Top 10 Worst Places to Live In California In 2024

Top 10 Worst Places to Live In California . Top 10 Worst Cities In California to Live, Raise a Family, Job or Retire. Top 10 Worst Towns in California. Top 10 Worst Villages in California. If you’re thinking about a move to California, here are the places you should avoid to live, retire or raise a family. 10 Most Dangerous Cities In California You Should Never Move To. Top 10 Worst Cities To Live In North Carolina. 10 Places in California You Should NEVER Move To.



TOP 10 WORST PLACES TO LIVE IN CALIFORNIA

1. SAN BERNARDINO

Situated in the heart of the Inland Empire region of Southern California, San Bernardino is a vibrant city with a population of 216,784 residents. Surrounded by picturesque mountain ranges and located near the iconic Route 66, San Bernardino has a rich history dating back to the pioneer era. As a major transportation and logistics hub, the city has played a pivotal role in California's economic landscape. Despite facing socioeconomic challenges, San Bernardino's diverse community and cultural attractions contribute to its resilience and sense of identity.

The poverty rate in San Bernardino stands at 23.7%, approximately 69.29% higher than the national average. With 1 in every 4 residents struggling to make ends meet, the city grapples with socioeconomic disparities.

With an unemployment rate of 8.7%, which is 85.11% higher than the national rate, San Bernardino struggles to provide ample job opportunities for its residents, contributing to financial instability.

In terms of crime, San Bernardino ranks 1st in Violent Crimes, 1st in Murders, 2nd in Robberies, and 1st in Assaults in California. The city's overall crime rate is 79.12% higher than the national average, posing significant challenges for public safety and law enforcement efforts.

Population : 216784
Unemployment Rate : 8.7%
Poverty : 23.7%
Median Home Value : $272600
Median Home Income : $49287
Overall Score : 4/10

2. FRESNO

Fresno, nestled in the heart of California's Central Valley, is a bustling city with a population of 526,147 residents. Known as the agricultural capital of the world, Fresno benefits from its fertile farmlands and robust farming industry. With its strategic location between the Sierra Nevada Mountains and the Pacific Coast, Fresno offers a unique blend of urban amenities and natural beauty. Despite economic disparities, Fresno's entrepreneurial spirit and cultural diversity make it a dynamic and vibrant place to call home.

The poverty rate in Fresno stands at 23.5%, approximately 67.86% higher than the national average. With 1 in every 4 residents facing financial hardship, the city's efforts to address poverty are crucial for community well-being.

Fresno's unemployment rate is 9.5%, significantly higher than the national average. The city's struggle to provide employment opportunities exacerbates socioeconomic challenges for its residents.

In terms of crime, Fresno experiences an overall crime rate that is 66.23% higher than the national average. With 1 in 178 residents at risk of violent crime and 1 in 30 at risk of property crime, community safety remains a top priority for Fresno

Population : 526147
Unemployment Rate : 9.5%
Poverty : 23.5%
Median Home Value : $256000
Median Home Income : $53368
Overall Score : 5/10

3. STOCKTON

Located in California's fertile Central Valley, Stockton is a historic city with a population of 311,103 residents. Situated along the San Joaquin River and surrounded by vast agricultural lands, Stockton has long been a vital center of commerce and industry. With its rich cultural heritage and vibrant arts scene, Stockton offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and small-town charm. Despite facing economic challenges, Stockton's resilient community and diverse population continue to shape its bright future. .

The poverty rate in Stockton is 16.8%, 20% higher than the national average. While the city boasts a median household income of $58,393, 13.49% lower than the national average, the high cost of living further strains residents' finances.

Stockton's unemployment rate is 8.1%, significantly higher than the national average. The city's efforts to promote economic growth and job creation are crucial for enhancing residents' quality of life.

In terms of crime, Stockton ranks 3rd in Violent Crimes and 5th in Robberies in California. The city's overall crime rate is 81.53% higher than the national average, underscoring the importance of community policing and crime prevention strategies.

