Moving to California: Pros and Cons in 2025

Moving to California: The Pull of the Golden State — But Is It Still Worth It?

There’s something about California. Maybe it’s the weather, or the coastlines. Maybe it’s the way the sun sets behind the hills in L.A., or how San Francisco fog rolls in just when the city starts to feel too warm. Or maybe — if we’re being a little less poetic — it’s the jobs. The ambition. The sense that something big is always happening, somewhere, and you might catch it if you move fast enough.

But is it really all that now? In 2025?

Because here’s the thing: California is still beautiful. Still full of opportunity. But it’s also complicated. And expensive. And, depending on who you ask, maybe even a little… exhausting?

If you’re thinking about relocating to California this year — whether it’s for work, weather, lifestyle, or just because you’ve always wanted to — this guide is here to walk you through the reality. The real reality. The stuff that makes people stay, and the stuff that makes them leave, sometimes within months of unpacking.

Let’s start, naturally, with the big one.

Pro: The Weather Is Exactly What You Think It Is — Mostly

It’s hard to overstate just how varied California’s climate is — and how perfect it can feel when you hit the right pocket of it.

Southern California, for example? Nearly endless sunshine. It’s not a myth. Temperatures hover in the 70s and low 80s for most of the year. No snow. Rare storms. Just that dry warmth that makes patio dining a lifestyle instead of a seasonal bonus.

Northern California is more temperamental — foggy mornings, crisp evenings, a little rain — but still mild by national standards. It rarely snows, even inland. And when it does, it’s a novelty. The Sierra Nevada? Snow-capped from late fall to spring, but you’re still just a few hours from sunny vineyards or sandy beaches.

That said, climate change is shifting things. Wildfire seasons are longer. Summers can get blistering inland (we’re talking 100+ degrees in the Central Valley and parts of SoCal). Droughts still happen. And in 2023 and 2024, California saw record-breaking rainfall and flooding in some areas. So while the weather is a draw, it’s not always carefree.

It’s like — yes, you get sunshine. But sometimes you also get ash falling from the sky.

Con: The Cost of Living Is… Still Wild

Let’s not pretend otherwise. California remains one of the most expensive states to live in — and 2025 didn’t exactly bring a price drop.

If you’re buying a home, expect a median price of around $775,000 statewide — though in the Bay Area and parts of coastal L.A., that number shoots well past $1 million. Renting isn’t much better. A two-bedroom in San Francisco? Easily $3,500 a month. In L.A.? Maybe $2,800 — depending on the neighborhood, of course.

Groceries, gas, insurance — all of it runs high. Even utilities in places like Palm Springs or Sacramento can spike in summer when AC is running nonstop.

Here’s a quick look:

(Index based on U.S. average = 100)

So yeah, the rumors are true. It’s expensive. But — and here’s the confusing part — people still come. Every year. Because sometimes what you get feels worth it, even if the price tag hurts a little.

Jobs, Traffic, and That Elusive California Dream

Pro: The Job Market Is Still a Giant (If You Know Where to Look)

Say what you will about the cost of living — California still offers job opportunities you won’t find anywhere else. That’s not hype, it’s reality.

Tech? Still massive in the Bay Area, though more distributed than it used to be. Startups, giants, hybrid roles — there’s something for every skill level, but you have to be willing to compete.

Entertainment? Alive and well in L.A., of course. Even as streaming shakes up the industry (again), there’s still a gravitational pull here for creatives, production crews, and post-pandemic studio jobs.

Then you’ve got biotech (San Diego), aerospace (Palmdale, Long Beach), renewable energy, agriculture, and — perhaps the quiet giant — healthcare. California’s aging population is driving steady growth in hospitals, research, and home health services.

If you’re in a niche or high-skill field, your prospects are strong. But — and this is important — salaries don’t always keep up with housing costs unless you’re in one of those “in-demand” zones. For teachers, service workers, and even some mid-tier professionals, affording a comfortable life here takes planning, sacrifice, or a second income. Sometimes all three.

Con: Traffic Isn’t Just Bad — It’s a Lifestyle

Let’s talk about it. Because even people who love living in California will admit: getting around can be awful.

L.A.? Infamous. You can spend 90 minutes driving 12 miles and still be late. Bay Area? Same story, just with a different soundtrack. San Diego’s not immune either, and while public transportation exists, it’s… limited.

Outside of big cities, things ease up, of course. If you’re in a smaller Central Coast town or up in Redding, traffic might not even cross your mind. But if you’re moving to California for work — and that work happens in or near a major metro — the daily commute may eat more of your life than you expect.

