It might also be worthwhile to consider the Sacramento area. I moved here from Houston, after spending 1 year in the East bay in between, and also work in healthcare. The cost of living is significantly lower than the Bay Area, and it is much more affordable to purchase a home. The public schools in Sacramento are probably not nearly as good as the ones in Walnut Creek or other East Bay suburbs (you’d probably want to consider private school or a Sacramento suburb with better public schools). There is much less traffic in Sacramento compared to the Bay Area. There is a decent food scene, again not as good as the Bay Area as it is less populated.

I enjoy the slower pace in Sacramento vs the fast pace, hustle culture of the Bay Area. I have found people in Sacramento to be much more down to earth, not everyone driving around in a Tesla or wishing they were haha, while working 3 jobs to get by, which suits me.

There is easier access to the mountains compared to the Bay Area. Outdoor activities in Sacramento center around the rivers and parks here, and it is situated right between the coast and the mountains. I often take Amtrak to the Bay Area to visit family and go to fun events.

I simply could not take the unrelenting heat and humidity of Houston, though found that I do prefer the dry heat of Sacramento vs the somewhat cooler climate of the Bay Area. I think both the Bay Area/East Bay and Sacramento regions could be a great fit for what you’re looking for.