Why Are So Many Leaving California?

People aren't just leaving California. They're leaving in droves. Not just the rich, but everyday folks too. They're packing up their stuff and heading out. Where are they going? Mostly nearby states like Arizona, Nevada, Oregon, Washington, and Texas. U-Haul's data shows that more people are leaving California than moving in. This has been happening for six years straight. But it's not just California. Other states like Massachusetts, New York, New Jersey, and Illinois are seeing similar trends.Why are they leaving? It's not just one thing. It's a mix of reasons. Some say it's the high cost of living. Others point to housing prices. Still, others mention political differences. But one thing is clear: people are voting with their feet. Interestingly, California's population is still growing. But just barely. It grew by only 0. 05% last year. That's a big change from the years right after the 2020 pandemic, when the population actually shrank. So, what's the big picture? It's a mix of things. Cost of living, housing, politics, and more. But one thing is for sure: California is changing. And it's not just the billionaires who are noticing.