I'm from the Midwest originally and I've found SoCal to be friendly and outgoing, moreso than most places. As an example, you'll have 50+ year olds on skateboards or surfing, playing volleyball, mingling with younger crowds at bars or restaurants, etc.
In the Midwest - they don't do a whole lot, stick to their own neighborhood, and there's lots of ageism.
In SoCal - people are generally nice but aren't in-your-business-neighborly-friendly like the Midwest or South but I prefer that. Also, it's rare to even hear a car honk because people are so much more laid back.
Where did you live? Just curious because it might not have been the right one for you. I've lived in Santa Monica, Hollywood, Pacific Palisades, Sherman Oaks, El Segundo, Playa Del Rey, Manhattan Beach. :) Enjoyed every one, although Hollywood was only cool for a few years when I was younger. I knew I wouldn't want to be there long.
As you can see I prefer the beach cities but there are great places in the valley (Sherman Oaks) and elsewhere like Echo Park and Silverlake that have completely different people and feel. I have a few friends that absolutely love downtown too.
In the Midwest - they don't do a whole lot, stick to their own neighborhood, and there's lots of ageism.
In SoCal - people are generally nice but aren't in-your-business-neighborly-friendly like the Midwest or South but I prefer that. Also, it's rare to even hear a car honk because people are so much more laid back.