Largest cities in California

California, the Golden State, is synonymous with innovation, diversity, and stunning landscapes. With a population of nearly 40 million people, it is the most populous state in the U.S. California's population continues to grow, driven by its robust economy, diverse job market, and attractive lifestyle. California shares borders with Oregon to the north, Nevada to the east, Arizona to the southeast, and Mexico to the south, along with a vast coastline along the Pacific Ocean. The state is home to approximately 480 cities and towns, each contributing to its vibrant and diverse culture. The largest cities in California are renowned for their economic power, cultural influence, and scenic beauty.

Living in California offers a wealth of opportunities and experiences, from its bustling urban centers to its picturesque coastal towns and serene rural areas. The state's high population density in major cities fosters a dynamic and energetic atmosphere, while its diverse geography provides a range of climates and lifestyles. California's economy is one of the largest in the world, driven by industries such as technology, entertainment, and agriculture. The state's continuous population growth highlights its appeal as a place to live and work. The AreaVibes list of the largest cities in California, based on census data from the United States Census Bureau's American Community Survey, highlights California cities by population, showcasing the state's most populous and influential urban centers.

Los Angeles Population: 3,973,278 Livability Score: 67

Area Size: 1,214 KM² Density (sq mi): 8,463 Med. Household Income: $65,290

Living in Los Angeles, CA, or 'The City of Angels,' offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. Situated in Southern California, Los Angeles is a sprawling metropolis known for its entertainment industry, with nearby cities like Long Beach and Anaheim adding to its extensive metropolitan area. The city's landscape is diverse, encompassing stunning beaches, rolling hills, and bustling urban centers, each contributing to the city's multifaceted character.

San Diego Population: 1,414,545 Livability Score: 75

Area Size: 841 KM² Density (sq mi): 4,341 Med. Household Income: $83,454

Living in San Diego, CA, known as 'America's Finest City,' offers a perfect blend of coastal beauty and urban amenities. Located in Southern California, San Diego is a large city renowned for its picturesque beaches, vibrant neighborhoods, and mild climate. Major nearby cities like Los Angeles and Tijuana enhance its appeal as a central hub on the West Coast. San Diego's blend of natural beauty and urban sophistication creates a distinctive living experience.

San Jose Population: 1,029,409 Livability Score: 79

Area Size: 460 KM² Density (sq mi): 5,773 Med. Household Income: $117,324

Living in San Jose, CA, known as 'The Capital of Silicon Valley,' offers a unique blend of technological innovation and cultural diversity. Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, San Jose is a large city renowned for its high-tech industry and thriving economy. Major nearby cities like San Francisco and Oakland enhance its appeal as a central hub in Northern California. San Jose's blend of cutting-edge technology and rich cultural heritage creates a distinctive living experience.

San Francisco Population: 874,784 Livability Score: 75

Area Size: 121 KM² Density (sq mi): 18,647 Med. Household Income: $119,136

Living in San Francisco, CA, known as 'The Golden City,' offers a vibrant urban experience combined with stunning natural beauty. Located in northern California, San Francisco is a large city renowned for its iconic landmarks, diverse culture, and innovative tech industry. Major nearby cities like Oakland and San Jose enhance its appeal as a central hub in the Bay Area. San Francisco's blend of historic charm and modern innovation creates a unique and dynamic living environment.

Fresno Population: 526,147 Livability Score: 63

Area Size: 294 KM² Density (sq mi): 4,551 Med. Household Income: $53,368

Fresno, CA, known as 'The Raisin Capital of the World,' offers a unique blend of agricultural heritage and urban amenities. Located in central California, Fresno is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Clovis and Madera enhance its status as a central point in the region. Fresno's blend of fertile farmland, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Sacramento Population: 503,482 Livability Score: 73

Area Size: 253 KM² Density (sq mi): 5,106 Med. Household Income: $65,847

Sacramento, CA, known as 'The City of Trees,' offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern amenities. Located in northern California, Sacramento is a large city that serves as the state capital and a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like San Francisco and Reno enhance its status as a central point in the region. Sacramento's blend of historic landmarks, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Long Beach Population: 462,081 Livability Score: 69

Area Size: 130 KM² Density (sq mi): 9,111 Med. Household Income: $66,410

Long Beach, CA, known as 'The International City,' offers a vibrant blend of coastal beauty and urban amenities. Located in southern California, Long Beach is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Los Angeles and Anaheim enhance its status as a central point in the region. Long Beach's blend of scenic beaches, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Oakland Population: 422,575 Livability Score: 71

Area Size: 145 KM² Density (sq mi): 7,555 Med. Household Income: $80,143

Oakland, CA, known as 'The Bright Side of the Bay,' offers a unique blend of cultural diversity and urban amenities. Located in northern California, Oakland is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like San Francisco and Berkeley enhance its status as a central point in the region. Oakland's blend of historic landmarks, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Bakersfield Population: 379,879 Livability Score: 57

