Can't wait to move back to California next year. We're going to retire in Monterey. I'm only 50. My wife and I miss California a lot, so we decided to move back after four years in the PNW.
I live in Dana Point in Orange County and it's full of retirees. The place is gorgeous, close to San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano and Laguna Beach so there's tons to do. And blessed with almost no traffic to speak of!
Born in Santa Monica CA during 40's. Sold our place when Santa Monica Freeway came in during 60's and used the cash to buy a place in rural Malibu, also a lot in Pacific Palisades. Since the 60's a remodel to Malibu, small house in Palisades. Retired 25 years ago, enjoying the beach & Santa Monica Mountains. Don't owe anything to anybody, so cost of living not a big deal. Hate the CA politics and traffic!! At my age, I recommend not watching TV of using any type or social media to maintain your sanity. Pursue a hobby or two.
People believe the internet too much. And all the fear-porn videos of the issues of LA and SF (obviously only the absolute worst neighborhoods for maximum shock value).
@harmansg very true, news from all angles, 24 hours a day, creates a fear in viewers where they hang on every word, not realizing this is a believable looking actor, reading a script written by somebody else. Personally, I'm into building old hot rods. 🙂🙃
As a native Californian, your opinion comments are spot on! I knew Palm Springs/ Palm Desert was going to be close to #1. I know a lot of people who move there to retire. My choices, if I had the money, would be Solvang or Morro Bay. Anywhere along the Central Coast would be fine. Just as long as it's away from LA or San Fran. Big Bear might be a good choice too.
There's a lot of little towns with rivers/lakes along the Sierra's. Great for WFH people but otherwise not many jobs there. The real strength of SF and LA is the job markets are tops in the world for MANY industries, that's not an easy thing to create.
I agree about Solvang and Moro Bay. We used to go to Solvang a lot when I was a kid. My husband and I now live in Big Bear. Spring and fall are the best up here.
@@saintbyron5150 Good point there. However I think even retired people need some basic services, healthcare and infrastructure. Mountain life isnt easy on the body, and it's definitely not for everyone. Not a lot of Police in those areas.
Big Bear is only fair. Drought really impacts the area and the threat of fire is real. Also close to San Bernardino but Redlands is just down Route 33. I would choose something closer to Tahoe or Mammoth.
The Naziz Descendants Are Orchestrating Behind The Scenes Running The Democratic Party Underground Since J Edgar Hoover Was ALWAYS With HITLER Robert Mueller Director FBI Father Is Heinrich Mueller HITLERS Commander Ashwutz Camps FACT TRUTH The Word BIDENT Means Devils Pitchfork Reference Wikipedia Satanic Occult Name Games Are Common Tactics Used By Satanics Barry AKA Barak Obomba Is J Edgar Hoover Illigitamate Son From A Black Prostitute Transgender Micheal Posed As A First Lady Kids Adopted FACT TRUTH The Word NAZI Is The Abbreviation Word National Socialism These People Are Satanic Occult Satanic Socialists Satanic Socialism FACT TRUTH The Naziz Never Went Away After WWII They ONLY Reorganized Their Descendants GOAL Remains The Same Destabilize The Economic Infrastructure of The United States of America and Europe and Form The FOURTH REICH NWO The Naziz NWO Illuminati Are NOT Never Were Freemasons Never They Are Satanic Occult Satanic Socialists Satanic Socialism FACT TRUTH A Message From General George S Patton Jr Neice
I moved to US for my Phd in 2002 to a midwest college town. Life is easy, people are awesome but could not take in the bitter cold. Took up a faculty position is Baltimore while my spouse joined Caltech for his postdoc. Moved to LA in 2009. Purchased a small home in La Canada in 2012. Then moved to Palo Alto two years back when my spouse joined Stanford. We were lucky enough to have enough equity in the house in La Canada to purchase a really small place in Palo Alto. I am not moving out of CA. CA has awesome options if you can afford it. It has a ton of issues but for an immigrant of Indian descent, diversity matters. No better place than CA. Also cannot beat the weather and outdoors. TX and FL will follow suit like CA as local people are unable to afford the increased prices. Good and bad of economic success.
Saying you love, or hate, California is like saying you love or hate the US. The places and people are incredibly diverse. Practically every type of person or place in existence can be found in CA.
People have mix reviews a lot and wish some of those haters can’t say it suck it doesn’t it’s like Ohioans or midwestern or northeastern would say it from a state with farms and woods small towns and filled with most road kills and mosquitoes in warm days and for cold days it’s freezing and gets snow also the state got to get better can their be a new governor someday that is like Arnold why Gavin newson was chosen also why he’s the one that did crown act then other states also crown act why that and hair discrimination targeted on race why not whites or Latinos or Asians but nothing wrong with dreads box braids cornrows and other stuff on white person and other race it’s discrimination of someone calling it appropriation but they should appreciate it feels like that person is mean toxic and racist also dread should been in white asian and other cultures it was in goth hippie which are subcultures Egypt for the country and more also wish the state should been more save even before if mafias form east should never enter Al Capone outfit lucesse and other families from Italy should never came here to ruin lives because of crime and how media attention wants sopranos and others they shouldn’t be made it’s harmful to a group in case and a target and cause anti fears and prejudice also cholos subculture and crime shouldn’t happen it effects Latin culture but their is good culture of that cholo and low rider ruins it well low rider in case if it keep associated with gangs and rap music not all rap also why they start in west coast not anywhere else is it that illegal immigration myth or stereotype something no discrimination ok like to those states before the starts in 40s also later decades with invention of sagging pants offensive t shirt or white shirts similar flannel with the buttons unbuttoned on bottom sometimes gifts that shaved their heads mustache thick accent and others also not sure for ladies but guys yeah also toxic masculinity is the cause of it not masculine itself the toxic part the violence and drugs and this cause homeless and racism in between losing homes or attacks also if not riots shouldn’t happen and go back in time ot would be saved and the settlers should respect Asians and Japanese when setting there too then without yellow face invoke or some peril their are videos about it also would be any Latin settlers not just immigrants it has a long association in America they don’t talk about others immigration from other countries
Hate this decade of them moving out should more move in for jobs and for acting and music sports and more even teachers and someone should stop the negative and stuff it would been fine and homeless been talked about too much too many TH-camrs make videos about it and crime it has to stop and get help also wish if they should have money if not expensive to save up so don’t move out stay where the way they are it’s not like or is there someone from wisconsin moves out or people move out of small towns compare it to a goosebumps episode werewolf of fever swamp but it’s opposite a swamp in florida when will said the character people don’t move it they move out imagine if it did if someone was still living in that stage when a new person moves in and asks
It's true. The wilderness and beaches are still beautiful AF. The big cities are dystopian crime ridden wastelands downtown. I'd compare them to Venezuela but that's an undue insult - to Venezuela. Wine country enthusiasm has yet to wane. Out in the sticks everything's conservative and often poor. The big cities most people are basically communist or too intimidated to say otherwise. They're prosperous for crony capitalist companies that can virtue signal; for everyone else, not so much. Someone once said the American Eagle had a left and right wing 'cause if it only had one it either wouldn't fly or would only fly in circles. So the smaller towns with their mix of conservative and liberal governance seem to prove that. They're still very nice. They have higher crime post 2020 but it's still manageable. California farmlands and farm products are among the best in the nation.
What people hate is the policies of California. No denying it's a diverse, amazing place but living there is a sacrifice no matter who you are. Even the billionaires have to deal with the homeless, traffic and taxes.
@@mikefisher2673 I find it to be a very insular town. Somewhat backwards, and entitled. I mean it thinks it’s like Napa or Santa Rosa but it isn’t. It’s more like Fairfield or Antioch. A home for refugees from the East Bay.
