During the pandemic, a remarkable migration shift took place in the United States, and Southern Oregon became a hotspot for Californians seeking a fresh start. Thousands of people packed up their bags and left the Golden State behind, moving to the quieter, more affordable, and scenic Southern Oregon cities like Medford, Grants Pass, and Ashland. But now, a few years later, a new trend is emerging: some of these transplants are packing their bags again and heading back to California.

Why are Californians leaving Oregon and going back? This question intrigued me deeply, so I dove into the data, spoke with folks who made the move, chatted with friends, and consulted other realtors to uncover the most common reasons behind this phenomenon. If you’re considering relocating to Southern Oregon or wondering if this trend might affect you, this comprehensive article will walk you through everything you need to know.

Table of Contents

• Why So Many Californians Moved to Oregon in the First Place
• Why Some Californians are Heading Back to California
• Real Californians Share Why They Left Oregon
• The Takeaway: The Hidden Factors Behind the Move Back
• Considering a Move? Here’s What You Should Know
• FAQ About Californians Leaving Oregon and Going Back
• Final Thoughts

Why So Many Californians Moved to Oregon in the First Place

Let’s rewind to 2020, the year that changed everything. The COVID-19 pandemic triggered a massive shift in how we work and live. Remote work exploded, cities went into lockdown, and life in California suddenly didn’t feel so golden anymore. Between rising taxes, lockdown fatigue, and skyrocketing home prices, many Californians started seeking a fresh start somewhere quieter, more affordable, and with a greater sense of freedom.

Southern Oregon quickly became a magnet for these migration seekers. Cities like Medford, Grants Pass, and Ashland transformed into relocation hotspots, especially for families and retirees wanting to escape the pressure cooker of the Bay Area and Southern California. At one point, data showed that nearly one in three new homebuyers in Southern Oregon hailed from California.

Why Southern Oregon Made So Much Sense

There were several compelling reasons why Southern Oregon attracted so many Californians:

• Affordable Home Prices: Compared to California, homes in Southern Oregon were dramatically cheaper.
• No Sales Tax: Oregon’s lack of sales tax meant more savings on everyday purchases.
• Lower Cost of Living: Overall expenses, from groceries to utilities, were more manageable.
• Slower Pace of Life: A more relaxed lifestyle appealed to those burnt out by city life.
• Natural Beauty and Outdoor Space: The stunning landscapes and access to outdoor activities provided a quality of life that felt safer and simpler.
• Remote Work Possibilities: The ability to keep a California-based income while living in Oregon made the move financially viable.
• More Space: Many Californians found that they could not only afford a home but also enjoy more outdoor space or even simply more room to breathe played a significant role in their decision to relocate.

For example, the median home price in the San Francisco area hovered around $1.5 million, while in Los Angeles, it was roughly $750,000. In contrast, Medford’s median home price was about $325,000. For that price, buyers often got sizable yards, garages, and even scenic views—luxuries that were hard to come by in California’s high-priced markets.

Not only were the homes cheaper, but on average, they were 15 to 20% larger than comparable California homes, often situated on bigger lots with room to breathe. Many people were able to cash out their California homes and buy their dream homes outright in Southern Oregon. It was a no-brainer for many: more space, less tax, no mortgage stress, and a fresh start in a beautiful place.

Why Some Californians are Heading Back to California

Fast forward to 2025, and the story is evolving. While Southern Oregon still offers tranquility and natural beauty, some Californians who relocated here are finding the reality different from what they expected. The slower lifestyle, limited nightlife, and fewer cultural events can be a significant adjustment for those accustomed to California’s vibrant urban centers.

Adjusting to the Pace and Culture

For many, the cultural scene in Southern Oregon feels less vibrant. The nightlife options are limited, and there are fewer large-scale cultural events or entertainment venues. This can lead to feelings of boredom or missing the hustle and bustle of city life that Californians were used to.

Climate Challenges: Heat and Wildfires

Southern Oregon’s climate also presents challenges. Summers can bring triple-digit temperatures, and wildfire activity during these months can lead to periods of poor air quality. This is a serious concern for residents, especially those with respiratory issues or who prefer milder weather conditions.

These environmental factors are important to consider when evaluating the quality of life in the area. I’ll be releasing a detailed video on this topic soon, so stay tuned!

The Rising Cost of Living

Initially, Southern Oregon was viewed as an affordable alternative to California. However, by 2025, the cost of living in Southern Oregon has risen significantly. The median home price today is about $450,000, up from $325,000 just a few years ago. Grocery prices, gas, and other essentials have also increased, reflecting national inflation trends.

