People thought I’d regret it, but they couldn’t have been more wrong.
People thought my husband and I were nuts. While everyone in California was flocking to the Southeast—where we’d been living for years—we decided to do the exact opposite. Yep, we sold most of our furniture, one of our cars, and packed what was left into a small SUV. Then, we hit the road and drove across the country, heading straight for the Golden State. We were in our 60s, chasing a dream most people couldn’t understand. “Why California?” they asked. “It’s so expensive. Everyone’s leaving.”
But something about it just felt right. And you know what? We’ve never looked back. The move was bold, maybe even a little reckless, but it was hands-down the best decision we’ve ever made. California has given us something we couldn’t find anywhere else, and I wouldn’t trade it for the world.
1. The weather alone makes California feel like paradise.
Forget snow and suffocating humidity. California’s weather is the stuff of dreams, especially when you’re tired of shoveling snow or sweating buckets just by stepping outside. Coastal breezes, mild winters, and endless sunny days make it feel like a permanent vacation, according to Study California. Sure, it gets hot in some areas, but dry heat is so much more bearable than the muggy, sticky heat of the Southeast. Plus, the cooler coastal towns offer perfect relief when you need it.
Waking up to blue skies and pleasant temperatures makes it nearly impossible to have a bad day. And when you can comfortably be outside year-round, life just feels richer. It’s a weather lover’s paradise, and once you’ve experienced it, you’ll wonder how you ever survived without it.
2. The natural beauty here is on another level.
Everywhere you look, California’s beauty is on full display. Mountains, beaches, deserts, and forests all coexist in the same state, making it feel like you’re living in a postcard. Coming from the Southeast, where flat landscapes and pine trees dominated, this change of scenery feels magical. Road trips here are more than just drives; they’re breathtaking adventures, say writers for Outside Magazine. Whether you’re gazing at the Pacific Ocean, hiking through towering redwoods, or wandering through desert landscapes, the sheer variety is mind-blowing.
And the sunsets? They’re nothing short of spectacular. California’s beauty constantly invites you to explore, appreciate, and fall in love with the outdoors. The scenery alone makes living here feel like a daily privilege, and it’s one of the biggest reasons I’ll never leave.
3. You’ll never run out of incredible destinations to explore.
What’s amazing about California is how many unique places you can explore without ever leaving the state. One weekend, you’re sipping wine in Napa Valley, the next, you’re hiking Yosemite’s iconic trails. Then there’s Big Sur’s dramatic coastline, the quirky charm of Carmel, and the sparkling beaches of San Diego. Experts writing for World Atlas remind that it’s not just the big-name spots either—California is full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. We’ve taken countless road trips, and every one of them feels like a new adventure.
The variety keeps life exciting and adds a sense of endless possibility. When you can travel somewhere amazing on a whim without even boarding a plane, it feels like you’ve hit the jackpot. California is the ultimate playground for curious souls.
4. Being so close to other amazing states is a total bonus.
Living in California means you’re surrounded by incredible places just waiting to be explored. Arizona’s red rock wonders, Nevada’s dazzling Vegas lights, Oregon’s lush green landscapes, and Washington’s coastal beauty are all within reach, says Dianne Titos for Lazy Trips. And let’s not forget how easy it is to pop down to Mexico for a quick beach getaway. Having all these incredible destinations just a road trip or short flight away adds a whole new level of excitement to life.
We’ve taken spur-of-the-moment trips to the Grand Canyon, Lake Tahoe, and even Seattle. Being surrounded by so much natural beauty and fascinating cities makes every weekend feel like a potential adventure. When you live in California, the world just feels a little bit bigger and a lot more accessible.
5. The laid-back vibe here is like nothing I’ve experienced before.
Californians truly have a knack for not sweating the small stuff. After living in the Southeast, where stress seemed to be everyone’s default mode, the relaxed attitude here feels like a revelation. People work hard, but they also know how to kick back and enjoy life. Casual conversations with strangers happen all the time, and the open-mindedness is refreshing. It’s like the whole state decided life is meant to be enjoyed, not just endured. And that attitude is contagious.
It’s easier to find your own rhythm here, whether you’re diving into new hobbies, spending time outdoors, or just embracing a slower, happier lifestyle. The laid-back energy doesn’t just make life more pleasant—it makes it feel fuller and more meaningful.
6. California’s culture scene is on fire.
If you love art, music, theater, or history, California is a cultural goldmine. And it’s not just limited to big cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco. Smaller cities and towns are brimming with creativity, too. Museums, galleries, concert venues, and festivals offer something new and exciting every weekend. Plus, California’s melting pot of cultures means you get exposed to incredible diversity.
