Where Californians Are Moving: Top Destinations in 2026
Top 10 States Attracting Californians
Californians move for a mix of affordability, jobs, and lifestyle. The most popular destination states also tend to stay consistent from year to year. In this guide, we break down where Californians are moving in 2026, using the migration patterns that dominated 2025 and the trends that are still continuing today.
Below, you will find the top destination states and the most common reasons people relocate, including home prices and rent, taxes, remote work flexibility, and access to growing job markets. If you are planning a move out of California, this gives you a clear snapshot of where people go and why.
1. Texas: The Lone Star State
Texas remains the top destination for Californians heading into 2026. In the most recent official state-to-state migration flow estimates, about 45,447 people moved from California to Texas in 2024. While a definitive total for 2025 is typically released later, multiple indicators continue to show Texas as a leading destination for Californians seeking affordability and job growth.
- No State Income Tax: A significant financial incentive for individuals and businesses.
- Affordable Housing: Median home prices in Texas are a fraction of those in California.
- Thriving Job Market: Cities like Austin, Dallas, and Houston boast robust economies, especially in tech, energy, and healthcare sectors.
Learn More: Moving from California to Texas
2. Arizona: The Grand Canyon State
Arizona remains a top landing spot for Californians who want a lower cost of living while staying closer to home. About 52,383 Californians moved to Arizona in 2024 (± 6,890), according to the latest Census/ACS state-to-state flow estimates. In 2025, about 33,000 Californians are expected to move to Arizona.
- Lower Housing Costs: The median home price in Arizona is considerably lower than in California.
- Milder Living Costs: Everything from groceries to utilities is more budget-friendly.
- Outdoor Lifestyle: Arizona’s natural beauty and outdoor activities appeal to many.
Learn More: Moving from California to Arizona
3. Nevada: Home of Las Vegas
Nevada draws Californians seeking a lower cost of living and financial perks. Nevada continues to attract Californians, especially to Las Vegas and Reno, thanks to proximity and tax advantages. The latest estimates show about 53,289 Californians moved to Nevada in 2024 (± 6,970).
- No State Income Tax: This financial benefit is a significant draw.
- Close Proximity: Californians can relocate without straying far from friends and family.
- Entertainment and Lifestyle: Las Vegas offers a vibrant lifestyle, while other areas of Nevada provide tranquility.
Learn More: Moving from California to Nevada
4. Florida: The Sunshine State
Florida remains popular for Californians prioritizing taxes, climate, and lifestyle, especially for retirees and remote workers. The latest Census/ACS flows estimate about 36,194 Californians moved to Florida in 2024 (± 5,759).
- Tax Benefits: Florida also boasts no state income tax.
- Warm Climate: The state’s sunny weather appeals to those leaving California’s coastal charm.
- Growing Economy: Job opportunities in tourism, tech, and finance are abundant.
Learn More: Moving from California to Florida
5. Oregon
Oregon is a common choice for Californians who want the Pacific Northwest without moving too far away. The latest estimates show about 31,500 Californians moved to Oregon in 2024 (± 4,443).
- Lower Housing Costs: Especially in cities like Portland and Eugene.
- Quality of Life: A slower pace and access to nature.
- Strong Tech Presence: Especially in Portland’s “Silicon Forest.”
Learn More: Moving from California to Oregon
6. Washington
Washington stays high on the list, especially for people drawn to the Seattle metro and the state’s strong job market. The latest Census/ACS flows estimate about 43,938 Californians moved to Washington in 2024 (± 5,464).
- Tech Job Opportunities: Seattle remains a hub for tech giants.
- No State Income Tax: A significant financial benefit.
- Natural Beauty: From mountains to coastlines, Washington offers stunning landscapes.
Learn More: Moving from California to Washington
7. Colorado
Colorado remains a steady destination for Californians who want mountain living and strong metros like Denver. The latest estimates show about 19,717 Californians moved to Colorado in 2024 (± 3,479).
- Lower Cost of Living: Especially compared to California.
- Outdoor Recreation: Ideal for hiking, skiing, and more.
- Thriving Cities: Denver and Boulder are growing rapidly.
Learn More: Moving from California to Colorado
8. Idaho
Idaho continues to attract Californians looking for smaller-city life and more affordable housing. The latest estimates show about 15,385 Californians moved to Idaho in 2024 (± 2,919).
- Affordable Housing: Especially in Boise and surrounding areas.
- Quiet Lifestyle: Ideal for families and retirees.
- Economic Growth: Booming small business opportunities.
Learn More: Moving from California to Idaho
9. Utah
Utah is a common pick for Californians who want strong job growth and family friendly metros like Salt Lake City. The latest estimates show about 13,734 Californians moved to Utah in 2024 (± 3,517).
- Lower Cost of Living: Especially in Salt Lake City.
- Strong Job Market: Tech and healthcare sectors are thriving.
- Outdoor Lifestyle: World-class skiing and hiking.
Learn More: Moving from California to Utah
10. Tennessee
Tennessee has become a notable destination for Californians seeking lower taxes and growing cities like Nashville. The latest Census/ACS flows estimate about 19,670 Californians moved to Tennessee in 2024 (± 4,848).
- No State Income Tax: A major financial incentive.
- Music and Culture: Vibrant scenes in Nashville and Memphis.
- Affordable Living: Lower housing costs and general expenses.
Learn More: Moving from California to Tennessee
| Year | Texas | Arizona | Nevada | Florida | Oregon | Washington | Colorado | Idaho | Utah | Tennessee |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 98,000 | 27,000 | 29,000 | 47,000 | 22,000 | 18,000 | 13,000 | 10,000 | 9,000 | 7,000 |
| 2022 | 100,000 | 30,000 | 30,000 | 48,000 | 23,000 | 19,000 | 14,000 | 11,000 | 9,500 | 7,500 |
| 2023 | 102,000 | 32,000 | 31,000 | 49,000 | 24,000 | 20,000 | 15,000 | 12,000 | 10,000 | 8,000 |
| 2024 | 77,161 | 52,383 | 53,289 | 36,194 | 31,500 | 43,938 | 19,717 | 15,385 | 13,734 | 19,670 |
| 2025 (est.) | Pending release | Pending release | Pending release | Pending release | Pending release | Pending release | Pending release | Pending release | Pending release | Pending release |
Why Are Californians Leaving?
1. High Cost of Living
California consistently ranks as one of the most expensive states in the U.S. Housing costs, in particular, are a significant burden. The median home price in California exceeds $750,000, compared to much lower averages in states like Texas and Arizona. For many, the financial strain of daily living is a primary motivator to relocate.
2. Housing Affordability Crisis
The state’s housing shortage has driven up rental and purchase costs. Many middle-class families and young professionals find it increasingly challenging to achieve homeownership. In contrast, states like Arizona, Nevada, and Texas offer more accessible housing markets, making the prospect of moving highly attractive.
3. Employment Opportunities Elsewhere
States like Texas and Florida have become economic powerhouses, offering jobs in industries such as technology, healthcare, and finance. With companies increasingly relocating their headquarters to these states, workers are incentivized to follow for career opportunities and a lower cost of living.
4. Tax Considerations
California’s high income tax rates are another key driver of migration. States like Nevada, Texas, and Florida, which boast no state income tax, present an appealing alternative for individuals and businesses looking to optimize their financial situation.