The allure of Southern Oregon as a bargain and hidden gem has started to wear off for some. The financial advantage that once made the move so attractive has lessened, causing some to reconsider their relocation.

Social Isolation and Community Challenges

Relocating often means leaving behind family, friends, and established social networks. For many transplants, especially those who moved alone or as couples without children, building new connections in a smaller community has been daunting. Feelings of isolation and loneliness can develop when social integration is slow or difficult.

Job Market Realities

The job market in Southern Oregon has also experienced shifts. For those in specialized fields, opportunities have been more limited than anticipated. This has been a significant factor for some Californians who moved here expecting to find suitable employment or continue their careers seamlessly.

Real Californians Share Why They Left Oregon

These broad trends paint a picture, but I wanted to get real examples. I dug into my database of past clients who relocated from California to Southern Oregon and looked for those who decided to move back. To my surprise, I found zero people who voluntarily moved back to California after relocating here.

The only person I knew who moved back to California did so because their job required it—a promotion that mandated relocation to the company headquarters in California.

Curious about this, I reached out to my team, other real estate agents, family, and friends to see if they knew anyone who moved back to California and why. Here’s what I found:

1. Job Requirements: Many moved back because their jobs required them to relocate, just like my client who was promoted.
2. Family and Grandkids: A common reason was wanting to be closer to family, especially grandchildren. The emotional pull to be near them was strong.
3. Social Connections: Some didn’t make friends or build a social circle in Southern Oregon and wanted to return to their established networks.
4. Seeking a Different Lifestyle: For some, Southern Oregon wasn’t different enough. Instead, they sought more extreme changes and moved to states like Florida, Texas, Tennessee, or Alaska.

Interestingly, none of the people I learned about had moved back to California simply because they disliked Southern Oregon. The reasons were more nuanced and often tied to relationships and lifestyle preferences.

The Takeaway: The Hidden Factors Behind the Move Back

The key insight here is that moving isn’t just about financials or the size of your home. It’s about lifestyle, relationships, and how well a place fits who you are and what you want from life.

Some people come to Southern Oregon and never look back—they love the slower pace, the natural beauty, and the community. They find it fits their ideal way of living perfectly.

Others come, learn a lot about what they want, and realize that what matters most to them is back in California or elsewhere. And that’s perfectly valid.

Considering a Move? Here’s What You Should Know

If you’re thinking about relocating to Southern Oregon or even considering moving away, I’m here to help. I specialize in guiding people through this exact process and have helped hundreds make informed decisions about their moves.

Whether you want to explore if Southern Oregon is the right fit for your lifestyle or need advice on the real estate market, don’t hesitate to reach out. I can help you understand the pros and cons, the lifestyle considerations, and the market realities so you can make the best choice for you and your family.

Feel free to call/text , or email me anytime. Your move is a big decision, and having the right information and support can make all the difference.

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FAQ About Californians Leaving Oregon and Going Back

Why did so many Californians move to Southern Oregon during the pandemic?

The pandemic triggered a mass shift as people sought more affordable housing, lower taxes, a slower pace of life, and the ability to work remotely while keeping their California incomes. Southern Oregon offered all these benefits along with beautiful natural surroundings.

What are the main reasons some Californians are moving back?

The primary reasons include job relocations, wanting to be closer to family and grandchildren, difficulty building social connections, and seeking a more dramatically different lifestyle in other states.

Is Southern Oregon still affordable compared to California?

Southern Oregon remains more affordable than many California markets, but prices have risen significantly since 2020. The median home price today is around $450,000, up from about $325,000 a few years ago.

What lifestyle challenges might Californians face in Southern Oregon?

Adjusting to a slower pace, fewer cultural and nightlife options, summer heat, wildfire smoke, and potential feelings of isolation can be challenges for some newcomers.

How can I decide if Southern Oregon is the right place for me?

Consider your lifestyle priorities, social needs, work opportunities, and climate preferences. Working with a local real estate expert can provide valuable insights tailored to your situation. If you need a real estate team to assist with your move or help navigate these changes, we can help.

Final Thoughts

The migration story between California and Southern Oregon is complex and evolving. While the initial wave of Californians moving to Southern Oregon was driven by clear financial and lifestyle incentives, the reality of relocation is always more nuanced. Some find their ideal home here and never look back, while others realize that what matters most to them lies elsewhere.

Ultimately, moving is deeply personal. It’s about more than square footage or tax rates—it’s about finding a place where you feel at home, connected, and fulfilled.

If you’re considering making Southern Oregon your home or are curious about the current trends shaping this beautiful region, reach out. I’m Brian Simmons with the Buying Southern Oregon real estate team, and I’d be happy to help you explore your options and find the best fit for your lifestyle and goals.