California isn’t called the Golden State for nothing.
Known for its fields of gold, golden hills, and all of Hollywood’s gold, the state is nothing short of rich – rich in diversity, culture, natural beauty, and the promise of boundless opportunities. No wonder why so many are California dreaming.
But what is it really like to live on the West Coast?
Matthew Blaisdell of Pittsburgh discovers the essence of living in California, highlighting the unique experiences as well as cultural and lifestyle differences one might encounter.
The Thrilling California Experience
In California, the best things in life are not only admired but actually lived.
The Golden Gate Bridge. Disneyland. Hollywood. Silicon Valley. Yosemite National Park. Stanford University. These are just a few of the numerous famous destinations that one can find in the Golden State. California is also home to an abundance of gorgeous scenery, iconic sports teams, and world-class cuisine.
In addition, the state is hailed as having the longest continental coastline and the largest population in the country, with over 39 million residents. It doesn’t stop there, though; according to Bloomberg, California is about to overtake Germany as the 4th largest economy in the world.
So what’s the catch?
Californians pay for the privilege. The Golden State is one of the most expensive places to live in the country with premium tax rates, pricey housing and rental markets, and overall high cost of living. Think of it like staying at the most luxurious hotel – the price may be steep but there is access to world-class experiences.
Let’s break down what it’s like living in California’s biggest cities:
- Los Angeles: This bustling city has it all, from beautiful beaches to breathtaking mountains. Many of the streets, scenery, and destinations in LA are seen in movies, so it’s easy to feel at home. Residents in this car-heavy city range from creatives to outdoor enthusiasts, all with a flair for a healthy lifestyle.
- San Francisco: Popular places in SF include the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and the Wharf. Life here is a little more fast-paced with a hint of East Coast vibe, where residents follow a work-hard-play-hard lifestyle. Unlike LA, SF isn’t overrun with vehicles on the road; people walk to get to places or ride the city’s fantastic public transportation.
- San Diego: San Diego is known for its historic architecture, natural beauty, and atmosphere. With plenty of picturesque beaches, the vibe here is more laid back, with locals having a go-with-the-flow attitude.
- Sacramento: Sacramento is known for delicious eats, breweries, and beautiful scenery. With a lower cost of living compared to other major California cities, SacTown has a relaxed vibe.
The Diverse California Culture
We all know what the “gold” in the Golden State means, but many believe that the true gold of California is its cultural diversity.
With roots tied to Spain, Mexico, Asia, and the eastern part of the country, there’s nothing like the unique mix of food, languages, and traditions here.
“If the United States is a grand experiment, then California is the biggest part of the experiment,” says University of Southern California professor Robert Suro. “We are currently trying to see how a very diverse and complex society can create a modern, equal economy.”
California also holds the record for having the largest population outside of the country of origin.
The Laid-Back California Lifestyle
Compared to the lifestyle of East Coast cities like New York which thrives on hustle and bustle, West Coast cities have a more relaxed, laid-back lifestyle. With a multitude of beaches and other natural wonders, it’s no surprise that Californians are very Zen, with a huge focus on health and nature.
Living on the West Coast is the epitome of embracing culture, diversity, and all things nature has to offer. It’s a lifestyle that’s easy to adapt to because here, the California dream becomes a daily reality.