Area Size: 388 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,536 Med. Household Income: $65,687

Bakersfield, CA, known as 'The Country Music Capital of the West Coast,' offers a unique blend of agricultural heritage and urban amenities. Located in southern California, Bakersfield is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Fresno and Los Angeles enhance its status as a central point in the region. Bakersfield's blend of historic landmarks, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Anaheim Population: 353,085 Livability Score: 69

Area Size: 129 KM² Density (sq mi): 7,023 Med. Household Income: $76,723

Anaheim, CA, known as 'The Heart of Orange County,' offers a unique blend of entertainment and urban amenities. Located in southern California, Anaheim is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Santa Ana and Irvine enhance its status as a central point in the region. Anaheim's blend of world-famous attractions, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Full list of the largest cities in California

Rank	Location	Population	Area KM²	Median Income	Livability Score
1	Los Angeles	3,973,278	1,214	$65,290	67
2	San Diego	1,414,545	841	$83,454	75
3	San Jose	1,029,409	460	$117,324	79
4	San Francisco	874,784	121	$119,136	75
5	Fresno	526,147	294	$53,368	63
6	Sacramento	503,482	253	$65,847	73
7	Long Beach	462,081	130	$66,410	69
8	Oakland	422,575	145	$80,143	71
9	Bakersfield	379,879	388	$65,687	57
10	Anaheim	353,085	129	$76,723	69
11	Santa Ana	332,610	70	$72,406	51
12	Riverside	327,569	210	$72,738	67
13	Stockton	311,103	160	$58,393	59
14	Irvine	272,694	170	$108,318	76
15	Chula Vista	268,779	129	$86,132	75
16	Fremont	234,829	201	$142,374	83
17	San Bernardino	216,784	159	$49,287	58
18	Modesto	214,485	111	$62,182	65
19	Fontana	212,704	111	$75,681	65
20	Santa Clarita	212,519	171	$100,932	70
21	Moreno Valley	208,751	133	$70,385	56
22	Oxnard	207,722	70	$77,050	52
23	Huntington Beach	199,778	70	$97,469	67
24	Glendale	199,357	79	$70,596	73
25	Santa Rosa	178,391	107	$80,472	76
26	Ontario	178,194	129	$67,357	64
27	Rancho Cucamonga	178,060	104	$92,290	69
28	Oceanside	175,694	107	$75,411	64
29	Elk Grove	173,370	109	$101,776	73
30	Garden Grove	172,800	47	$73,611	66
31	Corona	168,112	102	$88,434	63
32	Hayward	158,817	118	$91,490	76
33	Lancaster	157,697	244	$58,413	69
34	Salinas	156,177	61	$67,914	66
35	Palmdale	153,240	275	$65,444	56
36	Sunnyvale	152,569	57	$150,464	82
37	Pomona	151,124	59	$62,407	61
38	Escondido	150,396	96	$65,326	72
39	Torrance	144,430	53	$94,781	77
40	Pasadena	142,017	60	$85,129	73
41	Fullerton	141,061	58	$85,471	67
42	Orange	139,322	66	$96,605	71
43	Roseville	138,860	112	$95,519	78
44	Visalia	133,100	97	$66,668	72
45	Concord	129,227	79	$92,706	64
46	Thousand Oaks	127,648	143	$108,377	71
47	Santa Clara	126,723	48	$136,870	76
48	Simi Valley	125,768	107	$99,245	64
49	Berkeley	123,065	27	$91,259	78
50	Victorville	122,958	190	$55,155	56

Methodology

To compile the list of the largest cities in California, AreaVibes used census data from the United States Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS). The American Community Survey releases updated estimates annually, offering a valuable resource for understanding the evolving dynamics within communities. These estimates are crucial for officials, community leaders, businesses, and local residents as they provide insights into demographic, economic, and social changes. By analyzing ACS data, stakeholders can make informed decisions, plan for future developments, and address the needs of their communities effectively. The detailed population information from the ACS helps track trends, allocate resources, and implement policies that enhance the quality of life for all residents.

Map of the population Density by State

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The map above serves as an excellent tool for discovering the most and least densely populated states across the United States. By highlighting both the states with the highest and lowest population density, it offers a comprehensive view of the nation's demographic landscape. This visual representation allows users to easily compare different regions, making it a valuable resource for anyone considering relocation or investment opportunities. Living in high density states could give you access to the following benefits: additional economic opportunities, enhanced amenities, improved health care, better infrastructure and technological advancement. Less densely poupulated states on the other hand, often have a lower cost of living, reduced traffic, closer-knit communities, abundant natural spaces and lower crime rates.