And specifically southern California, and someone who is a home owner, I can tell you this.
Don't believe the (anti) hype.
Yes, rates have increased over the last decade. I could spout off the reasons why I think that they have, but what it does come down to is that it has. However with that being said, it is not so outrageously priced that it can't be afforded.
There are some things that make it more risky....
Living near a canyon will increase the cost quickly.
Living in an area with wild/natural vegetation will increase the cost.
Living in an area with trees which are not regularly maintained will increase the cost.
Living in a home that is greater than 7 miles from a Fire Station will increase the cost.
Have a couple of those risk factors...the price will increase, because the likelihood of a total loss is much greater. I live in an expensive state. The taxes are high (average gallon of gas right now where I live....$4.49). Cost of living is aggressive (I have to plan on when to use my electricity, because using it between 4-10pm is almost triple the rate at other times of the day).
I can be done, but sacrifices.....yeah. Gotta have those too.
~Jeordam
Saving the Princess, Humanity, or the World-Entire since 1985