You start planning your errands around traffic patterns. You memorize freeway exit ramps that might let you sneak through the back way. You find podcasts that feel like friends. And then there’s gas prices. As of mid-2025, we’re hovering around $5.70 per gallon statewide, sometimes more in cities with tighter environmental regulations.

Yes, electric vehicles help — and EV adoption here is high. Charging infrastructure is better than almost anywhere else in the U.S. But still, driving in California can feel like a part-time job if you’re not careful.

Pro: For Some, It’s Still the Dream

This part is hard to define, but ask someone why they moved to California — and why they stayed — and you’ll hear things like:

“I came for work, but stayed for the mornings in Santa Barbara.”

“Something about hiking the Hollywood Hills and then grabbing sushi five minutes later just felt right.”

“There’s no place like it. I don’t love the bills, but I love the vibe.”

There’s something emotional, almost nostalgic, about California. Maybe it’s because it’s so baked into pop culture, or maybe it’s that so many people move here with a dream of something. That pursuit — messy and expensive as it is — still means something in 2025.

But…

Con: Others Leave Just as Fast

The data shows it. For every family that moves in, there’s often another that’s quietly packing up. In 2023 and 2024, California saw consecutive years of net outmigration. Some left for Texas, Nevada, Arizona — drawn by lower taxes, cheaper homes, fewer regulations.

And you can’t blame them. For people not anchored by a job, family, or some deep love of the West Coast, the financial strain eventually outweighs the perks.

They come for a fresh start… and find themselves stuck in a financial cycle that feels hard to break. It doesn’t happen to everyone — but it happens more than most people expect.

Neighborhoods, Nature, and Finding Your Place

Pro: There’s a Community for Everyone — You Just Have to Find It

This is one of California’s most underrated strengths: its variety.

Not just landscapes — though we’ll get to that — but lifestyles. Want a walkable, artsy downtown? Check out Pasadena, Santa Cruz, or maybe parts of Long Beach. Prefer a slower, small-town vibe? Try Ojai, Petaluma, or Grass Valley. Looking for family-friendly suburbs with good schools? You’ve got dozens of solid picks, from Folsom to Irvine.

It’s almost weird how many different types of places exist within one state. You can drive three hours and feel like you’ve entered a completely different region — culturally, geographically, even politically.

Of course, this abundance can be overwhelming at first. So many options. So many variables. But eventually, most people settle into a pocket that fits them — not perfectly, but close enough to feel right. And when that happens, the bigness of California stops being intimidating and starts feeling… flexible. Like a menu where you can actually find something you want.

Con: Safety and Affordability Don’t Always Live in the Same Zip Code

This one’s tricky, because California has some of the safest and least safe neighborhoods in the country — sometimes just a freeway exit apart.

There are incredible communities with low crime, great schools, clean parks, and strong neighborhood vibes. But often, they come with a hefty price tag. A 3-bedroom home in a quiet suburb like San Ramon or Irvine? That could set you back $1.3 million in 2025. Rent for a modest apartment in those areas can easily climb over $3,000/month.

And then there are areas that are more affordable — but with trade-offs. Maybe it’s higher crime. Or underfunded schools. Or a lack of grocery stores within walking distance. Not every zip code tells the full story, and averages can be misleading. You have to look deeper — block by block, even.

It’s not a reason not to move. But it is a reminder: budget and safety often pull in opposite directions. And finding the balance takes time, research, and sometimes compromise.

Pro: The Outdoors Are… Next Level

This one’s hard to overstate. If you like being outside — even just a little — California is unreal.

Surf in the morning. Hike by lunch. Watch the sunset from a vineyard. Camp in redwood forests. Climb granite walls in Yosemite. Snowboard in Tahoe. Walk a coastal trail in Big Sur that makes you stop mid-step just to stare for a while.

It’s not just variety — it’s proximity. You can live in a city and still hit a trailhead in 15 minutes. You don’t have to be a rugged outdoorsperson to enjoy it either. Even parks inside L.A. or San Diego offer surprisingly peaceful green space.

For people who feel recharged by nature, California delivers again and again. And honestly? That alone keeps a lot of people here, even when the rent stings.

Con: Nature Bites Back Sometimes

Of course, with all that natural beauty comes some risk. Wildfires, earthquakes, droughts — you hear about them more often than you’d like.

Northern California especially has dealt with increasing fire danger. Some areas face evacuation orders every summer now. And while building codes have improved, the threat still lingers.

Earthquakes? They don’t happen often, but they’re always possible. Most are small, barely noticeable, but the big one… well, it’s talked about often enough to make people nervous. It’s one of those “not today, but maybe someday” risks you sort of learn to live with.

The outdoors are a gift here — but also a force. One that occasionally reminds you who’s in charge.

