Shingletown or Paradise? (Redding, Chico, Oroville: neighborhood, to buy, university)

[blkgryphon]

Hey folks,

Just wondering if anyone has any comments on either the Shingletown or Paradise areas. We have horses and would like to be able to buy an acreage and ride out from there, at least onto some nice, quiet dirt roads if not public land trails.

I definitely want to be above the worst of the heat, and below the permanent winter snow. I believe there is a neighborhood called Inwood near Shingletown that looks good, from what I can see.

On the other hand, I sometimes teach English courses at the University level and do appreciate a more artsy, liberal atmosphere, and I believe I've heard Chico (and therefore nearby Paradise) is more suitable that way than Redding (and therefore Shingletown).

Anyone live in either place?

Many thanks,

Susan

[Majin]

Who?

[MotleyCrew]

I would not go to Shingletown/Redding. Way too hot in the summer in Redding and not much to offer as far as shopping or things to do. We lived in Chico/Paradise and I would lean towards Chico since you like liberal towns. It is a university town and the main downtown area is very quaint with little unique shops and eating spots. There is also the newer part of Chico with the big box stores. You can find horse property outside of Chico, but it will be very spendy. Paradise is less expensive and Oroville is even more so with probably a better choice of ag land.

[FlyGuy]

I agree with motley crew. I'm to from the chico area. if you are more of the liberal type, chico is the place. It is a laid back town for the most part. Plus you have Chico State there also. There are horse trails you can ride in the upper Bidwell Park. paradise is only a 30 min. drive. They do get a little bit of snow in the winter but not much.

[FlyGuy]

You can also check out the corning area they have cheap property there too. And it is an easy commute to chico.