The Exodus from California: Why Residents are Leaving

California's population has dropped to an estimated 38.9 million, down by 573,000 from its peak in 2020, with out-of-state migration being the main cause. Reasons for the exodus include high cost of living, particularly housing, and remote work opportunities during the pandemic. The state's high taxes, regulatory challenges, and political climate have also contributed to the population loss. This decline may lead to less congestion but also less tax revenue and political influence, with potential future impacts on the state's budget and representation in Congress.