California is a state where $1 million can mean a lot—or not nearly enough—depending on where you land. From high-rise living in San Francisco to desert hideaways in Yucca Valley and sunny escapes in San Diego, the real estate story shifts dramatically from city to city. These ten properties reveal just how differently a million dollars can shape a home across the Golden State.
10. Oakland, CA – $998,000
This 1,886 sq ft modern home offers 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a striking design across three light-filled levels. The first floor showcases a sleek kitchen with Terrazzo marble floors, walnut cabinetry, and a large island, while upstairs features a living room, full bath, and bedroom with a walk-in closet.
Listed at $998,000, the top floor includes the primary suite with floor-to-ceiling windows, a second spacious bedroom, and custom Elfa system closets throughout.
Where is Oakland, CA?
Oakland, California is a major city located in Alameda County, across the bay from San Francisco in the East Bay region. Known for its vibrant arts scene, diverse neighborhoods, and bustling port, it offers a dynamic mix of culture, commerce, and outdoor spaces.
Oakland is about 10 miles from San Francisco, 35 miles from San Jose, 15 miles from Berkeley, and 80 miles from Sacramento. Its central location and major transportation hubs make it a key gateway to the greater Bay Area and Northern California.
Living Area
The living area features a contemporary layout with a navy blue sofa, floral-patterned armchairs, and wall-to-wall windows that let in natural light. A large art piece anchors the space visually above a pair of side chairs. Glass doors lead to a private balcony, creating an indoor-outdoor flow.
Kitchen and Dining
The kitchen includes sleek cabinetry with a high-gloss finish, a large center island with wood paneling, and a set of industrial-style bar stools. Adjacent to the kitchen is a built-in dining nook with bench seating and a round table, paired with colorful chairs. A glass door leads to the outdoor entry, while a second window adds brightness to the area.
Bedroom
The bedroom offers a full wall of windows overlooking the neighborhood, enhancing the open feel of the room. A low platform bed with textured gray bedding is set against a backdrop of white walls and modern artwork. The minimalist layout is complemented by a mix of framed artwork and built-in architectural lines.
Source: Sophia Niu @ Compass via Coldwell Banker Realty
9. Los Angeles, CA – $999,000
Listed at $999,000, these 2-bedroom, 3-bathroom homes offer 1,412 square feet of modern living in one of Los Angeles’ most sought-after neighborhoods. Open-concept layouts feature high ceilings, large windows, and hardwood floors that create bright, inviting spaces.
Highlights include gourmet kitchens with quartz countertops and premium appliances, private balconies with city views, landscaped yards, and two-car garages equipped with EV charging.
Where is Los Angeles, CA?
Oro Valley, Arizona is a suburban town located in Pima County, just north of Tucson at the base of the Santa Catalina Mountains. Known for its scenic views, outdoor recreation, and resort-style living, it offers a peaceful setting with easy access to urban amenities.
Oro Valley is about 10 miles from downtown Tucson, 25 miles from Marana, 45 miles from Nogales, and 115 miles from Phoenix. Its location makes it a popular base for enjoying southern Arizona’s mountains, deserts, and cultural attractions.
Open Living and Dining Area
The living and dining space features a light-filled open layout with sliding glass doors leading to an outdoor balcony. A rounded sectional sofa centers the room with a glass dining table and white chairs positioned nearby. The kitchen, visible in the background, includes a peninsula island.
Bedroom
The bedroom showcases a simple setup with a wooden-framed bed, yellow patterned bedding, and a casual seating area by the window. Neutral walls, wood flooring, and recessed lighting create a bright and clean environment. An open doorway leads directly to the attached bathroom.
Bathroom
The bathroom presents a double-sink vanity with gold-tone fixtures, wall-mounted lighting, and a glass-enclosed shower. A private toilet area sits across from the sinks, and French doors open to a small balcony bringing in natural light. The space uses a neutral color scheme with modern finishes throughout.
Source: Shar Rezai-Hariri, Melissa Gonzalez @ First Team Real Estate via Coldwell Banker Realty
8. Fontana, CA – $998,000
This 3,678 sq ft home offers 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, and a flexible layout designed for modern comfort and functionality. Highlights include a chef’s kitchen with a large island, walk-in pantry, and built-in appliances, plus engineered wood floors, a cozy fireplace, and a dedicated office.
Listed at $998,000, the home features a guest suite on the main floor, multiple balconies with mountain views, a California Room for outdoor living, and a low-maintenance landscaped yard.
Where is Fontana, CA?
Fontana, California is a growing city located in San Bernardino County, in the Inland Empire region of Southern California. Known for its logistics hubs, community parks, and proximity to the San Gabriel Mountains, it offers a mix of suburban development and industrial growth.
