Every time news breaks about Californians leaving the state, it’s hard to ignore the fact that there has been a net outflow of residents during the pandemic, with only a slight rebound expected in 2024. As many contemplate leaving but struggle to follow through, the underlying question remains: why is it that California is so hard to leave behind?
Comments from KTLA, a Los Angeles TV station, might shed light on the issue. The commentary noted that Californians face daily trade-offs, sacrificing certain comforts for essentials like housing, food, and transportation. Many people consider moving away but find it challenging to do so. The main concern often revolves around the cost of living elsewhere, which may be lower, but the quality of life doesn’t necessarily measure up to what California offers. Can a move to Texas or Florida truly lead to happiness just because it’s cheaper?
Of course, Californians routinely feel the sting of high costs of living. This month, a survey conducted by Emerson College and KTLA’s parent company, Nexstar Media, asked 1,000 California voters about their voting tendencies and attitudes towards economic and immigration policies.
The survey revealed that 56% of respondents have considered moving out of California due to high living expenses. Additionally, 37% admitted to sacrificing certain hobbies recently to manage the costs of food and utilities; 35% made compromises regarding meals and housing; while 26% had to cut back on spending for meals and prescription medications.
From any angle you look at it, California consistently ranks among the highest in living costs nationwide. This includes having the highest median home prices in the country and leading fuel prices. While the state’s population remains significant, the trend of net outmigration due to these high costs is undeniable.
Recent research from ConsumerAffairs indicated that California’s net outmigration rate is the highest in the country, followed by states like New York, New Jersey, and Illinois. In contrast, North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Texas, and Tennessee are seeing the most significant net inflow of residents.
Despite Governor Newsom’s efforts to alleviate living costs, such as mandating oil companies to increase inventory to stabilize gas prices during refinery maintenance and signing legislation to encourage more affordable housing development, experts like UCLA economist Lee Ohanian highlight the stark reality: with median home prices exceeding $900,000 and rent often surpassing 50% of pre-tax income, coupled with the highest utility and gas prices in the country, it’s no surprise that people are eager to leave.
Ultimately, the reason many have not yet moved may come down to a deep attachment to the state’s way of life. However, emotional factors can only outweigh economic conditions for so long. With costs consistently rising, the financial burden is likely to remain the leading reason for Californians seeking greener pastures.