@@ivandragomiloff2356 I grew up in Napa we would come out to play sporting events in the 70s to Vacaville and it was alot smaller city back then. If I were to take you back to Napa, Santa Rosa or Vacaville 40 years ago they were more conservative middleclass cities back then.
I grew up in Southern California and went to SDSU (live in FL now) and was just in California recently for a few weeks. I spent a lot of time in an area that for some reason no one really talks about that is North of Los Angeles but South of Santa Barbara. The area I am referring to spans from Agoura to the South up to Ventura and includes those cities along with Westlake Village and Thousand Oaks. Westlake Village is great and so is Ventura. You can even see the ocean 🌊 driving the 101 freeway at Ventura and they have a cool chill downtown/hippie/surfer area. The ice blended mocha granita coffee drink at the Palermo coffee shop is my favorite. People always talked about Los Angeles and the cities to the South of Los Angeles or they talk about Santa Barbara and the cities North of Santa Barbara and wine country. No one ever talks about Westlake Village, Thousand Oaks, or Ventura despite those being great places. Ventura is one of the most affordable beach towns in California though yes it is still insanely expensive.
I spent 35 years in that area - grew up in Simi Valley, went to Zuma Beach and 5th street beach every summer as a teen; got married in Agoura and had our wedding photos in Westlake Village. Spent a lot of time in Thousand Oaks, Camarillo, Moorpark, Somis, Santa Paula, Oxnard, Ventura, Carpinteria (the beach with the looonnnggg shelf), Ojai, Santa Barbara. Still have a fondness for that area and great memories.
As much as we all love to complain about California, it's one of, if not the, most beautiful states in the country. I'd retire there if I could afford it. I lived there in the Bay area when I was 15.
California native; I've traveled to many places in the world but only to SoCal a couple of times lol I'm retired, in the Santa Cruz Mountains, and I'll never leave here. Got the ocean, the mountains, my own river and the SF Bay Area just "over the hill." Glad it wasn't on your list!
The trick to being able to retire in California is to work and live there for years before retirement. My parents purchased their home in Mission Viejo in 1968 for 36.5K. Once your home is paid off, it's much more affordable to live.
@@beverlyb6391 property taxes are not that expensive if you purchased your home in 1968, thanks to Prop 13. If you purchased the home today, it's a different story...
Tehachapi, especially Bear Valley Springs, is a beautiful, friendly and much more affordable place to retire. Really worth while checking out if you like the mountains and a laid back lifestyle.
Bear Valley Springs is a “Hidden Gem” in California. Incredibly reasonable house prices, behind a manned gate entrance with a golf course, lakes for fishing and boating, large swimming pool, a country club restaurant, premier equestrian facilities and police and fire protection onsite.
Hey Briggs, stationed at Ft Ord as well (88 - 92). Then moved to San Diego until 2016, now back to N. California (Santa Clara County) 🙂 Cali is beautiful indeed!
We’re in Chico. Overall it’s pretty great. If we can spend 6-7 weeks on vacation away during mid June-mid September (awful heat), then I’m ok staying for the long haul. Other 3 seasons are wonderful
I love Northern California. I lived just south of you in Yuba City. Not far from the mountains, from skiing, from the ocean, from the desert. Then moved to Dobbins near two lakes. The state is great, but the politics are beyond suckee.
First town i moved to when moving to CA was MoVal (Moreno Valley). Ended up moving to Hemet after that because of rent getting raised. 2018 was probably the absolute worst year of my life so far thanks to living in Hemet. Only good thing about Hemet is the Lemongrass restaurant on Sanderson. Thank goodness im in OC now.
The Madonna Inn is amazing. It is totally over the top. Some of the suites are like caves. There are bathrooms where the shower is a rock cave. There are rooms with so much pink, and so many flowers, it's almost unreal.
If "money's no object" is the premise here, I'd retire in Newport Beach. I lived there during the late '90s, loved the beach and the harbor and while the party vibe might kill me in my old age, it might be a good way to go. On the other hand, things might have changed a lot since then.
I grew up in the mountains of Big Bear Lake, Redlands was our neighbor. The town is not bad just be advised, it gets very hot out there and a little dry. As for Ojai California. I'm a huge fan. Still a little hot in the summer around 90. Now, and does have dry brush in the summer. However, an abundant amount of animal life. I once saw a bob cat and a Coyote as well as multiple snakes out on the Ohio Country Club golf course.
I live pretty close to Sebastopol. I'm a little closer to the city. Sebastopol is a cool place. It's beautiful and has a cute downtown. It definitely has a hippy vibe. I like my town more. It's bigger, has younger people, amazing schools, a huge historic downtown, and we're closer to everywhere.
Redlands and Loma Linda are the two places that are definitely outliers in the Inland Empire. Very nice places and I believe Loma Linda is considered one of the five blue zones in the world
Yes, Loma Linda is one of the healthiest, long-living places in the world and many people are vegetarian or vegan. They eat less meat in most or all of the healthy, long-living places.
Loma Linda is a 7 Day Adventist area (the medical school is Adventist). Adventists are vegetarians who frown on drinking and smoking. So they tend to be a healthy lot.
I am surprised you didn't mention Temecula, CA. We have over 50 wineries. There is lots to do but mostly there are so many people retiring here in the past few years. My husband and I retired here and we are loving it!
Hey brigga this was very interesting and i was thrilled to hear you mention cambria my husband and i love it their. Love watching you great job thanks.
California native here. Live in Orange County and have been thinking about moving out of state, but I can't get past the weather everywhere else. My Dad retired in Palm Springs and although it is cheaper, I would want a summer house by the beach. Love California and will retire here. Where can you surf in the morning, snow ski during the day and have cocktails in the beautiful desert?
Santa Clara County: Start surfing in Santa Cruz, Grab a quick lunch, get the half-day ticket (or use your pass) at Heavenly Valley in South Lake Tahoe, or ski Kirkwood because it's closer.
I think the coastal area would be perfect and there are so many hidden gems from the outsider. I would pick the south bay area where you used to live but further south due to the perfect weather, international cuisines to select, great hospitals nearby, and not too far from LAX to hop on the plane. Forget about Palm Spring, it is too hot for my liking.
My Aunt and Uncle are pretty much stuck in Carlsbad. Too old to want to move and everything paid off. My Step-Dad did just move to Redmond, OR to get away from CA. Not sure how good a move it was but hey, it's a little improvement.
My mom and dad are stuck too... My mom worked for a certain medical foundation and has a sweet retirement package. Kinda of hard to up and leave all that.
@@jrecm4816 It's amazing and they love it. Far enough removed from most of the problems that CA creates but it's still in California and they pay so much on stupid things.
I love your videos and am a sub. The way we local people from the Central COAST (not to be confused with Central California) pronounce the towns are "Lompoke" like the "a" in lawn, "San Lewis Obispo" (or "slow" for SLO), "Passo Robulls" (or just passo) and "Came-bree-uh". ;) Absolutely love the time spent doing research and look forward to learning a lot more from your videos!
Lots of areas in Northern Cal are great for retirement. By the time people retire, they should have built up a decent amount of cashflow. I understand why many young people struggle here. They haven't had a chance to build a nest egg. It's only expensive if you are used to low paying jobs. Or want to live by the ocean. If you are good at what you do, there is a lot of money to be made here.
Born and raised in Napa, left over 20 years ago. My family arrived there in the 1850s though the 1890s. 40 years ago was still a small city with mom and pop stores. In the last 20 it became most corporate and for around 30 years been focus more on tourism. Today average individual cannot afford to live there anymore. In 1980 I made almost $11.00 at the mill and could afford a house on that income. Some of my family still lives there as they own and operate winery that my Grandfather established in 1972. Haven't been there for many years just doesn't feel like the valley I grew up in.
