California is known for its sunny days, stretches of gorgeous coastline, and mountain ranges, but for an increasing number of Golden State residents, the weather and landscape aren’t enough to compensate for a variety of environmental, social, and economic issues. As a result, there are more people relocating from California than those moving in.
Where Can I Relocate from California?
If you’re looking for a new place to call home, determining where to relocate from California might be difficult. Before you go further in your search, learning How to Pack for Moving Houses will make the process more efficient. With that being said, here are the top seven states with similar cultures, weather, and vibes but differing economically.
1. Texas
With over 70,000 Californians moving to Texas in 2016, Texas holds the number one spot when it comes to the best state to relocate Californians. Here are some of the things that make Texas so appealing:
Texas has neither a personal nor a corporate income tax. Texas has a lower cost of living than California, where housing costs are 54.7 percent higher for singles and 61.7 percent higher for families.
On Forbes’ list of the top 10 fastest-growing economies, Austin, Texas’ capital, is ranked #10. This is owing in part to the fact that numerous Bay Area companies (including Google, Oracle, and Apple) have relocated to Texas to avoid high taxes and living costs. Some even refer to Texas as “Silicon Hills,” a play on the renowned Silicon Valley in California.
The climate is similar to that of California. The Lone Star State has average summer temperatures of 80 to 100 degrees and mild winters with hardly any snowfall.
Many live music venues and a vibrant entertainment scene can be found in cultural hotspots like Austin. Some people refer to Austin as the “world’s live music capital.” There’s music for everyone in Texas, not just country and western fans.
The iconic Padre Island National Seashore, Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, Dinosaur Valley State Park, and Palo Duro Canyon are just a few of the natural wonders to be discovered in Texas.
2. Arizona
Arizona is a state that truly appeals to many people relocating Cali. It’s warm but not as humid as California. Arizona receives less than 12 inches of rain each year and over 200 days of sun, but when it does rain, it only lasts 10–20 minutes.
There are other cooler places to visit, such as Tucson and Flagstaff, where you can participate in snow sports and other fun activities. Because Arizona is close to southern California, you can get your California dose without too much trouble.
Phoenix, Arizona’s major city, has a cost of living that is 40% less than Los Angeles. In all sectors apart from housing and transportation, the cost of living remains lower than the overall average.
However, Arizona boasts some of the lowest local taxes as well as lovely residences at reasonable prices. In proportion to its size, Arizona has a vast quantity of land and a somewhat low population. Due to the availability of large parcels of land, many residences may boast large and far-reaching yards filled with magnificent desert scenery.
Apart from the Colorado River and Grand Canyon, there are plenty of things to see and do. If you enjoy hiking, Arizona’s diverse landscapes will appeal to you, ranging from the state’s northern mountains to lush evergreen forests and deserts.
3. Nevada
Nevada often comes as a natural choice when relocating from California. Although Nevada’s cost of living is greater than the national average, it is still less expensive than California. Altogether, Las Vegas (Nevada’s metropolitan area) is 37% less expensive than Los Angeles, with housing being 65% less expensive.
You’ll enjoy Nevada if you love the beauty and outdoor lifestyle that California is famed for. With nearly 300 ranges and 57 peaks standing taller than 11,000 feet, and miles and miles of hiking routes, Nevada has more highlands than any other Lower 48 state.
Red Rock Canyon, the Valley of Fire, Lake Mead, Lake Tahoe, and the Colorado River are among the many southwest destinations to visit. If that wasn’t enough, Nevada has the most natural hot springs of any state.
Personal fulfillment and tax rates are likely the most important factors to consider when planning a move to the state. Nevada is funded mostly through casino and sales taxes, with no personal income tax. Furthermore, many enterprises are relocating to Nevada due to the state’s reduced corporate rules—excellent news for job seekers.
Both regions have a high ratio of unionized workers and fewer high school graduates than the national average. Nevada, on the other hand, has anti-union legislation.
Their gaming and smoking rules differ significantly, with California’s being more restricted. Additionally, Nevada is landlocked, unlike California, which is known for its stunning beaches.
4. Washington
Even though Washington is not as sunny as California, there are many things that show that the Evergreen State is California with more rain.
