Living in California

Are you thinking of moving to California? Find out what it’s like living in CA!

Known for its abundant surf culture, breathtaking national parks, and sprawling wine country, California has become one of the most popular and beloved destinations in the United States. Located on the west coast nestled along the Pacific Ocean, California remains one of the largest states in terms of both land and population. With over 39.51 million people living in California, young professionals are flocking to this state of fame and fortune for its diverse culture, flourishing business opportunities, and incredible cities to live in.

If you are considering a move to California, then you will want to do plenty of research beforehand. While a move this big may be exciting, it can also be stressful. By compiling this list of the 11 Things to Know BEFORE Moving to California, our team will help you stay ahead of the game to make your move as easy as possible. Read on to learn more!

1. California is huge and spread out.

Containing a dense redwood forest, cliff-lined beaches, gorgeous mountain ranges, hot deserts, and miles of farmland, California is the state of natural beauty and wonder. Ranked as the third-largest state when comparing land area, California is massive. Though not as big as Alaska or Texas, California makes up 4.31% of the United States. In fact, California is the same size as the entire country of Germany and is 1.7 times bigger than the United Kingdom.

Spanning for 163,696 square miles, California stretches from the Mexican border to the state of Oregon. With so much land to explore, most residents have to rely on cars in order to get around. While there may be some areas that are walkable, traveling from city to city is only possible by car since everything is so spread out. As of 2019, there were almost 15 million registered vehicles in California alone. With limited public transportation options, prepare for lots of traffic and long commute times.

2. The cost of living is high

Not coming as a surprise, California has one of the highest costs of living in the United States. Ranked as the third most expensive state to live in the country, moving to California will certainly come with the price tag. In fact, California is 49.9% more expensive than the national average. So what is the cause of this extremely high cost of living? Not only is the state expensive due to its size and population, but thanks to numerous progressive movements and regulations aimed to reduce carbon emissions and environmental concerns, the cost of living has been driven up. Housing prices, gas, utilities, groceries, and demand are all noticeably priced higher than other states in the country. Depending on where you live in the state will determine the cost of living. When deciding on a city to move to, be aware that certain areas are known to be more expensive than others. Before moving to California, it is recommended to save at least $10,000 to move and travel.

The most expensive cities in California include San Francisco, Silicon Valley, Beverly Hills, and Malibu. San Francisco and the Silicon Valley area, in particular, have some of the highest real estate prices in the country. In order to make ends meet in San Francisco, an average income of $92,000 is recommended for a family of four. Meanwhile, in Los Angeles, an average income of $77,000 is recommended to live comfortably. The cities of Eureka, Sacramento, Oxnard, and Fontana are some of the least expensive cities to live in California. Due to the high cost of living, 53% of residents have been seen moving out of the state. The COVID-19 Pandemic has driven many locals out since the cost of living and housing is too expensive to afford. As more locals are moving out, more and more young professionals with high-paying jobs are moving in which continues to increase the prices.

3. Housing can be a concern.

California has been experiencing a housing shortage since 1970. Land use regulations created by the government have driven up the cost of production and have reduced housing availability. Ranked number 49 out of 50 states in available housing units per resident, the demand for housing exceeds supply. This housing shortage is reflected in the insanely high housing prices. Homes in California are priced 2.5 times higher than the national average. As of April, the median housing price in California was $813,890. Depending on the area you choose to live in determines how high or low the housing prices may be. For example, the median home price in Los Angeles is $550,000, but the median home price in Santa Clara in Silicon Valley is $1.2 million.

For middle-class Americans and families, affording a home in California is hard to come by which is why many people choose to rent. As more and more young professionals and college graduates are moving in for higher-paying jobs, the more the prices rise as also seen reflected through the high cost of living. It goes without saying that California has priced out the locals, many of which left the state during the COVID-19 Pandemic. If you are able to afford a home and live comfortably in California then you are doing quite well for yourself.

4. It is the state of opportunity.

Home of the largest economy in the nation which brings in $3.2 trillion dollars of GDP annually, California reigns supreme in the economic sector. The California economy happens to be so big that it outranks countries such as India, Russia, and Germany to take the seat of the fifth largest economy in the world. With an economy this big and accounting for 14.8% of the countries GDP, Californian jobs are very important. In 2019, the California economy even grew by 34.4% which means that there are plenty of job opportunities for those that are searching for work.