Grew up in Sebastopol and went there from kindergarten to high school. Great place for everyone if you don’t mind a few entitled people. All the schools are great, and so are restaurants/places to eat such as Martha’s old Mexican or Screaming Mimi’s ice cream. Also you’re not too far away from Santa Rosa if you need chain stores such as Target, Costco, etc. we do have a Whole Foods, Safeway, and Lucky in town though. Being ~8 miles from the beach is great too, especially if you have visitors over so you can go do that easily
For all the places in the North Bay Area, I'd have chosen Healdsburg. Also, surprised not to see anything along the San Mateo County coast, the Monterey Bay Area, or the Gold Country. Oh, well, people answering surveys. What ya gonna do?
Hemet? I lived in Hemet till 2019. Half the time I would forget to lock my front door. Quiet place friendly people. Good churches. Close enough to LA Disneyland San Diego. Palm Springs.
I have no desire to ever go back to California, and especially not retire there. Some good attributes, but not enough to be interested. But, I love this channel so I'm watching it. 😂 FIRST one here!!!! 😂
I love California and I am glad where I live wasn't listed bc I feel like it's a best-kept secret. There isn't much to do where I live, but there is a train that can take you places. And the community is small like a modern-day Mayberry, by the ocean.
I too luv CA though I grew up in NY and spent the first 37 years of my life living east of the Mississippi. Some 20 years ago, before I went to Prague to live for seven years, I lived with a friend in North San Diego county, and I'm willing to bet that you live off the Pacific a couple of miles between Carlsbad and Solana Beach.
Ooh I'll take that challenge! Let's guess!!! I'm probably wrong but near San Simeon? Summerland? I'm stumped! Hmm a train by the coast and not much to do..
*Vacaville, Fairfield, and Napa area. I'm 62 and will soon retire. There are all the positive amenities of big cities without the problems. It's worth every penny!*
Once again a great timely video and one that I had high hopes for. I have lived in OC/LA County California since I was born, now 59 I have seen a lot of changes not all of them good. While California has the rest of the union beat on weather, "with maybe the exception of Hawaii", there is a lot California falls flat on especially if you are thinking of retiring like me. If I had tons of disposable cash on hand, I would definitely move to Paso Robles, San Luis Obispo, or Palm Springs. Except for Palm Springs your close to the ocean, some pretty incredible wineries and restaurants, along with a slower pace. The downside is you are pretty far from an international airport like LAX or SFO in case you wanted to travel overseas. I'm still thinking of retiring to Bullhead or Kingman.
I was expecting the same. Copperopolis or someplace close. However, this was about where people said they wanted to retire and a lot of that is wine country or central coastal areas.
Moreno Valley used to be sunny mead lol. I lived all over the southern part of the state. When I left I was so done with the southern part. I live Sebastopol they used to have one of the last A&W fast foods. I’ve toured the whole of Napa. The north is cold in the winter, but beautiful. La Jolla mucho dinero.
I chose Palm Springs for my retirement home, but I still live in Los Angeles with my brother, but when he reaches retirement age, we will sell our house in L.A. and live in Palm Springs full time. Incidentally, @17:35 you said that the population of Palm Springs increases in the summer, but from my experience, the population decreases in the summer and increases in the winter. I like summers in Palm Springs because there are fewer people there, especially fewer obnoxious midwesterners - they are the worst drivers and do not yield to pedestrians, especially in parking lots. I am scared of cars with Iowa license plates. California is a great place to retire, but it is expensive - because it is worth it. I love Paso Robles, Redlands, Sonoma, Ojai, and Palm Springs. Having spent most of my adult life in California, it makes sense that I wanted to retire here. Other places I would consider are Mexico and Italy, and I am fluent in Italian and Spanish.
I grew up in the Sunnymead part of MoVal and married a man from Palm Springs. We spent our honeymoon in San Luis Obispo and stayed one night in the American Beauty room at the Madonna Inn. It didn’t seem so garish at the time but 30 years later it’s uniqueness didn’t seem so appealing.
We are retired in Beaumont. The places you mention here are reallty for people with some wealth. We live in a 55+ community and it is actually very nice. Beaumont area is growing. They are building homes by the thousands and they have broken ground for a huge town center in Calimesa which includes man made lakes, lots of shopping, restaurants, etc... I think it is going to work. It's trying to be like a modern Redlands and if people support the businesses, it will be ok, not La Jolla or Napa, but ok.n I'm just thankful that I get a pension and don't have to go to work any more. Pretty much, all I do is play guitar. I also teach music and get some jazz and blues band gigs here and there. Most important, you must stay active.
If a 55+ community works for you, great. For myself, I would never want to be that disconnected to the rest of the community. Why would I want to suddenly hang out with a bunch of old people. Not for me. (I am 65+)
I got my first teaching job in Rialto and even my principal told me to look in Redlands for a place to live, this was in 1992. I did live there and it was pretty safe but it gets hot out there.
Watched this fun video the other day; Mr. Briggs, have you ever considered making a vid about the 22 missions founded by Father (now Saint) Junipero Serra in California back in the 18th century? Your number 3 is one and now I live some 11 miles NW of there.
I think when people say "Palm Springs" they are referring to the metro area as I don't feel Palm Springs is as popular as it used to be. I think Palm Desert, Indian Wells, Rancho Mirage, and La Quinta are more desirable areas for retirees now.
Being from Lompoc (born and raised) a lot of people say the name wrong all the time and I just know people didn’t do much research on that area of the central coast when they say the city name; it’s pronounced “lom-poke” even though it’s spelt with a c, it’s a Chumash name
I'm from Santa Rosa so I'm well familiar with Sebastopol, Sonoma, and Napa. Sebastopol is where all the hippie types go -- it's bohemian and you can dress (or not dress, if you catch my drift) however you want. Sonoma and Napa are where all the rich winery types live -- there's pretty much nothing to do but drink wine at country clubs and wine bars. There used to be parks in the hills where you could hike, but most of them burned up in the 2017-2020 fires.
Palm Springs: 115 in the summer & it doesn't cool down much at night. Ugh! I just don't see the desire to retire someplace that is so miserably hot. I do think it's pretty cool though to be lounging in the pool on a hot day while looking up at snow-capped mountains through the Palm trees. Love these videos!
I worked in American Canyon at a wire bonding and die bonding tool manufacturer in the semiconductor industry. It's an odd town. It doesn't really feel like a town. When I was there, they didn’t have a downtown or many stores or shops. It was houses, businesses, a fire department, and a post office. It's close to Vallejo and Napa and Sonoma. It's super cheap compared to everywhere besides Vallejo.
Have lived in Calif. all my life of 67 yrs...Many great things, many bad things here which i guess could be said for everywhere just about when it comes down to it....I have retired here and even though as a whole, it is expensive here, we live very comfortably with everything paid off except for my motorhome....Am going no place now that im retired and incomes are fixed but if were to be able to choose somewhere to retire to in the state it would be like this...I would retire either to the north coast area, the northern Calif. Mountain areas, or the Sierra Nevada foothill small towns preferably around a lake community if possible or at least near by...North coast weather is for me the best in the state...Hardly ever hot as me and heat just dont get along...As for the other places i chose, there is one draw back to consider ....Wild fires..I would avoid the southern part of the state like the plague....Way to hot, way to crowded by my liking...Great place to visit for sure, but thats bout the size of it for me....Really love the small town of Weaverville and its location halfway between I-5 and the coast on Hwy 299....
Speaking of Weaverville, its growing very fast. I have a sister retired in Redding, thats to hot, and getting expensive as well. Eureka has a lot to offer, Crescent City isn't a bad place either......take care....
