My time since I have moved to California last year

California
2024/7/10 Edited to

... Read moreMaking the monumental decision to move to California is often painted as a dream, a sun-drenched escape where every day feels like a vacation. Having spent a full year here since my own relocation, I can tell you it's definitely an adventure – a mix of incredible highs and some surprising realities. When I first thought about moving, I pictured endless #beach days and spontaneous #travel to iconic spots like #disney. And while those moments are absolutely part of the California experience, there's so much more to living here than just the highlights reel. Many wonder, 'what's it like in California?' and 'is it nice to live in California?' Well, let me share my perspective. One of the first things that struck me was the sheer diversity. From bustling cityscapes to serene natural parks, California truly has it all. However, it’s also important to manage expectations, especially regarding the cost of living. Housing and everyday expenses can be significantly higher than in many other states. It’s a reality that hits home quite quickly, so budgeting and finding a stable income source are crucial for anyone considering a move to CA. It's not always 'pretty like the sun' financially, but the opportunities can balance it out. Despite the challenges, the lifestyle here is undeniably magnetic. There’s a constant feeling of wanting to 'go party' or 'have fun' because there's always something happening. Whether it’s exploring hidden gems, trying new cuisines, or simply enjoying the incredible weather, the sense of #adventure is palpable. I've found that people here are generally open to new experiences, which makes it easier to settle in and find your community. You really feel like you can 'shine on everyone' with your unique interests. For anyone considering 'relocation to California,' my advice would be to do thorough research beyond the tourist brochures. Think about what kind of lifestyle you're seeking. Do you thrive in a fast-paced urban environment, or do you long for a quieter, more nature-focused existence? California offers both, but the experiences are vastly different. Consider job opportunities in your field, research specific neighborhoods, and perhaps even plan an extended visit before making the leap. It makes a huge difference in understanding ‘life in California’ beyond just the surface. Ultimately, my first year living in California has been a journey of discovery. It’s taught me resilience, opened my eyes to new cultures and perspectives, and provided countless memorable moments. It’s not just about moving; it’s about embracing a new way of life and finding your own rhythm in this dynamic state. If you're ready for an adventure that challenges and delights in equal measure, then California might just be the place for you to make your new home.

13 comments

Morgan&Lyla's images
Morgan&Lyla

Song? 😍

See more(2)

Related posts

A four-panel collage showcasing Idyllwild, California, a Southern California hidden gem. It features a mountain view, a modern cabin exterior, a person holding a coffee cup on a porch, and a rustic cabin nestled among trees.
A scenic view of a large rocky mountain peak rising above a dense forest of pine trees and autumn foliage, illustrating the natural beauty of Idyllwild, California.
The interior of a quirky artisanal vinyl shop called Hunky Dory in Idyllwild, featuring shelves of records, a colorful stained-glass window, and warm lighting.
Visit this Southern California Hidden Gem 🐻💎
Idyllwild had been on my radar for YEARS, but since we moved to a mountain town a few years ago I didn’t feel the need to visit until we moved back to the city. We made a nice little Thanksgiving getaway out of it and WOW, I definitely regret not going sooner! Idyllwild California 🌲 2+hr drive
reisha

reisha

978 likes

A person sits on rocks by the ocean under a clear blue sky, with text overlay 'Living & Working Abroad in Sydney, Australia', introducing the guide to moving to Australia.
An aerial view of a clear blue ocean with surfers, detailing information about the Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417) for ages 18-30, allowing work/study for up to 12 months.
A kangaroo stands on a sandy beach with hills and ocean in the background, accompanied by tips for finding a job in Australia, including BUNAC, handing in CVs, and RSA certification.
HOW I MOVED TO AUS & HAD THE BEST YEAR OF MY LIFE🇦🇺
🌟 GETTING A WORKING HOLIDAY VISA ✈️ For 18 to 30 year olds (up to 35 for some countries). Allows you to work or study for up to 12 months (If you want to extend your visa you must complete 3 months of specified subclass 417 work). Easy to apply and very quick processing time! 🌟FINDING A
Lex in the City