The Numbers Behind the Headlines — Costs, Comparisons & Moving Day Realities

So far, we’ve talked about lifestyle, pace, people, and the landscape. But let’s be real — numbers matter. Maybe even more than vibes.

You can fall in love with a city, but if rent eats 60% of your income or gas drains your checking account by the second week of the month… well, love gets complicated.

Here’s where California stacks up — and how it compares to other states that people often choose instead.

Cost of Living: California vs. Other States in 2025

Let’s break it down. Below is a comparison chart showing overall cost of living, including key categories like housing, groceries, and transportation.

(U.S. average = 100)

So yes — California is more expensive across the board. Especially in housing and transportation, where costs are nearly double those of states like Texas or Arizona. That gap becomes very real, very fast — especially for families or anyone not earning six figures.

Population Trends: Who’s Still Moving to California in 2025?

It’s easy to assume everyone’s fleeing, but that’s not quite true. The story is more nuanced.

In 2025, California is still gaining people in some demographics — especially young professionals entering tech, entertainment, or design. Immigrant communities continue to grow in metro areas like Los Angeles and San Diego. And retirees with deep pockets still settle in places like Santa Barbara and Palm Springs.

But yes — the middle is shrinking. Middle-income families are the ones leaving. The ones who can’t quite make the math work. They’re the ones heading to Nevada, Idaho, or even the Midwest, where homeownership doesn’t feel like a pipe dream.

It’s a shift — not a mass exodus. But it does affect things. School funding. Infrastructure planning. Even traffic patterns.

How Much Does It Cost to Move to California in 2025?

Let’s talk numbers again — but this time, the cost of getting there.

If you’re planning a long-distance relocation, Lift & Shift Long Distance Movers is a trusted choice in 2025. They specialize in state-to-state moves and are known for transparent pricing, careful handling, and excellent long-haul logistics.

Here’s a realistic breakdown of moving costs to California:

Extras:

• Packing services: $350–$950
• Storage: Available upon request (quote based on volume + time)

Lift & Shift takes the guesswork out of it — no hidden fees, no last-minute drama. For anyone making a cross-country or regional jump, that peace of mind can be priceless.

Who California Is (and Isn’t) For — A Real Talk Wrap-Up

You’ve made it this far, which probably means you’re seriously considering it. California. The dream. Or at least, a shot at something different.

And by now, you’ve seen the good and the not-so-good. Maybe even a few contradictions. That’s because, like most big decisions, moving to California isn’t something you can label as “worth it” or “not worth it” in a clean, tidy way.

It’s all about fit. Timing. What you’re running from — and what you’re hoping to find.

Let’s try to summarize what this move looks like for different types of people in 2025.

California Might Be a Great Fit If…

• You’re in a high-income field (tech, healthcare, law, design, media) and can afford the higher cost of living.
• You work remotely, and you’re chasing lifestyle, weather, and weekend access to world-class scenery.
• You value cultural diversity, progressive values, and being surrounded by innovation — even if it sometimes feels chaotic.
• You’re creatively driven. Not just an artist or writer or filmmaker, but someone who thrives in a place where ideas float around like pollen.
• You’ve always wanted to live by the ocean, in the mountains, or somewhere you can hike after work on a weekday. Because here, that’s possible.

For the right person, California still offers a kind of magic. It’s not cheap. It’s not easy. But it’s unique. And that uniqueness has a hold on people — even when the rent goes up (again).

But It Might Be the Wrong Fit If…

• You’re trying to save aggressively or buy a home on a modest income. The financial pressure here is real, and not everyone thrives under it.
• You want peace and quiet 24/7. Cities are noisy. Even some suburbs buzz with a restless energy.
• You’re looking for a slower pace. California runs hot — not just in climate, but in ambition. It’s not always a place where you can exhale.
• You’re easily overwhelmed by complexity. This state is layered — politically, socially, environmentally. It takes effort to keep up, and not everyone enjoys that.
• You value stability over experimentation. California reinvents itself constantly — cities shift, prices swing, people come and go. That kind of movement either energizes you… or burns you out.

So… Should You Move to California in 2025?

Honestly? Maybe.

For some people, this move is exactly what they needed. A restart. A push. A place where they finally feel in sync with something bigger. For others, it becomes a lesson. An experience that taught them what doesn’t work.

You won’t know which group you fall into until you’re here. And that’s the scary part. But also maybe the exciting part?

Because California is still California. Still full of beauty and chaos and dreams and contradictions. It’s not for everyone, and it doesn’t pretend to be. But for the people who find their rhythm here — it’s hard to imagine living anywhere else.

