Appalachia and the Ozarks is a region in the United States that is characterized by it's rugged landscape, steep slopes, and mountainous areas. This region encompasses all of West Virginia and parts of Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Kentucky, Virginia, North Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Missouri. Sadly this region is also generally know as an economically poor area and most of the residents who inhabit Appalachia and the Ozarks are stereotyped as "hillbillies." The residents of this area are highly isolated and there is few occupational opportunity beyond mining. San Diego, California has little to nothing in common with this region when it comes to culture, topography, and economic opportunity. A Glimpse into Appalachia Mountain Areas: Appalachia and the Ozarks region is famous for it's extensive mountain ranges which contribute to isolation and economic depravity. San Diego also is nearby a few mountain ranges but they enhance economic opportunity, beautify the landscape, and are not a barrier to residents. The Cuyamaca Mountains are located to the east of San Diego County and run northwest to southeast. The are part of the Cleveland National Forest and several small towns can be located within these mountains including Julian and Pine Valley. The Cuyamaca Mountains were known as a gold mining region during the gold rush era but once the gold rush ended the mining site was shut down and is now a museum. The Laguna Mountains run along a section of eastern San Diego County for approximately 20 miles. They are bordered by the Cuyamacas on the west and Colorado Desert on the east. There is a small village aptly named Mount Laguna within the mountains with a population of about 80. Cuyamaca Mountains Laguna Mountains Population Differences: The Appalachian and Ozark area is comprised of predominantly white residents who are conservative both politically and religiously. San Diego is much more diverse to say the least. This city is intermixed with Caucasian, Mexican, African-American, and Pacific-Islander residents. San Diego is also very politically liberal and supports a large gay community. Hillcrest, an area in San Diego County, is a well-known homosexual community. San Diego's population is predominantly Catholic (67%), followed by the Mormon Church (3.8%), Southern Baptist Church (2.2%), and the Presbyterian Church (2%). About 17% of the population is classified as other. Hillcrest- neighboring gay community Economics: The residents of states within Appalachia and the Ozarks are very poor and have the largest amount of poverty of any predominantly white area in the United States. San Diego is generally a wealthier area but still boasts a 14.3% poverty percentage in all of San Diego County according to www.city-data.com. There is not much educational or occupational opportunity in Appalachia past a high school diploma and working in the mines. In San Diego there is significantly more occupational opportunity and 35% of the population has a Bachelor's degree or higher and 13.4% has a Master's degree or PhD. Stereotyped "Hillbillies" in Appalachia Surfers