Fontana is about 50 miles east of Los Angeles, 10 miles from San Bernardino, 25 miles from Riverside, and 80 miles from Palm Springs. Its location along Interstate 10 and other major highways makes it a key connection point in Southern California’s transportation network.
Living Room
The living room features dark hardwood floors and a central fireplace set between two shuttered windows. A full wall of built-in shelving and cabinetry adds both storage and display space. Recessed lighting and crown molding complete the space’s clean, open look.
Kitchen
The kitchen is anchored by a large granite island with an undermount sink and extended breakfast bar seating. Surrounding cabinetry offers deep storage in a dark wood finish, complemented by stainless steel appliances and double ovens. The layout flows efficiently with views into the adjacent living areas.
Bedroom
This bedroom includes wood flooring, recessed lights, and white walls accented by plantation shutters on two windows. A door leads to an en suite bath, while another opens to a walk-in closet. The layout provides ample space for varied bedroom furnishings.
Source: William Lim @ Berkshire Hath Hm Svcs Ca Prop via Coldwell Banker Realty
7. Yucca Valley, CA – $998,000
Perched on a hill with sweeping 360-degree views, this 2,187 sq ft adobe-style home offers 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and a bright, airy layout updated in 2022. The main floor features two living areas, a formal dining room, a beautiful kitchen, and a private courtyard entry, while the upstairs includes a workspace, a primary suite with a sunken tub and private patio.
Listed at $998,000, the property blends bohemian charm with stunning sunrises, sunsets, and surrounding boulder landscapes.
Where is Yucca Valley, CA?
Yucca Valley, California is a desert town located in San Bernardino County, situated between the San Bernardino Mountains and Joshua Tree National Park. Known for its proximity to hiking trails, stunning desert landscapes, and vibrant arts community, it offers a peaceful setting with access to outdoor adventure.
Yucca Valley is about 30 miles from Palm Springs, 15 miles from Joshua Tree, 80 miles from Riverside, and 130 miles from Los Angeles. Its location makes it an ideal gateway for exploring Southern California’s desert parks and scenic byways.
Living Room & Dining Area
The living space features terracotta tile floors, white walls, and exposed wood ceiling beams. A central staircase with wrought iron railings leads upstairs, while the open dining area sits beside a trio of large windows with desert views. The layout flows into a secondary seating nook beneath built-in alcoves.
Bedroom
The bedroom includes a ceiling fan, exposed beams, and hardwood flooring. Large windows and a glass door bring in natural light and provide access to a balcony. A rope wall hanging and earth-toned decor emphasize the rustic style.
Bathroom
The bathroom features a dual-sink vanity with tan tile countertops and bronze fixtures. A built-in tub is positioned beside two large corner windows offering mountain views. White cabinetry and walls create a clean contrast with the earthy tones.
Source: Jamey R Cohen @ California Residential Service via Coldwell Banker Realty
6. Roseville, CA – $998,000
Designed for comfort and entertainment, this 3,539 sq ft single-story home features 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, a dedicated office, and a flexible split floor plan. The backyard showcases a resort-style pool with a waterfall grotto, a Jacuzzi, and an expansive yard for outdoor living.
Listed at $998,000, the property includes paid-for solar, a brand-new HVAC system, and a spacious layout ideal for both everyday living and entertaining.
Where is Roseville, CA?
Roseville, California is a suburban city located in Placer County, just northeast of Sacramento in Northern California. Known for its shopping centers, family-friendly neighborhoods, and growing business community, it offers a blend of suburban comfort and urban convenience.
Roseville is about 20 miles from downtown Sacramento, 30 miles from Folsom Lake, 115 miles from San Francisco, and 100 miles from Lake Tahoe. Its location makes it a central base for exploring both the capital region and nearby Sierra Nevada destinations.
Family Room
The family room includes a gas fireplace with a black tile surround and white mantel, positioned beside a built-in entertainment center. A large L-shaped sectional faces a central coffee table, with full-height windows along the back wall bringing in natural light.
Kitchen
The kitchen features a wraparound center island with a breakfast bar that seats four, under recessed lighting. Wood cabinetry surrounds the space and is paired with black appliances and a white pantry door at the back wall. The layout offers ample counter space, and the island includes an integrated sink and matte black faucet.
Bedroom
The primary bedroom has a spacious footprint with neutral carpet flooring and multiple windows along the rear wall. A king bed sits against a light gray accent wall with nightstands and matching lamps on each side. A ceiling fan is mounted above, and natural wood furniture pieces complete the room’s furnishings.
