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Last Updated: May 13, 2024
We will discuss moving to California in 2024, covering everything from all the different cities to everyday life as well as food and family values.
When you think of California, you probably picture earthquakes, high living costs, sunny beaches, and lots of avocados—and yes, we do love our avocados here. But there’s a lot more to consider if you’re thinking about moving to this gigantic state.
I’m here to give you all the essential tips and insights about different areas, including details on crime rates, schools, and how easy it is to get around. Keep reading, and I’ll share my top places to visit in California.
When deciding to move to California, you’re going to have to choose between the Northern or Southern half of the state, as each region offers distinct vibes and climates.
Northern California, including San Francisco and Silicon Valley, tends to be cooler and rainier, making it great for tech jobs due to its booming industry.
On the other hand, Southern California, which includes Los Angeles, San Diego, and Orange County, generally boasts warmer weather and is closer to the equator, providing a sunnier lifestyle.
Living in California can be pricey, primarily due to high housing costs which significantly drive up the overall cost of living.
The median home price in January was about $739,100, which is much higher than the national median of just over $400,000.
In major metropolitan areas like San Diego and San Francisco, these prices soar even higher, affecting both home purchases and rental rates.
If you’re planning to move to California on a budget, you might have to adjust your expectations about the size and type of home you can afford, possibly opting for a townhome or condo instead of a larger house.
The architectural styles in California tend to be more uniform, with ranch-style homes being the most common, though there are exceptions.
Living directly on the beach is particularly expensive, so even with a substantial budget, you might need to compromise on certain features; however, finding a place within a 15-minute drive to the beach is much more feasible.
It’s interesting to note that basements are virtually non-existent in California, so if you’re moving here and hoping for a home with one, you’re out of luck.
While many of California’s main cities are considered overcrowded, the state remains a fantastic destination for those who love the outdoors.
From national parks and beaches to mountains that offer hiking, skiing, and camping, there’s no shortage of activities and open spaces to explore.
If you’re a nature enthusiast, California’s vast array of outdoor opportunities makes it a perfect place to enjoy an active lifestyle.
Taxes in California are high, especially if you’re a high earner or run a business, so expect to contribute a significant amount to state coffers each year.
While the state’s property taxes as a percentage are below the national average, the high property prices mean you’ll still end up paying a substantial amount in property taxes annually.
However, a benefit to long-term homeowners is that property taxes increase at a slower rate than housing prices, so if you stay in your home for many years, your taxes will be relatively lower compared to new buyers in your area.
Living in California comes with its share of natural hazards, including wildfires, mudslides, and the ever-present risk of earthquakes.
Wildfires, in particular, are an annual occurrence that can be quite severe, as seen this year with major fires like the Glass Fire in Northern California affecting the Sonoma and Napa Valley areas.
These fires have led to thousands of evacuations and continue to impact the region significantly.
In California, owning a car is essential for most people, as about 95% of residents need one to effectively get around and accomplish daily tasks.
There are a few areas where you might manage without a car, depending on your specific lifestyle and needs.
However, be prepared for higher expenses, especially for gas, which is significantly more expensive in California due to heavy taxation with an average price of over $5.
Let’s face it, California is a hot spot and when you move here, your people are going to want to visit.
So here is a quick list of the popular places to check out in the State so you come prepared:
Good and reliable long distance movers will help make your transition to California so much easier. We’ve taken out the guesswork- the movers below are the most frequently recommended and we suggest you get quotes from them in advance of your move!
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At Moving Feedback we not only help you get in touch with movers in your area, we also make it easy to compare moving companies as well as offer a moving cost calculator. Visit our homepage to see what we can do for you!
George is a copywriter with a knack for adapting quickly, thanks to moving all across the US during his upbringing. Currently, he continues to embrace new cities for work, each move adding a new chapter to his story and expanding his perspective both personally and professionally. In his free time, he enjoys activities like tennis, building computers, and writing engaging stories in a professional setting.