I moved from Germany to the US for my career. The high cost of living in California shocked me, but it's worth it to live here.

• 03/31/2026, 5:08 AM
• businessinsider.com

SLO Town Studios/SLO Town Studios

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Christiane Schroeter, a 49-year-old professor of innovation and entrepreneurship and leadership strategist in San Luis Obispo, California. The following has been edited for length and clarity.