I never lived in Escondido, but I did seriously look for buying house there. Eventally, I decided not to buy over there since it is not very idea place to live and not a good investment for long term either.

The houses are much more afforable, but it is extremely hot in summer. There are some nice houses, but a lot of neighborhoods are bad. The schools are not that great. Only one school is condsidered good in whole Escondido. Most of them have very bad scores.

I used to live LA also michael! Carlsbad is the best and San Marcos is OK. I would not condsider Oceanside or Vista, but it depends on you individiual needs. If you tell me which part of LA do you live and what is your priority, I can have a better idea for you.