How many of you think you’re rich? If you measured your wealth on a world scale, everyone would enjoy “Bill Gates” status. But what if you measured your wealth against others in Northern California? Would you live in a charming small town in NorCal? Here’s where things change drastically. NerdWallet has data finding that these are the wealthiest cities in our part of the state. They’re some of the best places to live in Northern California. Let’s take a look.

1. Palo Alto
Palo Alto, CA, USA
flickr/Don DeBold
Shoreline Park makes a sweet statement and commercial for the good life. And, if Tesla calls this NorCal city home, you'd better know it's wealthy. Ranking at numero uno, this city's median income is a whopping $151,370.00, with the average home going for a cool $2.5 million dollars.
2. San Ramon
San Ramon, CA, USA
flickr/scott wang
This sleepy valley town has gotten wealthier and wealthier over the years. San Ramon is number two when it comes to the wealthiest in Northern California cities. Would you believe the average Joe on the street earns $135,000 a year? Way to go San Ramon!
3. Pleasanton
Pleasanton, CA, USA
flickr/jinglejammer
AKA P-Town is right up there at the top. While their income may be a little less than San Ramon, they make up for it and even surpass them in house value - their average home? It's worth a mere $961,000.00.
4. Redwood City
Redwood City, CA, USA
flickr/bwchicago
This city is just 24 miles south of San Francisco. It has done a lot in recent years to revitalize its downtown. Their city slogan is "Climate Best By Government Test." During World War I there was government research done that gave Redwood City crowning glory as the best climate in the world.

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5. Fremont
Fremont, CA, USA
wikipedia/wing chi poon
This would be Lake Elizabeth in Fremont Central Park. In 1956 five small towns (Irvington, Mission Viejo, Niles, Warm Springs, and Centerville) came together and became the city of Fremont. Apparently, that was a pretty great move on their part. They're fifth on our wealthiest cities list.
6. San Mateo
San Mateo, CA, USA
wikipedia/schmiteye
When it comes to wealthy people San Mateo has its fair share. The average person on the street brings in over $100,000 a year.
7. Mountain View
Mountain View, CA, USA
flickr/manish rai jain
Ahhhh, sweet Mountain View. Where the young, wealthy computer geeks call home. Google is here and so is a boatload of money. Google alone employs over 16,000 people. And, our guess is that more than likely, a few are making over $100,000 a year.
8. Livermore
Livermore, CA, USA
Yago Martinez/Google
The city of Livermore comes in at number 8. Home to the Lawrence Livermore Lab and Wente Winery. Not only one of the most wealthy spots in Northern California but also a great place to raise a family AND they appreciate their historical places, too.

How did you do? Do you happen to live in one of these magical spots? Perhaps you might also like to live in one of the most picturesque small towns in Northern California. If you’ve been to any of these places, let us know about your favorites in the comments.

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More to Explore

The Best Places In Northern California

William Suphan | December 27, 2022

What are the best bucket-list attractions in Northern California?

The best bucket-list attractions in Northern California include:

  • Redwood Canopy Tours. Walk among the redwoods on elevated canopies and sky bridges and take a zip line between these giant trees.
  • Bowling Ball Beach. This beach has a ton of round rocks on the shoreline that look like a field of bowling balls.
  • Heavenly Resort Rollercoaster. The main roller coaster here is called the Ridge Roller and the thrilling ride includes beautiful coastal views.
  • Mount Shasta. This is one of the most famous volcanoes in the nation and is utterly gorgeous.

Learn more about the best bucket-list attractions in Northern California. 

What are the most charming small towns in Northern California?

The most charming small towns in Northern California include:

  • Guerneville. This town in the Russian River Valley was once a logging area, but thankfully the town is surrounded by beautiful trees.
  • Yountville. This Napa Valley town is home to several Michelin-star restaurants and is a ritzy but lovely little town.
  • Calistoga. The hot springs and Petrified Forest continue to bring people here from all over and it has a charming downtown area.
  • Ferndale. Several lovely Victorian buildings can be found in this sweet little town hidden away along Highway 101.

Discover more about the most charming small towns in Northern California. 

What are the most beautiful natural places in Northern California?

The most beautiful natural places in Northern California include:

  • Avenue of the Giants. Located in Humboldt Redwoods State Park, this is an awe-inspiring highway surrounded by massive redwoods.
  • The Lost Coast. Located along the Pacific Coast Highway, this is a remote beach that looks like a place where time has stood still.
  • Lake Tahoe. As one of the most famous lakes in the nation, this massive, gorgeous lake has so much to see and do.
  • Muir Woods National Monument. This is an old-growth redwood forest that has the tallest trees anywhere and is simply stunning.

Find out more about the most beautiful natural places in Northern California. 

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