[quote=ctr70] . . . The only reason I’m here and not in a place like say Seattle is the weather. I always ask myself WTF I’m here…it always comes back to weather. That is the only reason. And I will probably still eventually move out of here despite the weather. The people on go on about how great SD is make me sick…come on folks, it’s just the weather that makes it a good place to live.[/quote]

WOW, ctr …. I don’t see the same things you do.

I see well-groomed older hoods, some with sidewalks lined with 80+ yo trees. And I see many older residents who have lived in the same home for 50+ yrs.

And I have access (3 mi or so) to “big box” stores, but being a very small household, I have no need for them so don’t shop there.

Of course, the beach areas and the ~newer~ areas would be far more transient. The beach areas within 4 blocks of the beaches have large populations of young people (college students, etc). The ~newer~ areas (car-oriented & full of big box and strip mall stores) you speak of are full of “transplants” who didn’t know any better when they bought. Many of them (who still “own” their homes) are likely “underwater.” A native San Diegan (with local family guidance in these matters) wouldn’t have been compelled to leave their “home turf” just to move to lizardland. Just an FYI, those “cookie-cutter” areas aren’t considered “move-up” areas for lifelong well-located San Diegans who know better :=)

I’m sorry to see that you feel that SD’s weather is its only redeeming quality and am a little surprised that you haven’t moved away yet.

Have you ever considered moving to Durango (CO)? I think it’s reasonably affordable, has all the modern conveniences (incl nearby challenging skiing and an annual “fall display” that would knock your socks off) and is only a hop and a skip from your hometown of ABQ. Check it out! I might be right behind you 🙂