Cambria makes top 10 most peaceful places to live in California list

January 8, 2026

By KAREN VELIE

Cambria is ranked in the top 10 of the most peaceful places to live in California, earning the number four spot, according to a study conducted by Money Inc.

In making their top 30 list, Money Inc looked for “towns and cities that prioritize quality of life, safety, and community engagement.” Three San Luis Obispo County communities made the top 30 list: Cambria, San Luis Obispo and Paso Robles.

Money Inc describes the naturally peaceful environment the native Monterey pine forests brings Cambria in its fourth place ranking. The community also offers “tide pools, hidden beaches, and ocean views that invite quiet exploration rather than crowds.”

“Cambria’s slower pace makes it particularly suitable if you’re seeking refuge from faster-paced California cities,” according to Money Inc. “The town provides coastal access and natural beauty without the tourism intensity of more popular beach destinations.”

San Luis Obispo is ranked 18th based on a “relaxed atmosphere that contributes to its reputation as one of the happiest places in America.”

Coming in 19th place, Paso Robles was chosen because of “its warm climate and agricultural landscape create a relaxed atmosphere that attracts families and retirees seeking a quieter pace of life.”

 


Loading...
13 Comments
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments

Cambria, could be peaceful if the hordes of tourists would go home.


They were not at the Christmas Market, where the hired street watchers were yelling at residents to get out of the way, even when they were pulling into their driveways! Gibson approved this disaster, which does not address the concerns of residents.


The local saying is, if it takes all kinds to make up the world, Cambria has one of each:)


They were absent during the boomer brawl at the lodge.


No water, no growth, no pressure.


Cambria and San Simeon have more water than all other communities in SLO County. They just have to extract it out of the fog and the reliably humid atmosphere; or desalinate the giant body of water to their West.


They have not attended a Cambria Community Service District meeting.


Annual residential water rates increased from $1000/yr to $1500 with the desalination plant installation.


The CCSD does not appear to know what it is doing. It is obvious the CCSD Board and Manager look at Cambrians as having deep pockets. They certainly are not fiscally responsible or care about how their actions impact residents.


Thet must not read the comments, this county is full of hate.


Read the comments people.


What about Gorda? Or Pozo? Or Huasna? Just doesn’t get any more peaceful than there!


Home prices there are sure a crime… LOL did they consider that?…