansive vineyards and orchards that enhance its charm and significance. The neighboring area offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities, including hiking, bird-watching, and nature exploration. The average rental price in Vina hovers around $933.
Visalia
Nestled in the agricultural abundance of California, Visalia graces the route from Bakersfield north to Fresno in Tulare County, renowned as the world’s premier dairy producer. Although more economical cities dot California, Visalia stands unrivaled for nature enthusiasts, positioned at the base of Sequoia and Kings Canyon national parks. With an average rental cost of $1,708 in 2023, Visalia also presents a Monthly Grocery Cost Per Couple of $372.50, Monthly Healthcare Cost Per Couple of $675.47, Monthly Utilities Cost Per Couple of $354.85, and Monthly Necessities Cost Per Couple of $3,111.06.
Hornbrook
Perched on the banks of the Klamath River, Hornbrook beckons exploration, especially for those reliant solely on social security. Enveloped by natural beauty, this census-designated place provides retirees a tranquil haven to embrace their golden years. Numerous scenic hiking trails cater to outdoor enthusiasts. In contrast, the overall ambiance caters to individuals yearning to escape the fast-paced life of big cities. For medical needs, proximity to hospitals like Fairchild Medical Center, a critical access facility just a half-hour drive away, ensures accessible healthcare for residents.
Cedarville
Nestled in Modoc County, Cedarville presents retirees with a rural, small-town ambiance—a serene escape to nature. Surrounded by picturesque mountains and valleys, the region not only captivates with its scenic beauty but also exudes a peaceful atmosphere. Retirees in Cedarville relish an affordable lifestyle without sacrificing the allure of scenic vistas and outdoor pursuits. The town’s natural charm, featuring opportunities for hiking and wildlife exploration, solidifies its reputation as one of the premier places to retire, especially for those dependent on social security.
Alturas
Alturas in California seamlessly blends natural beauty with wilderness exploration, offering seniors various outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, hunting, and skiing in the Modoc National Forest. The town’s low crime rates foster a sense of safety, making it an appealing choice for retirees seeking a calm and secure lifestyle. With the cost of living well below the national average, Alturas is an ideal location for retired couples looking to comfortably sustain their living expenses solely on social security.
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