A depression-headed recession, smog, Heidi and Spencer, an insanely high cost of living, the Web-generated realization that people are still just people no matter the latitude, have all led to the fact that the allure of California is fading quicker than a Pacific sunset. Hell, Becks doesn’t even want to be here for more than six months.
As a recent immigrant to the Golden State, I know that California has always held a special place in the hearts of Americans (and the Western World) as the final frontier. Cali has long been known as a place where you can discover yourself… while being discovered.
However, California no longer holds the same power over the distant dreamers across the eager globe. The sunny SoCal skies now appear gloomy and grey to those whose optimism has been replaced with realism.
Perhaps the sadness of Californication (the song, not the show) has finally set in, or maybe this is just a phase which will pass like a Hollywood fad… I mean come on, skinny jeans?
I know this piece is all but uplifting, but for the time being California is in a bit of a funk. The real question is… can it stage a comeback?
West Coast Woes
Residents Vacate as California Allure Fades
Trend Themes
1. California Depopulation - Businesses in the moving and relocation industry may find an opportunity to offer new service plans targeting people who are now leaving California due to high living costs, resulting depression and smog issues.
2. Anti-california Sentiment - Recreational tourism and hospitality industry might need to adjust their services to attract visitors to California who have a negative perception of the state, such as offering alternative activities that do not involve the typical SoCal experience.
3. Alternative Location Hype - With California being less desirable now, real estate and housing companies may benefit by promoting other locations as the next big spot for discovering yourself while being discovered.
Industry Implications
1. Moving and Relocation - Businesses may find an opportunity to offer new service plans targeting people who are now leaving California due to high living costs, depression and smog issues.
2. Tourism and Hospitality - Recreational industry might need to adjust their services to attract visitors to California who have a negative perception of the state, such as providing alternative activities.
3. Real Estate and Housing - Companies may benefit by promoting other locations as the next big spot for discovering yourself while being discovered.