California is awesome (bay area especially - born and raised there). Very diverse, both in climate and culture. I loved being able to go an hour in any direction for snow, city life, beach, mountains, lakes and etc. However, as a young man I left because of the cost of living. I am currently in the OTHER bay area... Tampa Bay. I would love to return. If the opportunity pays well.... DO IT!
Find a suberb for cheaper living. It will be worth the commute. Oh, California has terrible cigar tax and non-smoking bans.... something to consider! Hope this helps... and your package will be there on Wednesday.