California: Declining or Simply Expensive?
Why do many Americans perpetuate the notion that California has declined as a state? This perception is often fueled by media biases and political rhetoric, but the reality is that life in California can be quite sweet for those who can afford it. This article explores the reasons behind this perception, the cost of living, and the political climate that contributes to these views.
The Perception of Decline
There's a common belief among some Americans that California is in decline, yet this notion is often fueled by those who consume conservative media, such as Fox News. The idea that California is in decline is primarily propagated by individuals who subscribe to a certain political ideology rather than objective realities. These perceptions stem from political and economic factors, and are often an exaggeration of the challenges faced by certain regions within the state.
The Sweetness of Living in California
Despite the perception of decline, life in much of California is generally quite pleasant. While it's true that some areas like Stockton and Bakersfield face significant challenges, particularly for those experiencing homelessness or substance abuse, this is a problem that affects many urban centers not just in California but across the country.
The financial success of coastal urbanized areas such as San Francisco and Los Angeles has contributed to the real estate bubble, making living in these areas very expensive. However, it's important to note that the financial success of these regions has a positive impact on the nation as a whole, as these states subsidize Republican states through federal taxes that have been a feature for decades.
Political and Economic Factors
Nationally, Republicans tend to criticize California due to the state's partisan leanings, which often differ from their own. This has led to a situation where the coastal, urbanized states subsidize Republican states through federal taxes. A significant shift has occurred in the political landscape, with more than 65% of the US GDP voting for Democrats in 2016 and 70% in 2020, a stark contrast from the 50/50 split in the 1980s and 1990s.
The financial success of coastal California has led to an increased cost of living in these areas, with industries like technology, entertainment, and finance driving up the value of real estate. Other factors such as high taxes, crime, and an increasingly competitive job market contribute to the challenges faced by some in California. Understanding these factors is crucial to a balanced view of the state.
Personal Insights and Obstacles
As someone who left California 10 years ago, I can attest to the changes I've witnessed. While I may consider moving back, there are several obstacles that make it less advantageous.
1. Cost of Living: Real estate prices in California have skyrocketed, making it extremely expensive to own a home. Even in smaller cities like Stockton, Sacramento, Fresno, and Bakersfield, homes routinely cost over $500,000. This is a significant factor for those considering a move to the state.
2. High Taxes: California has some of the highest state taxes in the nation. High-income earners like myself are in a bracket that pays more in taxes than those in neighboring states. While this is a challenging factor, it's important to note that not everyone lives in this high-tax bracket, and adjustments or shifts in federal taxes could mitigate this issue.
3. High Crime: Crime rates in California have not remained static, with some areas experiencing a rise in criminal activity, particularly in less affluent neighborhoods. The rise in gang violence, especially in immigrant neighborhoods, is a concerning trend.
4. Job Market: While the job market in some sectors is excellent, it's also highly competitive, particularly in urban areas. Opportunities can be scarce for those who are not already established or do not have the necessary skills.
5. Politics: Political differences are often a significant factor in people's perceptions of California. The state has a reputation for progressive politics, which may not align with the views of others.
While there are certainly challenges in California, the state also offers numerous benefits. It's a hub of innovation, home to some of the world's most influential industries, and it offers a quality of life that many people can still enjoy, particularly if they can afford the high cost of living.