I’ll be honest California is one of the most breathtaking places I’ve ever explored… but it can also be wildly expensive. Over the years, I’ve road-tripped the coast, stayed in charming beachside Airbnbs, splurged on a spa day in Santa Monica, and hunted down taco trucks in the shadow of multimillion-dollar mansions. And every time I go back, I’m reminded: this state knows how to make you fall in love and empty your wallet.
Not all cities are created equal when it comes to cost, though. Some places just feel more luxurious whether it’s the cliffside views, the high-end resorts, or the fact that everything from parking to pastries seems to cost double. After spending time in a mix of coastal towns, buzzing cities, and laid-back neighborhoods, I’ve noticed a trend: a few destinations consistently come up as the most expensive to visit in California.
If you’ve ever dreamed about soaking up the sun in Malibu, strolling through Laguna Beach, or treating yourself to a weekend in San Francisco but hesitated because of the price tag this post is for you. I’ve pulled together the most famously pricey California travel spots I’ve experienced (and a couple still on my wish list), and I’ll share what makes each one special, how much you might expect to spend, and the little tricks I’ve used to enjoy them without breaking the bank.
Because yes, these places can be expensive but they can also be 100% worth it.
1. San Francisco
San Francisco is one of those places that’s both chaotic and charming and somehow it works. Every time I go, I end up spending more than I meant to. My last hotel near North Beach cost more than my monthly rent back home, but I’d do it again just to sip a cappuccino overlooking Alamo Square or watch the fog roll in over the bay.
I skipped the rental car (parking is a nightmare), bought a Clipper card, and took the Muni everywhere. Between the hills, the sourdough, and the views from Twin Peaks, it felt like money well spent even if I did accidentally pay $9 for toast.
If you’re planning your own trip, here’s my full guide on things to do in San Francisco, from iconic views to a few underrated gems I’ve come to love.
Quick stats:
- Avg. home value: $1,412,609
- Cost of living index: 245.5
- Estimated annual living cost: $131,283
- Livability score: 75
2. San Jose
I wasn’t expecting much from San Jose I thought it was all tech offices and Teslas. But it’s got a vibe I didn’t see coming: murals, a buzzing food scene, and redwood hikes not far out of town. It’s still pricey (it’s Silicon Valley, after all), but you don’t have to spend big to have a good time.
I stayed in nearby Campbell and Ubered in. Santana Row has that “I’m not cool enough to be here” feel, but it’s fun to window shop and people-watch. I also wandered through Japantown and stumbled into one of the best poke bowls I’ve ever had.
Quick stats:
- Avg. home value: $1,613,683
- Cost of living index: 231.0
- Estimated annual living cost: $144,374
- Livability score: 79
3. Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz is where beach nostalgia meets crunchy college town energy. It’s got surfers, skateboards, redwoods, and a slightly rebellious streak. And somehow, it still manages to charge resort-level prices for motels with 1980s carpets.
Still, I love it. I stayed a little outside the center in Aptos and walked down to the beach each morning. The boardwalk is chaotic but fun, especially in summer. My favorite part? Wilder Ranch State Park at sunset. No crowds, just cliffs, waves, and that golden light.
Quick stats:
- Avg. home value: $1,378,468
- Cost of living index: 186.0
- Estimated annual living cost: $124,817
- Livability score: 74
4. Laguna Beach
Laguna is straight-up dreamy. Terracotta rooftops, secret beaches tucked into cliffs, art galleries everywhere. It’s one of those places where you suddenly find yourself shopping for $300 sunglasses because everything just looks better here.
The boutique hotel I stayed at felt like a splurge, but waking up to ocean views and walking barefoot to Heisler Park made it feel completely worth it. I skipped restaurants most days and packed a picnic Trader Joe’s and a bottle of rosé go a long way with that view.
If you’re headed that way, I’ve shared my favorite beaches, art spots, and photo stops in this guide to things to do in Laguna Beach.
Quick stats:
- Avg. home value: $3,062,672
- Cost of living index: 164.9
- Estimated annual living cost: $244,342
- Livability score: 66
5. San Clemente
San Clemente doesn’t always get the spotlight, but that’s what I loved about it. It’s quieter than Laguna, with whitewashed buildings and a Spanish colonial feel that makes it feel like you stumbled into a Mediterranean coastal town.
I booked a no-frills place near the pier and walked just about everywhere. The beaches here are wide, clean, and less packed, and I swear the sunsets lasted longer. It’s perfect for couples, solo travelers, or anyone who just wants to slow down.
Quick stats:
- Avg. home value: $1,794,058
- Cost of living index: 164.9
- Estimated annual living cost: $154,397
- Livability score: 63
6. Anaheim
I’ve been to Anaheim more times than I can count, and let’s be real it’s not cheap. Especially if you’re headed to Disneyland. The hotels near the park can get outrageously expensive (I once paid $400 for a basic room with a decent shuttle). But if you plan it right, it can be magical without draining your wallet.
