Californian here. South bay area. (About 2 hours north of where you are looking)
My first concern would be cost. Its very expensive. taxes on new homes, utilities ect.
Traffic!!
Not sure about down there but its bad here.
Did i mention expensive?
But you get California, THE best state as far as range and beauty in terrain.
We have beaches (not crowded if you just look), surfing, mountians, rivers, fishing, hunting. It is a beautiful place to live.
Im not sure if you have ever been but i live on HWY 17 out side of Santa Cruz, Ca.
Im in the mountains, can walk to a huge lake, dont have to lock my door and be at the beach in 15 minutes or in the city in just a few more. It may be an area worth looking into.
I would take a good look at Felton Ca. Or anywhere in that area. Its nice and rual but close to everything.
