This is an unpopular opinion but ZOA is not that bad.
No one can argue that cost of living is high, there is a training backlog (nothing compared to ZNY), and it is hard to leave traditionally (you'll probably have to get your 52 weeks, quit and reapply).
On the other hand, the facility culture seems pretty good, Northern California has access to anything anyone would want to do and job opportunities are great if your partner has a career.
In my opinion, too many people buy into the facility rumors and the culture that California is falling apart. I need money as much as the next person but I don't have children and am young so I am prioritizing having a great fucking time and the Bay Area is a perfect place. If you want what is typically described as the "American dream" then it's probably a terrible place and I respect that too.