Why Are So Many Ex-Residents Relocating to California Again?
Why are so many people moving back to California? Many are returning for the lifestyle, career opportunities, and sense of belonging they couldn’t find elsewhere. After years of testing life in lower-cost states, many have realized that California’s combination of climate, culture, and opportunity is difficult to replace. Top San Diego agent Melina Rissone points out that the state’s evolving job market, improving housing balance, and renewed quality-of-life appeal are drawing former residents home once more.
For those thinking about moving back home, Melina helps clients navigate these transitions, especially those relocating back to Southern California or exploring fresh starts in areas like San Diego’s North Park, Bankers Hill, and University City.
Who’s Coming Back to California?
The story of California migration isn’t just about people leaving anymore: It’s also about those who are finding their way back. Many returnees are professionals, retirees, and families who moved away during the pandemic, but later realized that the lifestyle they valued most was still here.
Here in San Diego, which Associate Broker Melina Rissone calls home, you can see it most clearly in the golden light over Pacific Beach, weekend strolls through Balboa Park, and evenings spent watching the sunset from Point Loma. It’s in the farmers markets, the coastal trails, and the neighborhoods where everyone still stops to say hello. In other words, it’s the everyday moments that remind people why they came back.
Where People Are Moving From
Some of the same states that once attracted Californians are now seeing more people leave. High insurance rates in Florida, extreme weather in Texas, and infrastructure challenges across several inland markets have caused many movers to reconsider their choices. In Florida, skyrocketing homeowners insurance premiums—often double or triple what residents paid just a few years ago—have offset the lower cost of housing. In Texas, the combination of record-breaking heat waves, rising property taxes, and power grid instability has made daily life less predictable.
Other inland states such as Arizona, Idaho, and Nevada are grappling with rapid population growth that has strained roads, schools, and water resources, while housing affordability in some areas has eroded almost as quickly as it improved.
As the cost-of-living gap narrows, California’s strong job base, advanced healthcare system, and mild, year-round climate are drawing people back. Melina tells prospective buyers that in many cases, the Golden State’s higher wages, outdoor lifestyle, and access to culture and innovation outweigh the tradeoffs. Coastal metros like San Diego, Orange County, and Santa Barbara offer a balance of laid-back lifestyle and urban convenience. And that’s especially appealing to those ready to return home, seek new opportunities, and reestablish their roots.
Why So Many Are Returning
For some, it’s personal. For others, it’s practical. Those returning often mention wanting to be closer to family, enjoying better access to healthcare, or reconnecting with careers tied to California’s tech, biotech, and creative industries. The rise of hybrid and remote work also allows more flexibility, and many are choosing to live where they feel happiest rather than where their company headquarters is located.
Melina Rissone sees this trend firsthand with clients who left California for short-term financial reasons, but are now coming back for a better quality of life. Many share the same realization: The grass wasn’t greener, it was simply different, and often in ways they didn’t necessarily prefer.
The California Cities Ex-Residents Are Settling
Major cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles still attract plenty of professionals drawn to career growth, cultural energy, and proximity to major employers. Both cities remain economic powerhouses: Silicon Valley continues to lead in technology and finance, while Los Angeles anchors industries such as entertainment, design, and international trade.
Yet not everyone returning to California wants the congestion or high density that often comes with those metros. Many ex-residents are now seeking communities that offer a more balanced lifestyle — places where they can enjoy the state’s beauty and opportunity without the stress of big-city living.
That’s why so many are turning their attention to San Diego County, which remains one of the top choices for those coming back to California. The region blends coastal living with a relaxed pace, offering easy access to beaches, parks, and a thriving local economy. Its neighborhoods provide something for everyone, from young professionals looking for walkable communities to families and retirees seeking connection and calm.
How This Shift Affects California Real Estate
The steady return of residents has helped create a more balanced market. Homes in desirable areas are holding value, but buyers are no longer facing the intense bidding wars seen during the early 2020s. Sellers benefit from stable demand, while buyers have more breathing room to find the right property.
Melina Rissone’s approach focuses on helping both sides understand timing and opportunity. Whether it’s preparing a long-time home for sale or finding a property that fits a returning buyer’s lifestyle goals, she helps clients make confident, informed decisions.
Smart Moves for Buyers, Sellers, and Investors
For Buyers: Work with a professional who understands how California’s micro-markets differ. Melina Rissone helps relocating former residents identify neighborhoods that match their goals, whether it’s a smaller home near the coast or a larger property inland with more space for family.
