I would like to comment on the topic going on between asiannautica and SD realtor, as I have had some personal experience relevant to it.
On healthcare: It is apparent that HC system is a total failure here in US. Unless you can spend a whole lot of money out of pocket or have excellent job with insurance, access to good healthcare is nonexistent.
On quality of healthcare: Dismal in my experience, but is dependant on the skill of particular doctor and not the hospital. I had a life-threatening situation and a doctor in Seattle cleared me for international travel (non-stop 14 hour flight) without doing the appropriate testing. I was ultimately lucky because my home country has world-class healthcare at minimal costs.
On Scripps: I worked as a volunteer in Scripps 4 years ago, exactly the year when they got the Magnet status. I can vouch that the particular department I worked in was excellent in patient care, very professional, fast, and efficient.
Life West of 5 and along 15: I rented in an area west of 5 for 2 years and currently own and live along 15. I think the kind of community feeling that SD realtor talks about would make a difference for people born and brought up in the US. For many others, access to places that are important to them makes the difference.
On life-long friends: I do think “luck” plays a big part in having good friends, lucky in meeting them not in maintaining them. No matter how steady and loyal you are, it is pure luck that will lead you to meet a person suitable to you.
