7 Most Popular Relocation Destinations for Ex-Californians A Travel Guide to Your Next Home Base

Post Published November 7, 2024

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Dallas has become a magnet for Californians, with over 94,000 making the move in recent times. This surge of new residents, especially the 23,800+ who've chosen Dallas itself, is significantly altering the city's real estate market. Beyond the housing scene, this influx is also reshaping the local culinary landscape. Dallas is attracting individuals seeking a change of pace, and their varied palates and experiences are enriching the city's food scene. While the Dallas-Fort Worth area boasts a relatively affordable cost of living compared to the national average, the appeal extends beyond finances. The evolving cultural mix, including a vibrant food scene, adds to the allure of Dallas as a fresh start for many. While the housing market has seen some adjustments, including a slight dip in median home prices, Dallas still holds strong as a desirable destination.

The surge of approximately 94,000 Californians into the Dallas area over a recent period has undeniably reshaped the local culinary landscape. A noticeable uptick in demand for organic produce and specialized grocery stores is evident, with new establishments popping up at an estimated 15% annual rate in the city's core. This increased demand, driven by the influx of Californians, seemingly reflects a preference for high-quality, fresh ingredients, a hallmark of the California culinary scene.

Interestingly, the migration has also influenced local farmers' markets. Participation has skyrocketed by nearly 50% since 2020, with vendors adjusting their offerings to cater to the newly arrived population's discerning tastes. It seems that the culinary standards and preferences that were once primarily associated with California are now being integrated into the Dallas food scene.

The Dallas restaurant landscape is experiencing a period of rapid change, with over 1,000 new restaurants opening in the past year alone. It appears this explosion in new eateries is partially fueled by California-based chefs, bringing innovative culinary methods and styles to the Dallas market.

The influx of new residents, coupled with the city's changing demographics, has also led to architectural adjustments in residential design. The Texas heat, a well-known characteristic, has prompted developers to incorporate energy-efficient features into newer constructions. One can see an increased emphasis on smart home technology and heat-resistant materials in newer residential developments, indicative of adapting to the climate.

Moreover, improved flight connectivity between Dallas and California suggests a desire to retain ties to the West Coast. The number of direct flights from Dallas to key destinations like San Francisco and Los Angeles has increased significantly, driven by airlines adding new routes. It seems likely this expanded air travel infrastructure caters to those individuals who wish to maintain connections to their previous home or make frequent visits.

Furthermore, the housing market's shift has spurred a significant rise in home renovations, particularly kitchen upgrades, to incorporate high-end appliances. This likely signifies the impact of Californian culinary trends influencing homeowners to modernize their living spaces.

A new wave of diverse dining experiences is also taking root, characterized by the emergence of food halls and pop-up eateries in urban areas. These venues seem to be catering to a broadening demand for more diverse food options and reflect a change towards a broader and more international palate.

Interestingly, the growing population density of Dallas has fueled a notable rise in social and shared dining experiences. Concepts like communal dining tables and hands-on cooking classes are becoming increasingly prominent, signifying a shift toward different social eating settings within the Dallas food scene.

What else is in this post?

  1. 7 Most Popular Relocation Destinations for Ex-Californians A Travel Guide to Your Next Home Base - Dallas Real Estate Market Sees 94,000 New California Transplants Creating Fresh Food Scene
  2. 7 Most Popular Relocation Destinations for Ex-Californians A Travel Guide to Your Next Home Base - Las Vegas Attracts Ex-Californians With Southwest Airlines Adding 8 Daily Flights from LAX
  3. 7 Most Popular Relocation Destinations for Ex-Californians A Travel Guide to Your Next Home Base - Portland Benefits From California Exodus With New United Airlines Hub Opening March 2025
  4. 7 Most Popular Relocation Destinations for Ex-Californians A Travel Guide to Your Next Home Base - Phoenix Light Rail Extension Opens January 2025 Just As More Californians Move In
  5. 7 Most Popular Relocation Destinations for Ex-Californians A Travel Guide to Your Next Home Base - Nashville Welcomes West Coast Remote Workers With Delta Adding SFO Service
  6. 7 Most Popular Relocation Destinations for Ex-Californians A Travel Guide to Your Next Home Base - Boise Airport Expansion Set For Summer 2025 As California Migration Continues
  7. 7 Most Popular Relocation Destinations for Ex-Californians A Travel Guide to Your Next Home Base - Austin Tech Scene Grows With American Airlines Adding Silicon Valley Routes





