8 Best Places to Retire in California, From Affordable Central Valley Cities to Coastal Favorites

"California's beaches, mountains, deserts, and vineyards attract hundreds of millions of visitors each year, leading many vacationers to dream of spending their golden years in the Golden State. From major cities to small towns, oceanfront townhouses to mountain cabins, California offers a wide variety of places to live. While California's high housing costs are generally known, "sticker shock" is often the first reaction among home buyers."

"California does not tax Social Security, but there is a state income tax on earning, pensions, and capital gains. Financial advisor Lawrence E. Smith of Centaurus Financial Inc. commented that most retirees will need income in addition to Social Security and pensions. He emphasizes the importance of building assets while working to provide a steady income after retirement and says, "Structure yourself so that no matter what happens, you'll have the income you need.""

California provides a wide range of living options across beaches, mountains, deserts, and vineyards, from major cities to small towns and oceanfront or mountain homes. High housing costs and an overall cost of living that ranks second nationally create affordability challenges; the state is among the top three most expensive for housing, utilities, transportation, groceries, and health care. California does not tax Social Security, but it taxes earnings, pensions, and capital gains. Many retirees will need income beyond Social Security and pensions, so building assets and structuring steady post-retirement income is important. Various organizations evaluate and list recommended California cities for retirees using housing, health care, cost, and demographic factors.

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