@@davidhadden-ii5hs We visit Eureka and Crescent city a couple times or more every yr in our motorhome with the wifes father living in Crescent City...We also do the Oregon Coast with a son up in Tillamook and a Daughter in Portland...So up I-5 we go from the bay area to visit in Portland, cut across to the coast and Tillamook to visit , then down Hwy 101 back to Crescent City to visit, then Hwy 101 to back home...Most of the time we cut across from Hwy 101 on Hwy 20 through Clear Lake, back to I-5 to home which is a little easier in the motorhome traffic wise...We often spend the nite in Clear Lake (town of Nice) at the Robinson Rancheria Casino as they have RV parking there and we like to do a few things on that cut across drive coming home that way....
You always put a great deal of effort into your videos, and I appreciate it. Having the should I stay or should I go thought all the time. I love California though I hate the way it is being governed. Have to escape L.A. no matter. Retirement anywhere might not be an option for many with the way our country is going. Your insights on different places are helpful and entertaining.
I totally agree with Sonoma. It's the only place that I think is as nice as my town. It's super close to my town, about a 15 minute drive through the vineyards & over the hill. The square is super cute. The traffic isn't bad. There are good restaurants. The weather is perfect.
Hilarious! I've got 30+ years living in CA (Pasadena, Napa, San Jose, etc) and I used to drive route sales to the tune of 60,000 miles a year there. You didn't name a single place I'd consider retiring to, and I've spent time in every place you listed. One thing you need to calculate into your percentages though, how many of those over 60 bought their houses 20+ years ago. Those are the ones who are going to either die in that house, or sell and move out of state. Every single person I know in CA who's 55 or older is planning on, or has already, moved.
These places are all too expensive. I don't care about golf, but I do care about family. I'm in a town near Sacramento and I love it here. It's safe, eclectic, and pretty. Housing prices are less than the places mentioned. We don't have the ocean, but we have lakes and rivers, and only a couple hours to Tahoe and Reno. I was shocked Palm Springs was #1. It's hot enough here, why would I want to literally fry? Might as well move to Arizona! I enjoyed this video. These are all the same towns we wanted to move to in the 70's and early 80's, so it makes sense that's where folks are retiring today. Peace out! ✌️ ❤
Briggs , I dont see how the Sacramento region could be over looked. Roseville for example has a very high concentration of age restricted communities with at least three more under construction. Sac is also where they Silicon Valley refugees are buying hundreds of homes, in Folsom, Lincoln, Elk Grove and the city itself. Where else can a 30 minute drive east get you into snow and a 90 minute drive west gets you to the Bay area. Military retirees have a good deal , there is a VA Medical Center and two Air Force bases that approximately 45 miles from town.
Briggs your video pointed out one of the main reason the average person can't retire in the beautiful state of California, million dollar homes are simply not affordable to the average American.
Born and raised in Fairfield/ Vacaville, still live in Vacaville. I'm close to the Napa Valley, still have family living there. Sonoma is beautiful, the town square is really nice to walk around and relax. I've worked a couple weddings in Napa Valley at vineyards. They're beautiful with the rolling hills in the background. If you have the money that area is a great place to retire. St. Helena is beautiful too, with a cute downtown area lined with restaurants and cafes. Hwy 12 and 29 going through Napa Valley gets is almost as bad as the bay area, you have to know when the avoid traffic. They've widen Jameson Canyon a few years back so that helped some. I think the traffic is from more people commuting longer distances for work.
Very minor correction: the locals call it "Paso Ro-bulls" not "Row-blays." My brother is a fire chief out that way and my mom indeed just did retire there.
Or you just say "Paso" or "San Lewis" as the locals do. Arroyo Grande is "AG", Pismo Beach is "Pismo", Carpinteria (where I live) is "Carp". @@susanlynch6240
Can't wait to move back to California next year. We're going to retire in Monterey. I'm only 50. My wife and I miss California a lot, so we decided to move back after four years in the PNW.
You must have 5 million+ in the bank, we moved from Monterey last year to the PNW, where are you moving from?
@@AlohaNath 😂😂😂
I live in Dana Point in Orange County and it's full of retirees. The place is gorgeous, close to San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano and Laguna Beach so there's tons to do. And blessed with almost no traffic to speak of!
San juan cap here lez goo
Dana Point is heaven
@@maryjanesmith8109 Yes & hop on the Catalina Express for a day trip to Catalina Island.
I grew up there. Can't afford it now. Congrats to you.
Crescent City would be my #1..... Perfect climate and the beautiful redwoods nearby and nice cool beaches
Plus, they have a lovely retirement community for those that have made very poor choices in life.
@@steelehere1 ; Pelican Bay :)
Born in Santa Monica CA during 40's. Sold our place when Santa Monica Freeway came in during 60's and used the cash to buy a place in rural Malibu, also a lot in Pacific Palisades. Since the 60's a remodel to Malibu, small house in Palisades. Retired 25 years ago, enjoying the beach & Santa Monica Mountains. Don't owe anything to anybody, so cost of living not a big deal. Hate the CA politics and traffic!!
At my age, I recommend not watching TV of using any type or social media to maintain your sanity. Pursue a hobby or two.
People believe the internet too much. And all the fear-porn videos of the issues of LA and SF (obviously only the absolute worst neighborhoods for maximum shock value).
I agree, I moved from Wisconsin to California over 8 years ago and never looked back...❤
@harmansg very true, news from all angles, 24 hours a day, creates a fear in viewers where they hang on every word, not realizing this is a believable looking actor, reading a script written by somebody else. Personally, I'm into building old hot rods. 🙂🙃
What an absolute dream life.
Move to Missouri and leave the drama and grow a pair.
I'm retired and living in California at an altitude of 6840 feet. I'm completely off-grid and pretty happy with my choice.
Well done
Sierra living... ?
Where??
Retired in california and we love it. Our weekly visits to the beach and good food. Ya were staying
As a native Californian, your opinion comments are spot on! I knew Palm Springs/ Palm Desert was going to be close to #1. I know a lot of people who move there to retire. My choices, if I had the money, would be Solvang or Morro Bay. Anywhere along the Central Coast would be fine. Just as long as it's away from LA or San Fran. Big Bear might be a good choice too.
There's a lot of little towns with rivers/lakes along the Sierra's. Great for WFH people but otherwise not many jobs there. The real strength of SF and LA is the job markets are tops in the world for MANY industries, that's not an easy thing to create.
I agree about Solvang and Moro Bay. We used to go to Solvang a lot when I was a kid. My husband and I now live in Big Bear. Spring and fall are the best up here.
@@RandomRabbit007The list was “Top ten places to retire in Cali”, so not much need for jobs.
@@saintbyron5150 Good point there. However I think even retired people need some basic services, healthcare and infrastructure. Mountain life isnt easy on the body, and it's definitely not for everyone. Not a lot of Police in those areas.
Big Bear is only fair. Drought really impacts the area and the threat of fire is real. Also close to San Bernardino but Redlands is just down Route 33.
I would choose something closer to Tahoe or Mammoth.
