California may be known for its high cost of living, but some cities offer relatively more affordable options for homebuyers.According to a report by Houzeo, cited by the New York Post, a home buying and selling platform, the state’s most affordable cities were identified by analysing hundreds of cities based on median home prices, median rent and overall cost of living. The analysis covered six spending categories: housing, groceries, utilities, transportation, healthcare and miscellaneous goods.Here are five of the cheapest California cities to buy a house, according to the report:
1. Porterville
Porterville tops the list, with an average home price of $325,000. The median rent is $1,358, while the city is 12 per cent less costly than the state average, according to Houzeo.The city is the primary economic hub of the Southern Sierra foothills and a gateway to Sequoia National Forest. Its job market is largely driven by agriculture, healthcare and education.
2. Fresno
Fresno ranks second, with an average home price of $388,567 and median rent of $1,975. The inland city is close to Woodward Park, Roeding Park, farms and mountain views, as well as Yosemite and Sequoia National Parks.Its job market is powered by tech, agriculture and healthcare, with Apple, Kaiser Permanente and the University of California system among its major employers.
3. Bakersfield
Bakersfield takes third place, with average home prices of $441,009 and median rent of $1,995.Seven Oaks offers modern and upscale housing, golf courses and schools, while Stockdale Estates is known for large lots and mature trees. Major employers include Chevron, Grimmway Farms and Kern Medical.
4. Tulare
Tulare ranks fourth, with average home prices of $458,693 and median rent of $1,650.Located in the Central Valley, the city has a small-town feel. It hosts the World Ag Expo each February, while Alpine Vista and Del Lago offer quieter residential options.
5. Eureka
Eureka rounds out the five, with an average home price of $418,081 and median rent of $1,600.The city is close to King Salmon Beach and the Samoa Dunes Recreation Area. Its major employers include St. Joseph hospital and Humboldt county.
