[Paul F]

As a transplant from the Chicago suburbs, I can tell you the wife and I have had that discussion many times. We've lived along the California coast for 30+ years. In the down times of 2008 and other times, we discussed cashing out our house and moving somewhere cheaper for retirement. We've discussed all areas of the US and it always comes down to the weather. Nothing beats the temperate climate of the Pacific coast. We are spoiled and we just can't bear the idea of leaving it. We would have to be in a desperate situation to leave the coast. Sure, there are things you have to put up with here, but I wouldn't have it any other way. Weather, weather, weather. As said, the Santa Barbara area is really nice. But who can afford it? Take a look up and down the coast and see if something suits you.

If not, I agree about Reno. Just out of town are some nice places in the woods. But realize that many desert towns are in the high-desert (Reno is 4500'), so they can get cold in the winter. Unlike Vegas, Reno is right next to the Sierras with Lake Tahoe, plenty of beautiful scenery, and things to do. Plus its not a long drive to San Francisco and the coast.