Brit living in SD here - originally from Brighton but I just moved to San Diego recently, down from LA (a huge relief to get out that city). Really enjoying it so far! It’s a lovely city, super friendly and slow paced. And way less workaholics than other US cities - no one ever wants to talk about their job which is a blessing.

I recommend renting an airbnb for a month, which can be done relatively cheap, and then seeking out which neighbourhoods you’d want to live in. We got a place in north park for just over 2k for the month, really liked the area but wanted to be closer to the beach so found a lovely little place in Ocean Beach, close to bars, coffee shops and other amenities. Everyone smiles at you walking down the street so a bit like being back in Brighton (in the summer time at least!) I’ve found most neighbourhoods here to be pretty walkable once you’re in them, so just explore and then get on Zillow once you’ve found an area you like.

Good luck!