Admittedly, this sounds unreal – who would want to leave those palms and the ocean, right? Well, the relocation statistics show us that 1 in 10 Angelenos plan to move out of LA this year. It seems like the residents of the City of Angels don’t fear relocating during coronavirus – living here doesn’t satisfy their standards of quality life anymore. Keep reading to find out why Angelenos want to move to a new city and where they plan to settle down.
Moving Out of Los Angeles – Why Are People Leaving, and Where
California exodus is a term coined a few years ago, and it has gained a lot of attention recently. Americans are leaving the Golden State in drastic numbers, and moving out of Los Angeles is one of the most common occurrences – but why? Wasn’t LA one of the dreamy places everybody wanted to live in? Where are Californians moving to in 2022? If you’re completely puzzled by this strange phenomenon, our text can help clear it all up.
So Many People Are Moving Out of Los Angeles – California Exodus Is Now More Serious Than Ever
Moving from Los Angeles seemed unreasonable just a few years back. Living in LA was the ultimate American dream. But now, it’s more common than coming to LA. This is one of the cities that have been impacted the most by the California exodus, and the consequences are noticeable. When we compare 2020 and 2021, the studies show an increase of 12% in the number of Californians who moved to another state. That’s not all – the number of those who moved to The Golden State decreased by 38%.
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People Are Leaving Los Angeles for Many Reasons – The City Isn’t As Dreamy As It Used to Be, According to Its Residents
There are a few quite reasonable answers to the question “why is everyone leaving Los Angeles?” – once you hear them, you’ll likely agree that local residents have some very good reasons to move. If you are an LA resident, the chances are that you have something to complain about.
We wouldn’t go as far as to wonder – why are people still moving to LA? After all, LA didn’t lose all of its charms. Still, the fact remains that a lot of Angelenos are unhappy with the way the city has been managed, and many changes have surfaced in the last few years. That’s why a lot of them are looking for the best long-distance moving company to help them get to another part of the country for a reasonable price.
COVID-19 Has Uncovered Many Issues LA Hasn’t Dealt With
The pandemic has affected every part of the globe – and LA isn’t the exception to the rule. Research shows that COVID-19 just accelerated the uncovering of the city’s main issues rather than made them. If it weren’t for the pandemic, these proportions of CalExodus might’ve been put off for a few years – but the migration trend would still happen, and the Californians would still be preparing for a move in the numbers we haven’t seen before.
The Extremely High Cost of Living Is One of the Main Reasons for Moving from Los Angeles
It’s no secret that living in The Golden State is expensive. The cost of living in LA is among the highest in the country. The median home value is around $637,000, which is way higher than the national median home value of $217,500. Rent is becoming unbearable for many residents, even in the most affordable parts of LA (and even if you’ve found a roommate on some of the roommate websites, that probably didn’t help much). After all, not only do Hollywood stars live in LA – lower and middle-income families have trouble getting by in this real estate market.
Why Is Everyone Leaving Los Angeles? Inequality Is Very Emphasized in This City
We have witnessed a decline in middle-income jobs, and not just since COVID started. In fact, this has been going on for years, since the 90s. At the same time, the number of lower-wage jobs increased by 15%. This means that you can easily find a lower-paying job, but climbing up the ladder is near impossible.
So, your experience of LA can be drastically different depending on your financial status. It’s the sad truth – today, LA is not a pleasant place for everybody. The inequality average here is higher than in the rest of the country. Can you blame LA residents for wanting to get away from that?
Since the Pandemic Started, Homelessness Has Drastically Increased
Knowing what we know about the effects the virus had on our economy, this shouldn’t be shocking – but it’s particularly sad to see that LA can’t solve this ongoing problem. Nowadays, you can see tents even in the safest neighborhoods in LA.
It’s not uncommon to see fancy buildings and homeless encampments in the same street – the perfect example of how there are two cities here, depending on the depth of your wallet. This problem comes with an accompanying issue – the lack of hygiene facilities for the homeless. Find out more about the homeless crisis in LA by checking out the video below.
Taxes Are Crazy High in LA County
Another thing that California is known for are tax laws – and LA has a few questionable ones. Cities in LA County have the highest sales tax in the US. This affects lower-income families the most, making it a regressive tax. Also, the LA sales tax makes it more profitable for a local government to support commercial rather than housing developments, as businesses will simply bring them more income.
LA Started to Feel Overcrowded and Unsafe
The population of LA is about 3.9 million, but it can often feel like it’s way more if you end up in a traffic jam. The commute time of an average LA driver is one of the key reasons for stress – you will lose more than 100 hours per year in traffic jams. Think about how insane this is – it’s a bit more than four whole days stranded on the US-101 or I-405.
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Crime Rate Is Above National Average
Crime rates in certain categories aren’t so good in LA. Compared to the nation’s other cities, LA is safer than only 12% of them. In 2021, homicides increased by 12%, while property and violent crimes rose by 4% each compared to 2020. Still, the law enforcement claims that the second half of 2021 brought some improvement, as they put in extra effort to get illegal firearms off the streets. But, apparently, this wasn’t enough for many Angelenos – a lot of them are still looking for recommendations for the best cross-country moving company and thinking about the safety benefits of relocating out of LA.