California is just beautiful! I’ve lived in Northern California for over 40 years ! Hate the politics! ❤️🇺🇸
The Naziz Descendants Are Orchestrating Behind The Scenes Running The Democratic Party Underground Since J Edgar Hoover Was ALWAYS With HITLER Robert Mueller Director FBI Father Is Heinrich Mueller HITLERS Commander Ashwutz Camps FACT TRUTH The Word BIDENT Means Devils Pitchfork Reference Wikipedia Satanic Occult Name Games Are Common Tactics Used By Satanics Barry AKA Barak Obomba Is J Edgar Hoover Illigitamate Son From A Black Prostitute Transgender Micheal Posed As A First Lady Kids Adopted FACT TRUTH The Word NAZI Is The Abbreviation Word National Socialism These People Are Satanic Occult Satanic Socialists Satanic Socialism FACT TRUTH The Naziz Never Went Away After WWII They ONLY Reorganized Their Descendants GOAL Remains The Same Destabilize The Economic Infrastructure of The United States of America and Europe and Form The FOURTH REICH NWO The Naziz NWO Illuminati Are NOT Never Were Freemasons Never They Are Satanic Occult Satanic Socialists Satanic Socialism FACT TRUTH
A Message From General George S Patton Jr Neice
I moved to US for my Phd in 2002 to a midwest college town. Life is easy, people are awesome but could not take in the bitter cold. Took up a faculty position is Baltimore while my spouse joined Caltech for his postdoc. Moved to LA in 2009. Purchased a small home in La Canada in 2012. Then moved to Palo Alto two years back when my spouse joined Stanford. We were lucky enough to have enough equity in the house in La Canada to purchase a really small place in Palo Alto. I am not moving out of CA. CA has awesome options if you can afford it. It has a ton of issues but for an immigrant of Indian descent, diversity matters. No better place than CA. Also cannot beat the weather and outdoors. TX and FL will follow suit like CA as local people are unable to afford the increased prices. Good and bad of economic success.
California is a cesspool of bureaucratic politics and high taxes for small businesses.
Saying you love, or hate, California is like saying you love or hate the US. The places and people are incredibly diverse. Practically every type of person or place in existence can be found in CA.
People have mix reviews a lot and wish some of those haters can’t say it suck it doesn’t it’s like Ohioans or midwestern or northeastern would say it from a state with farms and woods small towns and filled with most road kills and mosquitoes in warm days and for cold days it’s freezing and gets snow also the state got to get better can their be a new governor someday that is like Arnold why Gavin newson was chosen also why he’s the one that did crown act then other states also crown act why that and hair discrimination targeted on race why not whites or Latinos or Asians but nothing wrong with dreads box braids cornrows and other stuff on white person and other race it’s discrimination of someone calling it appropriation but they should appreciate it feels like that person is mean toxic and racist also dread should been in white asian and other cultures it was in goth hippie which are subcultures Egypt for the country and more also wish the state should been more save even before if mafias form east should never enter Al Capone outfit lucesse and other families from Italy should never came here to ruin lives because of crime and how media attention wants sopranos and others they shouldn’t be made it’s harmful to a group in case and a target and cause anti fears and prejudice also cholos subculture and crime shouldn’t happen it effects Latin culture but their is good culture of that cholo and low rider ruins it well low rider in case if it keep associated with gangs and rap music not all rap also why they start in west coast not anywhere else is it that illegal immigration myth or stereotype something no discrimination ok like to those states before the starts in 40s also later decades with invention of sagging pants offensive t shirt or white shirts similar flannel with the buttons unbuttoned on bottom sometimes gifts that shaved their heads mustache thick accent and others also not sure for ladies but guys yeah also toxic masculinity is the cause of it not masculine itself the toxic part the violence and drugs and this cause homeless and racism in between losing homes or attacks also if not riots shouldn’t happen and go back in time ot would be saved and the settlers should respect Asians and Japanese when setting there too then without yellow face invoke or some peril their are videos about it also would be any Latin settlers not just immigrants it has a long association in America they don’t talk about others immigration from other countries
Hate this decade of them moving out should more move in for jobs and for acting and music sports and more even teachers and someone should stop the negative and stuff it would been fine and homeless been talked about too much too many TH-camrs make videos about it and crime it has to stop and get help also wish if they should have money if not expensive to save up so don’t move out stay where the way they are it’s not like or is there someone from wisconsin moves out or people move out of small towns compare it to a goosebumps episode werewolf of fever swamp but it’s opposite a swamp in florida when will said the character people don’t move it they move out imagine if it did if someone was still living in that stage when a new person moves in and asks
It's true. The wilderness and beaches are still beautiful AF. The big cities are dystopian crime ridden wastelands downtown. I'd compare them to Venezuela but that's an undue insult - to Venezuela. Wine country enthusiasm has yet to wane. Out in the sticks everything's conservative and often poor. The big cities most people are basically communist or too intimidated to say otherwise. They're prosperous for crony capitalist companies that can virtue signal; for everyone else, not so much. Someone once said the American Eagle had a left and right wing 'cause if it only had one it either wouldn't fly or would only fly in circles. So the smaller towns with their mix of conservative and liberal governance seem to prove that. They're still very nice. They have higher crime post 2020 but it's still manageable. California farmlands and farm products are among the best in the nation.
What people hate is the policies of California. No denying it's a diverse, amazing place but living there is a sacrifice no matter who you are. Even the billionaires have to deal with the homeless, traffic and taxes.
Most probably homeless
I lived in Vacaville for 2 years and I can see why California is expensive.
It’s worth every penny.
I still live in VV, born and raised. Hoping to move someday.
Cow Ville 😂
Yes cow ville, been here in Vacaville for 20 years.
@@mikefisher2673 I find it to be a very insular town. Somewhat backwards, and entitled. I mean it thinks it’s like Napa or Santa Rosa but it isn’t. It’s more like Fairfield or Antioch. A home for refugees from the East Bay.
@@ivandragomiloff2356 I grew up in Napa we would come out to play sporting events in the 70s to Vacaville and it was alot smaller city back then. If I were to take you back to Napa, Santa Rosa or Vacaville 40 years ago they were more conservative middleclass cities back then.
I grew up in Southern California and went to SDSU (live in FL now) and was just in California recently for a few weeks. I spent a lot of time in an area that for some reason no one really talks about that is North of Los Angeles but South of Santa Barbara. The area I am referring to spans from Agoura to the South up to Ventura and includes those cities along with Westlake Village and Thousand Oaks. Westlake Village is great and so is Ventura. You can even see the ocean 🌊 driving the 101 freeway at Ventura and they have a cool chill downtown/hippie/surfer area. The ice blended mocha granita coffee drink at the Palermo coffee shop is my favorite. People always talked about Los Angeles and the cities to the South of Los Angeles or they talk about Santa Barbara and the cities North of Santa Barbara and wine country. No one ever talks about Westlake Village, Thousand Oaks, or Ventura despite those being great places. Ventura is one of the most affordable beach towns in California though yes it is still insanely expensive.
Jimmbear3998, you hit the nail on the head as I live in WLV; also, the 5-star hospital.
I spent 35 years in that area - grew up in Simi Valley, went to Zuma Beach and 5th street beach every summer as a teen; got married in Agoura and had our wedding photos in Westlake Village. Spent a lot of time in Thousand Oaks, Camarillo, Moorpark, Somis, Santa Paula, Oxnard, Ventura, Carpinteria (the beach with the looonnnggg shelf), Ojai, Santa Barbara. Still have a fondness for that area and great memories.
Briggs your analysis of Ojai, Paso, and SLO is so spot on.... Oh and Redlands. Strong work
As much as we all love to complain about California, it's one of, if not the, most beautiful states in the country. I'd retire there if I could afford it. I lived there in the Bay area when I was 15.
California native; I've traveled to many places in the world but only to SoCal a couple of times lol
I'm retired, in the Santa Cruz Mountains, and I'll never leave here. Got the ocean, the mountains, my own river and the SF Bay Area just "over the hill." Glad it wasn't on your list!
😂😂😂
The trick to being able to retire in California is to work and live there for years before retirement. My parents purchased their home in Mission Viejo in 1968 for 36.5K. Once your home is paid off, it's much more affordable to live.
Not in 2023 ! Too expensive.
Mission Viejo, CA is VERY Expensive for all other essentials like food, medical. property taxes and transportation.
@@beverlyb6391 property taxes are not that expensive if you purchased your home in 1968, thanks to Prop 13. If you purchased the home today, it's a different story...
