Atascadero CA

[CalSLO]

Originally Posted by PasadenaGuy

(newbie here...)

I'm one of those LA people who hopes to retire in SLO County in a few years. I greatly enjoy the variety of communities available (beach, college, ag, tourist, etc.) there. I prefer the Oaks studded hillsides and savannas of the North County (Atascadero and Paso Robles). Yes it gets hot, but never gets fogged-in - and you get a little more for your housing dollars there.

Is the North County considered the unsophisticated place where the "hicks" live? Is the state hospital in Atas really an issue? Other than the freeway grade, are there other serious drawbacks to North County?

PaasadenaGuy. The North County (anyplace north of Cuest Grade) is considered somewhat "hick" by people who live south of the Grade like in San Luis Obispo. If you go downtown in San Luis Obispo or Pismo Beach and go into some stores and then do the same thing in Atascadero or Paso Robles you will feel a palpable difference in the culture. There are advantages and disadvantages to both places. It will depend on the person which is better for them. If it is culture you are looking for though, better move to San Luis Obispo, you can only go visit the vineyards in the North County so many times before it becomes old. Hope this helps. Best regards.