Is California Gay Friendly?? (San Diego, Long Beach: school, store, to move)

[Scranberry]

I'm thinking about relocating from Pittston PA to the California area early this year. I am wondering how "gay friendly" the areas are? Are there any particular areas I should stay away from? I am very open minded big city type of guy so I'm looking for a similar environment.... Any suggestion would be appreciated.

[VietlOtUs]

From the "trade your spouse" show, I've learned that San Diego is "gay/lesbian friendly". But I am not a local so don't take my word for it.

[bhcompy]

Well, you've obviously got San Fransisco and West Hollywood. Those are the most visible/flamboyant gay heavy areas.

As a southern californian, I can tell you that most of the beach cities are pretty gay friendly down here. The best choice for big city with affordability is probably Long Beach. Downtown, East Arts District, Bluff Park, Belmont Shore/Belmont Heights, and Naples are all mostly urban areas of the city where gays tend to reside.

As far as where to avoid, typically California is more conservative the farther inland you go. That doesn't mean that the people are intolerant, but you'll probably want to check the coastal cities first.

[Scranberry]

Originally Posted by bhcompy

Well, you've obviously got San Fransisco and West Hollywood. Those are the most visible/flamboyant gay heavy areas.

As a southern californian, I can tell you that most of the beach cities are pretty gay friendly down here. The best choice for big city with affordability is probably Long Beach. Downtown, East Arts District, Bluff Park, Belmont Shore/Belmont Heights, and Naples are all mostly urban areas of the city where gays tend to reside.

As far as where to avoid, typically California is more conservative the farther inland you go. That doesn't mean that the people are intolerant, but you'll probably want to check the coastal cities first.

Thanks for the advice.. I know here in PA, people seem to look down on gays, and I don't want to move into something I'm looking to leave. I'm still a young kid. And I don't know any better but I'm hoping after I get out of school in a few weeks. I can make some big changes in my life. Right now I work at a big box store making about 11.25 an hour. Are there a lot of good paying jobs out there?? I'm going to have a 4 year degree soon. I hope I can put it to some use??

[skywalker400]

^Depends what kind of degree that is. :P The cities (SF,LA,SD) are more tolerant and you will find gay bars, clubs, bookstores etc. At the same time there will always be people whom are prejudiced for whatever reason too, so don't expect some rainbow splashed nirvana out here. Come out and visit for at least week, just to make sure its worth the trek (and expense) from PA. Good Luck.

[BennyPhoenix]

I dont think anyone would tar and feather you out here, but some places are far more friendly than others. In general If you dont get in anyone's face people wont get in your face.

[Capt. Dan]

A gay friend of mine once told me that the place he ever felt threatened was Bakersfield.

[CA central coast]

CA gay friendly? does a bear $%!# in the woods?

[Twinkle Toes]

The Palm Springs area.

[Full-Blooded American]

We have a "don't ask, don't tell" policy here in CA, so as long as you keep quiet about it you'll be okay, probably.