List of Cities in California Alphabetically

by btobers · Published August 8, 2024 · Updated November 11, 2024

California has over 480 incorporated cities and towns, making it the most populous state in the country. The state capital is Sacramento, located in the northern part of the state. The largest city is Los Angeles, followed by San Diego, San Jose, San Francisco, Fresno, Sacramento, Long Beach, Oakland, Bakersfield, and Anaheim. California’s cities are known for their diversity, economic opportunities, and influence in industries like entertainment, technology, and agriculture. The state is home to both large metropolitan areas like Los Angeles and smaller, rural towns in the central valley and northern regions.

1. Los Angeles

City Facts

Population: 3,898,747 (2023 estimate)
Area Code: 213, 323, 310, 424, 818, 747
Zip Codes: 90001–90089, 90189
County: Los Angeles County

Geography and History

Los Angeles, California’s largest city, is located in Southern California along the Pacific coast. Its geography includes mountains, valleys, and beaches, with the San Gabriel Mountains to the north and the Pacific Ocean to the west. The city has a Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and hot, dry summers. Founded in 1781 by Spanish settlers, Los Angeles grew from a small pueblo into one of the largest and most diverse cities in the world. The city’s expansion in the 20th century was fueled by the oil industry, real estate development, and the entertainment industry. Hollywood became the epicenter of the film industry in the 1920s, solidifying LA’s role as the entertainment capital of the world. Today, Los Angeles is a global city, serving as a major center for business, culture, technology, and international trade.

Colleges and Universities

University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA): A world-renowned public research university known for its programs in law, medicine, engineering, and the arts.
University of Southern California (USC): A private research university known for its programs in film, business, and engineering.
California State University, Los Angeles (Cal State LA): Offers a wide variety of undergraduate and graduate programs.
Loyola Marymount University: A private Catholic university known for its business, communication, and liberal arts programs.
Los Angeles City College: A public community college offering associate degrees and vocational programs.

Major Landmarks

Los Angeles is home to numerous iconic landmarks. The Hollywood Sign and Hollywood Walk of Fame symbolize the city’s entertainment industry. Griffith Observatory offers stunning views of the city and the stars, while Rodeo Drive is synonymous with luxury shopping. The Getty Center is renowned for its art collections and architecture, while Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) is the largest art museum in the western U.S. Dodger Stadium is home to the LA Dodgers, and Staples Center (now Crypto.com Arena) hosts major sporting events and concerts. Venice Beach and Santa Monica Pier attract both tourists and locals, offering beautiful coastal views and recreational activities.

2. San Diego

City Facts

Population: 1,386,932 (2023 estimate)
Area Code: 619, 858
Zip Codes: 92101–92199
County: San Diego County

Geography and History

San Diego is located on the southern coast of California, near the U.S.-Mexico border, and is known for its beautiful beaches and mild climate. The city has a varied geography, with coastal cliffs, sandy beaches, canyons, and mountains in the distance. Founded in 1769 as a Spanish mission, San Diego is California’s oldest city. It became part of Mexico in 1821 and was later incorporated into the United States after the Mexican-American War in 1848. Its deep-water port made it a significant military hub, particularly during World War II. Today, San Diego is known for its naval presence, biotechnology industry, and tourism, thanks to its year-round pleasant weather and major attractions.

Colleges and Universities

University of California, San Diego (UCSD): A top public research university known for its science, engineering, and medical programs.
San Diego State University (SDSU): Offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, particularly strong in business and education.
University of San Diego (USD): A private Catholic university known for law, business, and international relations programs.
Point Loma Nazarene University: A Christian liberal arts college with strong programs in nursing and education.
San Diego City College: A community college providing associate degrees and certificates in various fields.

Major Landmarks

San Diego is home to many major landmarks, including Balboa Park, which houses museums, gardens, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo. Old Town San Diego State Historic Park preserves the city’s early history. The USS Midway Museum, a decommissioned aircraft carrier, provides a glimpse into naval history. Seaport Village offers waterfront dining and shopping, while Mission Beach and La Jolla Cove are popular spots for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing. Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is known for its scenic hiking trails, and Petco Park is home to the San Diego Padres baseball team. SeaWorld San Diego is another popular family attraction.

3. San Jose

City Facts

Population: 1,029,409 (2023 estimate)
Area Code: 408, 669
Zip Codes: 95101–95196
County: Santa Clara County

Geography and History

San Jose is located in the heart of Silicon Valley, in the southern part of the San Francisco Bay Area. The city is surrounded by rolling hills and enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with dry summers and mild winters. San Jose was founded in 1777 as El Pueblo de San José de Guadalupe, making it California’s first civil settlement. Initially an agricultural center, San Jose evolved into a major technology hub during the late 20th century with the rise of Silicon Valley. Today, it is known for its innovative tech companies, including major headquarters like Cisco, Adobe, and PayPal, which contribute to its reputation as the “Capital of Silicon Valley.”

