EAST COAST
East coast lifestyles, at least in the Northeast, have adapted to a definite change in seasons. Residents experience severe winters that sometimes close roads and businesses and often create dangerous driving conditions. The cold weather wardrobe is pulled out of storage and little outdoor exercise is done other than shoveling and removing snow. Sub-zero temperatures can keep one inside for days. Fall brings the beauty of colored leaves and endless raking.
Residents are close to large cities for popular entertainment, shopping and international airports. Road travel, however, is via many two-lane roads. Speed limits are 45 to 50 mph except on the freeways. Cheap vacation packages to the Southern sunshine allow many residents to take a break during the winter or if they prefer they can take advantage of the skiing and other winter sports close by.
Northeasterners live in multi-story homes with at least two sets of stairs, one of which leads to a basement. Heating is a big issue in the Northeast and oil trucks make routine visits to fill household tanks. Homes are less likely to be in a housing development which means owners deal with less traffic and congestion. They enjoy more space around their homes and home prices are generally cheaper than the West Coast.
One cannot live in the Northeast without being affected by the history that abounds in the region. People and businesses occupy old buildings and many celebrations commemorate famous people or events. Each small town has its own history, famous founding fathers and old buildings and churches. One is constantly reminded of the early history as the Revolutionary and Civil Wars were fought on the East Coast and grand monuments have been erected in memory of those who fought.
WEST COAST
Living on the North Coast of California, we experience no real seasons and little if any snow during the winter. Those living at higher elevations deal with snow conditions, but most of the West Coast people do not. Other than heavy rains at times our travel is unimpeded. The climate is mild year around and there is no need for two different wardrobes. If one doesn't mind the rain any activity can be done outdoors, year around.
The states of the West Coast are much larger 3 states cover the entire coast. There is a lot of open space, and many freeways where the speed limit is 65-70 or more. Anyone living on the North Coast of California must travel 5 or more hours to reach a large city for quality entertainment or good shopping. Small local airports provide access to national airports, but travel may be delayed due to weather conditions. Trips must be planned well in advance and are not worth taking unless one has a four-day weekend. With such great distances to travel, drivers tend to speed even on smaller roads.
West Coast homes are usually ranch style with lots of windows and open floor plans to take advantage of the sun and scenery. Landscaped lawns and gardens abound due to the milder climate and ability to grow just about anything. Many residents enjoy the outdoors by entertaining, swimming, and playing sports. Most homes are in subdivisions of homes built within a few feet of each other. Rush hour traffic and congestion must be dealt with on a daily basis. Commutes to work can be long, stretching into hours-per-day. One drives, takes a commuter train or carpools with co-workers