7 Most Popular Relocation Destinations for Ex-Californians A Travel Guide to Your Next Home Base

Las Vegas continues to draw in former Californians, fueled by factors like affordability and a vibrant lifestyle. Southwest Airlines has recently added eight daily flights from Los Angeles to Las Vegas, suggesting a surge in travel demand between these two destinations. This increased air service provides a more seamless way for ex-Californians to explore Las Vegas, perhaps to potentially relocate or simply visit more often.

Las Vegas boasts a plethora of luxury hotels and resorts, providing a wide range of lifestyle options. Beyond the glitz and glamour, the city also presents an appealing alternative in terms of cost of living compared to many California locales. The airline's decision to add more flights is a strong indicator that Las Vegas remains a popular choice for people looking for a new place to live and experience. The increased accessibility to the city, thanks to Southwest's expansion, strengthens Las Vegas' position as a relocation hub for Californians who are seeking a different environment. Whether looking for career opportunities or a change of scenery, Las Vegas seems to be increasingly enticing for those who decide to leave California.

Southwest Airlines recently decided to add 8 daily flights between Los Angeles and Las Vegas. This expansion reflects the increasing travel demand between these two locations, particularly driven by a growing number of former Californians who've chosen Las Vegas as their new home. The move likely stems from Southwest's analysis of passenger trends, showing a substantial number of travelers making this route.

Currently, Southwest offers a remarkable 87 weekly flights on this route. That's a significant increase in frequency. They operate a nonstop service 7 days a week, including weekends, to capture the full range of traveler needs. While the primary driver appears to be people moving from California, the added flights naturally also benefit leisure travelers looking for a short trip to the entertainment capital of the Southwest.

It's worth noting that Las Vegas' Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) serves as a central hub for travel across the United States and beyond. With an average of 516 scheduled daily passenger flights to 169 different destinations across 13 countries and 50 states, it highlights a robust travel infrastructure supporting both domestic and international visitors. Southwest, along with other carriers, contribute to this extensive network. Interestingly, Southwest allows you to bundle flights with car rentals or hotels. This strategy is not uncommon for many airlines and often creates added convenience for budget travelers or people who don't want to deal with complex booking procedures.

Las Vegas continues to attract ex-Californians. The allure seems to be a combination of lifestyle changes, potential job opportunities, and the much-discussed topic of a lower cost of living. The city also boasts a vast array of monumental hotels and luxurious resorts, appealing to various tastes and needs. The city's hospitality industry has certainly grown accustomed to receiving a large volume of travelers, which makes it likely a favorable relocation option for those who dislike being in less frequented areas.

The impact of airline competition is noticeable, with airlines such as Spirit, Delta, and others besides Southwest operating at McCarran. This competition generally translates into lower fares for travelers as companies strive to attract customers by offering better deals. It will be interesting to see how these added routes will affect fares and overall flight availability in the near future. While it is possible that more affordable options may become available, it's also equally plausible that increased demand might counteract any price benefits for travelers. We will need to observe how these trends evolve over the coming months and years.

It appears that Las Vegas is becoming a destination of choice for those considering a move from California. And the surge in airline routes underscores the strong potential of this dynamic region for attracting new residents and facilitating economic growth within the state of Nevada. The long-term outcome, however, will depend on the evolving factors that influence air travel and real estate prices, potentially leading to further adjustments in air travel frequencies to support those changes.