It’s what I did.
Agree. Use Prop 13 transfer to tax your old property tax to the new place and save a bundle.
Tehachapi, especially Bear Valley Springs, is a beautiful, friendly and much more affordable place to retire. Really worth while checking out if you like the mountains and a laid back lifestyle.
Bear Valley Springs is a “Hidden Gem” in California. Incredibly reasonable house prices, behind a manned gate entrance with a golf course, lakes for fishing and boating, large swimming pool, a country club restaurant, premier equestrian facilities and police and fire protection onsite.
Shhhhhh, it will drive up our house prices even more! And make for more traffic! When I moved here we had only one street light!
@@PanamaRose 💖
Yes! The Bionic Woman was the first time I heard of Ojai too !
One very important item not mentioned is the proximity to hospital services.. that is much more important for retirees.
Great description of the Madonna Inn. My husband left me peek in the men's restroom where they have a waterfall for the guys.
Hey Briggs, stationed at Ft Ord as well (88 - 92). Then moved to San Diego until 2016, now back to N. California (Santa Clara County) 🙂
Cali is beautiful indeed!
There are two Leisure World retirement communities in Seal Beach and Huntington Beach. Cheap homes in nice areas. 😊
We’re in Chico. Overall it’s pretty great. If we can spend 6-7 weeks on vacation away during mid June-mid September (awful heat),
then I’m ok staying for the long haul. Other 3 seasons are wonderful
I love Northern California. I lived just south of you in Yuba City. Not far from the mountains, from skiing, from the ocean, from the desert. Then moved to Dobbins near two lakes. The state is great, but the politics are beyond suckee.
@@Colorado_NativeMui way beyond.
First town i moved to when moving to CA was MoVal (Moreno Valley). Ended up moving to Hemet after that because of rent getting raised. 2018 was probably the absolute worst year of my life so far thanks to living in Hemet. Only good thing about Hemet is the Lemongrass restaurant on Sanderson. Thank goodness im in OC now.
You should live in Hollywood hills it’s a awesome area of these homes it is ok if afford it have e cough money yes if not america is expensive
Orange County by the beach is much nicer than than the Hollywood hills lol.
Corona del mar hands down!
God bless California
The Madonna Inn is amazing. It is totally over the top. Some of the suites are like caves. There are bathrooms where the shower is a rock cave. There are rooms with so much pink, and so many flowers, it's almost unreal.
For me it's Carmel by the sea. First purchase after I win one of these big Billion dollar lottos is a home is Carmel.
Monterey is beautiful indeed. My brother was in the military. Retired at Ford Ord. Even after the base has closed. He and his wife stayed.
or Monterey 🎖
If "money's no object" is the premise here, I'd retire in Newport Beach. I lived there during the late '90s, loved the beach and the harbor and while the party vibe might kill me in my old age, it might be a good way to go. On the other hand, things might have changed a lot since then.
I grew up in the mountains of Big Bear Lake, Redlands was our neighbor. The town is not bad just be advised, it gets very hot out there and a little dry. As for Ojai California. I'm a huge fan. Still a little hot in the summer around 90. Now, and does have dry brush in the summer. However, an abundant amount of animal life. I once saw a bob cat and a Coyote as well as multiple snakes out on the Ohio Country Club golf course.
I live pretty close to Sebastopol. I'm a little closer to the city. Sebastopol is a cool place. It's beautiful and has a cute downtown. It definitely has a hippy vibe. I like my town more. It's bigger, has younger people, amazing schools, a huge historic downtown, and we're closer to everywhere.
Great list! I love the CA Central Coast! I hope to live there one day but probably can't afford it.
Redlands and Loma Linda are the two places that are definitely outliers in the Inland Empire. Very nice places and I believe Loma Linda is considered one of the five blue zones in the world
I used to live in Redlands. Great town with very small town feel. Loma Linda is good but mostly centered around the hospital
Yes, Loma Linda is one of the healthiest, long-living places in the world and many people are vegetarian or vegan. They eat less meat in most or all of the healthy, long-living places.
Don’t move here I’m tired of the increasing traffic
But I agree 😂🫠
Loma Linda is a 7 Day Adventist area (the medical school is Adventist). Adventists are vegetarians who frown on drinking and smoking. So they tend to be a healthy lot.
Whats a blue zone? Only 5 in the world?
I am surprised you didn't mention Temecula, CA. We have over 50 wineries. There is lots to do but mostly there are so many people retiring here in the past few years. My husband and I retired here and we are loving it!
I was surprised Temecula wasn't mentioned as well.
Shhhsh😂
Hey brigga this was very interesting and i was thrilled to hear you mention cambria my husband and i love it their. Love watching you great job thanks.
Thanks
What up, mah Brigga? Can’t spell ‘their’ and called you a ‘Brigga’ - 2 thumbs down on this comment!
The inland empire is where breaking bad was originally set, but the producers realized they could do it cheaper in ABQ and get the same effect.
California native here. Live in Orange County and have been thinking about moving out of state, but I can't get past the weather everywhere else. My Dad retired in Palm Springs and although it is cheaper, I would want a summer house by the beach. Love California and will retire here. Where can you surf in the morning, snow ski during the day and have cocktails in the beautiful desert?
🤗💙👍 Orange County
Santa Clara County: Start surfing in Santa Cruz, Grab a quick lunch, get the half-day ticket (or use your pass) at Heavenly Valley in South Lake Tahoe, or ski Kirkwood because it's closer.
I think the coastal area would be perfect and there are so many hidden gems from the outsider. I would pick the south bay area where you used to live but further south due to the perfect weather, international cuisines to select, great hospitals nearby, and not too far from LAX to hop on the plane. Forget about Palm Spring, it is too hot for my liking.
Agree with no Palm Springs. Too hot. Too many old people waiting to die.
My Aunt and Uncle are pretty much stuck in Carlsbad. Too old to want to move and everything paid off. My Step-Dad did just move to Redmond, OR to get away from CA. Not sure how good a move it was but hey, it's a little improvement.
My mom and dad are stuck too... My mom worked for a certain medical foundation and has a sweet retirement package. Kinda of hard to up and leave all that.
If you are pretty much stuck Carlsbad most people would consider it not bad.... beautiful beach town. It's just that it is California.
Carlsbad is Amazing! I feel sorry for people who don't know. ❤ Beyond Carlsbad I am sure Spain is beautiful...in other words, Carlsbad is lovely.
@@jrecm4816 It's amazing and they love it. Far enough removed from most of the problems that CA creates but it's still in California and they pay so much on stupid things.
@@DrBeeSpeaks They couldn't have picked a better place (especially since he's retired Navy).
I love your videos and am a sub. The way we local people from the Central COAST (not to be confused with Central California) pronounce the towns are "Lompoke" like the "a" in lawn, "San Lewis Obispo" (or "slow" for SLO), "Passo Robulls" (or just passo) and "Came-bree-uh". ;) Absolutely love the time spent doing research and look forward to learning a lot more from your videos!
I have been here for 4 years. LOVE IT.
You forgot mention Palm Springs has Casinos. 😃 great research. Thank you.
Lots of areas in Northern Cal are great for retirement. By the time people retire, they should have built up a decent amount of cashflow. I understand why many young people struggle here. They haven't had a chance to build a nest egg. It's only expensive if you are used to low paying jobs. Or want to live by the ocean. If you are good at what you do, there is a lot of money to be made here.
Thank you for mentioning Central California! Really! Thank you.
Born and raised in Napa, left over 20 years ago. My family arrived there in the 1850s though the 1890s. 40 years ago was still a small city with mom and pop stores. In the last 20 it became most corporate and for around 30 years been focus more on tourism. Today average individual cannot afford to live there anymore. In 1980 I made almost $11.00 at the mill and could afford a house on that income. Some of my family still lives there as they own and operate winery that my Grandfather established in 1972. Haven't been there for many years just doesn't feel like the valley I grew up in.
