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Trying the top California cities on US State Largest Cities – Choose State & Number? Here are the top 10 to get you started.
1. Los Angeles, CA (Population: 3,820,914)
Los Angeles, the largest city in California and the second largest in the United States, is a global hub for culture, entertainment, and innovation. Known as the “City of Angels,” L.A. is home to Hollywood, the epicenter of the film and television industry, and world-famous attractions like the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Griffith Observatory, and Getty Center. The city’s diverse neighborhoods—from glamorous Beverly Hills and Santa Monica to historic Downtown and multicultural Koreatown—showcase its unique character. Its economy thrives in entertainment, aerospace, technology, and international trade through the Port of Los Angeles. With stunning beaches, the San Gabriel Mountains, and year-round sunshine, outdoor activities are endless. L.A. is also renowned for its diverse food scene, drawing from cultures worldwide.
Interesting Fact:
Los Angeles has more than 100 museums, including the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, the largest in the western U.S.
2. San Diego, CA (Population: 1,388,320)
San Diego, located along California’s southern coast, is known for its beautiful beaches, perfect climate, and strong military presence. The city is home to the U.S. Navy’s Pacific Fleet, as well as Marine Corps bases and naval facilities. Tourism is a major driver of its economy, with attractions such as the San Diego Zoo, SeaWorld, Balboa Park, and historic Old Town. San Diego is also an innovation hub in biotechnology and research, with UC San Diego contributing to its reputation as a science leader. With a laid-back lifestyle, beach communities like La Jolla and Pacific Beach, and scenic spots along its coastline, San Diego is considered one of the most desirable cities to live in the U.S.
Interesting Fact:
San Diego’s Balboa Park is larger than New York City’s Central Park and houses over 15 museums.
3. San Jose, CA (Population: 969,655)
San Jose, the largest city in Northern California, is the heart of Silicon Valley. Known for its role in global technology and innovation, the city is home to major tech companies, startups, and research institutions. San Jose has one of the highest concentrations of billionaires and tech entrepreneurs in the world. Its economy is heavily focused on software, semiconductors, and electronics, with companies like Adobe, Cisco, and PayPal headquartered there. Beyond business, San Jose offers cultural attractions such as the Tech Interactive, San Jose Museum of Art, and Japantown. The surrounding Santa Clara Valley provides beautiful scenery, while residents enjoy a high quality of life with thriving food, shopping, and entertainment scenes.
Interesting Fact:
San Jose has the highest median household income of any large U.S. city, driven by its tech economy.
4. San Francisco, CA (Population: 808,988)
San Francisco, one of the world’s most iconic cities, is known for the Golden Gate Bridge, steep hills, cable cars, and vibrant neighborhoods. Its diverse culture is reflected in Chinatown, Mission District, and Haight-Ashbury. Once the center of the Gold Rush, San Francisco has evolved into a global center for finance, tech, and tourism. The city’s scenic beauty includes views of Alcatraz, Twin Peaks, and the Pacific Ocean. San Francisco is also home to world-class universities, arts institutions, and Michelin-starred restaurants. Its tech-driven economy is closely tied to nearby Silicon Valley, though the city retains its artistic, historic, and multicultural identity.
Interesting Fact:
San Francisco’s famous fog is nicknamed “Karl the Fog” by locals and even has its own social media accounts.
5. Fresno, CA (Population: 545,716)
Fresno, located in California’s Central Valley, is a major agricultural hub and one of the state’s fastest-growing cities. Known as the gateway to Yosemite National Park, Fresno also provides access to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, making it popular with outdoor adventurers. Agriculture dominates its economy, producing crops like grapes, almonds, and citrus. Fresno’s diverse culture is celebrated in events such as the Fresno Fair and Tower District’s arts and dining scene. With affordable housing compared to other California cities, Fresno continues to attract new residents. Its strategic location in the state has also made it a hub for logistics and commerce.
Interesting Fact:
Fresno County is the nation’s top agricultural producer, generating billions in annual revenue.
6. Sacramento, CA (Population: 526,384)
Sacramento, the state capital of California, combines rich history with modern development. Known for the California Gold Rush, Sacramento features landmarks like Old Sacramento, the State Capitol, and the Crocker Art Museum. The city has grown into a thriving government, healthcare, and education center. Sacramento’s food scene has gained national attention, with a focus on farm-to-fork dining supported by the surrounding agricultural region. The Sacramento Kings bring NBA excitement, while the American and Sacramento Rivers provide outdoor recreation. With a mix of affordability and accessibility, Sacramento continues to attract families and young professionals looking for a balanced lifestyle.
Interesting Fact:
Sacramento is nicknamed the “City of Trees” due to its dense canopy, one of the largest in the world.
7. Long Beach, CA (Population: 449,468)
Long Beach, located on the Pacific coast, is one of California’s most dynamic port cities. The Port of Long Beach is among the busiest in the world, handling international trade and fueling the local economy. Long Beach is also known for attractions such as the Queen Mary, Aquarium of the Pacific, and vibrant waterfront districts. Its neighborhoods are diverse, blending cultural influences from around the globe. The city supports a strong aerospace and education sector, with California State University, Long Beach contributing to its growth. Long Beach combines urban living with access to Southern California beaches and entertainment.
Interesting Fact:
The Port of Long Beach, together with Los Angeles, forms the largest port complex in the Western Hemisphere.
8. Oakland, CA (Population: 436,504)
Oakland, located across the bay from San Francisco, is known for its diversity, activism, and cultural vibrancy. The city has a strong tradition of social movements and is home to one of the most ethnically diverse populations in the United States. Oakland’s economy includes healthcare, shipping, and tech, and the Port of Oakland plays a major role in international trade. The city is recognized for its arts, music, and food scene, particularly in neighborhoods like Uptown and Jack London Square. With its parks, trails, and proximity to the Bay Area’s natural beauty, Oakland combines urban energy with outdoor access.
Interesting Fact:
Oakland is one of the top five most diverse large cities in the United States.
9. Bakersfield, CA (Population: 413,381)
Bakersfield, located in California’s southern Central Valley, is an important center for agriculture and energy. The city produces crops like grapes, citrus, and almonds, while also serving as a hub for oil production. Bakersfield has a strong country music tradition, giving rise to the “Bakersfield Sound,” which influenced artists like Merle Haggard and Buck Owens. Its economy continues to grow with industries like healthcare and logistics. With proximity to the Sierra Nevada and Kern River, Bakersfield also offers outdoor activities for residents and visitors. The city is affordable compared to coastal California, attracting new residents.
Interesting Fact:
Bakersfield is considered the birthplace of the Bakersfield Sound, a distinct style of country music.
10. Anaheim, CA (Population: 340,512)
Anaheim, located in Orange County, is best known as the home of Disneyland Resort, one of the most visited theme parks in the world. Tourism plays a huge role in the city’s economy, alongside a strong convention and sports presence. Anaheim is home to Angel Stadium, where the Los Angeles Angels play, and the Honda Center, home to the Anaheim Ducks hockey team. Beyond tourism, Anaheim has a thriving business sector with headquarters for companies in healthcare, manufacturing, and electronics. Its diverse neighborhoods, growing population, and entertainment industry make it one of Southern California’s most recognized cities.
Interesting Fact:
Disneyland opened in Anaheim in 1955 and has since welcomed over 750 million visitors worldwide.
