The high cost of living is a common factor for many who leave. Although wages in California are often higher, basic costs like rent, groceries, and utilities are nearly out of reach for average wage earners.
Texas, known for its affordability, remains attractive due to its lower cost of living, tax benefits, and reputation as a business-friendly environment.
Some former Californians are finding greater opportunities in Texas’s suburban areas, which offer a safer, more affordable lifestyle than California’s major cities.
Economic Impact on Migration
In addition to economic factors, political preferences, crime rates, and housing prices have influenced many residents’ decisions to leave.
For business owners, states like Texas and Florida present opportunities to expand operations in more favorable environments, drawing many entrepreneurs to relocate. Texas and California are both free from state income taxes, which is a key attraction for those seeking a tax break.
The Californian Boomerang Effect
Despite the net outflow, some people still move to California each year, with Texas being the most common origin.