11) San Diego, California
It’s true San Diego is not the cheapest place on this list. It makes the cut due to its desirability factor. Residents here enjoy a laid-back atmosphere, access to dozens of beaches, and a sprawling, sunny coastline. The scenery here is gorgeous. Perhaps this is why San Diegans are known for being so outdoorsy and friendly. San Diego County houses over 3 million people, but there are plenty of beachside cities if you want to settle in a smaller neighborhood. The only drawback to living in San Diego is the cost of real estate. On average, a new home runs around $500,000. Median household incomes are comfortably above the national average at over $64,000. Crime in San Diego has decreased considerably since 2008, and is now lower than the national average. If you can afford it, San Diego is a great place to be.
