Best Places to Live in California

California is a popular destination for nearly every type of homeowner. Over 39 million people call the state home. Known for its relaxing culture and sandy beaches, the Golden State offers something for everyone. Along with sprawling coastal living, residents have easy access to winding hiking trails in the mountains. From Thousand Oaks to Los Angeles, there are plenty of popular cities in California for you to enjoy.

Fresno

Fresno is 45 miles away from California's geographic center and is the largest inland city in the state. While Fresno isn't on the beach or in the mountains, it's popular for its fresh nuts and fruits. It's also one of the more affordable cities in California.

The top employers in the city include Amazon.com and numerous medical centers. Many residents work in the healthcare industry. The downtown area is currently expanding and revitalizing to make it more appealing to young adults. The Tower District is the go-to destination for entertainment, shopping, and dining.

San Jose

San Jose is the "Capital of Silicon Valley" with the tech industry as the primary employer in the region. Since salaries are high in this industry, the living expenses are also high. However, it's among the best cities to live in California since the crime rate is relatively low at 314 for every 100,000 residents, which is well below the state average. There are also numerous outdoor activities to enjoy.

San Diego

San Diego is among the best destinations for young adults because of the easy beach access and energetic social scene. Summers are milder than those in Los Angeles.

The main employers involve the healthcare, tourism, and biotech sectors. San Diego has a vibrant and diverse culture as well as popular destinations like the San Diego Zoo. The best beaches in the area include South Mission Beach and La Jolla Shores.

Los Angeles

With more than 3.9 million residents, Los Angeles is the second largest city in the country and home to several professional sports teams, Hollywood, and Disneyland. This thriving metropolis provides residents with a relaxing Mediterranean climate and relatively quick access to nearby beaches. If you're looking for big-city living in California, Los Angeles is the place to be. Several beach communities, including Santa Monica and Long Beach, are just minutes away.

San Francisco

San Francisco is the economic epicenter for northern California. You benefit from a coastal location as well as a relatively hilly landscape. The weather is mild and comfortable all year-round.

Because San Francisco is in the vicinity of Silicon Valley, it plays host to many companies in the financial and technology industries. The top areas of interest for residents and tourists alike include Little Italy, Chinatown, and Fisherman's Wharf. Keep in mind that San Francisco is among the costliest cities to live in California, so you'll need ample disposable income when making this move.

Benefits of a home security system and home automation in California

When you're getting ready to move to any of these cities in California, consider placing a home security or automation system in your home. Doing so will increase your security and give you confidence that your family is safe even when you're not there.

• More convenience - Owning a home means constantly needing to check on your belongings to make sure that nothing is out of place and no one has broken in. Security and home automation systems allow you to go on vacation or visit a family member for days at a time without needing to ask a neighbor to watch your home for you.
• An increase in security - When you install a home automation system in your home, you can turn on the lights with the click of a button on your smartphone. Smart door locks bolster security by making sure that no one gets in unless they're allowed by you or someone who lives with you. You'll receive alerts whenever an individual enters your home. All the security features available with your system you can control from a smartphone app.
• Higher energy efficiency - Improve the energy efficiency in your home by remotely turning off appliances and systems when you aren't using them. Along with the basic home automation features, certain devices provide 24/7 monitoring to ensure you have the information and insight necessary to further increase efficiency.
• More comfort - Homeowners often make the mistake of leaving for work when it's cold in the morning only to arrive home when the indoor temperature is sweltering hot. Smart thermostats automatically alter settings to make sure that the home is always at the right temperature.
• Notable savings - Home automation pays for itself over time by providing you with ample savings on your monthly utility bill. You no longer need to waste time turning off every light before you leave the home. When you install a home automation system, it makes the right choices about when to turn appliances off and on without the need for manual operation.

Home security system FAQs

What features are standard with a home security system?

There are many features that are standard for home security systems. The primary ones are:

• Security sensors
• Stickers and yard signs
• High-decibel sirens
• Motion sensors
• Contact sensors
• Glass-break sensors
• Keypad or key fob
• Control hub

Additional features are also available for homeowners who want to customize their systems to suit their preferences.

Is home automation right for you?

Home automation provides you with remote access to nearly every aspect of your home from your smartphone or tablet. Even if you're in another state, you have full control over the system. Along with automation devices like smart outlets and light switches, these systems include security features like surveillance cameras, door and window sensors, and smart locks.

How does smart lighting work?

Smart lights are Wi-Fi devices that use a smart hub to give you control over the lighting system in your home. Your voice can turn the lights on and off with a basic command.

Upgrade your California home with smart automation

If you're considering moving to California, there are numerous suburban neighborhoods, metro areas, and peaceful destinations available to you. The diversity of locations means that you can choose a city that matches your personality and lifestyle.

The five cities in this guide are among the best places to live in California for families, couples, and singles alike. Once you move into your new home, think about improving your security and safety with a smart home automation system. Our team of professionals can help you choose the right automation and security features that will give you peace of mind. Call 855.822.1220 to learn more today.