Lesbian Couple Relocating to the Central Valley (San Diego, Stockton: foreclosure, crime)

[QueenieA]

I have accepted a new job in Modesto, CA. Currently I live in the San Diego area with my girlfriend. Both of us are in our 20s. We are both educated, and have no children. I am willing to commute for my job up to an hour one way. So, what is the best "gay friendly" city in the central valley? I also want to live in a safe area as we are both females. Some of the research I have done has been on Modesto, Turlock, Manteca, Lodi, Stockton, and Elk Grove. Any of these cities rate better than the other as far as "gay friendliness" is concerned? Feedback please.

[sms1967]

Good luck... you're gonna need it. Nothing here is as progressive as what you're accustomed to and the valley, as a whole, is pretty conservative. Elk Grove is probably your best bet because of the close proximity to Sac and you being early 20s. I know it's the farthest but that's my advice.

Manteca gets you a little closer to the bay area... as would Tracy and you'd go against the commute. Lodi and Stockton have some nice areas but overall they suck. Stockton is the foreclosure capital of the world... which means crime is sure to follow. Turlock is just small. Personally, I think Modesto is one of the worst cities in the state and would be my last choice.

[Bulldogdad]

I would suggest you checkout the areas around the local colleges in the older well established parts of these cities. Stockton is far more progressive than Modesto and cities south. We have an openly gay city council woman Susan Eggman. The area around University of the Pacific where my family lives is a beautiful place. "Brookside" is closer to I-5 and more upscale. Modesto does have a nice community college and the neighborhoods around J.C. are similar to the U.O.P. area of Stockton.
Modesto the home of "American Graffiti" has a more small town feel. You will not find anything like San Diego in the central valley. Good Luck

[QueenieA]

Thanks for the input!