Thinking about planting roots in the Golden State? Whether you’re relocating for work, want more space for your growing family, or are just ready for a lifestyle change, choosing the right California city is a big decision. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to look for and share some of the best cities in California for families in 2025.
What Makes a California City Great for Families?
Before we explore the top cities, let’s consider the criteria that matter most to families. While every household is unique, most parents share similar priorities when it comes to choosing a place to call home, especially in a state as diverse (and expensive) as California. We’ve compiled data from Niche.com, CA.gov, and local sources to provide an up-to-date look at what several California cities have to offer families in 2025.
Excellent Public Schools
For many families, schools are the deciding factor in choosing a place to live. In California, school quality can vary significantly even between neighboring districts. Parents are increasingly looking at test scores, college readiness, student-to-teacher ratios, and extracurricular opportunities before choosing a new place to call home. Cities with high-ranking school districts like Irvine Unified or San Ramon Valley Unified tend to attract families seeking academic excellence and a strong sense of community.
Affordable (or at Least Reasonable) Housing Prices
Housing affordability is a challenge across the state, but there are still pockets where families can find good value. Whether you’re looking to buy a starter home or need space for a multi-generational household, cities like Clovis or Temecula offer more affordable prices without sacrificing livability. Even in pricier markets, neighborhoods with townhomes, condos, or new developments can provide more options than you might expect.
Low Crime Rates and Safe Neighborhoods
Safety is a top priority for any parent. California’s safest family-friendly cities often have well-funded police departments, active neighborhood watch programs, and community design that naturally promotes security, like good street lighting and walking and biking infrastructure. Cities like Irvine and Thousand Oaks consistently report some of the lowest crime rates in the state, making them popular with young families and first-time homebuyers.
Parks, Playgrounds, and Access to Nature
Kids need room to play, and parents need room to breathe. Whether it’s weekend hikes, afternoons at the playground, or a quick walk around the neighborhood with the stroller, access to green space is key. Some of the best cities in California for families invest heavily in their public parks and outdoor amenities. For example, Folsom boasts an expansive bike trail system, while Carlsbad offers beach access plus kid-friendly spots like LEGOLAND and Batiquitos Lagoon.
Walkability and Commute Times
The daily routine matters. Long commutes or car-dependent neighborhoods can add stress and eat into precious family time. That’s why cities with walkable neighborhoods, bike lanes, and public transportation often rank higher for quality of life. Being close to schools, grocery stores, and green spaces can make everyday life easier and more enjoyable, especially with younger kids in tow.
Diverse, Family-Friendly Communities
Representation and inclusion matter, especially for families raising kids in today’s world. The best cities foster a sense of belonging for people of all backgrounds. California’s most family-friendly communities tend to support local festivals, multicultural events, and school programs that celebrate diversity. This helps children feel accepted and exposed to a wide range of people and perspectives from a young age.
Access to Extracurriculars
Extracurriculars like sports leagues, art classes, STEM camps, and music programs help kids grow into well-rounded adults. Cities with strong parks and recreation departments or community centers give families plenty of ways to stay engaged and connected.
Keep Reading: Most Affordable Cities in California That Aren’t Boring (2025)
Top 8 Best Cities in California for Families in 2025
1. Irvine (Orange County)
Pros:
- A+ rated public schools (Irvine Unified School District)
- Master-planned communities with trails, parks, and green space
- Low crime and high safety ratings
Cons:
- High median home price ($1.1M per Niche)
- Competitive housing market
Why Families Love It: Irvine consistently ranks as one of California’s safest and most family-oriented cities. With more than 280 parks and top-notch schools, it’s built for families.
2. Folsom (Sacramento Area)
Pros:
- Highly rated schools like Vista del Lago High
- More affordable than coastal cities (Median home price: $702K)
- Great trails, lakes, and bike-friendly infrastructure
Cons:
- Hot summers
- Some sprawl as new developments expand
Why Families Love It: Folsom offers a small-town feel with big-city amenities nearby. It’s a favorite among families leaving the Bay Area for more space and better value.
3. San Ramon (East Bay, Bay Area)
Pros:
- Excellent schools (San Ramon Valley Unified)
- Family-friendly neighborhoods like Windemere and Gale Ranch
- Short commute to tech jobs in Silicon Valley
Cons:
- Home prices hover around $1.3M
- Limited nightlife or urban entertainment
Why Families Love It: Safe streets, clean parks, and highly involved PTAs make San Ramon a top pick for Bay Area families.
4. Carlsbad (San Diego County)
Pros:
- Top-rated schools (Carlsbad Unified)
- Beach access, Legoland, and family-friendly attractions
- Lower cost of living than other coastal cities
Cons:
- Tourist traffic during summer
- Coastal homes come with a premium price
Why Families Love It: Carlsbad blends beach-town charm with suburban comfort, ideal if you’re dreaming of ocean views and top-tier education.
5. Thousand Oaks (Ventura County)
Pros:
- Quiet, suburban feel with low crime
- Great schools (Conejo Valley Unified)
- Close to LA but feels far removed from the big city
Cons:
- Limited public transportation
- Median home price around $1M
Why Fmilies Love It: Thousand Oaks is a hidden gem for LA families looking for a slower pace, without sacrificing quality schools and open space.
6. Clovis (Fresno County)
Pros:
- Budget-friendly homes (Median: $453K)
- A-rated Clovis Unified School District
- Growing local economy
Cons:
- Hot and dry summers
- Not as many cultural amenities
Why Families Love It: If you’re looking for excellent schools on a reasonable budget, Clovis is hard to beat. It’s one of the best cities in California for families seeking affordability.
7. Pleasanton (Alameda County)
Pros:
- High-performing schools (Amador Valley High)
- Vibrant downtown with family events
- Close to major job hubs
Cons:
- Expensive real estate (Median: $1.4M)
- Congested during rush hours
Why Families Love It: Pleasanton balances career opportunities with a strong sense of community, think farmers markets, family festivals, and bike trails.
8. Temecula (Riverside County)
Pros:
- Affordable homes compared to SoCal averages (Median: $640K)
- Highly rated schools and charter options
- Family-friendly wineries, hiking, and Old Town charm
Cons:
- Long commute to San Diego or LA
- Summer heat
Why Families Love It: With good schools and lots of space, Temecula is a favorite among families looking for a suburban lifestyle with some flair.
Tips for Choosing the Right Neighborhood in California
Even the best cities have better (and less ideal) pockets. Here’s how to dig deeper:
Use School Ratings as a Starting Point
Sites like GreatSchools.org and Niche.com offer parent reviews, test scores, and more.
Consider Your Commute
Map out your daily drives. What looks perfect on paper might mean hours of traffic in real life.
Explore on Foot
Visit parks, attend a local event, or check out the nearest library. You’ll quickly get a feel for the vibe.
Check Local Facebook and Nextdoor Groups
Want to know how family-friendly an area really is? Parents in these groups share honest feedback.
Final Thoughts: Family Life, Your Way
There’s no single perfect city when it comes to living in California. Your ideal city might be nestled by the coast, tucked into the foothills, or part of a bustling suburb with world-class schools. What matters most is how a place fits your family’s rhythm, needs, and dreams.