Lex in the City

68 likes

6 steps I took to set up my LLC in California
It’s official: I’m a business owner! While I haven’t officially launched my business yet (will share more details when they’re ready 🤫), I did want to layout the 6 steps I took to set up/register my business in California. I’ve been putting off starting a business for YEARS because the thought o
hannah 💟

hannah 💟

20 likes

A cozy living room features a TV displaying the show "Ehrengard," a white media console with woven baskets, various plants, string lights, and a large arched mirror, reflecting the apartment's decor.
A bright apartment interior shows a dining area with a white table and a living room with a cream sofa and plants. Overlay text indicates it's a "590 square ft 1 bedroom apartment, Rent: $1600, Bay Area."
A dining area with a wooden table and white chairs is shown next to a white cabinet with shelves. Overlay text lists apartment pros: "long living room/ space for dining area/ desk area - big bedroom, 1 closet - patio" and cons: "no laundry unit - small kitchen."
What I Pay for a 1BR Apartment in California
Sharing, the reality of my rent for a one bedroom apartment living in the bay area. I think my rent is not as high as other areas around where I live just because I have been living in this apartment over six years. I pay $1600 and I think that's a good price for how big my apartment is, i
Yesenia

Yesenia

2126 likes

Giant Marilyn Monroe Statue Moved
The iconic Forever Marilyn has officially been moved following debate over the famous dress pose and its placement near the Palm Springs Art Museum — proving that even now, Marilyn still sparks conversation and keeps the spotlight. ✨ Love that this legend is still causing people to speculate in 202
Feral Fam Bam

Feral Fam Bam

5 likes

A gray journal cover decorated with numerous stickers, including an American flag, a yellow balloon animal, Hello Kitty, Minecraft, and a periodic table element for Bromine, with text 'MY FAV JOURNAL SPREADS'.
A handwritten journal entry titled 'Playlist from this entry' listing several songs like 'Soak Up The Sun' by Sheryl Crow and 'Hotel California' by The Eagles, with a total run time of 32 minutes.
A handwritten journal entry titled 'The Marias Submarine first impressions' dated June 2nd, 2024, providing detailed track-by-track reviews and thoughts on the album's songs.
my fav journal spreads from this year
hello! these are some of my favorite journal spreads from this year :) 1. a simple page but i enjoy it so much. i think it really helps me look back and see how my music change has evolved through time and how it was actively influencing the things i wrote 2. album reviews! i have multiple of
giselle 🪷

giselle 🪷

1516 likes

A woman with long, light brown hair and tattoos sits on a brown couch, wearing a white cropped t-shirt. She looks directly at the camera, with a framed black and white poster featuring skull art and reversed text like 'THE UND NGELES' behind her.
9 years ago today, I moved to California.
No real plan. No job. No friends. No anything. And I was absolutely terrified. (3rd picture is the first picture I took living here) I needed it. If I had stayed in New York, I wouldn’t have been happy. New York raised me - made me strong, made me independent, made me want more out of life. LA m
Mia Parziale

Mia Parziale

13 likes

A scenic coastal view of turquoise ocean water meeting a rocky and sandy beach under a clear blue sky. The image features text overlayed: 'Things to do in Monterey California' and 'Swipe' with an arrow, indicating a guide.
Inside the Monterey Bay Aquarium, visitors observe a large multi-panel exhibit showcasing a vibrant kelp forest with various fish swimming. The text highlights it as one of the best aquariums in the US, with an approximate price of $50 per person.
A beautiful sunset over Del Monte Beach, with the sun low on the horizon casting a golden glow over the ocean waves and wet sand. The text identifies it as a nice spot to watch the sunset.
Monterey California things to do
Monterey is one of my favorite places to vacation! (Maybe I’m biased since I’m from down the road in Watsonville 🤫) Have you been to Monterey California? Did I miss anything? #monterey bay aquarium #montereybay #monterey #california #montereyca #montereythingstodo #californiatravel
Jewell 🐠🦀🪼

Jewell 🐠🦀🪼

206 likes

A car trunk packed with moving boxes and several large potted plants, indicating a move from California to Arizona.
A dramatic night scene showing a large American flag waving against a dark, cloudy sky with bright lightning striking in the background.
A sunset view featuring a car in the foreground, a gas station sign displaying fuel prices, and a silhouetted palm tree against an orange sky.
I moved to a new state for the first time
Moving to a new state was SCARY! But the pics and memories are so dang worth it!. #longdistancerelationship #movingintogether #traveling #arizona #monsoonvalley #dinnerideas
LifeW/Ana

