Why Californians moving abroad is a growing concern, especially with the state’s long-standing appeal, from its stunning Pacific sunsets to its booming tech industry and Hollywood glamor.
Yet, a quiet exodus is reshaping the Golden State as families, professionals, and retirees pack up for more affordable, opportunity-rich destinations. At Coastal Moving Services, we’ve helped many Californians relocate. This article explores why people are fleeing California, where they’re headed, and what’s driving this shift, grounded in 2025 insights.
With a comparison of California to top destinations and practical takeaways, we’ll guide you through this trend and show how Coastal Moving Services can make your move seamless, whether you’re leaving the Bay Area’s fog or Orange County’s beaches.
Why People Are Leaving California, the Golden State
The cost of living is squeezing Californians out.
Homes in California average $858,600, dwarfing the national median of $440,910.
Renting isn’t much better, a one-bedroom in San Francisco can hit $3,500 a month.
Add gas prices hovering above $5 a gallon and a 12.3% state income tax, the highest in the U.S., and it’s no wonder 56% of residents have considered leaving, per a 2024 Emerson College Polling survey.
Job growth lags behind the national average, and strict regulations can stifle small businesses and tech startups. Wildfires, worsened by dry conditions, threaten homes, while political divides push some, especially conservatives, to seek states with different values. For many, the California dream now feels like a financial and emotional treadmill.
Who’s Leaving? The Faces of the Exodus
California’s outbound migration cuts across all walks of life. From 2010 to 2023, 9.2 million people left compared to 6.7 million moving in. Historically, lower-income families and those without college degrees led the way, but now higher earners and professionals are joining them.
In 2023, California lost 0.4% of its 8.5 million college-educated adults, many from tech and healthcare. Millennials and Gen Z, seeking affordability, are exiting urban hubs like San Francisco, which saw a 650% spike in net exits from 2019 to 2020. Retirees, too, are leaving for quieter, cheaper states, drawn by lower taxes and less congestion. The pandemic amplified this, with 45% of wealthier leavers working remotely, craving space over California’s crowded cities.
Where Are Californians Moving To?
Californians are chasing affordability and opportunity in states with lower costs. Texas tops the list, drawing 94,000 residents in 2022-2023, followed by Arizona (54,200), Florida (39,000), Nevada (40,000+), and Washington (40,000+), per Business Insider.
Texas and Florida, with no state income tax, save high earners thousands, Florida’s homes average $412,400, nearly half of California’s. Arizona’s tech boom lures young professionals, with 15% of its population now ex-Californians.
Nevada attracts retirees with its calm deserts, while Washington pulls tech workers to Seattle’s thriving scene.
High earners, with an average AGI of $284,133, are also flocking to Wyoming for tax benefits, while Florida draws wealthier households.
California vs. Top Destinations: A 2025 Comparison
Leaving California means trading one way of life for another. California’s urban hubs pulse with tech and entertainment but grapple with traffic and density. Its cost of living ranks fourth-highest in the U.S., with homes at $858,600 and a 12.3% income tax.
Texas, 19% cheaper, offers homes at $350,500 and no income tax, attracting Millennials with its vibrant Austin scene. Check our article to get more insights about moving from California To Texas.
Florida, 11% cheaper, boasts $412,400 homes and a retiree-friendly lifestyle in places like Naples.
Arizona, 12% cheaper, draws Gen Z with Phoenix’s tech growth and $451,600 homes.
Nevada’s quiet deserts and zero income tax appeal to those seeking calm.
Each destination offers a fresh start, balancing affordability with unique cultures.
Is the Exodus Slowing?
California’s population decline may be easing. In 2024, the state gained 108,000 residents, reaching 39,529,000, fueled by international migration and more births than deaths. Domestic outmigration dropped significantly from 2021 levels, per the California Department of Finance. Growth in housing, especially in Lathrop and Yuba counties, supports this trend. Still, 60% of 2024 moves were outbound, with high earners and young professionals continuing to leave, per U-Haul and United Van Lines data. Read more about the experts movers San Jose trusts.
The state’s high costs and challenges keep the exodus alive, even if it’s slowing.
Making Your Move from California
If you’re ready to leave California, start by researching your new home’s job market, housing, and community feel. Budget for moving costs, local moves cost $450-$1,500, while long-distance trips to Texas or Florida range from $2,407-$7,123 for a one-bedroom.
If you are looking for a moving company by yourself, you may be missing great prices. We will match you with the best possible deal for youır long distance move.
Sell unneeded items on several platforms to save $1,000-$2,000. Choose a licensed mover via FMCSA.
Once you arrive, update your driver’s license within 30 days through your new state’s DMV, like Texas DMV.
Settle in by exploring local spots, from Austin’s food trucks to Phoenix’s desert trails, and connect with neighbors on various apps such as Meetup
Why Choose Coastal Moving Services?
With years of experience guiding Californians to new homes in Texas, Arizona, Florida, and beyond, Coastal Moving Services makes your relocation seamless. From packing delicate heirlooms to navigating new state rules, we’ve got you covered. Ready to start your next chapter? Request a free quote from us at +1-334-659-1878.
