Growth is not linear, we're about to get a lesson about that.

I suspect that markets with landlord and developer friendly policies will see more growth, in terms of populations, jobs, etc. 

Louis, Richmond, and Louisville are markets with high growth potential, strong demand, and moderate entry costs.

.- Location and Market Trends: Choose projects in prime locations or areas with high growth potential.

I am looking to house hack, but I am having issues finding the right markets in Northern California that have good population growth or at least a market that has a steady stream of tenants.

So while 50k is probably enough to get you started in real estate, it is nowhere close to being capable of generating that kind of reliable income without serious growth.  

Don't give up on growth just because it's hard. 

Gallatin is poised for some serious growth. 

The appealing aspect here is the ongoing population growth and other economic factors.

Reno makes sense from a tax and insurance and economic growth perspective and also proximity to family but it's not a place I've fallen in love with despite spending two weeks there (one week last winter and one week more recently in the summer).