Spearheading the film and TV industry in Hollywood and Los Angeles, the industries of agriculture and tourism follow close behind in popularity. Meanwhile, jobs in healthcare, agriculture, hospitality, and technology are picking up speed. Big tech corporations such as Apple, Google, Oracle, and Cisco are headquartered in Silicon Valley which is the region just south of San Francisco that dominates the technology world. Out of all of the hundreds of thousands of technology jobs available, 38% of residents are employed at one of the top 15 technology companies headquartered in the region. Other major companies that call California home are Netflix, Facebook, Adobe Systems, and Wells Fargo. With so much economic diversity, find your dream job in California.

5. California has some of the best weather in the country.

Are you moving to California for the sunshine and warm weather? Known for its Mediterranean climate, expect warm and dry summers alongside wet and mild winters. Due to its diverse landscape, temperatures can vary depending on which region you choose to live in. Santa Barbara is often considered as having the best climate and best weather out of the whole state. With an average daily temperature of 70 degrees Fahrenheit, the desirable weather is one of the many reasons why people love living in California. The hottest summer months in California are July and August where the temperatures can spike into the 80s. Meanwhile in Death Valley, which is often referred to as one of the hottest places on earth, reaches daily temperatures of 130 degrees Fahrenheit.

If you are moving to southern California from a cold state, be happy to know that it rarely ever gets freezing cold. The lowest daily temperature in southern California during the winter is 49 degrees Fahrenheit. Do you like the snow? The state does experience high levels of snowfall in the mountains. In fact, Lassen National Park has the heaviest annual snowfall in which 55 feet of snow covers the area in the winter. Before moving, be aware that there are some weather risks to be aware of. Since the state is currently in a drought, most of California is experiencing heat waves, long dry periods, and an increased risk of forest fires. Water rationing has become part of day-to-day life throughout the state.

6. Northern California and southern California are very different.

When deciding where to live in California there are many options to choose from. The first step towards finding a place to call home is to understand the differences between northern and southern California which are often referred to as NorCal and SoCal. Though in the same state, both regions are very different and it can take anywhere from four to eight hours to travel between the two. So which one is right for you? Northern California is notorious for its cooler and rainy weather while southern California is warm and sunny pretty much every day since it is located in the desert.

In northern California, San Francisco is the cultural hub while Silicon Valley is the destination for all things business and technology. Southern California on the other hand is home to Los Angeles, Hollywood, sunny beaches, and celebrities. More spread out and easier to get around, northern California has better parking and a fantastic public transportation system called the Bay Area Rapid Transit or the BART. In southern California, public transportation is not as reliable so good luck even trying to find a parking spot. While both regions may offer similar amenities and opportunities, the rivalries between the two will continue to separate them. No matter if you choose the NorCal or the SoCal life, make sure to explore both to get the most out of your California adventure.

7. The beaches are beautiful.

Stretching for 840 miles along the Pacific Coastline, California is surrounded by clear blue water and stunning beaches. Attracting thousands of surfers and beachgoers year-round, spending the day at the beach is a must-do for residents. Laying out in the sand with a cold drink in hand is a California pastime perfect for a family outing or weekend adventure. Sunbathe, snorkel, swim, jet ski, and watch the sunrise or sunset.

If you are moving from the east coast, keep in mind that the Pacific Ocean is much colder than the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. Before swimming or surfing, it might be a good idea to invest in a wetsuit in order to stay warm. The water is also known to be more dangerous and choppier than the Atlantic Ocean with bigger waves. Before venturing out into the rough water, watch out for rip currents and dangerous conditions.

Check out the most popular beaches in California!

• Malibu Beach: Named the most beautiful beach in California and located just west of Los Angeles, Malibu is most famous for being the home of many celebrities and big names in Hollywood. Surrounded by multi-million dollar homes, Malibu Beach offers amazing views and epic surf.
• Laguna Beach: Found in Orange County in southern California lies the pristine beach of Laguna which features seven miles of hidden coves and canyons. Great for surfing and admiring the wildlife, Laguna Beach remains one of the most infamous beaches in California.
• Pfieffer Beach: Found in Monterey County lies the picturesque Pfieffer Beach. A top destination and part of Big Sur, enjoy the amazing stone formations and notorious purple sand.
• Half Moon Bay: This quaint beach just south of San Francisco is known for its crescent shape and Mavericks Beach which is a popular big surf location.
• Pismo Beach: This small beach town in central California is home to this beloved stretch of beach perfect for fishing and walking in the sand. Bring your camera to snap a few pictures!
• Santa Cruz Beach: Considered one of the most laid-back beaches in California, this beach has warm sand and a boardwalk full of amusement rides and beachside shops. The Lighthouse Field State Beach in Santa Cruz is a favorite dog-friendly beach perfect for bringing your furry friend.
• La Jolla Cove Beach: This beach in southern California near San Diego has the bluest water in the state. Surrounded by cliffs, this cove and beach is a popular destination for surfers and swimmers since the water is so clear.
• Carmel City Beach: Known to have the brightest white sand in the state, this beach in Monterey County is the perfect place to watch the sunset or roast marshmallows over a small beach fire.