Marin and Sonoma counties are my pick though Mendocino county is where my family came from.
Marin and Sonoma for me
Excellent video I lived in Ventura California for many years I loved it, thank you for your
diligence it is appreciated.
As a native Californian, I never even heard of the town Sebastopol.
You learn new things everyday.
I’m from Sonoma county, Sebastopol is a hippie town. Not anything special
Grew up in Sebastopol and went there from kindergarten to high school. Great place for everyone if you don’t mind a few entitled people. All the schools are great, and so are restaurants/places to eat such as Martha’s old Mexican or Screaming Mimi’s ice cream. Also you’re not too far away from Santa Rosa if you need chain stores such as Target, Costco, etc. we do have a Whole Foods, Safeway, and Lucky in town though. Being ~8 miles from the beach is great too, especially if you have visitors over so you can go do that easily
For all the places in the North Bay Area, I'd have chosen Healdsburg. Also, surprised not to see anything along the San Mateo County coast, the Monterey Bay Area, or the Gold Country. Oh, well, people answering surveys. What ya gonna do?
Hemet? I lived in Hemet till 2019. Half the time I would forget to lock my front door. Quiet place friendly people. Good churches. Close enough to LA Disneyland San Diego. Palm Springs.
I have no desire to ever go back to California, and especially not retire there. Some good attributes, but not enough to be interested.
But, I love this channel so I'm watching it. 😂
FIRST one here!!!! 😂
Check out Rio Vista. Super affordable, about an hour north of bay area. Has a ton of retirement communities.
I love California and I am glad where I live wasn't listed bc I feel like it's a best-kept secret. There isn't much to do where I live, but there is a train that can take you places. And the community is small like a modern-day Mayberry, by the ocean.
I too luv CA though I grew up in NY and spent the first 37 years of my life living east of the Mississippi. Some 20 years ago, before I went to Prague to live for seven years, I lived with a friend in North San Diego county, and I'm willing to bet that you live off the Pacific a couple of miles between Carlsbad and Solana Beach.
Ooh I'll take that challenge! Let's guess!!! I'm probably wrong but near San Simeon? Summerland? I'm stumped! Hmm a train by the coast and not much to do..
Ok NM I don't think a train goes by San Simeon. Gaivota? Guadalupe? Oceano? Am I getting warm? North or south??NorCal?? West of emerald triangle?
@@tizfrreecharm Great guesses, you are right on the money. ❤☺
@@reginafromrio It's almost like a riddle! lol ❤
*Vacaville, Fairfield, and Napa area. I'm 62 and will soon retire. There are all the positive amenities of big cities without the problems. It's worth every penny!*
Once again a great timely video and one that I had high hopes for.
I have lived in OC/LA County California since I was born, now 59 I have seen a lot of changes not all of them good. While California has the rest of the union beat on weather, "with maybe the exception of Hawaii", there is a lot California falls flat on especially if you are thinking of retiring like me. If I had tons of disposable cash on hand, I would definitely move to Paso Robles, San Luis Obispo, or Palm Springs. Except for Palm Springs your close to the ocean, some pretty incredible wineries and restaurants, along with a slower pace. The downside is you are pretty far from an international airport like LAX or SFO in case you wanted to travel overseas. I'm still thinking of retiring to Bullhead or Kingman.
Good evening Briggs! Have a great weekend! 🎚️🇺🇸🪖👮♂️
You too!
I'm retired and I live in Chico, California. An affordable, safe college town with plenty to do, and not as hot as other valley towns.
I've been to SLO, Ojai, Santa Barbara, and I drive through Paso Robles. The Central Coast is the best! Too expensive, though.
Interesting video. I'm from Norcal and was expecting something east of Sacramento on Hwy 50 like Folsom or El Dorado Hills
I was expecting the same. Copperopolis or someplace close. However, this was about where people said they wanted to retire and a lot of that is wine country or central coastal areas.
Moreno Valley used to be sunny mead lol. I lived all over the southern part of the state. When I left I was so done with the southern part. I live Sebastopol they used to have one of the last A&W fast foods. I’ve toured the whole of Napa. The north is cold in the winter, but beautiful. La Jolla mucho dinero.
Paso Robles...known here in Central CA as just..."Paso" is hotter than hell in the summer. Was a big no for me.
San Bernardino is a fair town with humble and hard working people
Uh, no, just no.
I chose Palm Springs for my retirement home, but I still live in Los Angeles with my brother, but when he reaches retirement age, we will sell our house in L.A. and live in Palm Springs full time. Incidentally, @17:35 you said that the population of Palm Springs increases in the summer, but from my experience, the population decreases in the summer and increases in the winter. I like summers in Palm Springs because there are fewer people there, especially fewer obnoxious midwesterners - they are the worst drivers and do not yield to pedestrians, especially in parking lots. I am scared of cars with Iowa license plates.
California is a great place to retire, but it is expensive - because it is worth it. I love Paso Robles, Redlands, Sonoma, Ojai, and Palm Springs. Having spent most of my adult life in California, it makes sense that I wanted to retire here. Other places I would consider are Mexico and Italy, and I am fluent in Italian and Spanish.
I grew up in the Sunnymead part of MoVal and married a man from Palm Springs. We spent our honeymoon in San Luis Obispo and stayed one night in the American Beauty room at the Madonna Inn. It didn’t seem so garish at the time but 30 years later it’s uniqueness didn’t seem so appealing.
We are retired in Beaumont. The places you mention here are reallty for people with some wealth. We live in a 55+ community and it is actually very nice. Beaumont area is growing. They are building homes by the thousands and they have broken ground for a huge town center in Calimesa which includes man made lakes, lots of shopping, restaurants, etc... I think it is going to work. It's trying to be like a modern Redlands and if people support the businesses, it will be ok, not La Jolla or Napa, but ok.n I'm just thankful that I get a pension and don't have to go to work any more. Pretty much, all I do is play guitar. I also teach music and get some jazz and blues band gigs here and there. Most important, you must stay active.
If a 55+ community works for you, great. For myself, I would never want to be that disconnected to the rest of the community. Why would I want to suddenly hang out with a bunch of old people. Not for me. (I am 65+)
@@valleyboy314I feel the same way
I got my first teaching job in Rialto and even my principal told me to look in Redlands for a place to live, this was in 1992. I did live there and it was pretty safe but it gets hot out there.
Watched this fun video the other day; Mr. Briggs, have you ever considered making a vid about the 22 missions founded by Father (now Saint) Junipero Serra in California back in the 18th century? Your number 3 is one and now I live some 11 miles NW of there.
You have a voice for comedy! I can hear it! Good for you!
I think when people say "Palm Springs" they are referring to the metro area as I don't feel Palm Springs is as popular as it used to be. I think Palm Desert, Indian Wells, Rancho Mirage, and La Quinta are more desirable areas for retirees now.
Palm Springs feels like a town. The other places you mentioned are more like suburbs -- not my cup of tea.
PS, Mr. Briggs - I absolutely love your typical sign off line: "And be nice to each other!"
Thank you
@@WorldAccordingToBriggs You're very welcome, Mr. Briggs! That's the Golden Rule according to Briggs!
I grew up in Whittier and business took me to Texas where I have lived for 50 years. Texas friends of ours retired in Encinitas. They love it
Being from Lompoc (born and raised) a lot of people say the name wrong all the time and I just know people didn’t do much research on that area of the central coast when they say the city name; it’s pronounced “lom-poke” even though it’s spelt with a c, it’s a Chumash name
I graduated from Lompoc High in 1965 and love this area. Thank you for correcting people on the pronunciation.
