Peaceful Living
Ever wondered what it's like beyond the rush of California's big cities? Believe it or not, there are towns where time seems to slow, and neighbors know your name in The Golden State.
Fort Jones
Located in Siskiyou County, Fort Jones is a town where ranching and history collide. Once a Gold Rush stop, it has now become a place where cowboy culture still thrives. It's ideal for those who want wide-open spaces and a close-knit, hardworking community.
Etna
If peace and quiet had a capital, it might be Etna. This charming Siskiyou County town sits in the picturesque Scott Valley, where people take the time to say hello. The historic main street has a handful of mom-and-pop shops and a brewery—just enough for essentials.
Cambria
Cambria feels like a different world—a rural town perched along California's Central Coast where artists and writers come to escape the chaos. The Pacific Ocean meets pine forests here to create one of the most scenic small towns. Nevertheless, jobs outside of tourism and the arts are rare.
Cedarville
Way out in the remote Surprise Valley, Cedarville is the kind of place where cell service is spotty, but the sunsets are unbeatable. The town is tiny, with only a handful of businesses, but it has a welcoming community. It's not for the faint of heart, as winters can be brutal, and the isolation is real.
brewbooks from near Seattle, USA, Wikimedia Commons
Downieville
Looking for a ghost-town survivor? Downieville is the place to be. The mountain biker's paradise was once a booming Gold Rush town. However, today, it's a quiet escape known for its epic fly fishing and whitewater rafting. You won't find chain stores here—just old saloons and quirky general stores.
Yngvadottir, Wikimedia Commons
Greenville
Greenville was once a classic Plumas County mountain town—peaceful and full of charm. Then, the Dixie Fire of 2021 nearly wiped it off the map. But the people here are resilient. It's a place for artists and those who want to help shape a town's future.
Greenville, CA - Driving Tour in 4k by Mark Wait
Quincy
In the middle of the Sierra Nevada, Quincy offers the small-town warmth of Mayberry but with an artsy, outdoorsy twist. Writers, musicians, artists, and remote workers settle here for the gorgeous scenery and peaceful vibe. The biggest challenge? Finding work—jobs are limited unless you can telecommute.
Kenneth Green, Wikimedia Commons
Bridgeport
Craving off-grid life with a real sense of isolation? Bridgeport is located at 6,500 feet in Mono County and is known for stunning mountains and some of the best trout fishing in the state. The cost of living is surprisingly high, given its remoteness, because tourism keeps prices up.
Carol M. Highsmith, Wikimedia Commons
Weaverville
As you step into Weaverville, you'll feel like you're back in the past. Once a Gold Rush town, it still has wooden storefronts and an old Chinese temple. Artists and retirees love the relaxed pace, while hikers and fishers are in it for the nearby Trinity Alps Wilderness.
Hayfork
In Hayfork, self-reliance is a way of life. Agriculture drives the local economy, but land is still relatively affordable. The views? Breathtaking. The lifestyle? Slow and rugged. Winters can be tough, and wildfires are a real threat. There aren't many jobs unless you bring your own.
Chris English, Wikimedia Commons
Burney
Burney may not be on everyone's radar, but it should be. This Shasta County town sits near Burney Falls, a 129-foot waterfall Theodore Roosevelt once called "the eighth wonder of the world". Hikers and anglers thrive here, and the cost of living is lower than in most of California.
Mariposa
As a gateway to Yosemite National Park, Mariposa sees plenty of tourists, but it still feels like a tight-knit community. The downtown has old saloons and a courthouse that dates back to 1854. It's a great spot for retirees, but property values have increased due to its proximity to Yosemite.
Jon Roanhaus, Wikimedia Commons
Coarsegold
Want a glimpse of the Wild West? Coarsegold keeps it alive with wooden storefronts and an annual rodeo that brings the town together. Located in Madera County, it's close enough to Fresno for convenience but far enough to feel truly rural. This is horse country, ideal for equestrians.
