3 Reasons Why Northern California Is the Best Place To Retire

Sunny, beautiful California is one of the most well-known states in the United States of America. But is there more to the famously gorgeous state than celebrities, surfers, and casual attitudes? Below are just a few reasons why the northern part of the state reigns supreme, as well as a few options for the best places to retire in Northern California.

1. Weather, Climate, and Natural Beauty

Sunshine, sunshine, sunshine—that’s what California is all about, right? Sure, it’s an aspect, but Northern California actually has more variety in weather than its southern counterpart, with a famously foggy big city, snow-laden mountains, and some surprisingly stormy months near the coast. Yes, there’s sunshine, it’s just more moderate and pleasant.

In terms of landscape, the northern area of California far exceeds the south in terms of variety. There’s a temperate rainforest, grasslands, wetlands, volcanoes, alpine mountains, evergreen forests, the high desert, redwood forests, dramatic coastlines, and more. With rivers and lakes to boat on and fish in, forests to bike through, mountains to climb, and tidepools to explore, there is no end to the amount of outdoor activities one can partake in.

2. Unique Lifestyle Benefits of Northern California

One of the most diverse places in the United States, Northern California’s lifestyle is reflected in its festivals, restaurants, music, and other events. In the larger cities, there are also museums, performing arts theaters, music halls, and sports arenas. Northern California locals are big sports fans, and even if they aren’t, they’re still loyal to their hometown teams (which is always an interesting dynamic). But, it’s not just the professional teams that garner local support—it’s the college teams as well.

Northern California residents are not only active in their support, but they’re also active on their feet. They love to maintain a healthy lifestyle to keep up with the various landscapes around them. Retirees can look forward to ample golf opportunities, senior leagues in virtually any sport imaginable, a plethora of hiking, biking, and winter sport options, as well as fishing, boating, and sailing. All of these activities are done, of course, with the famous relaxed Californian attitude. 

3. Overall Quality of Life

Outside of nature, sports, and things to do, there are a few other reasons to live in Northern California as well as a few points that retirees would want to know. In terms of care, the Bay Area has some of the best hospitals in the entire country. In terms of affordability, California as a whole is notoriously expensive, but Northern California does offer a few lower-cost options outside of the major cities, as well as occasional tax breaks for the elderly. Really, the best way to find the town of your dreams is to look by vibe. Are you looking for something more hippie-oriented? Bougie? Rural and slightly western? Farmer vibes? Artsy? Cozy mountain cabins? No matter what type of environment you wish to live in, you'll find gorgeous towns to choose from, including Sonoma, Auburn, Half Moon Bay, Redding, Carmel-by-the-Sea, and the multiple cities close to Lake Tahoe. 

So, there you have it. Northern California’s weather, relaxed attitude, and variety of activities to choose from make it an obvious choice for anyone to retire in. If you have a favorite place to retire in Northern California, let me know by filling out this nomination form. I'd love to hear from you. And, if you want to plan your own trip to NorCal or elsewhere in the U.S., try Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.