Possibly relocating to Orange County, where to live, where to work (Irvine: 2009, apartments)

[srussell252]

My husband has been offered a job in Irvine CA. I am a CPA with an MBA and would need to look for a job. If he takes the job he would likely move out ahead of me in Dec and I would follow in May 2009. We currently live in the metro Detroit area - I know cost of living, housing etc will be a lot different than we are used, however hopefully the news and economy are not nearly as depressing!

Does anyone know what the job market would be like for a CPA with 9 years experience in public accounting with both audit and tax experience? Average salary??

I was also wondering where good areas to live are. We are in our early 30s, would like to be nearby, shopping, bars (not nightclubs), cafes, restaurants etc. Anything with a downtown area is a plus but not necessary. I know we would not want to live in Irvine, it just seems too sterile and cookie cutter for our taste. My husband will initially rent and if we like the area we would probably look to buy in fall 2009. Any advice on good areas to rent - especially over the summer as well as good markets to buy would be great.

I know the CA housing market has been all over the place lately. Which areas are still in decline? Does anyone know when the market is expected to rebound?

Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

[bhcompy]

judging by what you're asking for, you may like old town seal beach. puts you close to long beach(major job center) and gives good access to costal and central oc for access to other job locations.

most good/safe towns that fit what you're asking for in OC are not experiencing any major decline, so i wouldnt expect any killer deals unless you go into irvine and south where a lot more foreclosures are hitting in the newer "cookiecutter" towns

[monique=)]

My name is Monique. I‘m an 18 year-old girl from Germany. Before applying for university I‘d like to visit the United States. I like getting to know other cultures and I hope to improve my English. Therefore I‘m looking for an host family. In return I could work as an au pair, or pay for the lodging. And of course you can always come to our apartments in Germany. If you are intrested (and you want more information) or if you know someone who could help me please write me a short answer. Thank you!!!

[monique=)]

My e-mail adress is : st-monique@web.de