California and Washington are sanctuary states, and their laws are favorable to immigrants. In fact, both states permit unauthorized immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses.
One significant distinction is that the percentage of Latinos in Washington is far lower. However, Chinese, Vietnamese, and Filipino immigrants are concentrated in both states.
Seattle, Washington’s largest city) has a greater cost of living than Los Angeles, although this is compensated by the absence of a state income tax.
Additionally, Seattle has a high proportion of tech businesses, and many large organizations like Amazon, Microsoft, Starbucks, and Boeing have their headquarters in Washington, so there are plenty of job opportunities. If you have children or are new to the labor market, keep in mind that the state’s minimum salary is linked to inflation.
Being a coastal state like California, Washington has an abundance of seafoods. If you desire a fresh, sudsy brew, the Green State boasts the second-largest number of authorized breweries in the US, after only California.
Washington has routinely been rated among the most environmentally friendly states in various rankings.
If you cherish the great outdoors of Cali, Washington has four national parks and 60 state parks, and recreational sports like mountain biking, climbing, and camping are available from almost anywhere in the state.
5. Florida
Florida’s economy has been growing rapidly, with Jacksonville (the state capital) ranking eighth on Forbes’ list of the fastest-growing economies in the US. Aside from Jacksonville, you will find a lot of thriving cities to select from, such as Orlando and Miami, as well as smaller towns with a more intimate vibe.
The Sunshine State has no state income tax and the cost of living is much lower. The state’s low retirement taxes make it a favorite choice among retirees. At the same time, there are many fantastic job opportunities, making it one of the most appealing cities to build a professional life.
Beaches in Florida outnumber those in California. The Florida shoreline is 1,350 miles long, compared to 840 miles in California. You’ll never be an hour away from a beach in Florida, regardless of your location. The state also has approximately 4,000 square miles of streams, lakes, and rivers, as well as over 700 thermal springs and underground caverns.
Due to its international airport, Florida is inextricably linked to the rest of the world. Additionally, there are numerous outdoor activities, vibrant nightlife, restaurants, sports, and extraordinary public activity. You will have everything you need in the land of Orlando.
6. Georgia
Georgia is undoubtedly one of America’s most valuable states. It’s one of those places that makes you want to learn more about historical events. If you’re moving to Savannah, one of the most beautiful cities in the world, you’ll get to see some of the old buildings and palaces.
Many of them have been converted into galleries or are located in beautiful parks within the community. The city’s historically significant area is well-known because it contains the most tourist attractions in the United States.
The cost of living here is quite expensive, but it is unquestionably justified to retain pre-war environmental elements and goods. Living in one of the houses in various rural areas is a less expensive option.
There’s also plenty to do in Savannah, including creepy tours of the haunted structures, road celebrations, exhibition halls, and, surprisingly, notable pony and carriage rides. Moving to Savannah has something for everyone if it’s not too much trouble. Its secrets and history will be revealed while your body is relaxed and your mind is restored.
The warm climate of Georgia is comparable to that of California, with scorching summers and moderate winters. Georgia also has roughly 217 days of sunlight per year, so California transplants won’t be disappointed.
7. Oregon
Oregon has a border with California towards the north, so the two states are geographically alike. Both have temperate boreal forests, but there are also desert parts. They each have roughly the same amount of agricultural land, while Oregon produces more wheat. It does, however, have significantly fewer Latinos than Washington.
Portland, Oregon’s largest city, is 15% less expensive than Los Angeles, and property is 35% less expensive. In addition, sales tax is not charged in the state.
Oregon is more than just Portland. Eugene is another popular option, and there are other tiny seaside towns to select from if you prefer a more tranquil environment. When it comes to the coast, Oregon has 363 miles of breathtaking Pacific coastline.
The arts and culture thrive in Portland and beyond; Eugene has a vibrant live music scene, and the Oregon Shakespeare Festival is based in Ashland. If you prefer a cold beer or a glass of wine, Oregon does have over 200 wineries, and Portland has far more craft brewers than any other place on earth.
Once you have made up your mind to move to one of the states that suit your budget and lifestyle, you can check out 50 tips and tricks to make the process less stressful.
