Home to a residential community of just over 14,000, California City lies within Kern County's Antelope Valley. The city is close to the Mohawk River and the Heritage Corridor and about 40 miles north-northeast of Lancaster. The area may not live up to developer Nat Mendelsohn's vision of California's next great city just yet, but there's a lot to like about California City. Residents enjoy ample space, low cost of living, and plenty of sunny days.
Beautiful surroundings! If you like being at one with nature, you'll feel right at home here. The area lies within easy reach of gorgeous green spaces, such as the Red Rock Canyon State Recreation Area and the Grass Valley Wilderness Area. In spring, the colorful display of Mojave Desert wildflowers attracts visitors from around the world.
Rent for less! Although there are few apartment complexes in this city, the options for rent to own houses are generally affordable. You can expect to shell out a little more than $900 a month for a three-bedroom home on Dogwood Avenue or Bancroft Drive.
Local dining! While California City doesn't have a huge choice of restaurants, those that are here are second to none. Enjoy homemade chips and salsa at La Conquista or the all-you-can-eat buffet at Coyote Cafe. Delicious Mexican fare is on offer at Gloria's, and when only a slice will hit the spot, Jesse's Pizza is happy to oblige.
Sunny days! California City enjoys 271 sunny days each year, so you'll have plenty of opportunities to enjoy a stroll around Balsitis or Central Park. If you'd rather soak up the sun on the fairways, head to the California City Public Golf Course or the Tierra Del Sol Golf Club.
Community events! Get to know your neighbors by attending one of the many events on the community calendar. You can get involved with the Desert Rose Garden Club, the California City Optimist Club and the Historical Museum Society. Regular events also take place at National Desert Tortoise Natural Area.
Settle down! If you're thinking of getting a mortgage or looking at rent to own options, California City will encourage you to sign on the dotted line. At a little more than $100,000, the average house price is more than 70 percent less than in the rest of the state and around 42 percent less than the national average. Look for properties along Catalpa or Grove Avenue, or up your budget a little to nab a home along Conklin or Poppy Boulevards.