Best Cities on the West Coast to Live – Relocation Guide (2025) | LookyLOO

The West Coast stretches from California up through Oregon and Washington, offering ocean views, tech hubs, creative communities, and some of the most desirable climates in the U.S. Whether you want a fast-paced urban lifestyle, a laid-back coastal town, or a mid-sized city with great food and outdoor access, the West Coast has a city for you.


Top Cities on the West Coast

San Diego, California

San Diego is famous for its year-round “ideal climate,” beaches, and strong economy. With neighborhoods that range from urban to suburban, plus top schools and an easygoing culture, it’s one of the most livable big cities in the U.S.

Los Angeles, California

Los Angeles is a massive metro with endless options for lifestyle. From entertainment and tech jobs to beach towns and hillside neighborhoods, LA attracts movers who want opportunity and variety. The tradeoff is high housing costs and traffic.

San Francisco, California

San Francisco mixes history, tech, and cultural energy. It’s compact and walkable, with iconic views, but it comes at some of the highest housing prices in the country. For those in tech or finance, it’s still a global hub.

Portland, Oregon

Portland offers a mix of creativity, sustainability, and livability. Known for its food and arts scene, it also has access to forests, rivers, and mountains just outside the city. It’s a good choice for movers who value lifestyle and culture.

Seattle, Washington

Seattle is a booming tech hub with Amazon and Microsoft at its core, but it also has a strong music, food, and outdoors culture. It’s a big city with the feel of smaller neighborhoods, though housing costs are high.

Sacramento, California

California’s capital is more affordable than the Bay Area and has been drawing new residents looking for space, job opportunities, and access to both mountains and coast. It’s a growing mid-sized metro with a family-friendly vibe.

San Luis Obispo, California

San Luis Obispo, often called “SLO,” is a small city on the Central Coast with near-perfect weather, beaches nearby, and a relaxed lifestyle. It’s popular with students, retirees, and families who want a slower pace without losing amenities.

Eugene, Oregon

Eugene is a mid-sized college town known for its outdoors focus and creative community. It’s less expensive than Portland and offers quick access to both the Oregon Coast and the Cascade Mountains.

Bellingham, Washington

Bellingham sits between Seattle and Vancouver, B.C., and has become a favorite for people who want small-city charm with coastal and mountain access. It has a thriving arts scene and strong sense of community.

Santa Barbara, California

Santa Barbara blends stunning coastal living with very upscale charm. Known for its Spanish architecture and Mediterranean climate, it’s popular with well-to-do professionals, retirees, and anyone who wants to live in one of the most scenic spots in California (including Harry and Meghan)


Is the West Coast Right for You?

The West Coast attracts people for its natural beauty, job opportunities, and creative energy. From small college towns to global metros, you’ll find a wide range of options — but be prepared for higher housing costs compared to other regions.


Ready to Find Your City?

Not sure which West Coast city fits you best? Take our LookyLOO Quiz and start building your Movebook today.