Other than Darth Vader, how many of you are buying more than 1,000 gallons of gas in a year? A $2 spread is a rounding error. Same idea for electricity. Other than year 1 or 2 pay, if your electric bill doubled would you really notice? Those are minor adjustments in an annual budget. For a few dollars a year, you can live in a great climate with outstanding outdoor recreation options. I love picking on Californians as much as the next guy, but there are plenty of great people to associate with. If you turn off the news, it's not all bad. If you plan on living there for just a few years, rent your accommodations and invest the difference. If you are making a long term commitment, frozen property values eventually take the sting out of property taxes. If you are worried about income taxes, start a side hustle and/or invest in real estate.