Another Reason for Millennials Moving Out of Los Angeles – The City Is Polluted, and It Isn’t Family-Friendly
LA is situated in a low basin surrounded by mountains. Thanks to this, it’s a perfect place for smog to deposit. Sadly, this beautiful region has dangerous levels of air pollutants that ruin the impression of a unique California nature. It’s no wonder that Americans don’t move to big cities as much as they used to. In fact, many Californians are moving to Mexico to pursue work opportunities.
When the COVID pandemic hit, the lockdown had a positive effect on the smog – PM 2.5 air pollutants dropped down by 40%. LA had the highest quality of air in the last 25 years. However, that effect was only temporary, and as we got out of the lockdown, researchers expected that things would return to normal.
So, it seems like CalExodus won’t be ending soon – Angelenos would rather deal with anxiety about the move and the health effects of relocation stress than stay in a place with horrible air quality.
Raising a Family in LA – This Place Isn’t Much Suited for Children
LA definitely isn’t one of the best places to raise a family in California. It’s quite the opposite – the city is ranked pretty low in The Child Opportunity Index designed by the Brandeis University of Massachusetts. Even in the LA suburbs, the costs are sky-high.
When you add unsafe streets, polluted air, and an epidemic of drug abuse, the fact that LA has great schools doesn’t mean much. It’s easier to find cross-country movers and organize moving cross-country with kids than deal with all these issues and make a big relocation mistake with a household inventory list or just regular steps for packing in a hurry.
Remote Work Allows People to Work in Californian Companies, But Live in More Affordable Places
In recent years, many companies have realized how beneficial remote work can be for their employees – and this has been very helpful for Angelenos who wanted to leave the city but keep their jobs. Now they are able to organize an efficient move with great long-distance moving services without having to look for a job in the new city – it’s a win-win. These terms have significantly increased the number of relocations.
Who’s Moving Cross Country Out of LA and Where?
The economy is the main reason for leaving most big cities, not just LA. So, it’s not surprising that most Californians who book relocation and packing services from long-distance movers earn low or middle-level incomes.
Millennials are long-distance moving out of Los Angeles, as they no longer see LA’s allure. In fact, they are one of the main age groups leaving LA. Economic reasons apply here as well, plus the terms of remote work allow young professionals to go basically anywhere.
Where Do Most Californians Move – What US Destinations Are Popular for Those Who Leave LA?
Where should I move after LA? Deciding where to live is tricky, and it certainly requires a lot of thought. You have to consider many aspects before booking cross-country moving services. If you’re wondering where do most Californians go after they leave LA, this list of most popular places should answer your question:
- Phoenix, Arizona,
- Austin, Texas,
- Boise, Idaho,
- Seattle, Washington,
- Mexico City, Mexico,
- Cape Coral, Florida,
- Nashville, Tennessee,
- Dallas, Texas,
- Columbus, Ohio,
- Charlotte, North Carolina.
If You’re Thinking About Leaving LA, the Best Way to Do That Is With a Great Cross-Country Moving Company
Making a decision to leave your home and find a new one isn’t the easiest thing to do. If you think that this is the year you will get out of LA and settle somewhere else, it’s best to start organizing a relocation soon.
In that case, you will have to try and make it the most effortless move ever. It’s no news that a reputable relocation company is key to a successful move, so be sure to start looking for your cross-country movers soon before all the good ones are booked. Our cross-country moving services are always available, as Cross Country Moving Company is among the best cross-country moving companies out there.
With us, every service imaginable is available to you – from standard long-distance moving services, packing, and car shipping services to free storage units for a month and mandatory relocation insurance. It’s about time you chose well – choose Cross Country Moving Company.
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving Out Of Los Angeles
What Are the Best Moving Companies for Moving Out of Los Angeles?
There are several top-rated moving companies for moving out of Los Angeles, but the best one is Cross Country Moving Company. Our cross-country movers offer superb long-distance moving services which include car shipping, packing, storage, and long-distance moving insurance.
How Far in Advance Should I Start Planning My Move Out of Los Angeles?
It’s best to start planning your move out of Los Angeles at least 8-12 weeks in advance to ensure you have enough time to organize everything and hire a reputable cross-country moving company.
What Are the Costs Associated With Moving Out of Los Angeles?
The costs associated with moving out of Los Angeles will depend on various factors, such as the distance of the move, the size of your home, the number of belongings you have, and whether you hire professional movers or do it yourself. Generally, you can expect to spend a few thousand dollars for a local move, while long-distance moves can cost several thousand dollars or more.
How Do I Determine if It’s More Cost-Effective to Hire a Moving Company or Move Myself Out of Los Angeles?
To determine if it’s more cost-effective to hire a moving company or move yourself out of Los Angeles, consider the distance of your move, the amount of belongings you have, and the costs associated with renting a truck, buying packing supplies, and any additional services.
