Over the past few years, there’s been this visible trend, where numerous conservative stars have left California and migrated to states such as Texas or Florida. The red states were an apparent solution to the political tension and high prices. But over time, more of these conservative celebrities are revealing that life out of California hasn’t been as good as they had expected. Rather than enjoying the freedom and opportunity, most people have experienced the unexpected hardships and even regrets leaving the Golden State.
The Great California Exit
This began with the ordinary families and individuals leaving California to seek a better quality of life. However, a few famous conservative celebrities joined them pretty much immediately. Some of the main reasons that drove them away were the outrageous living expenses, strict government policies and a political climate that many conservatives found to be stifling. They ran to states like Texas and Florida that have lower taxes and a social atmosphere that is more in line with their political ideology. These states held the lure of working and living with reduced regulation, which is a major selling point in a state such as California that still is debating about taxes, housing, and government policies.
Notable Conservative Figures Who Left
A number of well-known conservatives hit the news when they left California in favor of more conservative states. The famous podcast host Joe Rogan moved to Austin, Texas due to his frustrations about the expensive lifestyle in California. He viewed Texas as a state that provided greater freedom and less bureaucracy. Comedian and podcaster Tim Dillon also moved to Austin to follow his friend Rogan with similar reasons. Retired MMA fighter Brendan Schaub relocated to have more personal freedom. Male model Lucky Blue Smith and his influencer wife Nara Smith believed that they could find a quieter area in Texas.
Initial Hopes and Expectations
The stars who moved expected big changes for the better. They felt that the new states would have significantly lower taxes and they would be able to retain more of their earnings. They desired to live in communities where their political opinions were common. Many looked forward to experiencing a more vibrant business or creative scene. In short, moving meant a greater freedom and an opportunity to live their life their way. These high expectations were largely influenced by the economic opportunities and reputation of liberty in such states as Texas and Florida.
The Reality of Life After California
Surprisingly, the reality of living in their new states was disappointing for many. Joe Rogan’s friends found Austin quieter and less lively than Los Angeles. Brendan Schaub felt “heartbroken” and missed his old community, facing unfamiliar challenges like power outages and harsh weather. Lucky Blue Smith’s wife Nara Smith also expressed regret. Some stars said the social scene lacked diversity and depth, with fewer entertainment options. Loneliness was common, as building new friendships and professional ties proved harder than expected. Overall, daily life felt less vibrant and more isolating than their previous lives in California.
Reflecting On This Decision, Regret is The #1 Feeling
Most of these stars clearly express regrets about their decisions to leave. Brendan Schaub said that he felt “heart broken” which summed up the disappointment felt by many. Tim Dillon’s regret was deep, describing Austin as lifeless and lacking good restaurants. All of these stars’ shared feelings include missing family, old routines, the energy of big cities, and the sense of belonging to a community. They realized that politics alone cannot dictate a successful move. It’s equally important what kind of life you create and what kind of environment you live in.
The Impact on Their Careers
The effects on their careers have been mixed. Joe Rogan has continued thriving with his widely popular podcast and has adapted to his new home. For others, like Tim Dillon, the change was tougher. The entertainment scene outside California, especially in emerging markets, didn’t always offer the same opportunities or audience. Networking became harder, and some felt disconnected from the industry hubs that California provided. The trade-offs they experienced include gaining more personal space or slower pace but losing the buzz and connection that can boost creative careers. This dynamic underscores the challenge of balancing personal life changes with professional growth.
Public Responses
Fans and the public reacted in many different ways to these celebrities’ moves and their later regrets. A few ridiculed the stars, telling them not to complain as they decided to leave California and move to states that suited them. Others empathized with them because they know that there is no ideal place and it is very difficult to fit in a new environment. Some fans were wishing that their favorite celebrities could one day move back to California and somehow manage to live in the state and still be faithful to their values.
What’s Next for These Stars?
Some stars have hinted or openly stated the wish to move back to California. There’s still the pull of the family they left before, their old friends and familiar surroundings. The others appear to be confused or resigned to their new places but promise to do things differently should they have a second chance. There have been rumors that other more conservative personalities may simply relocate back to Los Angeles or other cities, as they adjust to what is truly important to them in lifestyle and career.
Lessons Learned
What can be learned from their experiences? Relocating simply because of political or economic reasons, usually doesn’t solve underlying personal or professional issues. Happiness and success depend on community, culture, and opportunity. The places that appear to be ideal at a glance always have their problems and difficulties. To anyone considering a move, particularly out of dissatisfaction, it’s necessary to consider both practical realities and ideals. The grass isn’t always greener, and what one leaves behind may be worth more than imagined.