The TOP 10 SNOBBIEST Cities In California!

There are TONS of different kinds of snobs. You have the millionaire snobs, the teenager-porche-driving snobs, wine snobs, music snobs, even social snobs! Every city has them, every state has them. What makes someone snobby? A snob is a person who acts as if they are better than others, often due to their social class, education, or wealth. One state that you'll find a whole lot of snobs in... is California!

In this article we'll break down the snobbiest cities based on a few metrics like median home prices, percentage of college degrees, the number of private schools per capita, number of country clubs, number of art galleries, and my personal favorite: FAST FOOD RESTAURANTS!

THE GOLDEN STATE'S 10 SNOBBIEST CITIES:

10. LaFayette (Berkeley Area)

Median Home Value: $1,897,747
Located near Berkeley, LaFayette is all about luxury living. With its multi-million-dollar homes and a population of highly educated residents, it’s definitely not your average small town. Plus, there’s a noticeable lack of fast food chains—because apparently, drive-thru burgers are just too lowbrow.

9. Ventura

Median Home Value: $891,107
Ventura might have a beachy, laid-back vibe, but don’t be fooled. Its rising home prices and the prevalence of art galleries and boutique stores keep things more “exclusive” than you’d expect from a coastal town. Fast food spots? Few and far between—probably because locals prefer their kale salads.

8. Pasadena

Median Home Value: $1,155,711
Pasadena is the perfect blend of historic charm and high society. With its prestigious colleges, world-class museums, and fancy restaurants, it’s a playground for the well-educated elite. Plus, the Rose Bowl is more than just football—it's an iconic cultural hub. Who needs fast food when you've got Michelin-starred dining?

7. Newport Beach

Median Home Value: $3,289,875
Newport Beach practically screams wealth. From luxury yachts to upscale shopping on Fashion Island, this is where the rich and (often) famous come to play. Throw in the million-dollar homes and elite schools, and it’s clear Newport Beach is all about exclusivity. Fast food here? Probably something like "artisanal fries" with truffle oil.

6. Laguna Beach

Median Home Value: $2,865,108
Art galleries, posh boutiques, and scenic cliffside mansions make Laguna Beach a hotbed for the affluent. This coastal haven prefers art festivals and organic cafes. You’ll likely run into more art collectors than fast food connoisseurs here.

5. Beverly Hills

Median Home Value: $3,644,123
Beverly Hills is pretty much the poster child for snobbery. Multi-million-dollar homes, designer boutiques on Rodeo Drive, and the constant buzz of celebrity sightings—this city thrives on exclusivity. If you’re looking for a fast food chain, good luck—luxury dining reigns supreme in 90210.

4. San Francisco

Median Home Value: $1,299,639
Known for its tech scene and cultural landmarks, San Francisco is packed with intellectuals and millionaires. The city is filled with art museums, theaters, and gourmet restaurants, and fast food is often overshadowed by trendy organic cafes. It’s the perfect mix of old-world charm and Silicon Valley wealth.

3. Malibu

Median Home Value: $3,365,605
Malibu is where beachfront mansions meet celebrity hideaways. The city is known for its stunning ocean views, secluded estates, and minimal commercial development. With a lack of fast food chains and a focus on luxury living, Malibu keeps its reputation as an exclusive, snobby enclave.

2. San Rafael

Median Home Value: $1,317,448
San Rafael combines proximity to the Bay Area with a small-town vibe—and a high price tag. Art galleries, high-end wine bars, and a thriving cultural scene make it clear this city prefers a refined lifestyle over fast food. With the number of college degrees per capita, it’s no surprise San Rafael made the list.

1. Palo Alto

Median Home Value: $3,327,790
Palo Alto, home to tech billionaires and Stanford University, is the undisputed KING OF SNOBBERY!  With homes costing upwards of $3 million and an abundance of intellectual elites, this city is as exclusive as it gets. Fast food? Not likely—residents here are more into organic, farm-to-table everything.

These cities share the same traits: sky-high home values, lots of college degrees, fancy museums, and a general aversion to fast food. They’re the places where the elite live—and let everyone know it!