While moving yourself may seem cheaper, professional cross-country movers can often save you time, energy, and potential damage to your belongings. It’s best to obtain quotes from several cross-country moving companies and compare them to the cost of moving yourself to make an informed decision.
What Are the Best Neighborhoods to Move to Outside of Los Angeles?
Some of the best neighborhoods to move to outside of Los Angeles will depend on your personal preferences and priorities. However, some popular options include Santa Monica, Pasadena, Burbank, Culver City, and Glendale. These neighborhoods offer a mix of suburban charm, outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and access to job opportunities.
What Are the Best Ways to Find Housing Outside of Los Angeles?
Some of the best ways to find housing outside of Los Angeles include using online rental marketplaces such as Zillow, Apartments.com, and Rent.com. You can also consider working with a local real estate agent who is familiar with the area and can help you find properties that meet your needs and budget. Additionally, networking with friends, family, and colleagues who live in the area can be a valuable resource for finding potential housing options.
How Do I Handle the Logistics of Moving Out of State From Los Angeles?
Handling the logistics of moving out of state from Los Angeles involves several key steps, including selecting a reliable long-distance moving company, creating an inventory of your belongings, coordinating logistics with your new home, notifying relevant parties of your move, and preparing your belongings for transport. It’s best to start planning your out-of-state move as early as possible and to communicate closely with your moving company to ensure a smooth and efficient move.
What Are the Best Ways to Transport My Belongings During the Move Out of Los Angeles?
The best ways to transport your belongings during the move out of Los Angeles will depend on the distance of your move, the amount of belongings you have, and your budget.
Some popular options include hiring a professional cross-country moving company that offers full-service packing and transportation, renting a moving truck and doing the move yourself, or using a portable storage container service. It’s important to compare costs and services offered by different options to determine the best fit for your needs.
How Do I Handle the Paperwork and Legal Requirements of Moving Out of Los Angeles?
Handling the paperwork and legal requirements of moving out of Los Angeles involves several key steps, including updating your driver’s license and vehicle registration, notifying the post office of your new address, transferring your utilities and services to your new home, and registering to vote in your new area.
Additionally, if you’re moving out of state, you’ll need to register your vehicle and obtain new insurance, as well as research any additional legal requirements specific to your new state. It’s best to start preparing these tasks several weeks before your move to ensure a smooth transition.
What Are the Best Ways to Pack My Belongings for a Long-Distance Move Out of Los Angeles?
The best ways to pack your belongings for a long-distance move out of Los Angeles include decluttering and organizing your belongings, using high-quality packing materials, labeling each box with its contents and destination room, and packing fragile items securely with bubble wrap or packing paper.
You can also consider hiring professional packers who have experience packing for long-distance moving. It’s important to pack your belongings carefully to ensure they arrive at your new home in good condition.
How Do I Ensure That My Belongings Are Protected During the Move Out of Los Angeles?
To ensure that your belongings are protected during the move out of Los Angeles, consider hiring a reputable long-distance moving company that is licensed, insured, and experienced with your type of move. Make sure to read reviews and obtain several quotes before selecting a company. Additionally, you can purchase moving insurance to protect your belongings in case of damage or loss. It’s also important to properly pack and label your belongings to minimize the risk of damage during transport.
What Are the Best Ways to Sell or Donate Unwanted Items Before Moving Out of Los Angeles?
The best ways to sell or donate unwanted items include hosting a garage sale, selling items online through platforms such as Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or eBay, donating items to local charities such as Goodwill or the Salvation Army, or giving items away to friends and family. You can also consider using a consignment shop to sell higher-value items or hiring a junk removal service to dispose of items that can’t be sold or donated.
How Do I Prepare My Home for a Move-Out Inspection?
To prepare your home for a move-out inspection, start by cleaning thoroughly and repairing any damage to walls, floors, or appliances. Remove all personal belongings, including furniture, and ensure that the home is empty and all utilities have been disconnected.
Make sure to check your rental or lease agreement to understand the specific requirements for the inspection and any cleaning or repair obligations you may have. It’s also a good idea to take photos or videos of the home after you’ve cleaned it to document its condition.
How Do I Handle Canceling or Transferring Utilities and Services Before Moving Out of Los Angeles?
To handle canceling or transferring utilities and services, start by making a list of all the services you need to cancel or transfer, such as electricity, gas, water, internet, cable, and phone.
Contact each service provider to inform them of your move and to arrange for disconnection or transfer of service to your new address.
It’s important to give sufficient notice, which may be several weeks, to avoid any interruption of service. Be sure to keep records of any confirmation numbers or other relevant information for future reference.
What Are the Most Important Things to Remember When Moving Out of Los Angeles?
The most important things to remember when moving out include:
- Start planning and organizing early to reduce stress and ensure a smooth move,
- Hire a reputable moving company or rent a moving truck to transport your belongings,
- Declutter and organize your belongings to make the move more efficient and cost-effective,
- Notify utility companies and service providers of your move and arrange for disconnection or transfer of service,
- Update your address and register to vote in your new location,
- Prepare for a move-out inspection and clean the home thoroughly,
- Keep important documents, such as your lease, rental agreement, or moving contract, in a safe and accessible place.
