California Reviews


284 Reviews



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What BestPlaces Users Say about California

California is known for its diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and thriving economy. It is home to some of the most iconic landmarks in the United States, such as the Golden Gate Bridge and Hollywood. With a population of over 39 million, it is the most populous state in the country. However, living in California comes with its own set of challenges, including high living costs and natural disasters. Let's take a look at what people have to say about living in this particular place.

According to user reviews on BestPlaces, living in California has its pros and cons. One user, JohnD, highlights the state's natural beauty and opportunities for outdoor activities: "Living in California has been a dream come true for me. The weather is amazing, and there's always something to do outdoors." On the other hand, another user named SarahH mentions the high cost of living: "I've been struggling to make ends meet in California due to the high cost of living. Rent and taxes are through the roof." Despite the high living costs, many users still appreciate the state's diverse culture and career opportunities.

Another user, MichaelS, shares his experience with the wildfires that frequently occur in California: "Living in California has its risks, especially with the constant threat of wildfires. It can be nerve-wracking, but the community comes together in times of crisis." Similarly, JessicaT mentions the earthquakes and how it has affected her perception of living in California: "I always knew earthquakes were a possibility, but experiencing one firsthand was terrifying. It's something to consider before moving here."

In conclusion, California has its advantages and disadvantages for its residents. The state's natural beauty, diverse culture, and career opportunities are highly praised, but the high cost of living and natural disasters are also significant factors to consider. Overall, it seems that living in California is a mixed experience, and it ultimately depends on an individual's preferences and priorities.

 based on 284 Reviews
Get to know California with the latest comments and reviews from people who live in or have visited California

France vs California - 1/6/2007
I live in France now but lived in California. It is a fabulous state to live in but the cost of living is high in the places most people would want to live Read More

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CA is Over rated - 1/2/2007
My husband, 3 kids and I moved to CA in 1997 after both of us separated from the military. Our hopes of making a good life here begin to quickly deplete everything we had. CA is highly over rated. It is so expensive, smoggy, filed with illegal aliens, and crime. While I would never say I am predjuce, not by any means, it is difficult to make it in a state who lets hispanics run, not walk over our borders and flood our streets and hospitals. Our healthcare skyrockets every few months, and you feel like you are living in Mexico because you can't go anywhere and get someone who doesn't speak English, so you have to figure out a way to order a burger. I don't like that. My kids are affected when half the time the teachers speak in Spanish, so they don't get the lesson. CA is dirty in most areas, and there is so much money here that the rich don't care about anyone but themselves. Neighbors keep to themselves, so there's no neighborly friendliness. We are very unhappy Read More

california - 12/21/2006
its pretty and nice weather year round and lots of Read More

Cost of living - 12/18/2006
My one bedroom apartment in a decent neighborhood is $1250 a month. Thats a big portion of my income. Too much, and I make decent money right Read More

Most Beautiful Views - 9/28/2006
I live in a very small community in the Shasta Valley looking at the North Side of Mount Shasta, which is 14,162 feet high. The North side contains a field of glaciers, so the mountain is white all year. The valley is dotted with vents and dry grassland with grazing cattle. The coyotees howl at night and the birds sing all day. The bald and golden eagles soar year round. The human population is comprised of cowboys, hunters, fishermen, and retired persons who came from more urban areas. The workforce is comprised of retail, city/county/state and federal Read More

Big State with lots of diversity - 9/22/2006
CA is a big state that will get bigger and bolder as time goes Read More

Where to live in California - 9/21/2006
Hi, I'm a single, young female looking to eventually relocate from the Philadelphia area to California. I'm in the criminal justice field and there seems to be more jobs in California, than at home. Any insight or advice is greatly Read More

best climate - 9/15/2006
california has the best climate year round than any other state in the Read More

California is too expensive! - 9/8/2006
California is too expensive so we are looking to move somewhere Read More
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The Peoples Republic Of California - 9/5/2006
I have lived in California for 12 years and absolutely hate the mentality around here. There is a rule/law for everything. I am shocked we can still use cell phones while driving. Property tax revenues have to have skyrocketed in the past five years due to the real estate boom, yet we see very few new public projects/improvements besides the freeways.

This place is ready to implode. I predict an depression at some point that will be caused by the outward migration of skilled workers and businesses that are tired of being taxed to death.

Sure, the weather's nice, but it's not THAT nice - especially with the whole global warming thing making winters milder elsewhere Read More

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