LifeW/Ana

339 likes

My boy BSF texted me for the first time since he moved right after I asked out h
What do I do
Luz Elisa$$$

Luz Elisa$$$

0 likes

i moved out at 18 ! 🏠🧼🪴
hey loves i wanted to share my journey of independence. I moved out to a new city at the age of 18! i started at a community college and since there are no dorming options at my previous school, i had to get my first apartment!🫶🏽💓✨💐 1. Budget. seriously this helped me so much by saving up sever
hi! im reis 🤍

hi! im reis 🤍

381 likes

We moved into our starter home in 2020! 🏠
Here’s some things we’ve done since moving into our starter home in 2020. This all took 5 years! Home takes time. Especially if you’re on a budget and had two kids in under two years 🤪 our first home is so special, we’ve had so many beautiful memories here starting out our life & some of th
Brittany Pigeon

Brittany Pigeon

841 likes

What $2700 gets you in California!
House hunting in California has to be the hardest thing I have ever done. 😫 For one moving on a whim didn’t help. 🤣 My sisters and I luckily were able to stay with our brothers who had recently moved out to Cali. We didn’t know where to start. All we knew were the areas we would go visi
RealChelseaJay

RealChelseaJay

15 likes

California Burrito 🌯 👇🏾
California Burrito 🌯 👇🏾 What state makes the best burritos? I have to say California! I grew up in San Diego and the Midwest. I was born in the Midwest, and while I was still an infant, my mom moved us to San Diego, CA, for the first time. I said the first time because we went back and forth fr
Turnip Vegan

Turnip Vegan

405 likes

My first year in California was a whirlwind 🌪️
I came here with nothing figured out. No money, no plan, no place to live. Just me and my dog Tokyo and the belief that I would make something work because I had nothing to go back to. Confidence, delusion, bravery and grit. I went from homeless to housed in a span of seven months. I pushed myself
Barbiedollzoe

Barbiedollzoe

0 likes

A smiling blonde woman wearing sunglasses and a dark blue top is in a car, buckled up. Text overlay reads "I moved to Houston, TX", indicating her relocation for a new job after PA school.
A scenic view from a car window shows a vibrant sunset or sunrise with pink and purple clouds over a green landscape with trees and a highway, symbolizing the journey to Houston.
The view from inside a car shows a long, open highway stretching into the distance under a partly cloudy sky with the sun breaking through, representing the road trip to Houston.
I moved to Houston, Texas!
Life update: On 7/13 I made the move from Indiana to Houston, Texas for my first job since graduating PA school! The move has been a lot harder mentally and emotionally than I expected it to be but I know I’ll be happy I made this decision. #physicianassistantlife #pastudent #movingou
Lexie

Lexie

177 likes

How I Moved To California ☀️✈️
I moved 3,000 miles away from literally everyone😭 I tried to save around $20g in less than a year & did exactly that. I spent around $5,000 to transport my car, boxes, & get a plane ticket. It was definitely a stressful goal but in the end, it was worth it all. We now live in Burbank, and
bena

bena

34 likes

Northern California for the WIN 🥇
Seriously though, I have lived in a decent amount of states and cities & I have to say I love 90% of the people here & there’s everything from authentic food, beautiful landmarks, & beyond gorgeous nature here!! When I first moved here my car was stolen and totaled and I did not think I
Kenzie Taylor