Source: Michele Colombo @ eXp Realty Of Northern California, Inc. via Coldwell Banker Realty
5. Discovery Bay, CA – $998,000
Located in the gated Discovery Bay Golf Course & Country Club community, this 2,646 sq ft home offers 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and thoughtfully updated interiors. Highlights include a remodeled kitchen with quartz countertops, new stainless appliances, lagoon views from the kitchen and family room, and a main-floor primary suite.
Listed at $998,000, the property also features high ceilings, new LED fixtures, a covered backyard patio with retractable blinds, and formal living and dining spaces.
Where is Discovery Bay, CA?
Discovery Bay, California is a waterfront community located in eastern Contra Costa County, along the Sacramento–San Joaquin River Delta. Known for its network of residential canals, boating lifestyle, and scenic views, it offers a peaceful setting centered around outdoor recreation.
Discovery Bay is about 25 miles from Stockton, 30 miles from Walnut Creek, 60 miles east of San Francisco, and 50 miles from Sacramento. Its location provides easy access to the Delta waterways, East Bay cities, and Northern California attractions.
Living Room
The living room includes two neutral-toned sofas, twin accent chairs, and a circular coffee table set on a patterned area rug. A reclaimed wood feature wall contrasts with light walls and vaulted ceilings. A ceiling fan with dark blades is mounted above the seating area.
Kitchen
The kitchen features a central island with a marble waterfall countertop and black upholstered barstools. Cabinetry in white runs along two walls, accented by a geometric tile backsplash and stainless steel appliances. Dual pendant lights hang over the island, complementing the modern style.
Primary Bedroom
The bedroom shows a tufted king-size bed with matching ottoman bench and nightstands on either side. A recliner and a wall-mounted TV are positioned near the fireplace along the adjacent wall. French doors and windows allow natural light to brighten the space.
Patio
The covered patio extends from the back of the home with a slatted pergola-style roof structure. Outdoor wicker seating with a fire table sits on a rug facing a landscaped yard and waterfront view. Potted plants line the concrete surface, and fencing borders the canal-side edge.
Source: Cy Randall Prince Jr, Randy Prince @ Corcoran Icon Properties via Coldwell Banker Realty
4. San Diego, CA – $998,000
This 2,380 sq ft home offers 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and a flexible bonus room ideal for an office, playroom, or guest space. Recent upgrades include luxury waterproof vinyl flooring, new appliances with a 6-burner stove, new lighting, doors, windows, and a brand-new roof.
Listed at $998,000, the property features a sparkling pool for summer relaxation and modern finishes throughout.
Where is San Diego, CA?
San Diego, California is a coastal city located in the southwestern corner of the state, along the Pacific Ocean and the U.S.–Mexico border. Known for its beaches, parks, military bases, and vibrant cultural scene, it offers a blend of natural beauty and urban living.
San Diego is about 120 miles south of Los Angeles, 20 miles from Tijuana, Mexico, 35 miles from Temecula, and 70 miles from Carlsbad. Its coastal location and major airport make it a central hub for Southern California travel and international connections.
Living Room
The living room includes a black marble fireplace with a white mantel, a pair of tufted armchairs, and a matching loveseat arranged around a gold-framed glass coffee table. A rectangular rug grounds the space beneath recessed lighting and light wood floors.
Dining Area & Kitchen
The dining area features a glass table with four upholstered chairs positioned beside an open-concept kitchen. In the kitchen, white upper cabinets, light blue base cabinets, and white stone countertops surround a stainless steel range and hood. An island with a sink separates the cooking area from the dining space.
Sunroom
The sunroom showcases a vaulted ceiling finished with exposed wood planks and dark beams. Large black-framed windows stretch across the back wall, looking out to a private pool area. Two sofas, a central coffee table, and a side armchair are arranged on a patterned rug over light wood flooring.
Source: Sue Na @ Keller Williams Realty via Coldwell Banker Realty
3. Loma Linda, CA – $998,000
Offering mountain and city light views, this 3,251 sq ft tri-level home features 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and a private primary suite with its own staircase and sitting area. Highlights include a spacious kitchen with breakfast nook, a family room with fireplace, and two newer AC units.
Listed at $998,000, the property also offers a gated entry, a landscaped backyard with a deck, and a small basement for storage.
Where is Loma Linda, CA?
Loma Linda, California is a small city located in San Bernardino County, in the Inland Empire region of Southern California. Known for its renowned medical facilities, health-focused community, and scenic foothill views, it offers a peaceful environment with a strong emphasis on wellness.
Loma Linda is about 10 miles from San Bernardino, 20 miles from Riverside, 60 miles east of Los Angeles, and 90 miles from Palm Springs. Its location provides easy access to healthcare centers, universities, and regional attractions across Southern California.