Population : 311103
Unemployment Rate : 8.1%
Poverty : 16.8%
Median Home Value : $298200
Median Home Income : $58393
Overall Score : 6/10

4. SOUTH GATE

Located in Southern California, South Gate is a bustling city with a population of 94,905 residents. Situated within the greater Los Angeles area, South Gate enjoys a strategic location near major transportation routes and urban centers. The city's economy has historically relied on diverse industries, including manufacturing and retail. Despite facing socioeconomic challenges, South Gate remains a vibrant community with a rich cultural heritage.

The poverty rate in South Gate is 15.5%, which is 10.71% higher than the national average. With 1 in every 7 residents experiencing financial hardship, the city strives to address socioeconomic disparities.

Only 59% of adults in South Gate have a high school diploma, compared to 87.7% nationwide. This education gap contributes to the city's unemployment rate of 8.8%, which is 87.23% higher than the national rate.

In terms of crime, South Gate's overall crime rate is 63.63% higher than the national average. With 1 in 149 residents at risk of violent crime and 1 in 32 at risk of property crime, enhancing public safety remains a priority for the community.

Population : 94905
Unemployment Rate : 8.8%
Poverty : 15.5%
Median Home Value : $438100
Median Home Income : $55084
Overall Score : 5/10

5. COMPTON

Compton, situated in Southern California, is a dynamic city with a population of 95,804 residents. Known for its influential music scene and cultural contributions, Compton has a rich history. Located near Los Angeles, the city has historically been a hub for African American and Latino communities. Despite facing economic disparities, Compton continues to evolve and thrive as a center of creativity and resilience.

The poverty rate in Compton is 19.5%, 39.29% higher than the national average. With 1 in every 5 residents living below the poverty line, the city works to improve economic opportunities for its residents.

Only 62% of adults in Compton have a high school diploma, compared to 87.7% nationwide. This education disparity contributes to the city's unemployment rate of 9.1%, 93.62% higher than the national rate.

In terms of crime, Compton experiences an overall crime rate that is 50.58% higher than the national average. With 1 in 85 residents at risk of violent crime and 1 in 43 at risk of property crime, community safety remains a top concern.

Population : 95804
Unemployment Rate : 9.1%
Poverty : 19.5%
Median Home Value : $383500
Median Home Income : $58703
Overall Score : 5/10

6. REDDING

Nestled in Northern California, Redding is a picturesque city with a population of 92,025 residents. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Shasta Cascade region, Redding offers stunning landscapes and outdoor recreational opportunities. With its proximity to national parks and forests, the city attracts outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Despite economic challenges, Redding's tight-knit community and scenic surroundings make it a desirable place to live and visit.

The poverty rate in Redding is 16.5%, 17.86% higher than the national average. Despite a median household income of $56,098, 16.89% lower than the national average, the city faces economic challenges.

Redding's unemployment rate is 6%, 27.66% higher than the national rate. The city's efforts to attract new industries and create job opportunities are crucial for enhancing economic stability.

In terms of crime, Redding experiences an overall crime rate that is 87.65% higher than the national average. With 1 in 148 residents at risk of violent crime and 1 in 27 at risk of property crime, community safety remains a priority for Redding.

Population : 92025
Unemployment Rate : 6%
Poverty : 16.5%
Median Home Value : $274800
Median Home Income : $56098
Overall Score : 6/10

7. BAKERSFIELD

Nestled in California's San Joaquin Valley, Bakersfield is a thriving city with a population of 379,879 residents. Positioned at the southern end of the valley, Bakersfield enjoys a strategic location near major transportation routes, including Interstate 5 and State Route 99. With its close proximity to the Sierra Nevada Mountains and the Tehachapi Mountains, outdoor enthusiasts flock to Bakersfield for hiking, camping, and other recreational activities. The city's economy is fueled by diverse industries, including agriculture, oil production, and manufacturing.

The poverty rate in Bakersfield stands at 17.2%, approximately 22.86% higher than the national average. Despite its economic contributions, a significant portion of the population faces financial challenges.

