I wouldn't consider Cali for that little amount of money. While I've never lived I've been there many times and as mentioned, the cost of everything is just insane.
A big reason I chose Arizona is the good weather, cost of living is virtually the same as Ohio, and none of that Cali style BS. It helped immensely that my employer at the time was already based in Phoenix.
Your head is clearly in the right place, continue to be patient and you'll find what you're looking for eventually.