Introduction
California has long been a magnet for storytellers, artists, and innovators, making it one of the most exciting places in the world to publish a book.
From the bustling literary scene in San Francisco to the creative energy of Los Angeles, the state offers publishers that cater to every genre and ambition. Whether you’re an author hoping to release a thoughtful memoir, a children’s book filled with imagination, or a research-based academic title, California has publishers ready to bring your vision to life.
In 2025, the state continues to thrive with a mix of established presses and fresh, independent houses that give new voices a platform. This list of California’s top 35 book publishers will help authors find the right match.
Top 35 Best Book Publishers in California in 2025
1. Emerald Ghostwriting
About: Emerald Ghostwriting is a California-based service dedicated to helping authors develop and publish their books. They specialize in ghostwriting and full-service publishing support.
What They Publish: Manuscripts across genres, including memoirs, business books, fiction, and self-help titles, are shaped through collaboration with clients.
Why Choose Them: With professional editing, design, and marketing services, Emerald Ghostwriting ensures polished, market-ready books. Their tailored approach makes them an excellent choice for both debut writers and experienced authors aiming to refine their projects.
2. Chronicle Books
About: Chronicle Books, founded in San Francisco in 1967, has grown into one of California’s most recognizable independent publishers.
What They Publish: Illustrated books, children’s literature, lifestyle guides, art, and pop culture titles, many of which become bestsellers.
Why Choose Them: Known for creativity and stunning design, Chronicle offers authors a chance to reach global audiences with visually striking and original content. Their reputation for producing culturally relevant and collectible books makes them a leader in both aesthetics and storytelling.
3. University of California Press
About: Established in 1893, University of California Press is among the most prestigious academic publishers in the U.S. Headquartered in Oakland, it has a rich scholarly tradition.
What They Publish: Research-driven works in history, sociology, anthropology, politics, and the sciences, along with academic journals.
Why Choose Them: UC Press provides rigorous editorial processes and extensive global distribution. Authors gain credibility, a respected platform, and the opportunity to impact conversations in academia and public policy worldwide.
4. Stanford University Press
About: Founded in 1892, Stanford University Press is a globally respected academic publisher based in Palo Alto. It has consistently championed new scholarship.
What They Publish: Humanities, social sciences, business, and technology-focused titles that contribute to intellectual discourse.
Why Choose Them: With its peer-review system and global readership, Stanford offers authors unmatched academic credibility. Writers benefit from expert editorial support and a platform recognized for fostering innovative and diverse scholarly work across disciplines.
5. Heyday Books
About: Heyday Books, established in 1974 in Berkeley, is a nonprofit press dedicated to California’s cultural and environmental heritage.
What They Publish: Nonfiction on Native American history, natural history, regional identity, and literature tied to the state.
Why Choose Them: Authors working with Heyday gain access to a community-driven publisher that values cultural preservation. Its programming and strong regional connections amplify books, making them both meaningful and impactful across local and national audiences.
6. Red Hen Press
About: Red Hen Press, founded in 1994 in Pasadena, has become one of California’s leading independent literary presses.
What They Publish: Poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction with a strong focus on diverse and innovative voices.
Why Choose Them: Red Hen offers authors editorial excellence, national visibility, and community programs that elevate underrepresented writers. Their commitment to literary quality and inclusivity makes them a standout choice for authors seeking to engage serious readers and critics.
7. City Lights Publishers
About: Established in 1955 by poet Lawrence Ferlinghetti, City Lights Publishers is a historic San Francisco press tied to America’s Beat movement.
What They Publish: Poetry, fiction, political nonfiction, and cultural criticism that often challenge conventions.
Why Choose Them: City Lights provides authors with a platform rooted in activism and creativity. Writers benefit from its enduring reputation, supportive editorial team, and audience that values thought-provoking, countercultural, and socially conscious literature.
8. Angel City Press
About: Angel City Press, founded in 1992 in Los Angeles, specializes in high-quality books celebrating California culture and history.
What They Publish: Regional nonfiction, art, lifestyle, and richly illustrated titles that highlight California’s communities.
Why Choose Them: Authors appreciate Angel City’s attention to design and content that captures the spirit of the Golden State. Its strong local identity and production values make it an excellent home for writers celebrating California’s diverse heritage.
9. Greenwriters Press (California branch)
About: Greenwriters Press, originally founded in Vermont, expanded into California with a mission to promote environmental awareness.
What They Publish: Fiction, nonfiction, and children’s literature centered on sustainability, ecology, and social justice.
