Coming from CA, I assume you ll probably be happier in one of Oregon s bigger cities. The four largest cities are Portland, Eugene, Corvallis and Salem (in declining order of population). As for which is best. That is clearly a matter of perspective. Portland has the edge for those that want an urban environment as its the only city with over 150,000 people. I suggest you consider Corvallis and Eugene Oregon. Both are nice places and only about an hour from the coast. Both are major college towns - Corvallis (OSU) and Eugene (U of O) which provide a lot of sports and other entertainment options in addition to the education opportunities. Corvallis is more conservative, quiet and has a small town feel. Eugene, while not big by some standards is more metropolitan. Eugene is also more liberal with a bit of 60 s retro attitude. You might say it is the Berkeley of Oregon.
Go to Portland. Lots to do there Hope you like gray cloudy weather and rain