If you’re planning on moving to Southern California there are a few things you should know about before you pack your bags and head out to the Golden State. SoCal is a world of its own – with countless perks and undeniable beauty, but also some challenges too! So what is living in SoCal like?  Whether you’re planning on living here short-term or permanently, these 10 things will prepare you for life in Southern California.

1. Housing in SoCal is ridiculously expensive.
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The economy has certainly shifted in recent years, but while prices all along the West Coast are starting to catch up, no matter where you're moving from, you can count on the cost of real estate here being much higher than you may be used to paying. Whether you're renting or buying, make sure you're prepared for a bit of sticker shock when you arrive, as the price of housing will definitely make you do a double-take. (That said, SoCal is known for having some stunning real estate to choose from!)
2. It's extremely expensive to live here.
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You already know housing is pricey in SoCal, but what about other expenses? Be prepared to spend a lot more money on items like food and gas than what you are currently paying now. We call it the sunshine tax.
3. There will be traffic.
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Horrendous traffic. Traffic like you've never seen. Day and night. Weekdays and weekends. It's just the way it is and everyone in SoCal must adjust to a long commute. Fortunately, there are plenty of unique sights to look at along the way!
4. Ditch your snow boots for flip-flops.
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If you're moving to SoCal from a colder climate, you can plan on ditching your snow boots for some breezy sandals or flip-flops. Not just for lazy days at the beach, you'll find that Southern Californians live in flip-flops at work, at the park, or just heading to the store.
5. No one can agree on where SoCal ends and NorCal begins.
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When you move to Southern California, be prepared for some people to say that you are in Central California or maybe even Northern California as no one seems to be able to agree on the dividing line between SoCal and NorCal.

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6. You will develop "Avocado Syndrome."
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What exactly is Avocado Syndrome? Let's just say once you live in SoCal you'll suddenly start putting avocado on everything. Sandwiches, eggs, toast, burgers...
7. You better stock up on sunscreen.
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Whether you're hanging out at the beach for the day, taking a hike in the mountains, or just driving down the freeway to work, you'll quickly discover that sunscreen is your friend when you live in Southern California. Make sure to stock up and have a tube on the ready before you step outside.
8. Sunglasses are essential.
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Sunglasses aren't just a summer thing in Southern California. Be prepared to wear your sunglasses all year long in SoCal, even in the winter, as the sun is a welcome friend around here.
9. The fish tacos in SoCal will turn you into a food snob.
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With so many amazing fish tacos to be devoured in SoCal, you'll become a fish taco snob as you quickly become an expert on where to find the best fish tacos in town.
10. If you ever have to leave Southern California, you will miss it like crazy.
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After spending enough time in SoCal to call this beautiful place home, you'll find it hard to live anywhere else. Especially during the winter season.

There are challenges to moving to Southern California, but we honestly love it here!

What do you think of this list? What would you add to it if you were preparing anyone for a move to SoCal?

Love all things Southern California? We do too! In fact, SoCal has captured our hearts completely. This oceanfront condo is just one of the many rentals that shows off our state’s coastal beauty!

20 Reasons Why My Heart Will Always Be In Southern California

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More to Explore

Moving to Southern California

Jennifer | February 16, 2024

What are some unique things to do in Southern California?

From picturesque shorelines and vibrant deserts to man-made wonders and glittering cities, there's nowhere in the world quite like California. SoCal is particularly filled with fun, unexpected, and family-oriented things to do both by water and by land - for newcomers and lifelong residents alike. For a casual escape into nature with no hiking required, some of the best botanical gardens in Southern California are:

  • Fullerton Arboretum, Fullerton
  • The Getty Center, Los Angeles
  • San Diego Botanic Garden, Encinitas
  • Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, Santa Barbara
  • Sherman Library and Gardens, Corona Del Mar
  • South Coast Botanic Garden, Palos Verdes
  • Virginia Robinson Gardens, Beverly Hills

 

For some unique "SoCal" experiences, these fun and educational family tours are worth a day trip:

  • Angel Stadium Tour, Anaheim
  • Bates Nut Farm, Valley Center
  • Beehive Tour, San Diego
  • Dodgers Stadium Tour, Los Angeles
  • Dolby Theatre, Hollywood and Highland
  • Hollywood Studio Tour, Hollywood
  • Jet Propulsion Lab/California Institute of Technology, Pasadena
  • The Last Bookstore, Los Angeles
  • The Museum of Jurassic Technology, Culver City

 

Or, check out some of SoCal's strangest and quirkiest museums:

  • The Bunny Museum, Altadena
  • California Route 66 Museum, Victorville
  • Los Angeles Police Museum, Los Angeles
  • The Museum of Death, Los Angeles
  • Noah Purifoy Outdoor Desert Art Museum, Joshua Tree
  • Ruddy's General Store Museum, PalmSprings
  • Whaley House Museum, SanDiego

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