got a work visa?
can be tricky.
Not if he's an engineer - all you need is to get the "Trade Nafta" visa - you need a letter from your employer, your degree (original not a copy) and I think its $100 - when you show up at the border, you show them your offer letter, your degree and they give you the visa. I did this for a year and a half - easy peasy lemon squeezy.
Where you moving too? who you working for?
For medical - you don't want HMO - totally sux. If they are paying you $78 K they should be providing health care - get the details.
If you are going to be in the Bay area, Emeryville is OK - central and not too expensive.
Also - bring your bike - there are trails freakin everywhere. And your skis - Tahoe is pretty damn close.