When I go, I stay a few blocks off the main drag, pack my own snacks for the park, and use all the early-entry perks I can get my hands on. And when I need a break from the crowds? I wander over to the Anaheim Packing District for a craft cocktail and live music. It’s such a vibe.
Quick stats:
- Avg. home value: $968,835
- Cost of living index: 164.9
- Estimated annual living cost: $94,862
- Livability score: 69
7. Malibu
Malibu is one of those places that feels like it exists in another universe where the air smells like salt and sunscreen, and every corner looks like a magazine shoot. It’s also absurdly expensive. I’ve never stayed more than a night here, but even just spending the day feels special.
I usually make it a day trip from Santa Monica or Topanga. I’ll grab breakfast at Malibu Farm, hike Solstice Canyon, then unwind on El Matador Beach with a good book. You’ll definitely pay more for everything here from parking to smoothies but sometimes the peace and views are worth it.
Quick stats:
- Avg. home value: $3,741,445
- Cost of living index: 161.7
- Estimated annual living cost: $295,826
- Livability score: 53
8. Santa Monica
Santa Monica has that classic California energy palm trees, rollerbladers, beachfront sunsets. I’ve used it as a base for exploring LA, and while the prices are high (think $20 for valet, $9 lattes, and boutique hotels in the $400+ range), there’s so much to do that you can balance things out.
One of my favorite things is renting a bike and riding the Marvin Braude trail down to Venice. I’ll grab something from a farmers market and people-watch on the pier. It’s polished but still laid-back and honestly, one of the best places to catch a California sunset.
Quick stats:
- Avg. home value: $2,463,468
- Cost of living index: 161.7
- Estimated annual living cost: $202,784
- Livability score: 73
9. West Hollywood
West Hollywood is bold, colorful, and packed with personality. I’ve stayed here a few times when visiting LA, and while the boutique hotels and rooftop bars don’t come cheap, the energy is unmatched. It’s where you go when you want a little glam with your getaway.
I spent one weekend hopping from vintage shops on Melrose to drag brunch in Boystown, and ended the night dancing on a rooftop bar with strangers who instantly felt like friends. It’s not the kind of place you go to relax but if you’re craving nightlife and nonstop fun, this is it.
Quick stats:
- Avg. home value: $1,577,346
- Cost of living index: 161.7
- Estimated annual living cost: $140,366
- Livability score: 70
10. Pasadena
Pasadena feels like a breath of fresh air after the buzz of LA. It’s refined without being stuffy, and there’s a beautiful balance between artsy and historic. I stayed here during a fall trip and spent my mornings walking through the Huntington Gardens and afternoons sipping iced coffee in quiet bookstores.
While it’s not the flashiest spot on this list, I actually loved how “lived-in” it felt. Everything was a little cleaner, a little calmer, and a little more thoughtful. I’d go back just for the Sunday farmers market and mountain views.
Quick stats:
- Avg. home value: $1,341,216
- Cost of living index: 161.7
- Estimated annual living cost: $123,386
- Livability score: 73
11. Carmel-by-the-Sea
Carmel feels like a real-life fairytale. I remember walking down its quiet, cobblestone streets, past cottages that looked like something out of a storybook, and thinking this place doesn’t feel real. It’s charming, artistic, and incredibly peaceful, but you can definitely feel the luxury vibe under the surface.
Everything here is upscale from boutique wine rooms to art galleries to ocean-view inns that’ll run you $700+ a night during peak season. I didn’t stay overnight (my wallet said no), but visiting for the day from Monterey was perfect. I strolled Carmel Beach, browsed local pottery shops, and ended with coffee in a sunny courtyard café that made me want to move in permanently.
If you’re curious about what to see and where to wander, here’s my full list of things to do in Carmel-by-the-Sea, including hidden corners and coastal musts.
Quick stats:
- Avg. home value: $3,500,000+
- Cost of living index: ~151.9
- Housing index: ~651.7 (more than 6x the national average)
- Livability score: 78
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
California’s most expensive destinations can be overwhelming, but they’re also packed with character and beauty. Whether you’re planning a luxury escape or a clever budget trip with a side of splurge, each of these cities has something memorable to offer.
I always say: splurge on what you value most whether that’s a sunset dinner, a stunning hotel room, or a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Just don’t forget the joy in small, spontaneous moments too.
Disclaimer: The destinations listed in this post are based on publicly available data reflecting the overall cost of living in popular California tourist cities as of mid-2025. This includes factors like average housing prices, grocery and utility costs, healthcare, transportation, and general expenses sourced from Sperling’s BestPlaces, the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Zillow, and AreaVibes.
To identify which cities are considered most expensive, we looked at a combination of real estate values, local spending estimates, and livability scores. These numbers give a helpful snapshot of how much it might cost to live or travel in each destination, assuming typical expenses like accommodations, food, and daily transportation.
Data points were most recently updated in June 2025 and represent estimates, not exact travel costs. Personal spending can vary widely based on travel style, timing, and preferences.