8. National parks are everywhere.

Featuring the most national parks out of all of the other states, California is home to nine that each has its own allure to visitors. For those that love the great outdoors and exploring the natural beauty of the world, then moving to California is a great idea. If these national parks are not on your bucket list already then make sure to add them.

Check out these California national parks!

• Death Valley National Park: Featuring a mysterious and out worldly landscape,  Death Valley is known as one of the hottest places on Earth. Avoid dehydration and pack lots of water before visiting!
• Yosemite National Park: Magnificent waterfalls, stunning hiking trails, and miles of mountain ranges make Yosemite one of the most popular national parks in the country. Visitors come from all over the world to camp, hike, mountain climb, and fish. Considered a photographer’s dream destination, capture the beauty that is Yosemite.
• Point Reyes National Seashore: Located in northern California lies this protected coastline of amazing beaches, grasslands, and miles of forests. When visiting, have your chance to spot wildlife including blue whales, seals, and elk. There is even a lighthouse.
• Joshua Tree National Park: Named an International Dark Sky Park, head to Joshua Tree to stargaze and watch the night sky without any light pollution.
• Channel Islands: Nicknamed “The Galapagos Islands of North America,” these islands are only accessible by boat or plane. With over 145 species of animals and 2,000 plants and flowers, the Channel Islands are a great reprieve from everyday life. The Catalina Wine Mixer is located on the Channel Islands.
• Lassen Volcanic National Park: Not as well known but similar to Yellowstone National Park, Lassen is home to many active volcanoes which last erupted in 1914. Visit the steaming pools and mud pots that can be found all over the park.
• Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park: Open all year, this national park is a part of the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range and is named after the beautiful Sequoia trees that can be found all over the park.
• Devils Postpile National Monument: Found in Mammoth Lake, this national monument was created by volcanic lava that erupted and cooled over time to create the structure that is visited today.
• Pinnacles National Park: This volcanic field shifted over time to develop its rock formations that are cool to walk around. Hike the many trails and check out the caves.

9. There are amusement parks galore.

Once you are done visiting the many national parks, head to the multiple amusement parks that reside in California. There are a total of 38 different amusement parks throughout the state that residents can enjoy. Disneyland and Disney California Adventure are perhaps some of the most well-known attractions located in Anaheim. Though smaller than Disney World in Florida, Disneyland has unique rides that set it apart including Alice in Wonderland, Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage, Indiana Jones Adventure, Guardians of the Galaxy, and Snow Whites Scary Adventure. Other amusement parks such as Universal Studios Hollywood, Californias Great America, Legoland California, and SeaWorld San Diego are other popular attractions. Before visiting, double-check with the park for COVID-19 guidelines and restrictions.

10. Quality higher education.

Are you or your kids looking for higher education opportunities? Full of top-notch and highly rated institutions, one of the best parts of living in California is for the in-state tuition prices. Since the California State University System is the biggest public university system in the country, that means that there are a total of 281 different colleges and universities to choose from.

The University of California located in Berkeley is perhaps one of the most well-known and largest public universities in the state. This four-year public university offers over 300-degree programs in all kinds of different areas of study. Stanford University in Stanford is among the top universities in the country and was ranked by Forbes as the number two top college out of all 50 states. No matter where you decide to further your education, California offers only the best private and public colleges and universities.

11. Become a wine connoisseur.

Home to more than 1,200 wineries, California produces the largest amount of wine in the United States. The wine culture in California is so huge that the state actually produces 30% more wine than the entire country of Australia and it ranks number four as one of the largest wine-producing areas in the world. Originally introduced to the area in 1690 by Spanish missionaries for religious purposes, wine production has since turned into a major industry. Thanks to the warm Mediterranean climate, wine can be made all year round.

Napa Valley in northern California is the most famous region of the state that makes wine. With 600 wineries, Napa Valley has become a cool destination for couples, bachelorette parties, and seasoned wine drinkers. Whether you are traveling to the north coast, central coast, or southern coast of California there will most likely be a winery to visit. What better way to become acquainted with your new state than by drinking its wine.