Moving to California
California is the land of dreams. Hollywood, sunshine, and glamour. Swimming pools and movie stars. No other state captures the imagination quite like California. Nicknamed "The Golden State," California doesn't disappoint. With a population of approximately 36 million people, California ranks #1 in the United States. With over 1,000 miles of beaches, 278 state parks and beaches, eighteen national forests, and eight national parks, more than any other state, California and its climate are ideal for the outdoor enthusiast.
California became the 31st state in 1850. Los Angeles is the largest city and includes five counties with nearly 4 million people. Besides the glitter, paparazzi, and reality TV shows, LA is also a cultural fine arts center, home to over 300 museums. California, with an area of 158,800 square miles, is the third largest state in the union and is larger than eighty-five of the smallest countries in the world. And it's no secret that many people in every country of the world dream of coming to California.
Now that you are moving to California, impress your friends and family with these golden nuggets of interesting information:
State Capital is Sacramento.
Approximately 10% of Californians are vegetarians.
California produces over 17 million gallons of wine each year.
State Motto: Eureka. I have found it.
Fresno is the Raisin Capital of the world.
State Flower is the Golden Poppy.
Los Angeles is the largest city, followed by San Diego, San Jose, San Francisco, and Long Beach.
State Tree is the California Redwood.
The tallest tree in the world is 369 feet in the Humboldt Redwoods State Park.
Frederick's of Hollywood was started by Frederick Mellinger, inventor of the push-up bra, in 1946.
California grows 99.5% of all dates grown in the US. Arizona grows the rest.
Mt. Whitney is the highest peak in the continental states at 14,495 feet.
Death Valley is the lowest point in the US at 282 feet below sea level. The hottest day ever recorded was in 1913 at Death Valley, a scorching 135° F.
California is a sports haven boasting five professional baseball teams, three pro hockey teams, three pro football teams, and four pro basketball teams.
More turkeys are raised in California than any other state. Californians are also the largest consumers of turkey in the country.
Disneyland opened in 1955. Rumor has it Walt Disney was afraid of mice.
With over 3 million acres, San Bernardino County is the largest county in the United States.
Since San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge opened in 1937, over 1,200 people have plunged 220 feet to their deaths.
State Animal is the California Grizzly Bear.
Major industries are agriculture, biotechnology, and tourism.
State Bird is the California Valley Quail.
Enjoy your new home California!