Colleges and Universities

San Jose State University (SJSU): The oldest public university on the West Coast, SJSU is known for its engineering, business, and education programs.
Santa Clara University: A private Jesuit university offering strong programs in business, law, and engineering.
Evergreen Valley College: A community college offering associate degrees and vocational programs.
De Anza College: Located nearby in Cupertino, this community college is part of the Foothill-De Anza Community College District.
California University of Management and Technology: Specializes in business and technology-related fields.

Major Landmarks

San Jose offers a mix of historic and modern landmarks. The Winchester Mystery House is an architectural oddity, famous for its winding hallways and staircases leading nowhere. The Tech Interactive museum explores science and technology, fitting for the city’s tech focus. San Jose Museum of Art features contemporary works, while Plaza de César Chávez hosts events and festivals year-round. The SAP Center, home to the San Jose Sharks, is a major sports and concert venue. Santana Row is a premier shopping and dining destination. For nature lovers, the Japanese Friendship Garden and Alum Rock Park offer serene retreats. San Pedro Square Market is a popular food and nightlife spot in downtown San Jose.

4. San Francisco

City Facts

Population: 815,201 (2023 estimate)
Area Code: 415, 628
Zip Codes: 94102–94188
County: San Francisco County

Geography and History

San Francisco is located on the northern tip of the San Francisco Peninsula, surrounded by the Pacific Ocean and San Francisco Bay. Known for its hilly terrain, the city is famous for its scenic vistas, fog, and iconic landmarks. San Francisco was founded in 1776 by Spanish settlers as part of the mission system. The California Gold Rush of 1849 brought a massive influx of people, transforming it into a major city. Over the years, San Francisco became a cultural, financial, and political hub. The 1906 earthquake and fire devastated much of the city, but it quickly rebuilt. Today, San Francisco is known for its diversity, progressive values, and its role as a global center for finance and technology.

Colleges and Universities

University of San Francisco (USF): A private Jesuit university known for programs in business, law, and public health.
San Francisco State University (SFSU): A public university offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees.
California College of the Arts (CCA): Specializes in art, design, and architecture programs.
City College of San Francisco: A large community college offering associate degrees and vocational training.
Golden Gate University: A private university focusing on law, business, and public administration.

Major Landmarks

San Francisco is home to world-famous landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge, an internationally recognized symbol of the city. Alcatraz Island is a former federal prison that is now a popular tourist attraction. Fisherman’s Wharf offers waterfront dining and shopping, with Pier 39 being a highlight. Chinatown, the oldest in North America, provides a vibrant cultural experience. Lombard Street, known as the “crookedest street in the world,” is a must-see. The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) houses a vast collection of contemporary art. Coit Tower offers panoramic views of the city, and Golden Gate Park is a large urban park with gardens, museums, and recreation areas.

5. Fresno

City Facts

Population: 545,393 (2023 estimate)
Area Code: 559
Zip Codes: 93650, 93701–93794
County: Fresno County

Geography and History

Fresno is located in the heart of California’s Central Valley, a major agricultural region. The city lies near the Sierra Nevada mountain range to the east and is approximately halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco. Fresno’s climate is semi-arid, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Founded in 1872 as a railroad station for the Central Pacific Railroad, Fresno quickly grew as an agricultural hub. The city became known for its production of crops like grapes, almonds, and cotton. Today, Fresno remains a key player in California’s agricultural economy, while also developing as a center for education, healthcare, and transportation.

Colleges and Universities

California State University, Fresno (Fresno State): The largest university in Fresno, known for its programs in agriculture, business, and engineering.
Fresno City College: A community college offering associate degrees and vocational programs.
University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) Fresno: A medical education and research branch of UCSF, focused on training medical residents.
Fresno Pacific University: A private Christian university offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in liberal arts, education, and business.
San Joaquin College of Law: A private law school serving the Central Valley.

Major Landmarks

Fresno boasts several notable landmarks, such as the Fresno Chaffee Zoo, which offers extensive wildlife exhibits. Woodward Park is a large recreational area with gardens, walking trails, and a Japanese Garden. The Fresno Art Museum features contemporary and modern art, while Meux Home Museum provides a glimpse into Victorian-era Fresno. Forestiere Underground Gardens is an architectural wonder built by a Sicilian immigrant, showcasing subterranean gardens and living spaces. Roeding Park offers playgrounds, picnic areas, and is home to the Fresno Chaffee Zoo. The Save Mart Center is a major venue for concerts and sporting events, and Fresno’s Tower District is known for its vibrant nightlife, arts scene, and historic Tower Theatre.

List of Cities in California Alphabetically

1. Los Angeles

City Facts

Geography and History

Colleges and Universities

Major Landmarks

2. San Diego

City Facts

Geography and History

Colleges and Universities

Major Landmarks

3. San Jose

City Facts

Geography and History

Colleges and Universities

Major Landmarks

4. San Francisco

City Facts

Geography and History

Colleges and Universities

Major Landmarks

5. Fresno

City Facts

Geography and History

Colleges and Universities

Major Landmarks

List of All Cities and Towns in California in Alphabetical Order

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