Moving to the Barstow, Ca Area...?

Question

Was wondering what the general prices are of things...gas right now, milk, beer, cigarettes, a dinner out.....I'm from the midwest and things seem cheap here, but I wasn't sure about there. Any input will be appreciated! Thanks

Answer 1

Housing and gas are the only two things that will be a lot more out here. But housing in Barstow is pretty cheap so it's not bad at all compared to the rest of CA, but it's also in the middle of nowhere. Gas is higher here though by a decent amount so having a smaller efficient car is better here. Electricity might be higher, I know CA has some pretty high rates but we also use the least amount of electricity per capita so it evens out. Although in Bartstow you probably will have high electric bills in summer b/c of the heat and maybe in winter b/c of the cold. Most essentials in CA are not that much more if at all. We grow most of our own food, so milk, eggs, ect.. will probably be pretty similar. Cigs are less than $5 pack at most places and a 12 pack of beer shouldn't run you more than $10-15 for bud or coors Property taxes are lower in CA that the national average so if you are going to buy that will be an advantage here unless you get an expensive home of course.

Answer 2

Everything in California is going to seem quite expensive compared with what you are accustomed to in the midwest. Barstow is a smaller, less sophisticated area where it will not be as extreme as, for example, San Francisco, but you're still going to experience sticker shock.

In general, plan on doubling your cost of living for essentials, and it would be a good idea to start cutting back on luxury items to change your budget and lifestyle now. I was relocated to the midwest from California for a while and couldn't believe my good fortune, because back there I was able to live comfortably on half of the living costs I was used to paying. But then coming back to California really hurt.

For most of us who enjoy California's natural beauty, lifestyle, political climate, open-minded values, etc., however, its worth it!

Answer 3

Well you're halfway to Las Vegas from L. A., and will only be a couple hours away, ( where a lot of people go) so you should probably brush up on your gambling skills. That will help with some of the higher living costs. That plus the sale of "How do I get to Las Vegas" for L. A. stragglers and newcomers and "The Bunny Ranch" MAPS and your going to be all set..