For first-time buyers seeking affordable options, California offers surprising opportunities. Riverside, Sacramento, and Bakersfield stand out as best places to buy a home in California for first-time buyers, offering lower median home prices, job growth, and strong market potential. Prioritize affordability, growth, safety, and commute times when selecting a neighborhood.
Let’s talk about the best places to buy a home in California for first-time buyers so you can make the smartest decision.
What to Look for in a First-Time Buyer Neighborhood
Not all neighborhoods are built the same. Some are perfect for planting roots. Others might leave you wishing you had waited. Here’s what really matters:
- Affordability: You don’t want to stretch your budget so thin that you’re living off instant noodles.
- Growth potential: If an area is up-and-coming, your home value could rise fast.
- Safety: No one wants to live somewhere sketchy.
- Commute times: Sitting in traffic for hours? No thanks.
- Schools: Even if you don’t have kids, good schools help home values.
- Resale value: Your first home probably won’t be your last. You want something that sells easily later.
1. Riverside – The Affordable Gem
If you want to be close to LA without paying LA prices, Riverside is a smart choice. You’re getting:
- Lower home prices: The median home price here is way more reasonable than in LA or Orange County.
- Job opportunities: Tons of businesses are moving inland, bringing new jobs.
- Great commuter spot: You can still hit LA for work if needed, but with way less stress.
- A growing market: Home values are increasing, but it’s still within reach for first-time buyers.
If you’re looking for a place that blends affordability with opportunity, Riverside is solid.
2. Sacramento – Capital City, Strong Market
Once overlooked, Sacramento has turned into one of the hottest spots for first-time homebuyers. Homes are still more affordable than the Bay Area, but you’re close enough for weekend trips to San Francisco.
Why Sacramento?
- Lower cost of living: Not just homes—everything from food to gas is cheaper.
- Great for families: Schools, parks, and plenty of space.
- Strong job market: Government jobs, healthcare, and tech are all growing.
- Room to grow: Tons of new developments, meaning housing inventory is better here.
First-time buyers looking for good deals without giving up city life should put this on their list.
3. Bakersfield – One of the Last Affordable Cities
Let’s be real—California’s expensive. But Bakersfield refuses to play this game. It stands out as one of the few affordable places in California for first-time buyers. Here’s why it works:
- Median home prices are among the lowest in the state.
- No major traffic issues. You’re not spending your life stuck in gridlock.
- Strong job market in energy, agriculture, and logistics.
It’s not LA. It’s not the Bay Area. But if you want a real house with a yard and a reasonable mortgage, this could be it.
FAQs
What’s the best place to buy a house in California for first-time buyers?
It depends on what matters most to you. If affordability is key, cities like Bakersfield and Riverside offer the best bang for your buck. If you want a mix of urban life and reasonable prices, Sacramento is solid.
Is it even possible to buy a home in California as a first-time buyer?
Yes, but strategy matters. Look at areas where prices are still within reach and where the market is growing. Also, check out first-time homebuyer programs—they can help with down payments and better loan terms.
Are homes in Riverside a good investment?
Based on current trends, yes. Home values have been rising, and more people are moving inland to escape high costs in LA and Orange County.
How much do I need for a down payment?
Depends on the loan. FHA loans let you put down 3.5%, while conventional loans often start at 5%. First-time buyer programs in California can sometimes help with this.
You don’t have to spend millions to own a home in California. There are still great places to buy a home in California for first-time buyers—you just need to know where to look.
Read more about home-buying strategies at our blog.