A Comprehensive Review of Orange County, California
Orange County, California (OC), is a place that is spoiled in many ways. From beautiful weather and clean water to a wide range of activities and excellent schools, OC offers a lot. However, it also comes with a high cost of living. I was born and raised in OC, except for my college years in Tempe, Arizona, and have lived here my entire life. In this article, I will discuss both the pros and cons of living in Orange County.
Pros of Living in Orange County, California
First, let’s start with the positive aspects. OC has beautiful weather that is not too extreme. Compared to many other regions, the climate here is mild, which is great for year-round outdoor activities. There are very few bugs and critters, making the living conditions more comfortable. Close to the beaches, ski resorts, deserts, and major cities like LA and San Diego, OC residents can enjoy a variety of outdoor and indoor activities. Shopping options range from antique malls to high-end stores like South Coast Plaza. The area boasts excellent restaurants and entertainment venues, such as Disneyland and other theme parks. Additionally, major sports and concert halls are available for cultural and sporting events.
Negative Aspects of Living in Orange County, California
However, there is a downside to living in OC. The cost of living is extremely high, especially when it comes to housing. Many homes in OC sell for over 400 dollars per square foot and sometimes even more. If you buy a home at a high price, your property taxes and utilities are also expensive. Furthermore, there is a strong desire to keep up with neighbors, which can create a competitive and unnaturally high-pressure environment. For instance, if you see a car that is more than five years old, you might wonder if the owner has lost their job. Additionally, moms are often seen leaving work in high heels and crop tops to pick up their children from school.
Despite these challenges, life in OC can still be quite enjoyable. However, the quality of public schools in OC varies. Tustin Unified and several private schools within ten minutes are available. Community colleges and top-notch universities are also abundant. Yet, the high cost of living makes it difficult for many to keep up with the pace of life in OC. It’s not uncommon for people to spend 24 hours driving to Las Vegas and back for a 4-hour trip, or for moms to be seen in high heels and crop tops driving their children around town.
Business Environment in Orange County, California
The business environment in OC is also challenging. California, as a whole, is notoriously unfriendly to businesses. High worker’s compensation and liability insurance premiums, coupled with numerous regulations and accreditations, can be overwhelming. Even with no history of injuries or accidents, businesses in OC are burdened with significant costs and compliance issues. Despite this, the area continues to be a hub for entrepreneurs and businesses alike, despite the high costs.
Considering a Move: Pros and Cons
While considering the pros and cons, we are actually contemplating moving outside of California. In other areas, we could purchase homes outright, and similarly, homes for our children. These places might have inferior weather, some insects, and less convenience, but that is a small price to pay for the ability to live nearby as we get older. Even apartment living in OC is exceedingly expensive, making it difficult for families to have a sustainable living arrangement.
In conclusion, while Orange County offers a variety of amenities and a high quality of life, it also carries a significant cost of living. If you can afford it and are willing to adapt to the fast-paced competitive environment, OC can be a great place to live and raise a family. However, if cost is a primary concern, exploring other locations might be a better option. If I were a billionaire, I might stay in OC, but sadly, I’m just not. We are looking to relocate to a place where we can provide a more affordable and livable environment for our family.