Allie_Caulfield from Germany, Wikimedia Commons
North Fork
Right in the geographic center of California, North Fork brings real charm with its off-grid living and Native American heritage. It's the right place for artists and anyone wanting a quieter life with nature at their doorstep. But don't expect big-city amenities—power outages happen.
North Fork HGTV Home Town Takeover by Visit Yosemite | Madera County
Lone Pine
If Lone Pine feels like a movie set, that's because it is. This Inyo County town has starred in hundreds of Westerns, thanks to its dramatic views of Mount Whitney. The town itself is small, with a historic main street and a movie museum celebrating its Hollywood past.
Bobak Ha'Eri, Wikimedia Commons
Mokelumne Hill
Most people pass Mokelumne Hill without realizing they've just missed one of California's most charming towns. This Calaveras County community has a fascinating Gold Rush past, with old hotels and a unique small-town vibe. Today, it's a great place for artists and retirees who want quiet beauty without the crowds.
San Andreas
San Andreas isn't just the name of a famous earthquake fault—it's a real town in Calaveras County with a rich Gold Rush heritage. Unlike that Hollywood movie, the town is peaceful, with a welcoming community. The drawback? There's not much to do beyond nature activities and local events.
Bobak Ha'Eri, Wikimedia Commons
Springville
This is the last major stop before entering Sequoia National Park, making it perfect for hikers and campers. Springville is small but charming, with a local cafe and an annual Apple Festival. Housing is more affordable than in California's cities, but fire risk is high, and services are limited.
The drive up to Springville CA 3-5-2024 by RosannaFromTexarkana
Lockeford
When you move to Lockeford, you'll enjoy access to bigger cities like Stockton while enjoying a rural lifestyle. It's a small town but has a big reputation for sausage. The Lockeford Meat & Sausage Company draws people for its legendary links, but the town itself remains a quiet agricultural community.
Slamslam102, Wikimedia Commons
Julian
Are you fond of apple pies? Julian might be the best-smelling town in California—thanks to its world-famous pies. Originally a Gold Rush settlement, it's now a charming retreat in San Diego County. The downtown is lined with old storefronts and rustic inns, which attract weekend explorers.
--Microsomen 17:11, 31 May 2005 (UTC), Wikimedia Commons
Frazier Park
Frazier Park is increasingly popular with remote workers looking for affordable homes. It's far enough from Los Angeles to feel rural but close enough for a weekend trip. You can enjoy the oak-covered hills and snow, but fire danger and occasional road closures can be a real hassle.
Borrego Springs
Do you want desert solitude and world-class stargazing? Borrego Springs is for you. Sitting on the edge of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, this San Diego County town is one of the few designated Dark Sky Communities in the world, which means zero light pollution—just endless stars overhead.
Gotborregosprings, Wikimedia Commons
Lake Hughes
Just 70 miles from Los Angeles, Lake Hughes offers lakes and rolling hills. It's a great spot for those who want to live in the country while staying within reach of the city. The small-town charm is real—local diners and an old-fashioned general store. But the downside? It's prone to drought and wildfires like many Cali cities.
Konrad Summers from Santa Clarita (Valencia) , California, USA, Wikimedia Commons
Idyllwild
Idyllwild is a creative sanctuary in the San Jacinto Mountains. It's beloved by painters and writers who find inspiration in its towering pines and crisp mountain air. The town has no chain stores and no stoplights, and The Idyllwild Arts Academy brings in students and cultural events.
inkknife_2000 (7.5 million views +), Wikimedia Commons
Wrightwood
If you dream of living in a small ski town, Wrightwood is calling. It's home to Mountain High Resort, which makes it an appealing spot for skiers and snowboarders. Unlike more remote mountain towns, it's just 90 minutes from Los Angeles, so you can get your city fix when needed.
Jamesb01 (image transferred to Commons by JaumeBG., Wikimedia Commons
