Why California Expats Are Moving Abroad in 2025
Are you a Californian dreaming of a fresh start overseas? Youâre not alone. In 2025, a growing number of Californians are saying goodbye to the Golden State and setting their sights on new lives abroad. Whether driven by sky-high housing costs, the increasing burden of state taxes, safety concerns, or burnout from the political and cultural climateâmany are finding that life outside the U.S. offers the peace of mind and affordability they crave.
Once a symbol of the American Dream, California now represents a complicated equation: rising costs, overcrowded cities, worsening wildfire seasons, and a highly competitive job market that often fails to justify the cost of living. Add in the freedom of remote work and a post-pandemic appetite for global exploration, and youâve got the perfect conditions for a wave of international relocation.
But moving abroad isnât simple. Between customs regulations, international shipping logistics, and the emotional toll of uprooting your life, many potential expats donât know where to start.
Thatâs where we come in. At SDC International Shipping, we help Californians just like you move their lives safely and seamlessly overseas. Whether you’re heading to Portugal, Spain, Canada, or Mexico, our expert team handles everything from professional packing to customs clearance and final deliveryâso you can focus on what matters most: building your next chapter abroad.
In this article, weâll explore whatâs pushing Californians to leave, where theyâre going, and how to do it right with a trusted international moving partner.
Whatâs Driving Californians to Move Abroad in 2025?
Relocating to another country isnât just about chasing palm trees and new adventuresâitâs often about getting away from problems that feel unsolvable at home. For many Californians, life in the Golden State has become increasingly complicatedâand expensive. Here are some of the biggest reasons people are packing up and heading overseas:
đ° Sky-High Cost of Living
California consistently ranks among the most expensive places to live in the U.S. From groceries to gas, everyday essentials cost moreâespecially in cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego. For young professionals, families, and retirees, itâs becoming harder to justify staying when the same income can go much further in places like Spain, Portugal, or Mexico.
đ The Housing Crisis
Owning a home in California feels out of reach for many. In 2024, the median home price in the state hovered around $800,000, with monthly rents in major cities pushing past $3,000. Cramped spaces, competitive bidding wars, and the stress of long commutes have left many residents disillusionedâand looking for an exit.
đ„ Environmental & Climate Concerns
The increasing frequency of wildfires, droughts, and extreme weather events has made daily life in parts of California more unpredictable and dangerous. Air quality alerts and power outages are becoming normal. These challenges are prompting people to seek safer, more stable climates abroad.
đ§Ÿ High Taxes & Overregulation
Californiaâs state income tax is the highest in the nation, with top earners facing a rate of over 13%. Combine that with property taxes, sales taxes, and fees for just about everything, and itâs no surprise that many residents are wondering if their money could go further elsewhere.
đ§ Mental Fatigue & Burnout
The fast pace, traffic congestion, and cultural pressure to “keep up” in major California cities can take a toll on your mental well-being. People are increasingly drawn to slower, more balanced lifestyles in countries that prioritize community, healthcare, and time off.
đ A Desire for Change
Post-pandemic life gave many the perspectiveâand the permissionâthey needed to consider big life changes. Remote work has opened doors that didnât exist before. For many Californians, itâs not about escapingâitâs about upgrading their quality of life.
Thinking about a move?
You’re not just reacting to problemsâyouâre searching for possibility. In the next section, weâll look at where Californians are going, and what makes those destinations so appealing.
Top Destinations for Californians Moving Abroad in 2025
Once the decision to move is made, the next question becomes: Where should I go?
For California expats, the ideal destination checks a few important boxesâaffordability, safety, quality healthcare, a welcoming culture, and the possibility of long-term residence. Here are some of the top countries Californians are choosing in 2025:
Portugal: Europeâs Expat Paradise
Portugal continues to be a magnet for Americans seeking a laid-back, budget-friendly lifestyle. With its Mediterranean climate, low crime rates, and excellent healthcare system, cities like Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve region have thriving English-speaking expat communities. Portugalâs D7 and digital nomad visas make long-term stays achievableâeven for retirees and remote workers.
Why it appeals to Californians:
- Coastal living at a fraction of the cost
- Progressive culture with old-world charm
- Access to affordable public and private healthcare
- Easy travel throughout Europe
Spain: Vibrant Culture, Affordable Living
Spain is another European favorite, offering everything from sun-soaked beaches to world-class cities. Whether youâre drawn to the energy of Barcelona, the history of Seville, or the calm pace of Valencia, Spain offers expats a relaxed lifestyle and a lower cost of living compared to California.
