What City in California Should You Live in?

Marilyn Monroe said that people go to Los Angeles to be free. Denzel Washington said that in Los Angeles, everyone is a star. And Andy Warhol said that if you like plastic, Los Angeles is the city is for you. Life here is by turns lonely, brutal, glittering, and beautiful. If that description intrigues you instead of scares you off, then maybe Los Angeles is the place for you.

Billy Graham said he was afraid to preach about heaven here, because the city itself was so amazingly beautiful. Historically, San Francisco has welcomed strangers and misfits with open arms and it has continued to be an exceedingly liberal place, even if it's not as inexpensive as it was back in the 60s when hippies flocked to it. If you've got the money, San Francisco is a dream of a place to live. If you don't, well, it's still a nice dream.

This gorgeous city offers almost everything Los Angeles does-beautiful weather, ecological diversity, and a fit and active population-but without the hassles of traffic and smog. You can spend your morning surfing (surf culture was born right here) and then go hiking in the desert in the afternoon. What's more, San Diego's art scene and foodie culture both benefit from the city's close proximity to Tijuana, Mexico.

If you'd prefer to live on the Riviera but you've got to stay stateside, this is the place for you. With its gorgeous scenery and Mediterranean climate, Santa Barbara charms everyone. Particularly celebrities, who have the money to buy the mind-blowing homes on offer here.

If you're a techy, San Jose is the perfect place for you. Here, your skills will be rewarded with the best work environments the industry has to offer, not to mention the best pay. Sure, the cost of living is fairly high, but the city's excellent weather and cultural diversity are worth it.

You are the sort of person who may have once considered going back to the land. You have both a healthy respect for nature and a strong sense of community. Above all, you love great food and wine. So much so that they are central to your life. You will find kindred spirits and fresh air here, as well as renowned vineyards and MIchelin rated restaurants.