What You Need To Know Before Moving To California

By Dennis Olson


When you find yourself getting tired with the hustle and bustle of the East Coast and you want a more laidback point of view, then consider the benefits of moving to the West Coast. While a change of pace and scenery may be ideal, there are so many adjustments that a New York native will encounter when heading off to live and work in California. So before you pack your bags and move to the Golden State, here are a few key points that you need to consider first.

Contrary to popular belief, not everyone that lives here is a millionaire who owns expensive and palatial estates. Outside of the coastal San Diego County properties up for grabs, there are countless homes and apartments that are reasonably affordable for the average citizen. Look for such property listings online or approach real estate agents to get concrete information.

Car culture is particularly strong for many Californian residents because unlike New Yorkers, they do not rely so much on public transportation. Subway systems and buses are pretty much nonexistent while taxi services are very rare. That being said, plenty of newcomers to the state are advised to get a car, motorcycle, or even a bicycle if they intend on getting around easily.

The decision to buy your own automobile should be taken seriously, since California has particularly strict laws concerning vehicular ownership and registration. Visit the local DMV so you could apply for a driving license as well as registering your car with a plate number, both of which will be under the jurisdiction of the state. Do this to avoid getting in trouble with the law.

With its prime location facing the Pacific Ocean and possessing an eccentric topography, the climate here is generally milder compared to states fronting the Atlantic Ocean. Contrary to what you might think, certain places in the region with high altitudes are able to receive snowfall during the winter. Overall, the weather here is pretty much not that different at all.

There is certainly no shortage of beautiful sights to discover, especially because nature serves as the primary attraction to lure visitors. Outside of key cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco, you could marvel at the forests of Yosemite National Park or brave the scorching heat of Death Valley. Of course, there are also plenty of fantastic Californian beaches to visit.

You definitely do not have to worry about educational or occupational options since you will find suitable places to study or work within this region. From hospitality, technology, and financial services to arts, media, and entertainment, the career possibilities are surely endless. And some of the best colleges and universities in the US are even concentrated within the Golden State.

Probably one of the harder elements you will confront is dealing with a completely different culture. For example, if you were born and raised in the bosom of New York for most of your life, then it might be more than a bit of a shock encountering how everyday life is lived in California. Adjusting to a new setting takes time, so approach it with patience and positivity.

There are many challenges of moving to a completely different state on the other side of the country apart from logistical concerns. But as long as you follow the suggested guidelines mentioned in this post, you shall be steered in the right direction. Above all, keep a positive attitude and foster a sense of excitement when you finally step into a brand new territory.




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