Bonus: Spain recently launched a digital nomad visa aimed at remote workers.
Mexico: Proximity Meets Affordability
Just south of the border, Mexico remains a top choice for California expats looking for better value and familiar climate without flying halfway across the world. Cities like San Miguel de Allende, Playa del Carmen, and Mexico City are known for their vibrant expat communities, excellent cuisine, and warm hospitality.
Why Mexico makes sense:
- Easy access to the U.S.
- Low cost of living and housing
- Permanent residency options available
- Great for retirees and remote workers alike
Canada: A Friendly and Familiar Option
For those not ready to leap too far, Canada offers a culturally similar alternative with exceptional public services and beautiful natural surroundings. Cities like Vancouver, Victoria, and Toronto are consistently ranked among the worldâs best for quality of life.
Pros for California expats:
- Universal healthcare
- Familiar language and customs
- Stable economy and infrastructure
- Great education system for families
Honorable Mentions:
- France: For the romantics and retirees seeking elegance and a slower pace.
- Costa Rica: For nature lovers and those prioritizing sustainability.
- Thailand: For adventurous digital nomads and affordable living.
In the next section, weâll explain how SDC International Shipping helps Californians navigate these excitingâbut complexâmoves with ease and confidence.
The Hidden Risks of Moving Abroad Without Professional Help
Relocating internationally might sound romanticâand it can be. But beneath the surface, itâs also a logistical beast. Customs forms, shipping regulations, item restrictions, tax documentation, and port clearances vary not just by country, but sometimes by region. If you try to manage your international move without expert guidance, you could run into seriousâand costlyâobstacles.
Hereâs what many California expats donât realize until itâs too late:
â Customs Delays
One of the most common problems people face is having their shipment held at customs. Whether itâs a missing form, a poorly itemized inventory, or non-compliant packing materials, these issues can delay your belongings by weeks or even monthsânot to mention add unexpected costs and stress.
â Surprise Fees and Fines
Each country has unique rules around import taxes, duty exemptions, and residency-based benefits. If you donât qualify for tax-free statusâor donât know how to prove you doâyou could be hit with hefty import duties, sometimes up to 50% of your shipmentâs value.
â Damaged or Lost Belongings
International shipping includes multiple hand-offs: port crews, customs inspectors, local movers abroad. If your belongings arenât professionally packed using approved international materials, you risk breakage, water damage, or even theft. And if your items werenât properly insured? Thatâs on you.
â Visa & Immigration Mistakes
Even with the best intentions, one wrong detail on your visa or customs paperwork can cause major issues with your shipment. Some countries wonât release your items until your residency status is finalizedâleaving you with nowhere to sit, sleep, or cook.
â Emotional Burnout
Trying to manage all this while wrapping up your life in California, saying goodbye to loved ones, and flying across the world? Itâs overwhelming. Many people end up exhausted and discouraged before they even arrive at their new home.
You donât have to do this alone.
In the next section, weâll show you how SDC International Shipping simplifies every step of the journeyâso your move is memorable for all the right reasons.
Your Trusted Guide: Why Californians Choose SDC International Shipping
Moving abroad is a bold, life-changing decisionâbut it doesnât have to be overwhelming. At SDC International Shipping, weâve helped thousands of families, professionals, retirees, and digital nomads relocate from California to new homes around the world.
We understand what makes international moving differentâand how to do it right. Our goal? To make your relocation smooth, stress-free, and fully supported from start to finish.
Hereâs what you get when you work with SDC:
Global Reach, Local Expertise
With dedicated teams on both the East and West Coastsâand shipping partners across Europe, Asia, Canada, Mexico, and beyondâwe specialize in California departures to anywhere. Whether youâre moving from Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, or Sacramento, weâve got the network to get your shipment there efficiently.
Professional Packing & Inventory
International shipping comes with strict customs requirements. Our expert packing teams use materials approved for overseas transit and create detailed, itemized inventoriesâcritical for customs clearance and insurance purposes. We even offer custom crating for fragile or high-value items.
Customs & Documentation Management
We know the ins and outs of Change of Residence certificates, non-resale declarations, vehicle import rules, and duty-free exemptions. We help you prepare all required documentationâand we double-check everything before your shipment ever leaves port.
