From The Windy City To The Golden State: Why Chicagoans Are Moving To Sacramento
If you’ve been paying attention to the shifting tides of the American population, you may have noticed that Sacramento has grown in popularity as a destination for transplants in recent years. In fact, according to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the Sacramento metro area was the 10th fastest-growing region in the country between 2010 and 2018. New data published by Redfin suggests Sacramento is once a top migration destination for homebuyers. So, what’s driving this growth? A large portion of it can be attributed to people moving from the Midwest—specifically, my hometown Chicago. Here’s a closer look at why Chicagoans are ditching the Windy City for California’s Farm-to-fork Capital.
A Change Of Pace
One of the biggest reasons people are leaving Chicago for Sacramento is that they’re looking for a change of pace. Chicago is a bustling metropolis with a fast-paced lifestyle to match. In contrast, Sacramento is much more laid-back, allowing residents to slow down and enjoy all California offers. From world-class dining and shopping to outdoor adventures and stunning natural scenery, there’s something for everyone in Sacramento—and Chicagoans are taking notice. From its rich history and cultural roots to the people who call it home, Sacramento is a melting pot of different cultures and experiences. Like Chicago on a smaller scale - this diversity is what makes Sacramento such an exciting and unique place to live, and it’s also what draws people in. Whether you’re looking for a taste of international culture or want to meet people from all walks of life, Sacramento is the place for you.
A (Much) More Affordable Cost Of Living
Let’s face it: Chicago is expensive. The cost of living in the Windy City is nearly 17% higher than the national average. Housing costs are even higher than that, with the median home price at $399,000. Compare that to Sacramento, where the cost of living is 9% below the national average. Median home prices are relatively affordable for a California city at $550,000, so it’s easy to see why so many people are moving from Chicago to Sacramento.
Better Weather (Yes, Really!)
You might think that weather would be a low priority for someone moving from one part of the country to another. But when you live in a place where winters are brutally cold, and summers are muggy and mosquito-ridden (we’re looking at you, Chicago), good weather can be a game-changer. And that’s precisely what Sacramentans enjoy, thanks to our location in California’s Central Valley. Our mild Mediterranean climate means we get warm summers and cool winters. The perfect combination for outdoors enthusiasts who want to enjoy all Sac has to offer year-round.
Whether they’re looking for a change of pace or simply trying to escape the high cost of living in Chicago, more and more people are finding their way to Sacramento every day. And we couldn’t be happier about it! Welcome, transplants! We hope you enjoy your new home here in California’s Capital Region.
