Where should I move for outdoor pickleball??
I'm seeking advice as I look to move somewhere in the US with my biggest priority being high-level outdoor pickleball year-round.
I'm in the 4.0-4.5 range and play 20+ hours a week, but I'm tired of cold weather and having to play indoors for half the year. I live on my own, make pretty good money, and work remotely so I'm fortunate to not have many restrictions in that regard.
I'd especially love to be close to a big park / facility where I can get consistent games at a decent level, and eventually make friends & find groups to play with. I'm not the competitive tournament type, I love having fun and slowly improving from hours of open play or private groups.
I'm also a single guy in my 20s so a younger presence would be ideal!
So far my research has led me to the following candidates:
| Location | Pickleball Hub(s) |
|---|---|
| Los Angeles, CA | Memorial Park |
| Orange Country, CA | The Tennis & Pickleball Club at Newport Beach, Los Cab Sports Club |
| San Diego, CA | Barnes, Bobby Riggs, The Hub, maybe more? |
| Fort Lauderdale, FL | The Fort, Holiday Park, lots more to the north |
| Daytona Beach, FL | Pictona |
| Naples, FL | USOP Pickleball Center (older crowd?) |
| Scottsdale / Phoenix, AZ | Haven't researched this |
I know cost of living & summer weather differ pretty wildly between CA, FL, and AZ, but I think these would check my most important boxes.
Any advice is greatly appreciated, especially if you've played at these locations. Let me know if there's another good option I missed!