đą Air or Sea Freight Options
Whether you’re on a tight timeline or moving a full household, we offer flexible freight solutions to meet your needs:
- Air Freight: Fast delivery for time-sensitive shipments
- Ocean Freight: Affordable full or shared container service
- Groupage Shipping: Save money by sharing space with other shipments
đȘ Door-to-Door Delivery
From your California doorstep to your new home abroad, we manage every hand-offâso you never have to wonder where your belongings are. Youâll have a dedicated relocation specialist who keeps you informed at every step of the journey.
đĄïž International Moving Insurance
For peace of mind, we offer comprehensive marine cargo insurance options, including total loss and all-risk coverageâso your shipment is protected against unexpected events.
Your Step-by-Step Guide to Moving Abroad with SDC
At SDC International Shipping, we donât just move boxesâwe move lives. Thatâs why weâve developed a clear, proven process that walks you through each stage of your relocation, with no guesswork and no last-minute stress.
Whether you’re moving a single bedroom or a full-family home, hereâs how we make your international relocation simple and successful:
Step 1: Free Consultation with a Relocation Specialist
We start with a conversationâabout your timeline, your destination, what youâre moving, and what matters most to you. We’ll explain your options, answer your questions, and provide an accurate, transparent quote tailored to your specific move.
Step 2: Customized Moving Plan
Your dedicated relocation advisor will outline your full international moving plan, including:
- Freight method (air or sea)
- Packing service needs
- Insurance recommendations
- Storage options (if needed)
- Required documentation and timelines
Youâll never be left wondering âwhatâs next?â
Step 3: Professional Packing & Inventory
Our team comes to your home in California to pack and prepare your shipment. We use internationally approved materials, label everything clearly, and generate a detailed packing list and inventoryâa requirement for customs clearance in most countries.
Prefer to pack yourself? Weâll provide guidance and materials to help you do it right.
Step 4: Shipment & Customs Clearance
We coordinate the shipment of your container or freight to your destination. Whether itâs ocean freight or air cargo, we track your shipment every step of the way. Our team assists with customs paperwork on both ends and makes sure your shipment complies with your new countryâs regulations.
Step 5: Delivery to Your New Home
Once cleared through customs, your items are delivered to your residence abroad. If youâre not ready to receive everything right away, we can arrange secure storage near your destination until you’re settled.
đŻ Simple. Reliable. Transparent.
From California to Canada, Spain, France, Mexico, or anywhere else in the world, we remove the unknowns and replace them with support, structure, and peace of mind.
In the next section, weâll invite your reader to take actionâand explain why now is the perfect time to start planning your international move.
Letâs Turn Your International Move Into a Reality
Youâve thought about it. Youâve done the research. Now itâs time to take the next step with a team that understands exactly what it takes to move your life from California to your next destination abroad.
At SDC International Shipping, we donât believe in one-size-fits-all service. Every international move is uniqueâand we treat it that way. Whether youâre a solo traveler, a growing family, a retiree, or a digital nomad, our relocation specialists will build a customized moving plan that fits your timeline, budget, and goals.
đŹ Ready to Get Started?
Hereâs what you can do right now:
- â Request a Free International Moving Quote
- â Schedule a Call with a Relocation Advisor
- â Download Our Pre-Move Checklist for Expats
No Pressure, Just Expertise
Weâre here to answer your questions, explain your options, and support your journey every step of the way.
Your new life abroad is waitingâletâs get you there, safely and stress-free.
đ Click here to request your free moving quote
The Difference Between a Smooth Move and a Costly Mistake
Imagine this: Your belongings are packed professionally and securely. Your paperwork is handled. Your container arrives overseas on time, cleared through customs without delay. You land in your new home country and within days, your household is delivered, intact and stress-free. Thatâs the reality when you move with SDC International Shipping.
Now, picture the alternative.
đ« Without a Trusted Moving Partner:
- You struggle to complete confusing customs forms
- Your items are packed improperly, leading to damage or delays
- You’re hit with unexpected port fees and import taxes
- Your shipment is held up because of a missing document
- You arrive in a foreign countryâwithout your essentials, and no timeline for when theyâll be delivered
Itâs not just inconvenientâitâs emotionally draining, financially risky, and entirely avoidable.
â With SDC International Shipping:
- You receive step-by-step support from experts who do this every day
- Your belongings are packed using international standards and tracked through every stage
- You benefit from accurate documentation, customs guidance, and clear communication
- You arrive at your destination with peace of mind, ready to settle into your new life
The choice is simple: a seamless, stress-free move with SDCâor an uncertain journey filled with frustration and delays.
Let us guide you to the outcome you deserve. đ
