Top 25 California Stereotypes: True or False?
Who hasn’t heard of California? Whether you’ve visited the Golden State or have only seen it in movies, its reputation precedes it: the home of movie stars, surfers, and tech bros. But what about all those other stereotypes people associate with the state – are they really true? To help answer this question, a native Californian is breaking down 25 stereotypical traits commonly associated with California and exploring whether they’re actually true or not!
What Is California Famous Known For?
California has a long and varied list of claims to fame, ranging from its spectacular Redwood forests to its vibrant culture, beach scene, celebrities, and incredible nightlife. It’s the birthplace of several iconic trends, movements, and symbols — skateboarding, hippie style, Hollywood — that have made an indelible mark on the world.
California’s incredibly diverse population (representing nations from all over the world) helps make it one of the most exciting and progressive places to live in America. With miles of sunny coastline and rugged backcountry alike, there really is something for everyone – whether it’s sipping a craft beer in San Diego or snowshoeing near Lake Tahoe.
Truly, California has defined itself as a place that hardly needs explaining: it speaks for itself! However, those from outside of California often lump a few generalizations together and don’t really understand the distinct micro-cultures that exist within this huge state.
What Are Things Only Californians Say?
Sometimes, speaking to a Californian can feel like a whole new language. From “hella” to “Fo-sho,” Californians have their own unique phrases they add to everyday conversation. Whether it’s discussing the most popular hikes or where to get the best tacos in town, there are phrases that give conversations across California a unique flavor.
Forget about long sentences; in California brevity is key. Whether you move around SoCal or NorCal, you may find yourself saying words like “dude” and “like” with local flair.
A few words only Californians say:
What Is Californian Culture?
California is a land of diversity, with NorCal and SoCal providing vastly different cultures. Depending on which part of the state you experience first-hand, you can find yourself in a hustle culture driven by a work hard, play hard attitude or you can enjoy the relaxed lifestyle that typifies many Californians. While this gap may appear extreme to an outsider, it’s what gives California its unique personality and provides something for everyone.
CA Personality Traits
California is known for its sunny beaches and laid-back life, but there’s a lot more to the state than that. Many of those who call California home possess unique personality traits that represent the spirit of the Golden State.
They are often kind and open-minded, embracing different cultures and ideologies that can be found all across California. On most days these individuals can be found with a positive outlook on life, living in the moment and taking advantage of what each day has to offer.
In addition, Californians are passionate about living green and maintaining their beautiful environment. From hiking trails in Big Sur to surfing around San Diego, appreciating nature is an integral part of being a Californian!
Though it’s such a big state and so diverse that you will find people with all kinds of personality traits. Though the state is largely democratic, there are huge republican pockets. You will find the extremes on both ends from hustlers and uber-rich people to chillers and outdoorsy people and everything in between.
There are nice people and rude people, those who love the beach and those who hate it. People who live in the mountains and people who live in central California and on farmlands. You really will find all types of people and personality traits in California.
General California Stereotypes
1. It’s Always Sunny and 75°F
❌ FALSE ❌
Although California is known for its beautiful blue skies, warm days, and balmy nights all year round, it’s worth mentioning that the weather does have its temperamental moments, and it’s certainly NOT always sunny and 75°F!
Locals in California are all too familiar with ‘June Gloom,’ which is a time of the year when gray skies and rain dampen the coast in the morning and burn off by mid-day. Plus, in the Bay Area, you will more likely see cloudy and rainy days year-round and quite chilly and windy winters.
>>> RELATED POST: Where Is the Best Weather in California? 17 Lovely Cities
Even during the summertime, coastal breezes can make things chilly (especially at night) and it’s best practice to layer in California as it can easily go from hot to cool throughout the day. Anyone near the mountains should be prepared for some snow and anyone visiting areas like Palm Springs should be prepared for more extreme hot and cold seasons.
Even with the wide range of temperatures throughout the state and cooler weather than might be expected, a majority of the places you are likely to visit or live in California don’t get that cold in comparison to most of the U.S.
2. Everyone Is Super Liberal
❌ FALSE ❌
Contrary to popular belief, California is not all liberal. Sure, there are some large cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco that tend to lean heavily left and dictate most of our politics, but there are also plenty of pockets where people may subscribe to more conservative beliefs.
In particular, inland regions such as central California or areas like Orange County can have large Republican populations that don’t conform to the common beliefs about the state.
