15 Most Conservative Cities in California – 2024 Voting Data & Trends
We looked through all the voting data and trends to find the most conservative cities in California.
When people think of California, they often picture liberal coastal cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles, but tucked within this vast state are pockets of deeply rooted conservatism. These conservative cities cling to traditional values, staunch political views, and offer a haven for faith-based communities.
In this article, we’ll uncover the most conservative cities in California, spanning both northern and southern regions, with a few surprises along the coast.
Methodology
Our list was compiled based on several critical factors. We analyzed recent voting trends, focusing on the percentage of Republican versus Democrat voters in the most recent elections.
Additionally, we considered access to faith-based organizations, traditional culture, and the presence of strong conservative values in the community. Population size, local events, and cultural offerings also shaped our decisions.
Data was pulled from sources like election records, community surveys, and demographic studies.
The 15 Most Conservative Cities in California
15. Visalia
Population: 141,384
Location: Check on Google Maps
Located in the agricultural heart of the state, Visalia’s conservatism is anchored in its farming roots. A strong Republican presence dominates local elections, with over 60% of the vote going red in the last presidential election.
Faith-based organizations play a big role here, as Visalia is home to numerous churches and religious events that shape community values.
14. Redding
Population: 93,462
Location: Check on Google Maps
Far in Northern California, Redding stands as a bastion of conservatism. It’s among the most conservative cities in Northern California, with over 65% of voters supporting Republican candidates.
The city embraces its rugged, outdoor culture, with many residents involved in industries such as logging and farming. Its faith-based community plays a significant role in shaping the conservative atmosphere, with large congregations and active church groups.
13. Bakersfield
Population: 403,455
Location: Check on Google Maps
Bakersfield’s status as a conservative stronghold in California is well known. The city has historically supported Republican candidates, with recent elections showing around 65% of its votes going to the GOP. It’s also located in one of the most conservative counties in California, so it’s not surprising that Bakersfield is quite conservative.
As a major hub for oil production and agriculture, many of its residents value economic policies that support these industries. Its traditional culture is evident in the city’s country music roots and family-oriented lifestyle.
12. Temecula
Population: 114,761
Location: Check on Google Maps
Temecula is one of Southern California’s most conservative cities. It voted overwhelmingly for Republican candidates in the past several elections, with percentages frequently over 60%.
Known for its picturesque wine country, the city has a suburban feel with traditional family values at its core. Churches are a central part of life here, alongside patriotic community events.
11. Corona
Population: 169,868
Location: Check on Google Maps
Another conservative gem in Southern California, Corona is a city where traditionalism thrives. In recent elections, Republicans have maintained a strong lead, with approximately 58% of the vote.
Residents are drawn to Corona for its family-friendly environment, schools, and strong support for law enforcement and military personnel. It’s a city with deep ties to conservative ideals, and you can feel it in the local culture.
10. Clovis
Population: 124,708
Location: Check on Google Maps
Clovis, located near Fresno, has held onto its conservative identity for decades. Known for its robust agricultural economy, it consistently votes Republican, with more than 60% of its population supporting GOP candidates.
The city also has strong ties to law enforcement, and you’ll find a strong sense of community pride in local schools and events.
Clovis is in one of the most conservative parts of California in Central California, so it’s no surprise how conservative this city actually is.
9. Roseville
Population: 147,773
Location: Check on Google Maps
Roseville is one of the fastest-growing cities in Northern California and remains a conservative stronghold. Republicans have regularly won by comfortable margins in local elections.
The city’s community is tightly woven with churches, local businesses, and traditional family values. It’s also a hub for conservative activism, with numerous organizations pushing to maintain its conservative culture.
8. Folsom
Population: 82,726
Location: Check on Google Maps
Folsom’s political leanings are evident in its local election results, with Republicans regularly capturing over 60% of the vote. The city boasts a picturesque, suburban setting with a heavy emphasis on family and tradition.
Churches are abundant, and the city is known for its patriotic parades and civic pride.
7. Yorba Linda
Population: 68,336
Location: Check on Google Maps
Known as the birthplace of Richard Nixon, Yorba Linda is a Southern California city with deep conservative roots. The city voted 64% Republican in the last election, and its traditional values permeate local culture.
It’s (relatively) small population also makes it one of the most conservative towns in California.
It’s a family-centric community where faith and patriotism play a significant role in shaping its identity.
6. Rocklin
Population: 74,977
Location: Check on Google Maps
Rocklin sits in the conservative bastion of Placer County and votes overwhelmingly Republican. Over 65% of voters supported GOP candidates in the last election.
The city’s strong community ties and traditional values make it one of the most conservative areas in Northern California. It’s a city of suburban peace, dotted with parks and churches that drive its family-focused lifestyle.
5. Placerville
Population: 10,852
Location: Check on Google Maps
Placerville, in El Dorado County, is one of the most conservative towns in Northern California, with an overwhelming 70% of voters casting ballots for Republican candidates in recent elections. It’s also the smallest place on this list of the most conservative towns in California.
The town’s rugged, historical charm and agricultural economy foster a conservative culture that has held firm over the years.
4. Escondido
Population: 151,038
Location: Check on Google Maps
Escondido, in San Diego County, has remained a conservative outpost, particularly compared to the surrounding liberal regions. Around 55% of voters in the city backed Republican candidates in the last election.
Its traditional values are evident in its family-friendly events, patriotic festivals, and the numerous churches that are a pillar of the community.
3. Modesto
Population: 218,771
Location: Check on Google Maps
Modesto’s conservatism can be traced back to its agricultural roots and community focus on traditional values. Voters here consistently choose Republican candidates, with about 60% of the vote going to the GOP. It’s also the biggest city on this list of the most conservative cities in California.
The city is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, low-key suburban life, and a strong presence of faith-based organizations.
2. Huntington Beach
Population: 198,711
Location: Check on Google Maps
Known as “Surf City USA,” Huntington Beach is also a haven for conservative values along the coast. In recent elections, more than 60% of voters here supported Republican candidates, making it one of the most conservative beach towns in California.
Its traditional family focus, paired with a fiercely patriotic local culture, makes this one of the most conservative cities in Southern California (despite not being in one of the most conservative parts of California).
1. Orange
Population: 140,489
Location: Check on Google Maps
Topping the list is Orange, a city that embodies conservative ideals in Southern California. Voters here overwhelmingly back Republican candidates, with nearly 70% of the vote in favor of the GOP in recent elections. It also represents one of most conservative counties in California despite being surrounded by progressive areas in SoCal.
The city’s deep faith-based culture, family-friendly environment, and strong emphasis on tradition make it the most conservative city in California.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is California a conservative state?
California is widely known for its liberal policies, especially in urban centers like Los Angeles and San Francisco. However, there are several conservative pockets across the state, particularly in rural areas and select suburbs.
How conservative is California?
While California as a whole leans liberal, conservative communities thrive, especially in agricultural regions, inland cities, and some coastal towns. These areas hold tight to traditional values and vote overwhelmingly for Republican candidates.
What is the most conservative city in California?
Orange ranks as the most conservative city in California based on its voting trends, traditional culture, and strong faith-based community.
What is the most conservative county in California?
Placer County, home to Rocklin, is widely regarded as one of the most conservative counties in California, with a long history of voting Republican and strong community ties to traditional values.
