What is the best big city to live in, in California? And why?

also, what's it like to live in Los Angeles?

Public Comments

1. I dont live there but San Diego is awesome. Its the 2nd biggest in CA and its alot better than LA in my opinion, theres more real people there, nicer weather too
2. Santa Cruz!!! because its a very environmental open city! like its awsome.. by the beach,... alot of surfers.. yoga clubs.. alot of vegan places to eat.. liberalist .. full of local shops kinda city =)
3. San Jose Its the richest city in America, so its CLEAN, high paying jobs, lots of amenities (busses, local train, etc.), lots of festivals and things to do, plus its near San Francisco without having to pay the high price tag it costs to live in SF (Although San Jose is expensive, its probably similar to LA, not as expensive as SF). All those Bay Area places are within distance. If you like big city feel, then San Francisco is what you want. LA and San Jose are similar in that they are not big city feel (everything is spread out in these cities, not big tall skyscrapers like Frisco)
4. I agree with Pete: San Diego is a GREAT place. Los Angeles is extremely NOISY, for the most part!! That's the part that I dislike the most, aside from the insane traffic and the complete lack of heart or soul...
5. San Diego. The city is like something out of a movie. Although it is really expensive to live there, its beautiful. It rarely ever rains, it never gets too hot and there are Triathlon's/Marathon's every other weekend. I lived there for 5 years and eventually moved because of the cost of living, but if you have the coin its totally worth it. LA will make you angry in 5 seconds flat. Even at 1am the traffic is bumper to bumper, it never stops. There are homeless people on every corner but no parking anywhere. It is a little cheaper than San Diego though. There are some great places and big opportunities as well.
6. I have lived in Bakersfield over 24 years and it is a beautiful town with a lot to offer. Even named the All America City in 1990 and a finalist in 1998. Everything is spread out, comfortable, no traffic constraints like the larger cities and the living is very affordable. We are in the middle of the state with access in every direction! You are crazy if you are even considering LA!! *wink*