And while the Southeast has its charms, it doesn’t compare to the sheer variety of experiences you can have here. Whether it’s a film festival, a street art exhibit, or a live jazz show, the creative energy here is infectious. It’s impossible to get bored when there’s always something new and interesting to explore.
7. The food and wine scene is nothing short of spectacular.
Foodies, rejoice—California is a culinary paradise. Farm-to-table dining isn’t just a trend here; it’s a lifestyle. The fresh produce alone is worth moving for, and the seafood is some of the best you’ll ever taste. The diversity of cuisine is insane, from authentic Mexican street food to upscale Michelin-starred dining. And then there’s the wine. Visiting Napa and Sonoma feels like stepping into a wine lover’s dream.
There’s also something special about knowing the avocado on your toast was probably picked that morning. The quality, creativity, and passion for food here are incredible. Eating out feels more like an experience than just grabbing a bite. It’s like living in a place where every meal has the potential to be amazing.
8. The variety of landscapes makes every weekend an adventure.
Imagine waking up and deciding whether you want to spend your day hiking a mountain, surfing a beach, or exploring a desert. In California, that’s a real possibility. The state’s diversity is mind-blowing. You can go from the snowy peaks of the Sierra Nevadas to the sun-soaked beaches of Malibu all in one day. Having so many different environments within reach makes life feel exciting and spontaneous.
There’s always somewhere new to explore, whether you’re craving ocean views, mountain air, or desert stillness. It’s the kind of variety that makes you feel like you’re living multiple lives at once. And honestly, it’s one of the biggest reasons California feels like the best place on earth.
9. Outdoor living is practically a religion here.
When you live in a place as beautiful as California, staying indoors feels like a crime. The outdoor lifestyle is woven into the culture, and it’s one of the most rewarding parts of living here. Hiking, biking, surfing, and beachcombing are practically second nature to everyone. And with year-round gorgeous weather, you have zero excuses not to enjoy it. I’ve spent more time outside since moving here than I ever did before.
Even simple things like dining al fresco or walking along the coast feel special. It’s like California practically begs you to appreciate nature. And once you get used to that kind of lifestyle, it’s hard to imagine living any other way.
10. The wellness culture here is off the charts.
California takes wellness seriously, and honestly, it’s hard not to get swept up in it. Yoga studios, meditation retreats, organic markets—you name it, California’s got it. And while it might sound a little over-the-top, there’s something to be said for living in a place that encourages you to prioritize your health. It’s not just about fitness either; it’s about creating a lifestyle that feels balanced and fulfilling. The clean eating movement is huge, but so is the focus on mental wellness.
Mindfulness and relaxation aren’t just buzzwords here; they’re part of everyday life. Being surrounded by that kind of mindset has made me feel healthier and happier than I have in years. It’s like the whole state is a wellness retreat you never have to leave.
11. Creative energy thrives everywhere you go.
There’s something incredibly inspiring about living in a place where creativity feels like it’s in the air. Maybe it’s the breathtaking landscapes or the sheer diversity of people, but California has a unique ability to spark fresh ideas. Art galleries, indie films, cutting-edge tech, experimental music—you’re never far from something that makes you see the world a little differently.
The creative community here is welcoming, collaborative, and genuinely excited about new ideas. Even if you’re not an artist, you can’t help but feel energized by the creative pulse of the state. And if you are? Well, you’ve found your tribe. Living in California feels like living at the intersection of inspiration and possibility, and it’s nothing short of amazing.
12. There’s an adventurous spirit here you can’t find anywhere else.
People in California are all about chasing dreams and living life on their own terms. It’s a place where unconventional ideas are embraced and new experiences are welcomed. Moving here felt like stepping into a world where anything’s possible. That adventurous spirit isn’t just a stereotype—it’s real.
Whether it’s surfers catching waves at sunrise, artists crafting masterpieces, or entrepreneurs building the next big thing, everyone seems to be pursuing something. And that kind of energy is contagious. It makes you want to step outside your comfort zone, try new things, and see what’s waiting for you beyond the next horizon. California feels like a place where reinvention is always an option, no matter your age.
13. The sense of freedom here is intoxicating.
Moving to California in my 60s felt like shedding an old skin and embracing a whole new way of living. There’s a kind of freedom here you just don’t find anywhere else. Maybe it’s the wide-open spaces, the endless possibilities, or just the fact that the entire state feels more laid-back. Whatever it is, it makes you feel like you can live life exactly how you want to. And when you’re in your 60s, that’s a pretty incredible feeling.
Making this move wasn’t just about finding a new place to live; it was about embracing a lifestyle that feels joyful, vibrant, and full of possibility. That kind of freedom is worth everything. And no, I’m never looking back.