It is sad that the cost of living is so high in California. There are not too many places here that will not cost huge amounts of cash to live in. The ones that don't cost big money you wouldn't want to live in anyways. Starter homes advertised here are normally in the 400-500K range. That can't be too afordable on most peoples budget. Especially, a regional F/O's take home.

If you have kids then you need to be in a more expensive area so that your kids won't end up in a school that is below average for academics and full of gang members, and has a tagging team.

Also, what most of us notice that are living out here in the South end of the state is that it is starting to look more and more like it does south of the border. Lots of trash everywhere, Unless you are in the high rent district.

Also, start learning spanish. You will need it. Because, a lot of our new residents here don't speak English and don't seem to have any desire to learn it. So, if you want to make things easier on yourself, start learning it. That aspect isnt too bad once you get used to it.

There are other places in the country that have a better quality of life, lower cost of living and good weather.