I love Southern California. Everywhere else I've been to feels like trading down.
Ocean waves to Mountain snow to high desert all in a matter of a 2 hours driving. Its expensive here, so if you have money/employment issues, COASTAL SoCal (the part I'm most familiar with) is not for you. Large properties are either costly or inland.
Also, SoCal is horizontal (vs vertical NY city) and as such, an automobile is needed to fully appreciate the area.

Not a business friendly environment either, so if thats your planned mode of economic sustenance (local service industry aside), run away.

State knife laws rock.
Public concealed folder is state legal (just don't pull it out! (thats what she said)).
Public open carry fixed blade (eg sword) on belt is state legal (just don't unsheath it!).
Problem is SOME local governments pass their own more restrictive laws.

that said, we're too crowded.

If you got the cash, Hawaii is my pick!!