Portland's emergence as a destination for Californians seeking a new home is gaining momentum with United Airlines' decision to establish a new hub at Portland International Airport (PDX) starting March 2025. This move appears to be a direct response to the growing number of people leaving California and choosing the Pacific Northwest for its perceived advantages. The new hub promises improved access to destinations popular among ex-Californians, making travel more convenient. The timing of the hub launch coincides with PDX's recent upgrades and expansion, marking a significant milestone for the airport and the city as a whole.

This development is also part of a broader international strategy from United, with the airline launching new routes to a host of destinations in Latin America and the Caribbean in May 2025. While they are aiming for an ambitious number of new destinations, whether they are truly successful in making these new routes profitable remains to be seen. However, with PDX's makeover and United's increased presence, Portland is attracting attention and stands to benefit from the California exodus, at least in the short term. It will be interesting to observe if this trend translates into long-term sustainable growth for Portland or is simply a short-term bump driven by the current movement out of California.

Portland is experiencing a shift in its travel landscape with the upcoming United Airlines hub opening in March 2025. This expansion, occurring amidst a noticeable exodus of residents from California, is poised to have a significant impact on Portland's air travel scene.

The new hub is anticipated to significantly reduce travel times to major Californian destinations, potentially by as much as 30% compared to existing routes. This improved efficiency could result in more convenient weekend trips or business travel for both long-term residents and new arrivals from California. PDX, Portland's airport, is already gaining renown for its customer experience, ranking high in surveys for aspects like dining and cleanliness. This makes it a more desirable gateway for travelers, both those coming from and going to the Californian market.

Beyond this domestic focus, United Airlines' existing network of over 200 destinations globally will also be accessible from Portland. This potentially enhances Portland's status as a travel hub for those embarking on international journeys, capitalizing on this new interconnectedness.

One can expect heightened competition amongst airlines serving Portland as a consequence of the Californian population influx. This increase in flight options and routes could lead to potentially lower prices for airfare, especially for flights connecting Portland and California. United has even announced a program awarding bonus miles on flights originating from Portland in the initial months following the hub's launch. This program might entice Californians to explore new flight possibilities through their existing frequent flyer programs.

The food scene in Portland has been gradually developing, with new dining options drawing inspiration from California's farm-to-table ethos and its wider array of international cuisines. The expected rise in visitors could lead to a surge in new restaurants, potentially as much as a 10% increase in the first year after the hub opens.

The increase in air traffic could also bring with it more frequent seasonal flight options, especially during peak summer and holiday travel periods. This aligns with the expected increase in demand for flights by former Californians seeking appealing and affordable travel options.

PDX itself will likely see significant investments in infrastructure upgrades to accommodate the growing passenger numbers. This includes enhancements to security checkpoints and passenger facilities to make travel smoother.

Oregon's tourism sector anticipates an increase in visitors, particularly from California, due to the increased connectivity afforded by the new routes. This influx of weekend visitors could revitalize destinations like the Oregon coast and Mount Hood.

Furthermore, the increased competition in air travel will likely lead to more user-friendly tools and apps for booking flights. This is especially helpful for former Californians seeking the most advantageous prices and time-efficient flight connections.


Overall, it appears Portland is poised to become a major travel center with a notable increase in accessibility. This transformation, spurred by a wave of new residents from California, could substantially reshape the city's landscape, travel experiences, and economic growth in the years to come. While the full impact remains to be seen, the indicators suggest it could be a beneficial, albeit possibly challenging, transformation for the region.







7 Most Popular Relocation Destinations for Ex-Californians A Travel Guide to Your Next Home Base

Phoenix's public transportation network is getting a boost with the opening of the Northwest Extension Phase II of the light rail in January 2025. This new 16-mile stretch will extend the existing Valley Metro Rail system, adding several new stations with a local art theme. The extension specifically aims to better connect the West Valley to the rest of the city, potentially attracting roughly 1,400 new daily riders. The project is not just about trains and tracks; it's also seen as a catalyst for economic growth, with expectations of increased investment in communities around the Metrocenter area.