And if you’re curious, drawn to it for reasons you can’t quite explain… maybe that’s reason enough to explore it. Worst case, you move again. Best case, you don’t want to leave.

Popular Attractions in California

It’s almost unfair how many iconic attractions California has. Seriously — you could live here for years and still not see it all. Whether you’re a nature lover, a theme park fanatic, or just someone who likes exploring, there’s something that pulls you in.

Let’s start with the obvious:

• Yosemite National Park – Jaw-dropping cliffs, waterfalls, and hiking trails that feel like movie sets. Even if you’re not “outdoorsy,” just standing in Yosemite Valley might change your mind.
• Disneyland (Anaheim) – Some people say it’s overpriced, others call it magical. Either way, it’s a major draw — especially if you’ve got kids, or just a soft spot for nostalgia.
• Golden Gate Bridge & San Francisco Bay – It never gets old. Whether you’re biking across it, sailing underneath it, or just staring at it from Crissy Field, it hits different in person.
• Big Sur & Highway 1 – This is the scenic coastal drive that feels like it was made for daydreaming. Winding roads, cliffside views, redwoods, and the kind of ocean that makes you pull over every 10 minutes.
• Hollywood & Griffith Observatory – Sure, it’s touristy. But also kind of fun. The views from Griffith are incredible, and there’s something undeniably cool about walking by a movie being filmed around the corner.

And that’s just scratching the surface. There’s wine country, Joshua Tree, Lake Tahoe, San Diego’s coastline… California doesn’t really do boring.

Museums in California

If you’re into museums — art, history, science, or something weirdly specific — California doesn’t disappoint.

• The Getty Center (Los Angeles) – Art, architecture, gardens, and views. It’s free (aside from parking), and feels like you’re walking through a curated dreamscape.
• California Science Center (Los Angeles) – Great for families, with hands-on exhibits and the Space Shuttle Endeavour on full display. It’s a wow moment for all ages.
• San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) – Huge, modern, thought-provoking. Even if you don’t consider yourself “an art person,” something in here will pull you in.
• The Broad (L.A.) – Contemporary art with a pop-culture vibe. Insta-worthy, but also surprisingly meaningful.
• Exploratorium (San Francisco) – It’s technically a science museum, but really, it’s just fun. Think interactive everything, and a way to make science feel like play.

Then there’s the niche stuff — the Museum of Jurassic Technology in Culver City, the Winchester Mystery House in San Jose, or even the Museum of Neon Art in Glendale. You could spend months discovering places you didn’t even know existed.

Parks in California

Whether you’re into hiking, camping, or just somewhere to take a breather from city life, California’s park system is hard to beat.

• Yosemite National Park – Worth listing twice. Honestly.
• Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks – Home to the largest trees on Earth. Standing next to a giant sequoia is one of those oddly humbling life moments.
• Redwood National and State Parks – Up near the Oregon border, it’s peaceful, green, and awe-inspiring. Less crowded than Yosemite, but just as moving.
• Griffith Park (Los Angeles) – Huge urban park with hiking, the observatory, horseback trails, and hidden picnic spots with skyline views.
• Golden Gate Park (San Francisco) – Think Central Park, but with a more relaxed West Coast feel. Includes gardens, lakes, and the de Young Museum.

Even smaller state parks and city green spaces in California feel elevated — better views, better light, better air. There’s just something about it.

Top Schools in California (2025)

Let’s not sugarcoat it — education in California is a mixed bag. But if you know where to look, you’ll find some of the best public and private schools in the country.

Top Public School Districts:

• Palo Alto Unified School District (Bay Area) – Tech-fueled, well-funded, and ultra-competitive. If you want Ivy League prep in public school form, this is it.
• La Cañada Unified (Los Angeles County) – High academic achievement and strong parental involvement. Known for safety, rigor, and college acceptance rates.
• San Marino Unified (L.A. area) – Small but mighty. One of the highest performing districts with top-tier test scores and extracurriculars.
• Irvine Unified School District (Orange County) – Diverse, academically solid, and growing fast. Offers a good balance of STEM, arts, and athletics.
• Piedmont City Unified (East Bay) – High expectations and high outcomes. It’s tiny, but mighty — and fiercely supported by the community.

Top Private & Charter Options:

• Harvard-Westlake (Los Angeles) – Private, elite, expensive. But if you can afford it, the college pipeline is real.
• The Harker School (San Jose) – STEM-heavy and nationally ranked.
• BASIS Independent Schools (Silicon Valley) – Known for rigorous academics and global curriculum.

California is also a leader in charter school innovation, but as with anywhere, quality varies. Do your research — ratings help, but parent reviews and campus visits tell the real story.