19 Celebrities Who Have Left Los Angeles On Where They Moved and Why They Did It

Once considered the epicenter of fame and fortune, Los Angeles is seeing a remarkable exodus of celebrities seeking new homes elsewhere. Driven by shifting cultural dynamics, rising living costs, and the freedom of remote work, stars are finding fresh starts in surprising locales. From Texas to Montana, their reasons span from privacy to political climates. This article explores the unique motivations and destinations shaping this trend, as reported by sources like Forbes and Insider.

1. Mark Wahlberg

Mark Wahlberg relocated from Los Angeles to Las Vegas, seeking a more family-oriented environment and improved opportunities for his children. He emphasized the benefits of Nevada’s lower taxes and the strong sense of community as major factors in his decision. In interviews, Wahlberg has shared that the move was primarily to create a better life for his family, both personally and financially. Read more about his decision in People.

2. Chris Hemsworth

Chris Hemsworth made the move from Los Angeles to Byron Bay, Australia, prioritizing a quieter life and deeper connection with family and nature. He has frequently expressed how Australia’s relaxed lifestyle and natural beauty contribute greatly to his family’s happiness and well-being. The actor enjoys the privacy and slower pace that Byron Bay offers, far from the hustle of Hollywood. Learn more about Hemsworth’s move in this Insider article.

3. Joe Rogan

Joe Rogan, renowned podcast host and comedian, left Los Angeles for Austin, Texas, in pursuit of more space, personal freedom, and an escape from LA’s notorious congestion. Rogan has spoken positively about Austin’s dynamic culture, creative community, and the opportunities the city provides for both work and lifestyle balance. He frequently highlights Austin’s unique energy on his podcast. Discover more about Rogan’s move and his thoughts on Texas in this Texas Monthly feature.

4. Elon Musk

Elon Musk relocated his primary residence from California to Texas, motivated by frustration with California’s regulatory landscape and a desire to be closer to Tesla and SpaceX operations. Musk’s move underscores a growing trend among tech leaders seeking friendlier business environments and reduced state taxes. His decision has sparked conversations about the shifting centers of innovation in the United States. Learn more about Musk’s high-profile move in this CNBC article.

5. Hilary Swank

Hilary Swank departed Los Angeles for a serene life in Colorado, drawn by the tranquility and natural beauty of the mountains. She has shared how her new home provides a sense of peace and allows her to enjoy a slower, more mindful pace of living. Swank embraces the connection to nature that Colorado offers, which helps her recharge away from the hectic demands of Hollywood. Read more about her mountain retreat in Architectural Digest.

6. Matthew McConaughey

Matthew McConaughey chose to leave Los Angeles and return to his home state of Texas, drawn by its unique culture and the opportunity to be closer to family. The Oscar-winning actor frequently shares his pride in his Texas heritage and relishes the slower, more grounded lifestyle the state offers. McConaughey’s move reflects his deep connection to his roots and his desire for a balanced, family-focused life. Discover more in this Texas Monthly article.

7. Julia Roberts

Julia Roberts relocated her family from Los Angeles to San Francisco, drawn by the city’s diversity and the enhanced privacy it provides. The Oscar-winning actress has embraced a quieter, more low-profile lifestyle, distancing herself from the relentless spotlight of Hollywood. Roberts appreciates the cultural richness and relative anonymity that San Francisco offers, allowing her family to thrive away from the public eye. Learn more about her move and home in Hello Magazine.

8. Nicole Kidman & Keith Urban

Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban have chosen to divide their time between Nashville and Australia, escaping the constant pressures of Los Angeles. For the couple, Nashville’s vibrant music scene fuels Keith’s creativity, while Australia’s stunning landscapes offer tranquility and inspiration. Both locations provide a sense of belonging and a healthier, more balanced lifestyle for their family. Explore more about their homes and lifestyle in this Vogue feature.

9. Rob Schneider

Rob Schneider moved from Los Angeles to Arizona, citing concerns about California’s high cost of living and political environment as motivating factors. The comedian and actor has expressed appreciation for Arizona’s welcoming atmosphere, openness, and strong sense of community. Schneider feels the move has provided his family with a more stable and affordable lifestyle, away from the stresses of LA. Learn more about his decision to relocate in this AZ Central interview.