Thank you!! Santa here ;)
@@steveriddle4497 I get so erked when people say it wrong😭😭 just cause Adam Sandler said it in Jack n Jill doesn’t mean it’s the right way to say it
Came here just for this😂.
Lompoc is my adopted hometown…been here since 1997. Reminds me somewhat of my original hometown of Seal Beach before the 1970’s.
Southern California second generation native... Thanks for highlighting some of our towns.
I recently retired and living in the Temecula area near wine country. Purchase a condo here in 2015. I’m not leaving California.
Great info ❤❤❤😊😊😊
Here in La Jolla right now!! Awesome place for sure!!
How about Temecula, Escondido? And Victorville, Needle , and Blythe?
How about hell too, those places are way too hot for seniors and their animals.
I'm a little surprised Tahoe wasn't on here. If I had the money though, it would be Tahoe in the summer and Palm Springs in the winter.
I'm from Santa Rosa so I'm well familiar with Sebastopol, Sonoma, and Napa. Sebastopol is where all the hippie types go -- it's bohemian and you can dress (or not dress, if you catch my drift) however you want. Sonoma and Napa are where all the rich winery types live -- there's pretty much nothing to do but drink wine at country clubs and wine bars. There used to be parks in the hills where you could hike, but most of them burned up in the 2017-2020 fires.
I'm surprised he didn't mention Baker. You always know the temperature outside because they got a giant thermometer.
Get it, Got it, Good needs to be Trademarked ™ buddy. Good Job!
Palm Springs: 115 in the summer & it doesn't cool down much at night. Ugh! I just don't see the desire to retire someplace that is so miserably hot. I do think it's pretty cool though to be lounging in the pool on a hot day while looking up at snow-capped mountains through the Palm trees. Love these videos!
It only reaches 115 or higher a few days a year. 107 would be more typical during the summer.
I worked in American Canyon at a wire bonding and die bonding tool manufacturer in the semiconductor industry. It's an odd town. It doesn't really feel like a town. When I was there, they didn’t have a downtown or many stores or shops. It was houses, businesses, a fire department, and a post office. It's close to Vallejo and Napa and Sonoma. It's super cheap compared to everywhere besides Vallejo.
Have lived in Calif. all my life of 67 yrs...Many great things, many bad things here which i guess could be said for everywhere just about when it comes down to it....I have retired here and even though as a whole, it is expensive here, we live very comfortably with everything paid off except for my motorhome....Am going no place now that im retired and incomes are fixed but if were to be able to choose somewhere to retire to in the state it would be like this...I would retire either to the north coast area, the northern Calif. Mountain areas, or the Sierra Nevada foothill small towns preferably around a lake community if possible or at least near by...North coast weather is for me the best in the state...Hardly ever hot as me and heat just dont get along...As for the other places i chose, there is one draw back to consider ....Wild fires..I would avoid the southern part of the state like the plague....Way to hot, way to crowded by my liking...Great place to visit for sure, but thats bout the size of it for me....Really love the small town of Weaverville and its location halfway between I-5 and the coast on Hwy 299....
Speaking of Weaverville, its growing very fast. I have a sister retired in Redding, thats to hot, and getting expensive as well. Eureka has a lot to offer, Crescent City isn't a bad place either......take care....
@@davidhadden-ii5hs We visit Eureka and Crescent city a couple times or more every yr in our motorhome with the wifes father living in Crescent City...We also do the Oregon Coast with a son up in Tillamook and a Daughter in Portland...So up I-5 we go from the bay area to visit in Portland, cut across to the coast and Tillamook to visit , then down Hwy 101 back to Crescent City to visit, then Hwy 101 to back home...Most of the time we cut across from Hwy 101 on Hwy 20 through Clear Lake, back to I-5 to home which is a little easier in the motorhome traffic wise...We often spend the nite in Clear Lake (town of Nice) at the Robinson Rancheria Casino as they have RV parking there and we like to do a few things on that cut across drive coming home that way....
You always put a great deal of effort into your videos, and I appreciate it. Having the should I stay or should I go thought all the time. I love California though I hate the way it is being governed. Have to escape L.A. no matter. Retirement anywhere might not be an option for many with the way our country is going. Your insights on different places are helpful and entertaining.
I totally agree with Sonoma. It's the only place that I think is as nice as my town. It's super close to my town, about a 15 minute drive through the vineyards & over the hill.
The square is super cute. The traffic isn't bad. There are good restaurants. The weather is perfect.
Im happy in runningsprings
Hilarious! I've got 30+ years living in CA (Pasadena, Napa, San Jose, etc) and I used to drive route sales to the tune of 60,000 miles a year there. You didn't name a single place I'd consider retiring to, and I've spent time in every place you listed.
One thing you need to calculate into your percentages though, how many of those over 60 bought their houses 20+ years ago. Those are the ones who are going to either die in that house, or sell and move out of state. Every single person I know in CA who's 55 or older is planning on, or has already, moved.
These places are all too expensive. I don't care about golf, but I do care about family. I'm in a town near Sacramento and I love it here. It's safe, eclectic, and pretty. Housing prices are less than the places mentioned. We don't have the ocean, but we have lakes and rivers, and only a couple hours to Tahoe and Reno. I was shocked Palm Springs was #1. It's hot enough here, why would I want to literally fry? Might as well move to Arizona! I enjoyed this video. These are all the same towns we wanted to move to in the 70's and early 80's, so it makes sense that's where folks are retiring today. Peace out! ✌️ ❤
Vj is so funny and makes extreme sense understood .
I'm retiring OUT of California! Can't wait! 😊
California is the best
Live in a camper on the beach and work as a movie extra 😂
😂
Wow you got right
Briggs , I dont see how the Sacramento region could be over looked. Roseville for example has a very high concentration of age restricted communities with at least three more under construction. Sac is also where they Silicon Valley refugees are buying hundreds of homes, in Folsom, Lincoln, Elk Grove and the city itself. Where else can a 30 minute drive east get you into snow and a 90 minute drive west gets you to the Bay area. Military retirees have a good deal , there is a VA Medical Center and two Air Force bases that approximately 45 miles from town.
I guess I’ll continue to live in Long Beach and work until I pass out😂 I refuse to move out of California.
The weather is gorgeous there! Worth every penny! Enjoy the beach for me. I'm stuck in AZ for now😂
Yay, San Diego got some love from Briggs.
Briggs your video pointed out one of the main reason the average person can't retire in the beautiful state of California, million dollar homes are simply not affordable to the average American.
Born and raised in Fairfield/ Vacaville, still live in Vacaville. I'm close to the Napa Valley, still have family living there.
Sonoma is beautiful, the town square is really nice to walk around and relax. I've worked a couple weddings in Napa Valley at vineyards. They're beautiful with the rolling hills in the background. If you have the money that area is a great place to retire.
St. Helena is beautiful too, with a cute downtown area lined with restaurants and cafes.
Hwy 12 and 29 going through Napa Valley gets is almost as bad as the bay area, you have to know when the avoid traffic. They've widen Jameson Canyon a few years back so that helped some. I think the traffic is from more people commuting longer distances for work.
Very minor correction: the locals call it "Paso Ro-bulls" not "Row-blays." My brother is a fire chief out that way and my mom indeed just did retire there.
And San Luis Obispo is pronounced "Lewis" not "Louweez" or actually "Slow" SLO for short.
Or you just say "Paso" or "San Lewis" as the locals do. Arroyo Grande is "AG", Pismo Beach is "Pismo", Carpinteria (where I live) is "Carp". @@susanlynch6240
Santa Bárbara is way better than Palm Springs😭😭 should’ve been #1
Are you talking about very wealthy people! Not realistic for most retirees!