Likewise, religious groups tend to be a bit more conservative in their views and older generations tend to be more right-leaning than the younger folk. So while it’s an easy assumption to make that everyone in this sprawling state is uber-liberal, it simply isn’t true and is just a stereotype!
3. Everyone in California Surfs
❌ FALSE ❌
Ok so yes, I do surf. However, I didn’t touch a board for my first 18 years of living in California! The large majority of my friends growing up never even swam in the ocean and when I tell people (who live here) that I surf, most of them are impressed and surprised.
The idea that everyone in California surfs is definitely a stereotype! While it’s true that many people do have an affinity for the ocean and enjoy catching waves, only a small portion of California residents are actually avid surfers.
Many people simply don’t have access to coastal regions, either by proximity or financial means. And even if they lived close enough, many individuals just aren’t interested in taking up surfing despite living near the coast. Despite what we may see on TV and in movies, surfing isn’t as ubiquitous on the West Coast as outsiders might think!
>>> RELATED POST: A Guide to Surfing in Los Angeles
4. People in California Smoke Weed All the Time
❌ FALSE ❌
California is known as one of the most progressive states, and this stereotype was only further cemented when marijuana use became legalized in 2016. However, you will not find a state full of stoners, but rather a few here and there with the majority of people living their daily lives with little to no marijuana use.
It’s not uncommon to find that the majority of young people have likely tried weed. Though it’s illegal federally, which means that those trying to enter into certain professions are still vulnerable to drug tests that may not allow them to use weed recreationally.
For example, this study done in 2019 shows a breakdown of who currently smokes marijuana.
| 18-29 years | 22% |
| 30-49 years | 11% |
| 50-64 years | 12% |
| 65+ years | 3% |
5. All Californians Are Super Hot and Fit
❌ FALSE ❌
There is no denying that many Californians uphold the stereotype of being super hot and fit. After all, with an abundance of access to healthy foods and fitness studios, it makes sense! There is a joke that many girls are a “10” but a “California 3,” and in places such as Santa Barbara, LA, or San Diego this can often be true.
The beach lifestyle naturally attracts a certain type and you feel a bit pressured to stay fit and keep up your appearance. However, of course, not everyone works out all the time and we definitely still eat junk food and fast food (and not JUST In-n-Out) here and wear sweatpants!
Not everyone can afford to maintain that lifestyle, and many people simply don’t care (in a good way!) about maintaining appearances just to fit in with what’s trending.
6. Everything Is Super Expensive in California
⭐️ TRUE ⭐️
Living in California can definitely be hard on the wallet! It often seems like everything is more expensive here, from housing to gas prices to going out to eat.
Finding reasonably priced real estate is a challenge if you don’t have major cash on hand — even an old fixer-upper in the right area will cost an arm and a leg. And even activities like getting lunch or dinner in a major city can be expensive: it’s not unusual to spend at least $20 minimum, no matter what your order!
Fortunately, there are ways to save money here — all it takes is extra effort and careful consideration when making purchases and decisions. There are even ways to find houses more on par with the national average cost if you’re willing to move to more remote areas of the state.
7. Most Californians Are Vegans Who Love Avocado
❌ FALSE ❌
It’s a common stereotype that all Californians are vegan and love avocados, but the reality is far more diverse! While one might think that being vegan is easier in California due to access to fresh produce and plant-based options, access can vary starkly between rural and urban areas. Although cities have more options available, it would be silly to assume that all areas of the state have equal access to healthy and plant-based food options.
8. Everyone Is Happy All the Time in California
❌ FALSE ❌
California may have its sunny days and great beaches, but don’t be fooled into thinking that Californians don’t experience any hardship. Just like the rest of us, we still feel the day-to-day stresses of life.
While many in California may be able to take advantage of the beautiful scenery or a walk along the pier to de-stress (if they can afford to live that close or pay the absurd gas prices to drive there), everyone in California experiences sadness and pain just the same as anyone else.
9. There’s Always Traffic on the California Freeways
❌ (Mostly) FALSE ❌
Whether you’re visiting California or a native, it’s likely you’ve heard the stereotype that there is always traffic on the freeways. The truth is, it depends on the city. Your best bet is to plan carefully and time it right if you want to get around quickly.
