Family looking to relocate to SLO or Arroyo Grande (Los Angeles: house, neighborhood)

[Jamie O.]

My husband and I are from Southern California (Westlake Village and Calabasas) and are currently living in Boston. We are trying to figure out where to move when we're done with Optometry school this coming spring. We have a 2 and a 3 year old and the place we keep coming back to is the central coast. Specifically SLO or Arroyo Grande.

Having lived in the middle of a city for the last ten years (L.A., then Boston), we're wanting a more simple life, something a bit slower paced, reasonable housing prices (a 3 bed for less then $600,000), and lots of outdoor space/activities, and good schools, but at the same time close enough (with in 20 min) to a Costco or Target etc.

Although I grew up not too far I've only been to SLO a hand full of times and never to AG, rarely getting past Santa Barbra except for a weekend to Cambria here and there. From what I listed as our main "wants/needs" in a place do either of these towns fit the bill or are there some others that I'm missing?

[Nozzle]

I live in AG and went to school in SLO. Based on your needs/wants you can't go wrong in either place. SLO definitely has more going on but still has a relaxed atmosphere (hence the phrase "SLO life").

AG seems better suited to a family in my opinion. We have good schools and easy access to the beach. Home prices are right around what you're looking for. AG is one of the "Five Cities" area that includes Pismo Beach and Grover Beach. Pismo is the most expensive to buy into but it's great if you can. AG offers a great balance which is why my family lives here

[shemp]

I lived in large cities before moving my young family to SLO. We're very happy with the move, but SLO is quite a bit smaller and slower than what I was used to. I'd hesitate to go even smaller, slower (AG). Both are great choices and have what you are looking for, but I prefer the small city feel of SLO over the more suburban five cities.

[Shawn_Estrada]

My family moved to San Luis about 2 years ago. We love it. The activities for children are great, the schools are good and overall we have enjoyed being able to walk and bike everywhere. While our neighborhood lacks children (only 1 the same age as my daughter across the street), we like the diversity that slo brings, especially with the college students and retirees mixed in.

As other as stated, San Luis is a big downsize from Boston or Los Angeles. So don't get used to having superior fine dinning, or other big city amenities. Target/Costco is about 10 minute drive (with traffic) from my house in downtown. With a housing budget like yours, you should have no trouble in the market (with the exception of Downtown San Luis), it is just a matter of preferences.

[the city]

Both are nice. AG is cheaper and quieter.

SLO is definitely more urban, cityish.

Public schools in SLO rank better too than AG.

Costco, Target, Sear's, Kohl's, Trader Joe's, Home Depot, and Forever 21 dep. store are all in SLO.