10. Mayim Bialik

Mayim Bialik decided to purchase a home in Texas, prioritizing a more relaxed and family-friendly environment. The actress and neuroscientist has spoken highly of Texas’s renowned hospitality and the affordability it offers compared to Los Angeles. Bialik appreciates the slower pace of life and the welcoming communities she has encountered, making the move a positive experience for her and her family. Discover more about her Texas relocation in this CultureMap Austin article.

11. Josh Brolin

Josh Brolin relocated from Los Angeles to Atlanta, attracted by the city’s booming film industry and its reputation for welcoming, family-friendly neighborhoods. Brolin’s move mirrors a broader migration of actors and filmmakers seeking new creative hubs outside of Hollywood. He appreciates Atlanta’s vibrant arts scene and proximity to family, making it an ideal home base for his personal and professional life. Read more about Brolin’s experience in this Atlanta Journal-Constitution article.

12. Blake Lively & Ryan Reynolds

Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds chose to leave Los Angeles and settle in upstate New York, drawn by the region’s privacy and inviting small-town atmosphere. The couple values the sense of normalcy and grounded living the area provides, prioritizing a stable, family-centered lifestyle away from Hollywood’s constant attention. They have embraced the community and slower pace, giving their family the freedom to grow outside the spotlight. Learn more about their home in Architectural Digest.

13. Emma Stone

Emma Stone made a quiet move from Los Angeles to Texas, drawn by the state’s creative atmosphere and its much more affordable cost of living. While Stone has kept most details about her relocation private, she has hinted in interviews that she enjoys the vibrancy and character of her new community. The Oscar-winning actress appreciates the space that Texas provides, allowing her to thrive both personally and professionally. Read more about her move in CultureMap Austin.

14. Josh Gad

Josh Gad made the decision to leave Los Angeles and return to Florida, the state where he grew up. For Gad, being close to family was a significant motivator, as was the desire for a slower pace of life away from the hectic Hollywood scene. The actor enjoys the comfort and familiarity of his roots, finding fulfillment in the supportive community and relaxed atmosphere. Learn more about his move in the Orlando Sentinel.

15. Sandra Bullock

Sandra Bullock chose Austin, Texas as her home, captivated by the city’s friendly spirit and flourishing arts scene. Bullock has become an enthusiastic supporter of local initiatives, actively giving back to her community. She appreciates the laid-back atmosphere and sense of belonging Austin provides, which stands in contrast to the fast-paced energy of Los Angeles. Her decision reflects a desire for authenticity and a deeper connection with her surroundings. Read more about her move in the Austin American-Statesman.

16. Gerard Butler

Gerard Butler owns a residence in Malibu but often chooses to spend substantial time in his native Scotland. The actor cherishes the deep connection to his heritage and the tranquility that Scotland offers, far removed from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles. Butler has spoken about how the slower pace and natural beauty of Scotland provide him with a sense of peace and belonging. Discover more about his lifestyle in this Scottish Sun article.

17. Kristen Bell & Dax Shepard

Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard purchased a home in Michigan, Dax’s home state, to provide their children with a more grounded upbringing and be closer to extended family. The couple values the supportive environment and sense of community that Michigan offers, away from the fast-paced Hollywood lifestyle. Their move reflects a commitment to family roots and a desire for a balanced, down-to-earth life. Read more about their decision in the Detroit Free Press.

18. Sylvester Stallone

Sylvester Stallone made the move from Los Angeles to Palm Beach, Florida, drawn by the area’s luxurious lifestyle and favorable tax benefits. The iconic actor joins a growing number of celebrities attracted to Florida’s sunny climate, waterfront properties, and relaxed vibe. Stallone has embraced the exclusivity and comfort Palm Beach offers, making it his new home base. Learn more about Stallone’s relocation in the Palm Beach Post.

19. David and Victoria Beckham

David and Victoria Beckham relocated to Miami, driven by David’s involvement with Inter Miami CF. The couple appreciates Miami’s international character, dynamic cultural scene, and vibrant social life. They often balance their time between the United States and the United Kingdom, finding Miami’s cosmopolitan atmosphere ideal for their family and professional pursuits. The Beckhams’ move reflects their global lifestyle and commitment to new opportunities. Discover more in this Miami Herald article.

Conclusion

The departure of these celebrities from Los Angeles highlights a growing trend shaped by varied motivations—ranging from the pursuit of family life and privacy to business opportunities and cultural shifts. Economic factors like taxes and cost of living, along with a desire for community and creative inspiration, are prompting stars to redefine where and how they live. As remote work and new entertainment hubs emerge, Hollywood’s traditional landscape is evolving. For more insights, see Forbes.