Barbara

Joe, no I did not ignore Jen's criteria and I think both downtown and Banker's Hill qualify as urban. So do all the other areas I mentioned. Also, before I
posted, I did a quick google search and found several available rentals in her price range in the areas I mentioned. She already understands that walking to the grocery store might no be realistic.

Lynn

I've only visited in Southern California but looking through real estate, I've seen apartments that do allow dogs in your price range in a couple of areas in San Diego called Oceanbeach and Pacific Beach. The phone number for the company that handles the rentals are:
Beach Homes: 619-225-9972. Again, I don't know anything first hand but apparently this company allows pets in all of their rentals. Lynn

Sue

I agree with Joe 100%. I was born and raised in L.A. We moved to San Diego 10 years ago when my husband was transferred and I like L.A. so much better. Try finding a good restaurant in inland North County San Diego or good shopping. The theater down here is a joke, compared to L.A. It's also hot as blazes in this area.

jen

Many thanks to all who responded-- while I can (and have) done my own research, it's so helpful to hear from those of you who really know the area... the good and the bad. We are coming out in August to scope out our options! Will let you know what we decide-- in the meantime, any other opinions are welcomed, and again, thanks to all for your thoughtful responses!

Mina

Hi again Jen. Glad you found some helpful leads here.

While some may say this is not a relocation forum, I think it's a good place to start for ideas. Obviously you are doing your research and not just taking our words for it!

Maybe your friend in Long Beach can look over some of the suggestions and voice her opinion. Since you actually know her, I'd imagine her opinion would be more trustworthy than us cyberfolk!

And as you said, keep us posted. I'd be interested in hearing your impressions on the different areas. Good luck!

eastcoaster

I haven't read all the responses. I moved here two years ago from upstate NY. I've struggles through those winters. You'll love it here. You can find a great apartment for the amount you are willing to shell out. Also, consider other areas outside of san diego. It's not the big metropolis I thought it was when I first came to visit. Now, LA on the other hand. I like, many here have problems with that place. I thought I would love it, but unless you're trying to be 'someone' or know all the 'right people' - you'll run into unreal, insincere, plastic people and the landscape isn't nearly as beautiful as san diego. at least try san diego before deciding for yourself. Don't get me wrong, LA is a great place to visit. You can experience it all without having to live there. the only people that might disagree with me are the 45 year olds that still go 'clubbing' in J.Lo shades looking like EVERYONE else. see you in san diego! try la jolla.

Todd

What do you mena "the landscape isn't as beautiful as San Diego?" I beg to differ with you! If you are strictly comparing the CITYIES of San Diego and Los Angeles, well, they're both UGLY! However, the outskirts of the Los Angeles area are just as beautiful as those outlying the San Diego area. Case in point (and there are others): The Agoura/Westlake Village areas of Los Angeles vs. the Carlsbad area of San Diego (both areas, of course, are MILES from the City center)!!