OK, time for me to throw my oar into this race. I think we have the best situation possible, 6 months in Florida, and 6 months in God's Country, that is Maritime Canada. Great weather 12 months of the year, great healthcare, unbelievable scenery in both locations, cheap lobster and crab along with fresh salmon, cod or haddock. As for California, have only visited 3 times, for short durations each time, so I'll leave the comments about living there to those who have spent more time there.
All that said, having worked in an industry that moved us around, I can honestly say that once we set up housekeeping we adjusted and loved our time there, where ever it was.
Life is good, great to be retired.
Ed