You don’t typically talk about population density in Los Angeles, mainly because it is depressing. There are just so many people crammed into one area. I’m sure this is due to so many of California’s offerings: the weather, the beaches, great restaurants, and of course, Kim Kardashian.
Having A LOT of people around you ALL THE TIME can become desensitizing. It certainly was that way for my wife and me while living in Southern California. And since everyone else is in the same boat (literally), you seem to make due.
When we moved to OKC, we were surprised by living in a city with a low population density. We have thoroughly enjoyed this new sense of “uncrampiness” since moving here. It is one of our favorite things about living in Oklahoma. Add as well; we can drive for 15 minutes and be in the country. That is a massive value to us. Five years later, we still enjoy it.
On one of the “Best Places to Live” lists, the population density had Oklahoma City at 83% less than in Los Angles. The list points out that LA has endless entertainment and scenery choices. Oklahoma City has a “Bike Sharing System.”
When we moved to Oklahoma, we did give up many of our favorite California values. Access to the Pacific Ocean, mouth-watering Mexican food at Gilbert’s, Will Rogers State Park on a summer day, a hickory burger at The Apple Pan, and a picnic at the Hollywood Bowl in the evening. I’m stopping there.
I’m pointing this out as my wife and I knew what we were leaving when we moved to Oklahoma in 2018. Our favorite California spots and lifestyle were unique and most likely would not be duplicated in Oklahoma. I forgot Disneyland. As we have remained in Oklahoma City and made it our home, the above items do not trump the massive value of living in a place with low population density. Not even close.
We can visit our old haunts in California, which we have done, but it looks like our mailbox will continue to have an Oklahoma address. Tito’s Tacos, I forgot that too. Ugh.
LA2OKC 