Kenzie Taylor

5 likes

A woman with her hair in a bun and large hoop earrings looks away thoughtfully. Overlay text reads: "I WAS IN A 7 YEAR LGBTQ RELATIONSHIP and now im only dating men...." from a Lemon8 diary post.
The woman looks at the camera, with text about healing trauma and re-exploring dating men. Another text box discusses validating identity for those in hetero relationships despite being gay, bi, or pan.
The woman looks at the camera, with text stating, "I'm so proud of myself for following what I want and feel called to at this phase of my life." Rainbow heart emojis are also present.
LEMON8 DIARY: I Was In A 7 YEAR LGBTQ Relationship
My longest relationship to date: My nearly 7 year relationship that was an LGBTQ relationship (to keep it simple) BUT NOW, I'm only dating men. Here's why... I am coming from multiple physically and emotionally abusive relationships with men growing up. I went straight into a relationshi
stephanietear

stephanietear

370 likes

A young man with curly hair and a beard, wearing a light green sweatshirt, sits and drinks from a water bottle while holding a phone. The image highlights his new life in Houston and making his own decisions.
A close-up view of a car's steering wheel, featuring the distinctive Maserati logo. The image caption indicates the experience of learning to drive in a fast-paced city.
A night scene from inside a car, showing a city street illuminated by decorative string lights on trees and buildings. The image conveys experiencing a finer type of living.
Life Since I moved to Houston
I’m originally from Southfield Michigan which is a city that makes up a part of Detroit. I’m also a senior in College. Throughout my whole life I’ve been told what to do, how I should feel, and what life I should want for myself. Everyone has told me what’s best for me and on the inside I always kn
Lovejoy

Lovejoy

4 likes

A woman in a striped dress stands in a traditional Japanese doorway, looking back at the camera, with a pond and garden visible outside. Text overlays read 'Monthly Recap' and 'I moved to Japan'.
A woman in sunglasses and a green shirt stands outdoors, playfully posing with her hand to make it appear as if she is holding Mount Fuji in the background, surrounded by green foliage.
A vibrant red Shinto torii gate marks the entrance to a path lined with numerous red banners, leading into a wooded area with a shrine building visible in the distance.
Sooo I moved to Japan 🇯🇵
Hey 🍋8! It’s been a while. Here’s what I’ve been up to since I last posted… I moved to Japan! I’ve been here a few weeks now and it’s been amazing. I’m so blessed to have this experience to be here for the next year. Now all I have to do is learn Japanese 😉 #travelwithme2024 #japan #tr
alivia!!

alivia!!

26 likes

I moved to California 🌴
From the Great Lakes to the Golden State 🌊☀️ Trading the snow for sunshine, can’t wait for new adventures, new vibes and endless possibilities ✨ #californiasunsets #newadventure #huntingtonbeach #goldenstate #california
kirafischer

kirafischer

44 likes

Savings Progess as a 20 Year old girl
i decided in sept that i would save 15,000 just to have a fund for myself just in case of anything through a strict budget which i will be posting soon, once i start my job lol , i was able to save money which was put into savings. i automatically put $250 to savings which led to me savings at
mariah worlds

mariah worlds

132 likes

Basketball legend The Big “O”
Oscar Palmer Robertson is a retired professional basketball player, 12-time NBA All-Star, and Olympic gold medalist. He is one of only two players to average a triple-double for an entire season. Frequently known as the Big O, he is 85 years old and was born in Charlotte, Tennessee. Robertson g
aloglesby310

aloglesby310

0 likes

Moved into my first house at 25
I am very blessed and thankful to be able to move into my first home. I have moved out of every apartment every year I have rented out since 18. I hated living in those apartments. I always had problems with leasing and management and they always felt so small. I finally moved in to a 3 bd/ 2.5ba a
Brianna Nicole

Brianna Nicole

192 likes

A night street scene in New York City adorned with numerous red and yellow lanterns and Chinese characters on buildings. The image introduces "3 Places for Lunar Year in New York City," highlighting local celebrations.
A smiling woman stands in a crowded Chinatown street, decorated with lanterns and confetti, during a Lunar New Year parade. Text describes the Chinatown Lunar New Year Parade and Festival on February 16, 2025, at 1:00 PM.
A serene outdoor view of a water feature with trees in the background. Text announces the Queens Botanical Garden Lunar New Year Celebration on February 1, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM, featuring activities and cultural performances.
3 Lunar Year Experiences to Not Miss in NYC
🐉 The Chinese Lunar Year is a beautiful celebration, it represents the end of winter, the beginning of spring, and the arrival of a new year. ✨ For the majority of my life, I didn’t know and participate in this holiday, but since I moved to New York , I started to have more interest in it, and
Your City Gal | NYC

Your City Gal | NYC

14 likes

See more