Given the steady flow of Californians moving to Phoenix, this light rail expansion could become a vital element of the city's transportation infrastructure, easing the integration of new residents into the area. The success of the initiative, however, relies heavily on its ability to effectively meet the demands of the evolving population and provide efficient transit throughout Phoenix. The Phoenix area clearly recognizes the value of enhancing its infrastructure to support population shifts, but challenges remain to ensure this new extension meets the expectations of all residents.

Here are 10 interesting points about the Phoenix Light Rail's Northwest Extension, scheduled to open in January 2025, in the context of the ongoing migration from California:


1. **Phoenix's Growing Population**: It's projected that by 2025, Phoenix's population will surpass San Diego's, making it the fifth-largest city in the US. This surge is heavily influenced by people moving from California who are drawn to the lower cost of living.


2. **Flight Options and Competition**: Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is seeing increased activity, with airline competition driving down airfares by roughly 20% over the past five years. This aligns with the increase in travel demand and population growth, potentially making it a cost-effective travel hub.


3. **Improved Transportation**: The expansion of the Phoenix Light Rail system promises to cut travel times to key employment centers by about 30%. This enhancement to public transport could be a compelling factor for those moving from California who prioritize ease of movement within the metro area.


4. **The Evolving Food Scene**: Phoenix's restaurant scene has seen significant expansion, with new restaurants popping up around the downtown area at a rate of 25% since late 2022. It's interesting that many of these eateries are incorporating culinary elements seen in California, likely driven by the tastes of the new arrivals.


5. **California Connections**: The number of direct flights from Phoenix to California destinations like San Francisco and Los Angeles is on the rise. Airlines are predicting a 15% increase in demand for these routes due to the continuing migration trend.


6. **Real Estate Dynamics**: While housing in Phoenix initially was more affordable compared to many California areas, the ongoing influx of residents has led to a projected 10% rise in the average home price over the next year. This indicates the growing demand and tightening real estate market in the area.


7. **Tech Industry Impact**: As Californians relocate, the technology sector in Phoenix has seen notable growth, with a 40% increase in job openings in the past two years. This suggests that the area's economy is diversifying and becoming a potential employment hub for tech-related jobs.


8. **Cultural Shifts**: The city has seen a 50% jump in cultural events and festivals since the influx of Californians. This suggests the new residents are driving a desire for a wider variety of entertainment options to reflect their tastes and cultural backgrounds.


9. **The Rise of Remote Workspaces**: With the growth of remote work, the number of co-working spaces in Phoenix has increased by almost 30% in recent years. This trend likely caters to those who have relocated from California and retain connections to companies still based in the Bay Area or elsewhere in California.


10. **The Hotel Industry's Response**: Phoenix hotels are experiencing increased occupancy rates, now reaching pre-pandemic levels. This appears to be a result of both a rising population of residents and increased tourism from people who may be visiting the area from California either to visit family or explore potential relocation options.

These points highlight how the Phoenix region is responding to the surge of residents from California, and how these changes will likely play out in the coming year and beyond.







Nashville is becoming increasingly attractive to West Coast remote workers, especially those from California, as Delta Air Lines introduces a new non-stop flight route from San Francisco. This new service seems to reflect Nashville's growing appeal as a destination for those looking for a better quality of life, a welcoming community, and a less frenetic pace. Nashville's airport, with its recent expansion, is actively courting more international and domestic routes. This expansion can be viewed as a proactive step in preparation for a possible increase in travelers. Nashville's reputation as a vibrant, friendly, and work-friendly city is clearly part of its allure. The combination of the cultural scene and a potentially more affordable cost of living compared to many California locales is drawing many individuals to make the move. Whether this trend continues or whether the city will be able to support this influx of people remains to be seen.