Why Choose Them: Authors drawn to eco-conscious storytelling value Greenwriters’ commitment to ethical publishing and activism. Its California branch provides a platform for voices committed to climate action and environmental responsibility, reaching readers who care deeply about global change.
10. Tuttle Publishing (California division)
About: Tuttle Publishing, with roots in Asian culture, has established California operations to serve West Coast readers.
What They Publish: Books on Asian languages, martial arts, cooking, crafts, and cultural studies.
Why Choose Them: Authors benefit from Tuttle’s decades-long reputation, editorial expertise, and strong international distribution. For writers bridging Eastern and Western cultures, Tuttle offers both prestige and reach, making it a trusted name for cross-cultural publishing.
11. Prospect Park Books
About: Prospect Park Books, based in Los Angeles, is a dynamic independent press established in 2006. It thrives on producing smart, original, and beautifully designed titles.
What They Publish: Contemporary fiction, cookbooks, humor, regional nonfiction, and lifestyle books that appeal to modern audiences.
Why Choose Them: Authors appreciate Prospect Park’s approachable editorial process, supportive relationships, and its ability to connect with California’s cultural and literary communities. It’s a strong platform for writers seeking both creativity and commercial success.
12. Counterpoint Press
About: Counterpoint Press, located in Berkeley, is a highly respected independent publisher with a reputation for literary quality. Founded in 1994, it has published many notable authors.
What They Publish: Literary fiction, memoir, essays, and cultural criticism with intellectual and creative depth.
Why Choose Them: Counterpoint offers authors careful editorial support, national distribution, and long-term partnerships. Writers looking for a publisher that blends artistry with market presence find Counterpoint a reliable and prestigious choice.
13. Rare Bird Books
About: Founded in 2010 in Los Angeles, Rare Bird Books is a bold and innovative press that embraces originality and risk-taking.
What They Publish: Fiction, nonfiction, and memoirs with unconventional, edgy, and conversation-starting perspectives.
Why Choose Them: Rare Bird stands out for its dynamic marketing strategies, including podcasts and events, that amplify authors’ voices. Writers looking for creative freedom and strong visibility in niche and mainstream markets find Rare Bird Books a strong ally.
14. Ten Speed Press
About: Ten Speed Press, founded in Berkeley in 1971, has become a leader in publishing practical and beautifully designed books.
What They Publish: Bestselling cookbooks, lifestyle guides, creativity-focused books, and instructional titles.
Why Choose Them: Authors benefit from Ten Speed’s strong marketing, wide distribution, and reputation for award-winning design. Writers with lifestyle expertise, food knowledge, or creative guidance will find Ten Speed Press an ideal home for reaching both niche and mass audiences.
15. Sasquatch Books (California-based operations)
About: Sasquatch Books, originally founded in Seattle in 1986, has developed significant California operations to better connect with West Coast writers.
What They Publish: Cooking, lifestyle, nature, wellness, and regional-interest books that highlight creativity and practicality.
Why Choose Them: Authors value Sasquatch for its supportive editorial process and its ability to market lifestyle content to California’s diverse audience. Writers who want to blend expertise with regional appeal find Sasquatch a reliable publisher.
16. Cameron + Company
About: Cameron + Company, based in Petaluma, California, is renowned for publishing visually rich illustrated books since 1964.
What They Publish: Photography, art, architecture, and California culture presented in beautifully designed formats.
Why Choose Them: Authors benefit from expert design, high production values, and a readership that appreciates visual storytelling. For photographers, artists, and writers focusing on visually engaging subjects, Cameron + Company provides a premier publishing opportunity.
17. Manic D Press
About: Manic D Press, established in San Francisco in 1984, celebrates alternative voices and underground culture.
What They Publish: Fiction, poetry, nonfiction, and children’s titles that embrace unconventional ideas and creative boldness.
Why Choose Them: Authors value Manic D for its openness to originality, risk-taking, and cultural diversity. Writers seeking to connect with readers who appreciate edgy, independent voices find this press a supportive and authentic home.
18. Zyzzyva Press
About: Zyzzyva Press grew out of the ZYZZYVA literary journal, founded in 1985 in San Francisco, and continues to champion West Coast writing.
What They Publish: Fiction, poetry, essays, and works from both emerging and established authors.
Why Choose Them: Authors gain from Zyzzyva’s strong literary reputation and community. Writers who want to publish with a press rooted in California’s cultural diversity and literary excellence will find Zyzzyva a respected and supportive platform.
