By BrainFall Staff - Published: January 30, 2024
You love the Pacific Coast and want to live in the Pacific Time Zone. There’s nothing wrong with that. In fact, so many people have called the West Coast home ever since the United States expanded westward. The Pacific Ocean is known for its bright blue water, and West Coast states all get a chance to enjoy it.
There are plenty of famous cities along the West Coast, and it is a dream travel destination for many. Whether you’re heading to San Francisco, Seattle, Los Angeles, or Portland, these are all considered part of the West Coast states. But do you have what it takes to live on the West Coast?
Maybe you do, especially if you’re someone who was born there. But maybe you want a change of scenery. Maybe the Pacific Ocean is what you want to be near. Maybe you want to be more inland but still on the Pacific Coast. There’s one way to find out. Take this quiz and we’ll help you figure out which West Coast state you want to move to.
West Coast state
The West Coast states of the United States are the states that are bordered by the Pacific Ocean. According to the United States Census Bureau, the estimated population is around 51 million people, as of 2021.
West Coast life is very different than East Coast life. Some cities that are along the West Coast are San Francisco, San Diego, Los Angeles, Eugene, Seattle, Olympia, and more. There are a lot of populous cities, and as you move south along the western coast, you'll be near Mexican territory.
The Westernmost coastal states are all in the Pacific Time Zone. There are huge differences even in the same states. There's a big difference between Southern California and the Sierra Nevada mountains. The Western seaboard and the Pacific states are beautiful and meant to be seen by everyone. There's a lot going on there as well, giving you plenty to enjoy.
Which West Coast State Should You Move To?
So you're thinking about moving and the West Coast is calling your name, huh? You've probably heard the tales of year-round sunshine, laid-back vibes, and a coastline that'll make a grown person weep with joy. From the tech empire of Silicon Valley to the coffee-scented drizzle of Seattle, moving to the West Coast offers a buffet of options for every Jurassic-loving, avocado-eating individual out there!
Now, let's consider what's cooking in the culture pot of the Pacific. Each state comes with its own flavor of lifestyle and the best places to live. California? Prepare for an onslaught of innovation and sunshine, but also a side of traffic. Oregon offers a blend of outdoorsy charm and artisanal living, perfect if you fancy a craft beer with your forest hike. And Washington, oh sweet Washington, brings you face-to-face with mountain views that might just solve all your existential crises.
Choosing where to drop your anchor on the West Coast isn't just about picking a state; it's about finding your tribe and your vibe. So, as we gear up our moving trucks and pack our boxes, join us on this whimsical journey to find your West Coast soul state. Just remember, it's supposed to be fun – like deciding which taco truck deserves your loyalty on a Saturday night. Strap in, friends, and let's figure out where you'll be chasing sunsets and dreams together.
The Great State Debate: California vs. Oregon vs. Washington
We're in for a wild ride on the West Coast! It's a head-to-head standoff with sun-drenched California, the ever-charming Oregon, and the lush Washington! Let's dive headlong into the nitty-gritty of what each state has to offer, shall we?
The Golden State: Sun, Surf, and Startups
California isn’t just a state; it's a lifestyle! Think of the endless beaches and that perfect wave calling your name. But wait, there's more than just tan lines; we're talking about Silicon Valley! Got an app idea while sunbathing? You’re in the right place. What about living the high life? Oof, your wallet might feel the squeeze with the cost of living reaching for the stars. And the housing market? Yeah, you might need more than a gold rush to afford a spot in San Francisco. But hey, they say the best things in life are free, like watching the sunset from the Golden Gate Bridge.
Oregon Trail Today: More Than Just a Game
Oregon is more than a piece of childhood nostalgia! It's a treasure trove for those with a love for greenery with its dense forests and enchanting coastline. The cost of living? Let’s just say your piggy bank can breathe here, not to mention the full coverage auto insurance that won't break the bank. And, if you're wondering about the job market, just know that Oregon has a growing tech scene too, so you might just find your own trail to success. Plus, the craft beer scene is top-notch. Who wouldn’t want to sip on some hoppy goodness after a trek through the Cascades?
Evergreen Washington: More Than Just Seattle’s Coffee
Coffee addicts, rejoice! Washington is the motherland of that famous mermaid-branded coffee empire, but it’s not all about the caffeine buzz. Nestled up in the corner, Washington boasts an impressive tech job market (looking at you, Seattle), and an unemployment rate that's smiling at you. For the green at heart, the forests and mountains here are like living in your own episode of "Twin Peaks"—minus the drama. The housing costs? Middle ground compared to its neighbors. Helen of Troy may have had a face that launched a thousand ships, but have you seen the Puget Sound on a clear day?
Now, isn't it exciting to picture your future in one of these states? We bet your wheels are turning! Remember, it's all about where your heart feels like home... or where your internet connection is strongest (we don't judge).
Lifestyle Logistics: Figuring Out the Finer Details
When it comes to surfing the wave of our West Coast dreams, we've got to understand the nitty-gritty of our daily grind. Let’s make sure our fantasy fits within the frame of reality, shall we?
The Wallet Factor: Can You Afford the Dream?
Let's talk turkey—and by turkey, we mean the moolah. Homes in these coastal havens don't come cheap, with average home prices having us sometimes sweat more than a yoga session in a heatwave. Also, those envious salaries you've heard about are not myths, but remember they often go hand-in-hand with the high cost of living. Got dreams of a sweet beach condo? Check those average rent prices to ensure your wallet won’t be screaming for mercy.
| State | Average Home Price | Average Rent | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | $700,000 | $2,500 | $65,000 |
| Oregon | $440,000 | $1,400 | $60,000 |
| Washington | $550,000 | $1,700 | $70,000 |
Stay Connected: Getting Around Without Losing Your Mind
Do you dream of driving with the top down on the Pacific Coast Highway, or are you more the type to bike through Portland's quaint neighborhoods? Whether you're all about that metro life or prefer to bus it like a rockstar on tour, we've got you covered. Just don't forget to factor in the personal income tax—some of these states want a piece of your transportation budget!
Nature vs. Nurture: Finding Your Perfect Outdoor Match
Are you a towering redwood or more of a sun-kissed beach? Out here, the nature offerings are as diverse as our avo toast selections. If you're into the whole breathing fresh air and seeing actual stars at night thing, a low unemployment rate and solid quality of living statistics make these states a stellar match for outdoor aficionados like us.
Social Kaleidoscope: Culture, Entertainment, and Meeting Your New Bestie
Let's face it; we're social butterflies—our culture diet needs more than just a free annual festival. We're talking music, art shows, and yes, even that weird little puppet theater downtown. But beyond things to do, we're talking about vibing with the locals and finding our tribe. And hey, safety first! Always take a peek at the violent crime rate to ensure your new homies are as chill as you are.
So, as we shuffle through our West Coast playlist, let's ensure our dreams align with our bank statements and our hunger for adventure with the reality check of living essentials. Ready for the next step? Hit up BrainFall for a quiz that's sure to help sort out where your West Coast soul really belongs!
