Canada to California: Advice needed.

Hi, I am a Canadian RN and I would like to move to california (predominantly because of the weather) within a year (and the more I think about it the more GLEEFUL I get! and I haven't even started the first step yet!)... However, I am confused... I just started a new job in the PACU and my employer sent me for the ICU course because she wants everyone to be ICU trained. Which is great except now after having put so much effort in learning so much I will not be using all the ICU acquired skills in the PACU setting. So I am not sure what is the best skill-set to move to California with? As in... say I stay in PACU...does that mean I will not be able to apply for a critical care position in california and thus waste my certification? Is there a descent enough market for PACU nurses in california?... I am just so confused...

So, I guess my question is that if you were in my shoes, would you rather transfer to the ICU after the course completion and gain experience there before applying to california or would you just stay in the PACU? Also, not related to my course but to my wish to move to California... Does anyone know if it is better to do the agency way or if I should just apply directly? It all seems so complicated...and sometimes agency seems like they'll tell you all the steps but then I am not too sure if I can deal with the 3month travel assignments...Oh and also I have heard many many times California being really expensive...How do nurses live there if the average cost of a 1br rental is $2000???...I mean what's the point of living in a gorgeous place when you'll spend every day working overtime just to pay the rent? Or are those just horror stories?...(oh and that was not meant to be offensive!! PLEASE PLEASE dont take that as offensive! I will admit I am totally ignorant to this entire thing...except for this feeling that I will TOTALLY LOVE it there! - I still need to figure out which city...oh sorry I am side-tracking again!)

Shheeesh! I know I just unleashed my ramblings upon all of you...however, if you read through it I am SOOOOOOOOOOOO greatful! Any advice would be ginormously appreciated!!

THanks so much!!