Delta's new nonstop flights from San Francisco to Nashville are an interesting development, linking two technology hubs and potentially making it easier for remote workers to collaborate and network. While Nashville has sometimes been seen as more expensive than other relocation destinations, flight prices on this new route have dropped by about 15% since it started, which is a benefit for anyone considering a move.


The increased air traffic and arrival of remote workers are leading to changes in Nashville's hotel scene, with an expected 20 new hotels opening in the near future. This rapid growth is driven by the need to provide accommodations for both visitors and new residents.


The impact of California's culinary culture is being felt in Nashville with a 15% increase in new restaurants in the last year, a trend mirroring the broader movement towards farm-to-table and internationally diverse menus.


To support the growing population of remote workers, the number of co-working spaces in Nashville has grown by 25%. This shift towards a more flexible, urban work environment reflects the demands of this new demographic.


The new San Francisco route is part of a broader expansion at Nashville International Airport. The airport has added over 50 new routes in the last two years, improving its position as a major travel hub.


Nashville is seeing new cultural interactions and collaborations between local and Californian artists, with an estimated 30% increase in joint projects. This hints at a growing intermingling of artistic communities.


Workers who have moved from California to Nashville report an increase in their work-life balance. This perceived change is potentially driven by a combination of lower living costs and Nashville's culture which promotes things like outdoor events and music festivals.


Nashville's event calendar is expanding with an expected 25% increase in large events over the next year, fueled by the enthusiasm of new residents who are eager to experience the city's music scene.


The impact of remote work is showing up in Nashville's housing market, too. There's been a 15% increase in demand for homes with dedicated office spaces, particularly amongst new arrivals from California who are looking for places to set up their work-from-home routines.


Delta's expanded reach, connecting Nashville to San Francisco and other cities, suggests they see a bright future for the city as a travel and relocation hub. It'll be interesting to see if Nashville sustains this momentum, continuing to attract residents and new businesses or whether this growth will slow down in the coming years.







Boise's airport is gearing up for a major expansion, expected to wrap up by the summer of 2025. This expansion, which has a budget of $425 million, is a direct response to a significant increase in passenger traffic. The airport has seen an 82% jump in the number of travelers in recent years, reaching over 4.75 million passengers in 2023. The airport is currently served by nine different airlines, offering direct flights to 26 locations, and is projected to require a larger footprint to maintain service.

The first part of the expansion will include a new facility for rental car companies, an extension of the passenger concourse, and a brand new parking garage that should offer more than 1,100 new spots. This directly aims to address the rising demand for airport facilities and transportation options. The design is being handled by Fentress Architects and involves almost 148,000 square feet of new concrete apron in addition to a significant asphalt apron area. The project is intended to not just improve traveler comfort, but to act as a gateway to the wider Treasure Valley region, supporting continued economic growth. It remains to be seen if the airport expansion will meet the increasing demand as more individuals migrate from California.



The Boise Airport is undergoing a substantial expansion project, slated for completion in phases by summer 2025, with a total budget capped at $425 million. This isn't an isolated event; many airports across the country are updating their infrastructure to prepare for a projected surge in air travel. This expansion includes the addition of a new rental car center and concourse, a new parking garage with 1,100 extra parking spaces, and apron upgrades. The immediate goal seems to be handling the influx of passengers - passenger traffic at Boise Airport has skyrocketed by a remarkable 82% in recent years, reaching over 4.75 million passengers in 2023. Currently, nine airlines offer nonstop service to 26 destinations. This makes me wonder how the airport's management team strategized to optimize flight schedules and manage resources across nine airlines. The expansion is directly linked to the rapid population growth in the region, which has increased the demand for air travel and associated parking services.

Fentress Architects designed the expansion. The designers have likely factored in predicted passenger growth and the evolving needs of budget carriers in their plans. The expansion is seen as crucial for the local economy, especially in strengthening Boise's role as an access point to the Treasure Valley. A comprehensive master plan, created in 2016, examines future aviation needs. This is quite insightful since, given the speed of change in population trends, it's likely that any airport expansion must be adaptive. How they built this foresight into their master plan is an interesting technical challenge.

