WHY ARE PEOPLE LEAVING CALIFORNIA?

 

California is home to scores of iconic sites, dreamy beaches, amazing scenery, top-tier infrastructure, and unique job opportunities. What’s more, it has the fifth-largest economy in the world. So why on earth are so many people moving out of California? Who would leave such a state, and why?

These are a few of the problems:

1.  Rising State Taxes-The top marginal income tax rate is significantly higher than the rest of the United States. 

2.  Housing Crisis-Put simply, if you’re not rich or willing to live with friends or relatives, you just can’t afford to live in the state.

3.  Political Issues-Many California residents strongly support their state’s policies. However, many conservative and even moderate voters feel the state is moving too far to the left.

4.  Social and Economic Problems-California has more than 150,000 homeless people, more than any other state.

5.  Filth-It’s not uncommon to see human poop in the state’s largest cities, with San Francisco winning the award as the "doo-doo capital of the US". 

6.  Insecurity-Violent crime is on the rise and many feel the COVID-19 lockdowns are to blame for the problem.

7.  Devastating Wildfires-Former residents that moved out of California express frustration over the fact that the fires aren’t likely to become less dangerous in the near future. Others say they’ll leave if their home burns down one more time as they simply can’t take the cycle of continual rebuilding and destruction.

WHO IS LEAVING CALIFORNIA?

Most pundits agree that it’s mostly middle and low-income people who are leaving the state. It’s not hard to see why. It’s difficult if not impossible for middle and low-class workers to find a decent place to live in any of California’s big cities. What’s more, the cost of groceries, utilities, and transportation is higher than the national average.

Recent statistics show that most people who split the state earn less than $30,000 a year. What’s more, well over 450,000 of these individuals don’t have a college degree. Conversely, most of the people moving into California are educated and expect to earn more than $50,000 a year.

At the same time, it’s not just poor and middle-class Californians who have discovered that the Golden State isn’t as shiny and promising as it looks. Even upper-class media industry workers and wealthy individuals are leaving the state for one reason or another.

Clearly, the benefits of living in California have diminished in the last several years.  Now that's not to say that every state doesn't come with its own issues; however, California seems to have more than its share.  

If you find yourself in this situation, feel free to contact The Rural KC Team-Keller Williams Partners.  We have helped many people move out of their undesired situation into a place where living is just more satisfying and easier. These are some of the reasons to move to rural areas:

Americans are moving to rural areas in ever-increasing numbers reflecting their increased desire to seek out more space, embrace entrepreneurial opportunities, and take advantage of a lower cost of living. 

And whether their move is made to start a farm or business, the sense of community found in these rural areas and perhaps more importantly the ability to secure a piece of property at a reasonable price, has ensured the rural migration trend is one that's here to stay for the time being. 

   We are a real estate team out of the Kansas City area and we specialize in rural property.  We recognize that you are looking for a simpler, easier lifestyle.  We take the time to listen to what you are looking for in a lifestyle and we do everything possible to find that lifestyle for you.  So if you find yourself thinking about more land around your family, fewer people, affordable property, a safe environment and clean water for your family, and a lower cost of living, please feel free to contact The Rural KC Team-Keller Williams Partners.  We will make that dream come true!  913-837-0760 or 913-837-0411.  If you would like to take a look at what properties the Kansas City area has to offer, please go to RuralKC.com.