Moving From Los Angeles? Here Are Your Top Options!

Los Angeles may boast a diverse culture, excellent weather, beaches, and Hollywood, but this does not seem enough to keep people around. The same goes for the rest of California as well. In 2022 alone, 817,669 people left the state. Plus, at least 352 businesses moved their HQs out of California between 2018 and 2022.

So, why is everyone leaving?

Rising living costs are mostly to blame.

After all, $737,677 for a family home (average price in California) is around twice as much as you’d pay for a similar home in many other parts of the USA. You’re probably thinking of moving out as well. Well, no one can blame you—in only 2 years, California has lost no less than 2 million residents.

But what if you don’t want to leave all that the City of Angels offers?

If you’re thinking of relocating but still want to stay connected to LA’s lifestyle, consider the cost to charter a private jet. While the price might seem high at first glance, for frequent travelers, it can offer a level of convenience and efficiency that commercial flights can’t match. Plus, with LA’s notorious traffic and crowded airports, flying privately can actually save you time, making it a worthwhile option for those who still want to return to the city regularly without the hassle.

Well, several cities across the country offer comparable experiences and facilities for a far lower price. Before you get on the phone to hire professional long distance movers in Los Angeles for the relocation, let’s explore where you might want to plant new roots outside of Los Angeles!

Why Move from Los Angeles?

If you’re leaving your long-time home behind, you’re far from alone. A U.S. government census revealed that a whopping 90,704 residents left the city between 2021 and 2022 alone! Despite its ideal weather, spectacular beaches, and the charm of Hollywood, Los Angeles falls short in three key areas: 

Skyrocketing Living Costs

The cost of living in Los Angeles has reached astronomical heights. A family of four needs around $4,919 for their monthly expenses (not including rent). The average rent for an apartment will set you back $2,691. These other cities are far more affordable and just as awesome:

• San Diego, California

• Portland, Oregon

• Austin, Texas

• Denver, Colorado

• Seattle, Washington

• Salt Lake City, Utah

Bad Traffic & Poor Public Transport

Public transport is also a hassle. You’ll still have to deal with road troubles even if you have a personal vehicle. The rush hour traffic is absolutely brutal, but even otherwise, the roads are pretty crowded—the city has around 7.8 million vehicles. In contrast, these other cities have a much better traffic and public transport situation:

• Portland, Oregon

• Seattle, Washington

• Salt Lake City, Utah

• Minneapolis, Minnesota

• Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Population Troubles

Moreover, due to the dense population, neighborhoods are getting overcrowded. Although thousands of people are moving out of LA, it is still home to 3.9 million people. A huge fraction of these people were not even born in the city, but they're here, and 3.9 million is a crowd!

If you’re looking for less populated cities, here are your options:

• Boise, Idaho

• Albuquerque, New Mexico

• Raleigh, North Carolina

• Omaha, Nebraska

• Tulsa, Oklahoma

Top Destinations for Residents Moving Out of Los Angeles

You can always hire professional movers in Los Angeles to help you relocate. But where to? With so many options, it is easy to get confused. So, where are most former LA residents heading? Here are the top destinations you can pick from:

Austin, Texas

Austin attracts with the allure of lower taxes, a welcome change for those feeling the financial pinch of LA's high living costs. The city also offers an 18% more affordable lifestyle. Ranked as one of the most desirable places to live in the US, Austin's influence extends beyond its affordability.

It is a thriving tech hub and has been attracting entrepreneurs and startups seeking refuge from devastating high costs. Austin's blend of affordability, burgeoning job market, outdoor lifestyle, and educational opportunities makes it the ideal choice for those moving out of LA.

This table pretty much sums it up:

San Diego, California

San Diego mirrors the sunny and coastal vibes of Los Angeles. Located just a few hours south of LA, San Diego basks in a similar sun-drenched ambiance. However, unlike LA, it provides a more affordable and compact urban environment. It also boasts a well-organized traffic system with easier access to public spaces.

If you want to move from LA but still want that familiar vibe, San Diego may be the perfect destination.

Here’s a breakdown of the living costs in the city:

• You’ll need at least $1,394 for monthly expenses as an individual.

• For your monthly rent, you’ll need $2,150 or more.

• If you wish to own your house, you’ll have to spend around $1,021,655.

Portland, Oregon

Located in the northern parts of the western US, Portland promises a smooth transition for millennials. Here, you can find relief in exploring the city's landmarks and embracing its laid-back lifestyle. Well-known for its green spaces and active community, Portland summons people seeking America's natural wonders!

Here’s how your financial situation will work out in the city:

• As an individual, you’ll need $1,340 for your monthly expenses.

• In addition to this, you’ll be spending around $1,408 for your rent.

• A single housing unit can put you back around $539,524.

Boston, Massachusetts

Boston's booming economy gives it the lowest unemployment rate in the whole country. The city is renowned for its cultural assortment, first-class education institutes, and exceptional healthcare structure. Whether you prefer historical neighborhoods, diverse cuisine, or a striking arts scene, Boston offers a plethora of experiences!

This is how much you’ll have to spend in the city:

• If you’re living by yourself, you’ll need $1,428 per month for your basic needs.

• The aforementioned does not include rent; for that, you need $3,250 (or more).

• The average housing cost is around $741,153.

For now, it appears that people are moving out of Los Angeles in much greater volumes than those who are moving in. Higher costs of living and sky-high housing prices overshadow the allure of the city and the dream life. But it is natural to be puzzled about picking a new city. 

Before picking a new place, consider the reasons you’re leaving and explore options that meet your specific needs! 

Related Articles:

• A Guide to Apartment Living in a Thriving Los Angeles Neighborhood
• Los Angeles Westside: Here Are the Best Neighborhoods in the Westside That Are Just Right for You