California is an incredibly diverse state geographically, culturally, and economically.

While Beverly Hills residents owe about $24,962 per household, and consumers living in Calabasas owe about $25,266 per household, the average California household owes less than half of that - around $10,496 in credit card debt.

The cost of living in California, particularly in the San Francisco Bay Area and Southern California, is very high, forcing many residents, including top earners, to spend more than 50 percent of their income on housing. According to a 2021 CNBC report, the average single person needs to earn roughly $39,000 to live in California comfortably - and that's to help cover the $15,200 spent on housing each year, plus $3,800 toward food.

Still, many Californians continued to charge more than just rent and food to their credit cards. Analysts attribute the increased spending as a sign consumers were feeling optimistic about the economy and were taking on additional debt without necessarily preparing for a financial emergency.

California residents interested in either a free credit counseling session and/or enrolling in our debt management program can connect with one of our certified credit counselors by calling us directly at 888-686-4040 or schedule an appointment here.

Testimonials from our California Clients:

• “What a truly amazing program, not to be compared to programs of long ago that changed your credit portfolio, this program is one that should be modeled as a way to get and stay out of debt. Thank you for employing individuals that are kind and empathetic while taking our calls.”

• “Thank you. The program is making a big difference not only financially, but emotionally and psychologically as well. It has allowed me to reframe the mindset towards purposeful financial management. Thank you and only 8 months to go!!”

• “The person who helped me from day one was very experienced, knowledgeable, and sensitive to my needs. I gave very sensitive information about me, my mother (not deceased), and my financial situation. I needed to know what I could do to help us both. The representative listened very carefully and explained everything carefully. I had to call back several times and she was never irritated. I am so pleased that there is an organization to help people like me become debt-free and credit scores go up at the same time. I have now started to counsel young people in my family and church about managing their finances. I’ve been retired now for two-and-a-half years and I’m grateful to DebtWave for helping me become debt-free. My daughter was in this program too. She has recommended several people and both of us will continue to do so. Thank you so much.”