There is speculation that the expansion might influence the availability of lower-cost flight options for passengers. Increased competition among airlines has historically been known to drive down fares considerably, which makes sense given the airport's location and its potential function as a regional hub. The airport has also been impacted by the surge in population growth caused by the interstate migration from states like California. Idaho’s population has grown by more than 20% in the past decade, a trend which, in turn, has driven passenger growth.

Boise’s airport is trying to position itself to be the travel hub for a large region. That might increase business travel significantly. Furthermore, improving travel infrastructure could foster faster development of local industry and tourism, and the expansion will likely feature security and boarding updates that could reduce passenger wait times. Ultimately, airport infrastructure changes will likely affect the number of routes offered as well as tourism and, quite possibly, local culinary landscapes, leading to a more diverse array of dining options. The long-term impacts of the current population trends and their effect on airport growth are a fascinating subject that should provide a solid case study for urban planning and passenger flow optimization for many years to come.







Austin's tech scene continues to develop, with American Airlines' decision to bring back direct flights to Silicon Valley, including San Jose and San Francisco, being a noteworthy development. This renewed air connectivity could be a major catalyst for the city's growing tech industry, especially for tech entrepreneurs and professionals seeking to establish themselves in a more accessible alternative to Silicon Valley. The presence of major companies like Tesla, Amazon, and Apple has already significantly boosted Austin's tech reputation, but this new route might further fuel the emergence of Austin as a key tech center, often referred to as "Silicon Hills." While the city's tech-powered economy has seen strong growth, it's also showing some signs of slowing down recently. It will be interesting to see if these new flight routes lead to a wave of corporate relocations and whether this will help Austin maintain its upward trajectory. How the evolution of Austin's tech industry and the increased flight connections intertwine remains a key question for the city's future.

American Airlines' recent decision to reinstate direct flights between Austin and Silicon Valley, specifically San Jose and San Francisco, after a hiatus since 2009, is quite interesting. It seems to be more than just a random route addition. This move, I believe, suggests that Austin's increasing prominence in the tech world is attracting attention from major airlines. They're likely responding to the growing demand for travel between the two regions, spurred by the migration of tech talent from Silicon Valley to Texas.

The Austin tech scene is undeniably flourishing. Capital Factory, a prominent local organization that supports tech entrepreneurs, hosts over 60 regular meetups, highlighting the vibrant community that has grown around innovation and startups. This underscores the organic nature of Austin's development as a technology hub and might provide a fascinating comparison to the more top-down development process in Silicon Valley. It is intriguing that major tech companies, including names like Tesla, Amazon, Apple, and Meta, have also established a presence in Austin, contributing to its growing reputation as an alternative to the traditional California tech scene.

Austin has, since 2021, garnered attention as a potential alternative to Silicon Valley, with startups and venture capitalists flocking to the city. While the pace of corporate relocation to Texas has shown a decline in recent years from the peak in 2021, the nickname "Silicon Hills" for Austin captures the essence of the thriving tech ecosystem that has been built there since Dell's founding in the mid-1980s.

Austin's tech scene stands out for its diverse participation, including founders and investors, with higher representation of underrepresented groups compared to other tech hubs. While the hype around Austin becoming the "next Silicon Valley" has been loud, some indications point to a slowing pace of growth within the tech sector in recent times. Yet, substantial venture capital investment in startups has ensured Austin's continued relevance and growth within the tech industry.

The evolution of the local tech community has been striking. It transformed from a scene with infrequent meetups to a well-connected network of events and resources, underscoring the ability of a community to adapt and foster innovation. I'm curious to see how this kind of development affects the long-term growth of the city and how it might evolve compared to other tech scenes across the country. Overall, it appears the Austin tech scene is a story of dynamism and resilience, potentially offering a new model for future tech hub development, driven by a diverse talent pool and a unique entrepreneurial spirit.


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