Despite sharing a state, Northern and Southern California are incredibly different in many aspects. Sure, Southern California has Disneyland and celebrities, but Northern California has so much more. Here’s a definitive list of the things that make Northern California the superior half of the Golden State.

1. Our beaches aren’t crowded

San Francisco has a quirky, unique culture that simply can’t be replicated anywhere in the world. It’s also home to the Golden Gate Bridge and a whole lot of very cute sea lions.

Also, The Princess Diaries was set in San Francisco, so it has that going for it.

3. Redwood forest

We have mountains to hike, beaches to explore, lakes to visit, sunny valleys, and even places to ski. Also, it’s greener up here! Northern California is like having the greenery of Washington without the unfortunate lack of sunlight.

4. The traffic isn’t as horrifying

Traffic up here isn’t great, let me assure you, but it’s not as outrageous as the LA freeways. In fact, LA was just recently named the most congested city in the US by usnews.com.

5. We have so much wine

Some of the best wineries in the world are located in Wine Country, where people from around the globe flock to go wine tasting. Up here, wine is so abundant that we pour it in our cereal instead of milk.

6. Our weather has some variation

It’s not always hot and sunny in Northern California, which is wonderful if you like your winters to be a little cooler. Some cities even get snow in the winter!

7. The food is SO GOOD

Have you even lived if you haven’t tried San Francisco sourdough? Northern California is heaven for foodies.