19. Soft Skull Press
About: Soft Skull Press, founded in 1992, operates with a strong California presence, publishing works that challenge convention.
What They Publish: Literary fiction, memoirs, cultural criticism, and politically engaged nonfiction.
Why Choose Them: Authors drawn to bold experimentation and socially conscious writing find Soft Skull appealing. Its reputation for innovative and conversation-starting titles makes it a compelling choice for writers seeking both literary distinction and cultural relevance.
20. Akashic Books (California branch collaboration)
About: Akashic Books, established in Brooklyn in 1997, has extended collaborations with California-based writers and imprints.
What They Publish: Noir fiction, urban stories, crime novels, and socially conscious nonfiction.
Why Choose Them: Authors benefit from Akashic’s international reputation and its strong commitment to diverse voices. Writers looking to publish socially relevant, community-focused, or genre-defying work will find Akashic’s California partnerships a valuable outlet.
21. Pacific Books
About: Pacific Books is a California-based publisher dedicated to highlighting stories inspired by the state’s lifestyle and culture.
What They Publish: Fiction, nonfiction, and children’s literature with strong regional and cultural themes.
Why Choose Them: Authors enjoy Pacific’s approachable editorial process and its focus on connecting local voices with wider audiences. It’s an ideal press for writers celebrating California’s diverse communities and creative spirit.
22. Turner Publishing (California partnerships)
About: Turner Publishing, founded in 1984, is a national press with established partnerships supporting California authors.
What They Publish: History, memoir, business, lifestyle, and general nonfiction titles.
Why Choose Them: Authors benefit from Turner’s extensive distribution, professional editorial process, and strong marketing support. For California writers seeking both regional relevance and national visibility, Turner offers a powerful publishing opportunity.
23. Coffee House Press (California literary collab)
About: Coffee House Press, founded in 1972, has collaborated closely with California’s literary scene, extending its reach westward.
What They Publish: Contemporary fiction, essays, and poetry with a focus on innovation and inclusivity.
Why Choose Them: Writers gain editorial freedom, artistic encouragement, and access to a supportive literary network. Authors who want to experiment while connecting with California’s diverse audience find Coffee House a fitting partner.
24. Omnidawn Publishing
About: Omnidawn Publishing, founded in 2001 in Richmond, California, is a respected independent press known for literary innovation.
What They Publish: Poetry, experimental prose, hybrid works, and literary nonfiction.
Why Choose Them: Authors value Omnidawn’s commitment to originality and artistic risk. Writers who want to reach readers who appreciate boundary-pushing literature find Omnidawn an exceptional choice, backed by a supportive editorial environment.
25. Cleis Press
About: Cleis Press, active since 1980 and now based in California, is one of the leading publishers of sexuality and LGBTQ+ literature.
What They Publish: Fiction, erotica, gender studies, and nonfiction on identity, relationships, and empowerment.
Why Choose Them: Authors benefit from Cleis’s reputation for inclusivity, advocacy, and connecting with passionate readerships. Writers exploring themes of diversity and personal expression find Cleis Press a trusted publishing partner.
26. Moon Tide Press
About: Moon Tide Press, established in 2006 in Southern California, is dedicated to publishing quality poetry.
What They Publish: Poetry collections by emerging and established voices, often reflecting California’s cultural and natural landscapes.
Why Choose Them: Authors value Moon Tide’s community-driven mission and commitment to lyrical storytelling. Poets seeking editorial care and meaningful regional engagement will find a supportive home here.
27. Rattlesnake Press
About: Rattlesnake Press, based in California, is a small independent press focusing on grassroots literary efforts.
What They Publish: Chapbooks, poetry collections, and regional works that highlight local voices.
Why Choose Them: Authors enjoy Rattlesnake’s personal approach and its emphasis on supporting emerging poets. Writers seeking an intimate, community-focused publisher find it an excellent platform.
28. BOA Editions (California partnerships)
About: BOA Editions, founded in 1976, is a respected poetry publisher with important author partnerships in California.
What They Publish: Poetry, literary fiction, and translated works from global voices.
Why Choose Them: Writers benefit from BOA’s credibility, wide recognition, and national reach. California authors gain prestige while connecting with readers beyond the region, making BOA a valuable option for serious literary work.
29. Kaya Press
About: Kaya Press, founded in 1994 and now housed at the University of Southern California, specializes in Asian and Pacific Islander literature.
What They Publish: Fiction, poetry, nonfiction, and experimental works that reflect diaspora and cultural identity.
