SAN DIEGO — We all know living in California is expensive.
Now, a new report is shedding light on how many people are leaving and what states they're moving to. While the report did not look at why people moved, people CBS 8 interviewed said their decision was based on cost of living.
"It wasn't the easiest decision, but it was something we were ready to kind of jump into, like a new adventure, said Andrew Rowley.
That new adventure began two months ago, when Andrew, his wife Lauren, and their young daughter and dog, moved from Chula Vista to a suburb located 30 minutes outside Denver, Colorado.
"We both have great jobs right now, and we're like, let's, let's buy a home, and San Diego is obviously where we wanted to stay. But the prices are just outrageous," said Andrew.
The couple, who were born and raised in Southern California, say their budget in San Diego was around $700,000, which left them with few options they didn't like.
They both work remotely, so they started thinking about places they've enjoyed visiting. They found a realtor who showed them homes via video, and wound up buying one they had never seen in person for less than $600,000.
It has four bedrooms, and a big yard - everything they wanted, but didn't think they'd be able to have in California.
“All of our friends understood why we're doing it. We've had other friends leave the state. We've had other friends contemplating leaving the state and moving,” said Lauren.
Financial tech company, Smart Asset, analyzed IRS data, and found between 2021 and 2022, while California welcomed 254,935 new residents, 399,138 moved to other states.
The majority left for Texas, followed by Arizona, Nevada, Washington and Florida.
"I would have been the last one you'd think to leave,” said Jessica Duarte.
Duarte was born and raised in San Diego.
Last month, she moved to Alvaton, Kentucky, where she bought a brand new three bedroom home after selling her one bedroom condo in Rancho Bernardo.
"I took all the profit from selling my condo and was able to buy this one right out, so I don't have a house payment," said Duarte.
Duarte discovered her new neighborhood, after her parents moved there from Poway to retire in 2020.
They also wanted to stretch their savings further.
On top of the lower housing costs, Duarte says everything else is cheaper too.
"Gas is like half the price. Groceries are half the price. My utility bill. I ran the air conditioner in for a whole month, three bedrooms, $75," said Duarte.
Still, there are downsides to moving out of San Diego, including leaving loved ones, the ocean and weather behind.
Both Duarte and the Rowleys say while they're enjoying where they're at now, coming back is a possibility at some point.
“Of course, I feel a little homesick. I miss my California burritos and all that stuff, but I feel like I'm ready for some new experiences,” said Andrew.