thanks for the replies, good info!

to make it a bit more specific, we have friends in the temecula area so thats one area on our list, is that too far of a commute to LAX to be feasible?

also, is Oceanside/Carlsbad area feasibly drivable? I kinda had it in my mind that it was a bit too long of a drive up to LAX. maybe I just need to shift my ideas about committing from UT norms to CA standards!

And I never even really considered santa barbara county! You using a helo to get to work?!!!

thanks again to all