While the big cities (especially Los Angeles) do often get backed up on the roads, don’t worry – smaller cities or even back roads tend to be relatively traffic-free. With a little bit of planning, you can fly up those roads early in the morning or late at night when other drivers will be home in bed!
Guys vs. Girls CA Stereotypes
10. It’s Only Valley Girls in California
❌ FALSE ❌
The Valley Girl stereotype is that girls in California (especially LA) are ditzy, fake, rich, and use “like” a lot. While there are girls who fit this stereotype, the vast majority of women in California are well-educated, beautiful, wonderful people.
11. Guys in California Are All Players or Too Focused On Work
❌ FALSE (ish) ❌
Unfortunately, far too many guys in California do fit this stereotype, but it’s typically younger guys or ones in certain professions. There are a ton of really great and respectful men out there in California too!
Southern California Stereotypes
12. Everyone Goes to the Beach All the Time
❌ FALSE ❌
First of all, not everyone lives near the beach or even within a reasonable driving distance from the beach. Second, we do have lives and jobs and can’t just spend all our time lying out on the sand, as much as we may want to shirk responsibilities to spend all day in the sun.
I also know a TON of people that live here and don’t even like the beach! They usually don’t like getting sandy or swimming in the ocean because of irrational fears or just because it’s a little cold. Half the time beaches are full of tourists, not locals (especially in the summer).
13. No One Knows How to Drive in the Rain
⭐️ Kinda TRUE (sadly) ⭐️
People in northern California are better about this because they get rain more often, but yes sadly in southern CA people start to freak out a little if it rains too much. Either people will avoid driving in the rain and stay in, or traffic will slow way down and accidents increase.
14. Everyone Eats Mexican Food All the Time
❌ FALSE ❌
While we do have AMAZING Mexican food in southern California due to our proximity to the border and our culturally diverse population, not everyone likes Mexican food or even eats it. There is a ton of really good, diverse food and especially great Asian food throughout southern CA.
What Are the Stereotypes of Los Angeles?
15. Everyone in LA Is Friends With Celebrities or Runs Into a Celebrity Daily
❌ FALSE ❌
Despite what you might think, living in Los Angeles does not guarantee you a brush with fame every day. Despite popular belief and stereotypes, not everyone in the City of Angels is mingling with celebrities or running into them all the time.
Granted there are some stars who decide to locate here but it’s not as if they are out and about throughout the city at every turn. Many of them don’t frequent the same places as locals do or don’t make it obvious who they are. Especially the most high-class celebrities are in exclusive venues or have staff that helps them with day-to-day tasks, they’re not just out and about at the local Trader Joe’s!
16. Everyone in Los Angeles Has Botox and Plastic Surgery
❌ FALSE ❌
I promise there are normal people who live in LA that aren’t associated with Hollywood. There is a lot of glitz, glam, and fake boobs here… but not everyone is into that!
What Type of People Live in LA?
17. Uber Rich People
⭐️ TRUE ⭐️
Yes, there are a lot of VERY rich people in California, especially in Los Angeles. Sadly, there is a huge wealth gap in LA between the very poor and the very rich. You will find very wealthy, safe LA neighborhoods just down the way from a homeless encampment. There are many multi-million dollar homes and mini-mansions, especially in the hills surrounding LA or along the beaches.
18. People Who Want to Be or Are Film Stars, Singers, and Influencers
⭐️ TRUE ⭐️
Los Angeles is one of the entertainment capitals of the world so yes, there are a lot of people here who are creatively talented in some way or another. A lot of aspiring creatives move to LA to try and make connections and make their way into the entertainment world. Only a handful are actually successful, but it’s sometimes hard to tell if someone is using you to get ahead or just genuinely interested in being your friend.
There are still plenty of people who are students or working typical middle-class jobs, so not everyone is trying to get ahead or “make it” in the industry – just a disproportionately high amount in comparison to other cities in the U.S. and California!
19. Fake People
❌ FALSE ❌
While there are certainly some people who can be described as “fake” either in how they act or that they’re full of Botox… the majority are very great, down-to-earth people.
20. Blonde Surfers
❌ FALSE ❌
Of course, you’ll find that here, but Los Angeles is one of the most diverse cities in the world with plenty of people from all walks of life!