With an unemployment rate of 7.6%, which is 61.7% higher than the national rate, Bakersfield grapples with providing sufficient employment opportunities for its residents.

In terms of crime, Bakersfield ranks 5th in Total Crimes and Property Crimes, 4th in Burglaries, and 5th in Car Thefts in California. The city's overall crime rate is 93.51% higher than the national average, emphasizing the importance of community safety measures.

Population : 379879
Unemployment Rate : 7.6%
Poverty : 17.2%
Median Home Value : $258700
Median Home Income : $65687
Overall Score : 6/10

8. HEMET

Situated in Riverside County, California, Hemet is a dynamic city with a population of 84,686 residents. Surrounded by the majestic San Jacinto Mountains, Hemet offers breathtaking natural scenery and outdoor recreational opportunities. The city's economy is driven by various sectors, including healthcare, retail, and tourism.

Hemet faces socioeconomic challenges, with a poverty rate of 17.8%, approximately 27.14% higher than the national average. Despite its scenic beauty, many residents struggle to make ends meet.

With an unemployment rate of 12%, which is 155.32% higher than the national rate, Hemet struggles to provide sufficient job opportunities for its workforce.

In terms of crime, Hemet's overall crime rate is 19.37% higher than the national average. While the violent crime rate is 3.92% higher than the national average, the property crime rate is 22.43% higher, highlighting the importance of public safety initiatives.

Population : 84686
Unemployment Rate : 12%
Poverty : 17.8%
Median Home Value : $213000
Median Home Income : $43152
Overall Score : 5/10

9. VICTORVILLE

Located in the High Desert region of San Bernardino County, Victorville is a vibrant city with a population of 122,958 residents. Positioned along the Mojave River and surrounded by picturesque desert landscapes, Victorville offers residents a unique blend of natural beauty and urban amenities. The city's economy is supported by diverse industries, including transportation, logistics, and manufacturing.

Victorville struggles with socioeconomic disparities, boasting a poverty rate of 21%, which is 50% higher than the national average. Despite its economic potential, many residents face financial hardship.

With an unemployment rate of 11.1%, which is 136.17% higher than the national rate, Victorville faces challenges in providing employment opportunities for its workforce.

In terms of crime, Victorville ranks 5th in Assaults in California. The city's overall crime rate is 5.35% higher than the national average, with the violent crime rate 126.98% higher, underscoring the need for robust law enforcement measures.

Population : 122958
Unemployment Rate : 11.1%
Poverty : 21%
Median Home Value : $235700
Median Home Income : $55155
Overall Score : 5/10

10. OAKLAND

Located on the eastern shore of San Francisco Bay, Oakland is a diverse and vibrant city with a population of 422,575 residents. Boasting a rich cultural heritage and a thriving arts scene, Oakland is renowned for its lively neighborhoods and eclectic cuisine. The city's economy is fueled by various sectors, including technology, healthcare, and education.

Despite its cultural richness, Oakland struggles with socioeconomic challenges, with a poverty rate of 14.6%, which is 4.29% higher than the national average.

With an unemployment rate of 6%, which is 27.66% higher than the national rate, Oakland faces challenges in providing employment opportunities for its residents.

In terms of crime, Oakland ranks 1st in Total Crimes, 2nd in Violent Crimes, 1st in Property Crimes, 2nd in Murders, 1st in Robberies, 3rd in Rapes, 2nd in Larcenies, and 1st in Car Thefts in California. The city's overall crime rate is 175.22% higher than the national average, highlighting the importance of community safety measures.

Population : 422575
Unemployment Rate : 6%
Poverty : 14.6%
Median Home Value : $730000
Median Home Income : $80143
Overall Score : 7/10

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• raise a family
 
• job
 
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• worst towns in california
 
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• most dangerous cities in californiaSan Bernardino
 
• Fresno
 
• Stockton
 
• South Gate
 
• Compton
 
• Redding
 
• Bakersfield
 
• Hemet
 
• Victorville
 
• Oakland