Top 10 States Californians Are Moving to in 2025 (and Why They're Leaving California)
buying out of state
buying out of state
In 2025, a significant number of Californians are relocating to other states, driven by factors such as high living costs, housing affordability issues, tax burdens, and quality-of-life considerations. Based on recent data, the top 10 destination states for Californians are:
Why Californians are moving: Texas remains the most popular destination, attracting over 105,000 Californians in the past year. The state offers no income tax, affordable housing, and a thriving job market in cities like Austin, Dallas, and Houston.
Why Californians are moving: With approximately 33,000 Californians relocating in 2025, Arizona appeals due to its lower housing costs, milder living expenses, and abundant outdoor activities.
Why Californians are moving: Around 30,000 Californians have moved to Nevada, attracted by the absence of state income tax, proximity to California, and a vibrant lifestyle, particularly in Las Vegas.
Why Californians are moving: Florida continues to draw Californians, with over 50,000 making the move in the past year. The state's no income tax policy, warm climate, and growing job opportunities in sectors like tourism and finance are significant attractions.
Why Californians are moving: Approximately 25,000 Californians have relocated to Oregon, seeking lower housing costs, a slower pace of life, and access to nature, especially in cities like Portland and Eugene.
Why Californians are moving: With around 20,000 Californians moving to Washington, the state's robust tech industry, absence of state income tax, and natural beauty are key draws.
Why Californians are moving: Roughly 15,000 Californians have chosen Colorado for its lower cost of living, outdoor recreational opportunities, and thriving cities like Denver and Boulder.
Why Californians are moving: Approximately 12,000 Californians have moved to Idaho, attracted by affordable housing, a quieter lifestyle, and economic growth, particularly in Boise.
Why Californians are moving: Around 10,000 Californians have relocated to Utah, drawn by its lower cost of living, strong job market in tech and healthcare, and outdoor lifestyle offerings.
Why Californians are moving: Tennessee has attracted about 8,000 Californians, offering no state income tax, affordable living, and vibrant cultural scenes in cities like Nashville and Memphis.
Primary Reasons Californians Are Leaving:
High Cost of Living: California consistently ranks as one of the most expensive states, with median home prices exceeding $750,000, making daily living financially strenuous for many residents.
Housing Affordability Crisis: The state's housing shortage has escalated rental and purchase costs, making homeownership increasingly unattainable for middle-class families and young professionals.
Employment Opportunities Elsewhere: States like Texas and Florida have emerged as economic powerhouses, offering jobs in industries such as technology, healthcare, and finance, often with a lower cost of living.
Tax Considerations: California's high income tax rates are a significant factor driving migration, with states like Nevada, Texas, and Florida offering no state income tax, presenting a financially appealing alternative.
Quality of Life Factors: Challenges such as infrastructure strain, declining public services, and natural disasters like wildfires and droughts have prompted residents to seek better quality of life elsewhere.
moving out of california
Where Are Californians Moving in 2025?
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