5 West Coast Cities Where You Can Buy Homes for $100,000 or Less
Written by
Emily Fowler
Edited by
Levi Leidy
Commitment to Our Readers
GOBankingRates' editorial team is committed to bringing you unbiased reviews and information. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and services - our reviews and ratings are not influenced by advertisers. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and our products and services review methodology.
20 Years
Helping You Live Richer
Reviewed
by Experts
Trusted by
Millions of Readers
Owning a home is a dream for many Americans, but the reality is that not everyone can afford to spend six or even seven figures on somewhere to live. The West Coast appeals to people looking for a variety of lifestyles, but according to Zillow, California metros remain some of the most expensive in the nation.
Still, there are some methods that make homeownership under $100,000 possible, though buyers have to get pretty creative. Tiny homes, Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), fractional ownership and fixer-uppers let buyers get high-end finishes, stunning views or historic charm without a seven-figure price tag.
For people who are willing to stretch the traditional idea of a house to fit tight budgets, here are some cities in California, Oregon and Washington that might just fit the bill.
Sacramento, California
Sacramento offers one-of-a-kind opportunities — for example this ADU shell for $97,500. The exterior of the 400-square-foot tiny home comes fully completed, letting buyers DIY the interior to taste. With customizable facades, siding and colors, plus multifunctional rooms, this property punches above its size.
ADUs are legal across much of the U.S., and California has fast-tracked them with pro-housing laws to address the state’s housing crisis. Buyers will need space to locate it, because the price doesn’t include land!
Heppner, Oregon
Heppner offers a mix of historic charm and rural potential. There are properties in the area, like this century-old home near the ghost town of Hardman, which can be purchased for under $100,000 and transformed into a high-end retreat. With original wood features, a spacious layout and room for a hobby farm or off-grid living, fixer-uppers like this home give buyers the chance to create their unique version of home in a peaceful, scenic setting.
Joshua Tree, California
Just outside Twentynine Palms, this mid-century cabin is for sale for $75,000, giving the buyer a chance to create a desert retreat. Currently down to the studs with existing approved plans to create a luxury home, its five acres of land with proximity to trails, ATV routes and horse riding means it has vast potential. A structure that needs complete renovation gives buyers the opportunity to bring their design vision to life while investing in an area where properties usually go for high prices.
Everett, Washington
Everett’s Hat Island offers unique off-grid luxury potential. A 1,280-square-foot, three-bedroom lot with building plans, permits and a level interior lot can be purchased for just $40,000. With the groundwork done, this is an opportunity to build a beautiful home on a scenic private island while taking advantage of Washington’s natural beauty.
San Francisco, California
According to Zillow, San Francisco gained roughly $137,500 in “buyability” when mortgage rates fell from 7.2% to 6.1%, giving buyers a little more room to afford creative options like fractional ownership. The shared ownership of this residence, for example, provides access to Fairmont-style services — 24-hour concierge, valet, housekeeping, private lounges and outdoor terraces — allowing buyers entry into a historic, high-demand city without paying full price for this type of home. Admittedly, they also wouldn’t get full-time living.
More From GOBankingRates