For Sellers: With more people coming back, showcasing a home’s lifestyle appeal is key. Melina’s marketing highlights what makes each community unique, from outdoor amenities to proximity to cultural hubs like Balboa Park.
For Investors: Demand for long-term rentals and multi-generational living is rising. Partnering with a local expert ensures you’re buying in areas positioned for continued growth.
Why San Diego Stands Out
Among all the places Californians are returning to, San Diego continues to shine as one of the most desirable destinations. Its blend of coastal living, outdoor recreation, and strong local economy makes it a top choice for both returning residents and newcomers. The city offers an unmatched mix of climate, community, and opportunity that appeals to professionals, families, and retirees alike.
Melina Rissone notes that many of her clients are drawn to neighborhoods such as North Park, University City, and La Mesa for their walkability, cultural diversity, and sense of belonging. Whether it’s the proximity to Balboa Park, the coastal charm of Point Loma, or the community spirit in East County, San Diego offers something unique for everyone who decides to make their way back to California.
Where in San Diego Buyers Still Have Options
Despite rising demand in San Diego’s coastal neighborhoods, several communities across the county continue to offer more attainable pricing and greater flexibility for buyers. Inland and foothill areas such as La Mesa, Santee, and Poway provide room to negotiate, larger lot sizes, and a slower pace of competition compared to the tight coastal market. These neighborhoods combine accessibility with value: They’re relatively close to the beach and urban comforts (at least compared to the Texas and Midwest suburbs they’re returning from), yet far enough to enjoy quieter streets and more space for the money.
La Mesa remains a standout for returning residents who want a lively downtown village, walkable neighborhoods, and trolley access for easy commutes. Santee and Poway appeal to families seeking larger homes, strong school districts, and community amenities without coastal premiums. Even in more central locations, pockets of Clairemont Mesa and Serra Mesa still offer relative affordability and proximity to employment centers in Kearny Mesa and University City.
For buyers relocating from out of state, these transitional areas strike the perfect balance, offering value, convenience, and the quintessential Southern California lifestyle. With outdoor living, strong local communities, and access to beaches, cultural centers, and healthcare, these neighborhoods continue to provide real opportunity in a market known for its desirability.
The Bigger Picture
California’s migration story has never been static. It has always been about movement, resilience, and renewal. For every resident who leaves, another is discovering a reason to return. In places like San Diego, that ongoing cycle of rediscovery continues to energize neighborhoods, support stable housing demand, and sustain the lifestyle that defines the Golden State.
When you’re ready to return and reconnect, or you’re simply rethinking where home should be, Melina Rissone can guide you every step of the way. Reach out today for a personalized consultation filled with local insight, proven strategy, and the personal touch that only two decades of real estate experience can provide.
Melina Rissone, Associated Real Estate Broker Coldwell Banker Global Luxury, Certified Senior Advisor (CSA) and Real Estate Collaboration Specialist – Divorce (RCS-D) in San Diego. I help people going through divorce in San Diego figure out what to do with the house—whether you're ready to sell now or just need a neutral opinion. I help seniors looking to retire in San Diego figure out what to do with the house—whether you're ready to sell now or just need a neutral opinion.
Melina Rissone
Having sold properties for more than 20 years and earning various prestigious awards throughout the course of her career, Melina Rissone has more than earned her reputation as one of San Diego's most skilled and trustworthy real estate brokers selling homes and luxury condominiums. Her loyal clientele would share that Melina brings structure and planning to chaos. She specializes in supporting her clients and their referrals; families and individuals going through divorce and seniors and active adults planning their moves and financial decisions during their retirement years.
Coldwell Banker Global Luxury and Institute of Luxury Home Marketing certified.
Certified Senior Advisor by the Society of Certified Senior Advisors
Cartus Network Inventory Specialist and Cartus Network Marketing Specialist since 2015.
RCS-D Designation, a Real Estate Collaboration Specialist for Divorce.
SRES Certification through NAR is a Seniors Real Estate Specialist certification.
Melina is bilingual in English and German.
Recognized as the Top 4% of all real estate brokers in San Diego County in 2021 and the Top 3% of Coldwell Banker International.
Coldwell Banker Presidents Elite Award.
Recognize as the Top 2% of Coldwell Banker West in 2024.
Coldwell Banker Global Luxury and Institute of Luxury Home Marketing Certified.
Melina Rissone is very professional she offed recommendations, and suggestions that I had not thought of. In areas that she was not sure of, Melina provided contact person to obtain clarification. It was a pleasure working with her.
-Beethoven B.
