Why Californians Are Leaving in Droves: Insights from Former Residents
California is making headlines as its residents leave in droves. Over 800,000 people left the Golden State and moved to other parts of the country between 2021 and 2022, according to the Census Bureau.
The reasons Californians are moving vary from person to person, but many people cited rising crime rates and the high cost of living as factors. Also, the states they’re relocating to are just as diverse.
Homeownership, Safety, and Affordability
For many former California residents, homeownership, safety, and affordability were the clinchers in their decision to leave. Calli Edington, who moved from Northern California to South Georgia, explained that due to the high cost of living and the increase in local crime, her family decided to leave California for good.
Jackie Burse, a conservative Californian, found it difficult to express her beliefs in a predominantly liberal state. She left Orange County for San Antonio, Texas, where she feels more comfortable sharing her opinions.
Janelle Crossan, another former Californian, moved to Texas to escape the high cost of rent and the feeling of insecurity in her area. In New Braunfels, Texas, Crossan found a higher-paying job and purchased a three-bedroom home.
Escape from Traffic and City Issues
Davrick Hayes left Los Angeles in search of a less congested city. His two-hour daily commute and the high cost of living pushed him to move to Bismarck, North Dakota. While he misses the California weather, he appreciates the cleaner air and fewer traffic jams in his new home.
Elisabeth Wykert and her husband decided to move back to Missouri after facing wildly high rental costs in California. They purchased a house in St. Joseph without even seeing it in person, and while they’re happy with their decision, they have plans to explore other locations in the future.
Pengyu Cheng, a former San Franciscan, was driven away by the homelessness crisis and the high cost of living in the Bay Area. He and his wife relocated to Austin, Texas, where they plan to settle down and raise their family.
Vered DeLeeuw and her husband left Palo Alto, California, for a new job opportunity in Memphis, Tennessee. While she initially found the slower pace of life in Memphis to be a challenge, she has come to appreciate the kindness and welcoming nature of the people.
These stories from former Californians shed light on the diverse reasons why people are leaving the state. From affordability and safety concerns to the lure of new job opportunities and a change of pace, individuals are seeking different futures in new locations.
