There are many things to consider before choosing a new neighborhood to live in such as the economy, safety, and overall atmosphere of the city. Other things to look out for include the weather, transport, and nearby attractions.

But most important of all, you should consider whether the area makes you happy. 

Although happiness is an elusive quality to measure, a new survey by WalletHub did just that, and it's no surprise that California's sunny and thriving cities top the list. A number of factors went into choosing the winners including emotional well-being, longevity, employment opportunities, and environmental standards. This guide will examine two of California’s happiest regions and their main cities so you can start daydreaming about your new neighborhood today.

The Bay Area

The Bay Area is a thriving region where bustling tech districts intertwine with picturesque suburbs and sprawling forests. Silicon Valley and Stanford may be its strongest claims to fame, but the Bay Area is also home to some of the nation's wealthiest and happiest cities. Topping the list is Fremont, which is nestled along the East Bay and has a stunning combination of nature, architecture, and peaceful living. With a low crime rate and high employment rate, the city offers a perfect amount of excitement and tranquility.

San Jose comes in second place due to its thriving economy, growing housing options, and breadth of opportunities. The city features an eclectic mix of art, culture, and parks, which makes it a wonderful place for all kinds of people. Not far behind is San Francisco, which remains immensely desirable despite its soaring prices. While the housing market appears to be stabilizing, San Francisco is a smaller city where the competition is fierce but the rewards are well worth the search. Also on the list is Santa Rosa which is a nearby city where the colorful culture of San Francisco meets suburban charm with tremendous results.

Southern California

Los Angeles may be the most famous city in Southern California, but it's the surrounding cities in Los Angeles County that top the list as the happiest places in the US today. Cities like Garden Grove and Chula Vista bring beach-town charm and entrepreneurial spirit together, making them great places to call home. Santa Clarita is one of the largest cities in Los Angeles County and it continues to grow with exciting new developments and a dynamic cultural scene.

San Diego gets a worthwhile mention due to its wonderful attractions that include sprawling beaches, local art shows, varied restaurants, and a walkable layout. Anaheim also makes an appearance on the list, which is no surprise given its proximity to Disneyland among other great entertainment options. While each Southern California city has its own unique character, all share the same trait of having great weather, world-class arts and entertainment, and access to breathtaking nature and outdoor activities.

You can't go wrong with any of these California cities and there are countless other great cities to choose from as well. As a large and diverse state, you can find anything from bustling cities to quaint suburbs to rural communities and much more. With some of the happiest cities in America, California remains one of the best places to live.

Check out all of WalletHub's main findings with the below visual.

Source: WalletHub