Living Room & Kitchen
The living room shares an open layout with the adjacent kitchen, separated by a transition from wood to tile flooring. A corner fireplace is set into a beige-tiled surround with a raised hearth and wood mantel. The kitchen includes white upper and lower cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, and a large center island.
Bedroom
The bedroom features a central window flanked by two side windows, all with views toward surrounding rooftops and hills. Two curtain panels hang on rods, and recessed lighting is installed in the ceiling. Wide plank flooring runs wall to wall beneath the neutral-painted walls and white baseboards.
Bathroom
The bathroom includes a freestanding soaking tub positioned beneath a large window with horizontal blinds. Dual vanities with gray cabinets sit on opposite walls, each topped with square mirrors and contemporary light fixtures. White tile flooring and marble-effect wall tile wrap around the space, extending into a separate toilet and shower area.
Source: Angie Takehara @ Century 21 Lois Lauer Realty, Western Realty via Coldwell Banker Realty
2. Palm Springs, CA – $997,000
Showcasing mountain views, this 1,700 sq ft home offers 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and an open floor plan designed for modern living. Features include porcelain tile throughout, Bespoke premium appliances, a mini bar, a new pool and spa, two fireplaces, and a covered outdoor entertaining area.
Listed at $997,000, the property sits minutes from downtown Palm Springs with easy access to local attractions.
Where is Palm Springs, CA?
Palm Springs, California is a desert city located in Riverside County, at the base of the San Jacinto Mountains in Southern California. Known for its mid-century modern architecture, hot springs, golf courses, and resort lifestyle, it offers a blend of relaxation, culture, and outdoor adventure.
Palm Springs is about 110 miles east of Los Angeles, 15 miles from Palm Desert, 45 miles from Joshua Tree National Park, and 125 miles from San Diego. Its location makes it a popular destination for desert getaways, festivals, and year-round recreation.
Living Room
The living room features a rectangular gas fireplace with a vertical slat wood surround set against a clean white wall. A large picture window frames a view of trees and fencing outside. Overhead, recessed lights and a modern white ceiling fan center the space, complemented by glossy tile flooring.
Kitchen
The kitchen includes a central island with flat-panel cabinetry in a dark wood finish and a waterfall quartz countertop. A statement chandelier with globe bulbs hangs above the island, while perimeter cabinets in a light wood tone extend across the walls. Adjacent to the kitchen, a wall with a fireplace leads toward an additional living space.
Pool Area
The backyard highlights a rectangular pool and attached spa, outlined with raised concrete coping and surrounded by synthetic turf in geometric cuts. A privacy fence with patterned panels lines the perimeter, and tall palm trees rise beyond the property line. At the rear, a covered patio includes an outdoor kitchen and seating area under a flat roof structure.
Source: Evan Badt, Patricia Badt @ Eb Investments via Coldwell Banker Realty
1. San Francisco, CA – $1,097,000
Renovated for modern living, this 1,867 sq ft home offers 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, an open floor plan with new hardwood floors, and a bright living and dining area with a fireplace. The updated kitchen features new stainless appliances, while the master suite includes a private deck and a skylit bathroom.
Listed at $1,097,000, the property also features a bonus room, a two-car garage, a private side yard with built-in seating, and panoramic 180-degree views of San Francisco.
Where is San Francisco, CA?
San Francisco, California is a major coastal city located in Northern California, at the tip of the San Francisco Peninsula along the Pacific Ocean and San Francisco Bay. Known for its iconic landmarks, steep hills, diverse neighborhoods, and vibrant culture, it offers a dynamic blend of history, innovation, and scenic beauty.
San Francisco is about 10 miles from Oakland, 40 miles from San Jose, 90 miles from Sacramento, and 230 miles from Yosemite National Park. Its location and international airport make it a key gateway for travel throughout California and beyond.
Living Room
The living room includes two white sofas with blue pillows and a round wood coffee table on a marbled rug. A white fireplace with black interior sits beneath a coastal painting, framed by plants and decor. Large windows fill the space with natural light over light wood flooring.
Dining Area
The dining area features a round glass table with four white chairs under a gold geometric chandelier. A cushioned bench sits against a mirrored wall with framed artwork and floor lamps on each side. Light wood flooring continues throughout the open layout.
Primary Bedroom
The primary bedroom shows a white bed with blue accents, a tufted bench at the foot, and two matching armchairs. Sliding doors open to a hedge-lined patio area. The room has light wood flooring and a ceiling fixture with a starburst design.
Source: Adela Picar @ eXp Realty Of Northern California, Inc. via Coldwell Banker Realty
