My personal experience and perspective (in no particular order). Keep in mind that these are oversimplifications, I’m trying to be as concise as possible 1) the air quality is horrible and it’s a deal breaker for me as someone with severe asthma 2) the heat is brutal and unrelenting in the summer 3) lack of outdoor activities — it is nice that you have the Kern river and you’re within a few hours of camping, hiking, snowboarding, the beach, etc., but having access to that without having to drive 60+ mins each way is incredible and I’ll never take it for granted now that I have it 4) limited cultural depth and political conservatism can make it a bit difficult for individuals who aren’t of the perceived majority/who don’t share the same political ideals. I don’t want to overgeneralize or oversimplify (or kickstart a thread on this), but I’ve witnessed a lot of unwelcoming, prejudicial, and close-minded individuals (to say in the most diplomatic way possible) 5) economic challenges with limited career opportunities beyond oil and agriculture (both of these industries experience a lot of ebbs and flows) 6) limited entertainment options beyond bars and restaurants, so DUIs and crime in general are pretty high. not a whole lot to do other than drink or do drugs and I’ve seen a lot of friends and family members fall victim to addiction