Northern California Stereotypes
21. They’re All Hippies and Tree Huggers
❌ FALSE (mostly) ❌
The stereotype of the northern Californian as a “hippie” or “tree hugger” is a huge generalization, as not every California resident from the north lives an alternative lifestyle. But it’s true that in areas such as San Francisco, Berkeley, and Santa Cruz, there is certainly more of an emphasis on inclusivity, progressive values, and respecting nature, making for an overall more relaxed and laid-back attitude.
Many people have credited San Francisco for providing the foundation for the hippie movement in the 1960s, and this legacy can still be seen throughout the city today.
22. There’s Nothing in Norcal Other Than San Francisco
❌ FALSE ❌
Dispelling the myth that northern California has nothing to offer other than San Francisco is easy. There are many unique and exciting cities to explore and some of nature’s most beautiful creations!
Yosemite National Park is within a few hours’ drive and provides visitors with amazing views of awe-inspiring mountains. Or, visit Lake Tahoe for incredible scenery and lake activities in the summer and winter activities such as ski and snowboarding in the winter.
Sacramento serves as the state capital, making it an excellent starting point for a history-filled trip through cultural museums and old monuments that bring back to life what happened during California’s gold rush days.
Santa Cruz, known primarily for its infamous surfing scene, also offers many trails throughout the coastline that allow visitors to submerge themselves in natural beauty unlike anything seen before. Whether you’re looking for something outdoors or any cultural experience, NorCal is teeming with things to do!
>>> READ MORE: Best California Winter Beaches
23. They All Hate Southern California
❌ FALSE (debateable) ❌
Ok, this one is funny just because there is a bit of rivalry between southern and northern California. While both have incredible natural beauty and unique things to do, northern Californians tend to get a bit defensive when claiming it’s better up there… Whereas southern Californians know they don’t even have to argue – we’re the clear winner!
Bay Area Stereotypes
24. San Francisco Is Full of Homeless People
❌ FALSE ❌
Unfortunately, this is a California stereotype based on some truth. There IS a lot of homelessness in San Francisco due largely to the high cost of living, but it’s not fair to assume that is all the City has to offer or should be characterized by.
25. Everyone in the Bay Area Is in Tech
❌ FALSE ❌
The Technology industry IS one of the leading industries in the Bay Area, however contrary to popular belief not everyone in NorCal can be classified as a Tech or Finance bro! There are plenty of other jobs to be had in the area.
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Conclusion: Debunking Popular California Stereotypes
As you can see, most of the stereotypes people hold about California are false! So, the next time you’re in California, be sure to keep an open mind. The state is full of friendly people and amazing sights that are worth exploring. And if you still think it’s all just a big beach town, we suggest taking a closer look – there’s so much more to discover!
Read guides to California here ⬇️
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Colorado vs. California
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☀️ California FAQs ☀️
✈️ Where Can You Find the BEST Flight Deals to California?
1. Scott’s Cheap Flights – FREE flight deals alert, works best if you can be flexible
2. Skyscanner – FREE search engine, great for budget flights + deal
❗Is Travel Insurance Required in the U.S.?
No, it’s not.
However, it’s always recommended to have travel insurance any time you travel in case of injury, accident, lost luggage, missed flight, etc. The best and most affordable travel/expat insurance is Safety Wing. It covers some medical as well, which is important in the U.S. due to the high cost of health care.
>>> CLICK HERE FOR INFO
☔️ When Is the Best Time to Visit California?
Summer (June-August) – is the warmest (in some parts it can be pretty hot) but you will have the most crowds. Some parts of the state get “June Gloom” where it can be cloudy during the morning and burn off by mid-day.
Spring (March-May) or Fall (September-November) – are cooler and have the potential of rain, but you will beat some of the crowds and see some incredible wildflowers (spring)/greenery (fall).
🏠 Where Should You Stay in California?
Hotels, vacation rentals, and house-sitting are all available for accommodation. My top recommendations for each are:
• Booking.com
• Vrbo
• Trusted Housesitters (watch a home/pets in return for a FREE place to stay)
🌴 Where Can You Find Tours?
I find incredible tours around the world >>> HERE with private and guided group tours of the most popular attractions and ones that fit your specific interests.
🚘 Should You Rent a Car in California?
I very highly recommend renting a car in California so you don’t miss out on the gorgeous scenery and wonderful things to do in between the big cities! California is fantastic for road trips – there is SO much to see up and down the coast. Plus, sites are often spread far out, even in the cities, so having a car is the most convenient option.
>>> Best car rental rates and deals
