Pros and Cons of SJ

[NorCal Dude]

There might not be a multitude of hip spots for 20 somethings, but San Jose has a competent mayor, low crime, and no tenderloin.

[Luxus]

San Jose is just about one of the best places you can raise a family. It is an extremely well-kept city and among the nation's safest. In most Western and Southern neighborhoods you have to worry about little more than tree pruning. To use your questions:

Are the people nice enough?

Yes, most neighborhoods are friendly, open communities.

Is the culture a positive one?

Yes, it is rather traditional and very family oriented in the desirable neighborhoods that compromise much of the city (especially west and south).

Is it a place where you can raise well rounded, positive, confident children?

Absolutely. San Jose has in many ways managed to actually acheive the dream upon which most suburbs are built. Looking at the western and southern areas, you are essentially looking at a city of about 400,000 where there isn't even a homicide per year. It's safe, recreational opportunities abound. Parks are well-maintained and plentiful, as are playgrounds. Neighborhoods are well-kept and most of the city population is rather well-educated. Youth programs, libraries and school are run rather well too. Santa Cruz and the beach is only a relatively short drive away.

Are there educational opportunities?

Of course. This is the wealthies big city in America and most schools are rather well-funded (by comparison to state average). The public college system in this state is still among the best nation-wide. I myself am the product of the CSU.

Can one find a sense of community?

Well, here I have to say the city is ananoymous. This is suburbia to be honest. You will have lots of privacy, but you will also be shopping at the generic big box store and shopping center. It's about as good a place to find community as any other large suburban area.

In sum, I really like the city. It's such a peaceful and livable place for a large city. The neighborhoods I would recommend are:

1) Santa Teresa
2) Alemaden Valley
3) Archbishop Mitty area

Actually, stay west of Monterey Highway and South of 280 and you'll mostly be just fine.

I wrote this post quickly, so I hope my spelling mistakes don't (ironically) paint a bad picture about California's public universities.