Northern California is lovely, but I agree with Barrdwing, as I have most of my family out there now. Cost of living, taxes, congestion in the cities – AWFUL. San Diego is very nice, but LA…I’m sure Melody could chime in, but I know I wouldn’t want to spend most of my life sitting on a 7-lane highway trying to commute to an underpaid job. :O
I’ll admit the farmer’s markets and local produce in California is really very, very nice, however. From the perspective of my 3-month summer in Minnesota, which is even shorter than Chicago’s growing season.
I hope you’re able to find a great place to live, wherever you go!