Why Choose Them: Authors value Kaya’s mission-driven publishing and dedication to diverse voices. Writers looking to explore themes of heritage and innovation find Kaya a vital platform.
30. Heyday’s Ishmael Reed Series
About: Heyday’s Ishmael Reed Series publishes work under the guidance of the acclaimed writer, focusing on amplifying marginalized voices.
What They Publish: Multicultural literature, African American writing, and socially engaged works that challenge norms.
Why Choose Them: Authors gain the prestige of working within Reed’s legacy and Heyday’s established reputation. Writers seeking to engage with pressing cultural issues will find this series an impactful outlet.
31. City Lights Publishers
About: City Lights Publishers, founded in 1955 in San Francisco by poet Lawrence Ferlinghetti, is a legendary press tied to the Beat movement.
What They Publish: Poetry, progressive nonfiction, cultural criticism, and international literature.
Why Choose Them: Authors value City Lights for its deep literary heritage, activist spirit, and loyal readership. Writers seeking to publish work with lasting cultural resonance and strong political or social themes will find City Lights both prestigious and impactful.
32. Chronicle Prism (Chronicle Books imprint)
About: Chronicle Prism is a contemporary imprint of Chronicle Books, one of San Francisco’s leading publishers since 1967.
What They Publish: Narrative nonfiction, memoirs, cultural explorations, and socially relevant titles.
Why Choose Them: Authors benefit from Chronicle’s design strength, distribution networks, and the imprint’s focus on modern voices. Writers looking to share thought-provoking, timely nonfiction with wide audiences will find Chronicle Prism a platform that balances creativity with commercial success.
33. No Starch Press
About: No Starch Press, founded in 1994 in San Francisco, is a unique publisher with a global reputation for accessible, high-quality books.
What They Publish: Technology, programming, computer science, STEM for all ages, and educational guides.
Why Choose Them: Authors appreciate No Starch’s commitment to clarity, design, and international reach. Writers producing technical yet reader-friendly content for learners and professionals will find this press ideal for reaching both niche and mainstream audiences in the tech-driven world.
34. Red Hen Press (California partnerships)
About: Red Hen Press, founded in 1994 in Los Angeles, is one of the largest independent presses on the West Coast.
What They Publish: Literary fiction, poetry, memoirs, and essays, often supporting underrepresented voices.
Why Choose Them: Authors benefit from Red Hen’s national reputation, excellent editorial support, and extensive outreach programs. Writers seeking a blend of artistic quality and visibility find Red Hen Press a supportive partner dedicated to fostering meaningful literature with staying power.
35. Sunbelt Publications
About: Sunbelt Publications, founded in 1984 in San Diego, focuses on books inspired by California and the Southwest’s natural and cultural heritage.
What They Publish: Regional nonfiction, history, travel, nature, and children’s books reflecting the landscape and culture.
Why Choose Them: Authors enjoy Sunbelt’s dedication to regional voices, strong educational networks, and community-driven distribution. Writers aiming to share stories connected to California’s unique environment and traditions will find Sunbelt a specialized and supportive publisher.
Understanding Publishing Costs in California
When planning to publish in California, it helps to see the typical cost ranges at a glance. Below is a simple breakdown of what many authors spend when working with editors, designers, and marketing professionals in the state.
| Service | Typical Low Range | Typical High Range | Notes |
| Editing | $1,000 | $5,000 | Professional developmental and copyediting can be pricey in big cities. |
| Cover Design | $500 | $2,000 | High-quality, eye-catching covers are often worth the investment. |
| Formatting | $300 | $1,500 | Print + eBook formatting ensures professional readability. |
| Marketing & Promotion | $1,500 | $8,000 | Costs vary depending on ads, events, and PR campaigns. |
| Full-Service Packages | $5,000 | $10,000+ | Bundled services for authors wanting a start-to-finish publishing solution. |
In California’s competitive market, these numbers can be slightly higher than the national average, especially in Los Angeles and San Francisco. But the return is strong: authors gain access to experienced professionals and a multicultural readership eager for fresh voices.
Conclusion
California’s publishing landscape is as diverse and vibrant as the state itself. From iconic presses like City Lights to innovative independents such as Rare Bird and Kaya Press, opportunities exist for every type of author.
Whether you’re pursuing traditional routes or exploring self-publishing, understanding your costs, audience, and goals is essential. With the right match, publishing in California can provide not just a book deal, but a platform for your voice to reach far beyond the state’s borders.
