Eva Longoria on Leaving Los Angeles: Taxes, Homelessness, and a ‘Dystopian Country’
Eva Longoria, best known for her role in Desperate Housewives, has opened up about her decision to leave Los Angeles and split her time between Mexico and Spain. The actress cited a confluence of factors, including rising homelessness, high taxes, and a general shift in the city’s atmosphere, as reasons for her departure.
“I had my whole adult life here,” Longoria said in november 2024 about leaving Los angeles. “But even before [the pandemic],it was changing. The vibe was different. And then covid happened, and it pushed it over the edge.Whether it’s the homelessness or the taxes, not that I want to s–t on California—it just feels like this chapter in my life is done now.”
Longoria, along wiht her husband José Bastón and their son Santiago, have been dividing their time between Mexico and Spain for several years.
The Rising Concerns of California residents
Longoria’s comments echo a growing sentiment among some California residents,who express increasing concerns about the state’s high cost of living,rising homelessness rates,and tax burden. According to the Public Policy Institute of California (PPIC), housing costs in California are substantially higher than the national average, with a median home price exceeding $800,000 as of early 2025. This contributes to a high poverty rate, especially when considering the cost of living.
Homelessness remains a persistent challenge, notably in major metropolitan areas like Los Angeles and San Francisco. The 2024 Point-in-Time Count by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Growth (HUD) revealed that California accounts for roughly 30% of the nation’s homeless population. the state’s struggle to provide affordable housing and adequate resources for its vulnerable population has added to the concerns of many residents.
“I’m Privileged”: Acknowledging the Divide
Longoria acknowledged her privileged position, recognizing that many Americans do not have the same options to relocate. “I’m privileged,” she said. “I get to escape and go somewhere.Most Americans aren’t so lucky. They’re going to be stuck in this dystopian country, and my anxiety and sadness is for them.”
Her statement sheds light on the growing economic divide in the United States, where the gap between the wealthy and the working class continues to widen.A 2024 report by the Pew Research Center found that income inequality has been increasing for decades, with the top 20% of earners holding a disproportionate share of the nation’s wealth.
Work-Life Balance and Shifting Priorities
While some speculated that Longoria’s move was politically motivated, she clarified that her decision was primarily driven by her work commitments. “I didn’t leave because of the political habitat,” the Flamin’ Hot director said in November 2024. “I left as my work took me there as Land of women—shooting six months in Catalonia, then four months in Mexico for Searching for Mexico, then back to Spain. Now I’ve been there for years. So I just don’t like that it’s politicized.”
Longoria’s experience highlights the evolving priorities of many professionals, who are increasingly seeking a better work-life balance and opportunities to live and work abroad. The rise of remote work has made it easier for individuals to pursue international opportunities, and some are choosing to relocate to countries with lower costs of living, different cultural experiences, or more favorable tax environments.
Counterargument: California’s Enduring Appeal
Despite the concerns raised by Longoria and others, California remains a desirable destination for many. The state boasts a thriving economy, particularly in the technology and entertainment industries, and offers a diverse range of cultural and recreational opportunities. The weather is a major draw for many,as are the stunning natural landscapes and access to world-class universities.
Furthermore, California’s government is actively working to address the challenges of homelessness and affordable housing. Governor Gavin Newsom has implemented several initiatives aimed at increasing housing supply and providing support for individuals experiencing homelessness. While progress has been slow, the state is committed to finding solutions to these pressing issues.
| Initiative | Description | Funding (Approximate) |
|---|---|---|
| Project Homekey | Acquisition and rehabilitation of hotels, motels, and othre buildings to create permanent housing for people experiencing or at risk of homelessness. | $2.4 Billion |
| California Housing Accelerator | Provides funding to accelerate the construction of affordable housing projects. | $1.75 billion |
| Homeless Housing, Assistance and Prevention (HHAP) Program | Provides flexible funding to local governments to address homelessness in their communities. | $1 Billion annually |
Longoria’s Continued Success
since moving, Longoria has continued to stay busy with various projects, including roles in Only Murders in the Building and Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, very Bad Road Trip. Her international lifestyle appears to be providing her with new creative opportunities and a fresh viewpoint.
FAQ: Eva Longoria’s Move and California’s Challenges
- Why did Eva Longoria leave Los Angeles?
- Eva Longoria cited a combination of factors, including rising homelessness, high taxes, a changing vibe in Los Angeles, and her work commitments in Mexico and Spain.
- Where does Eva Longoria live now?
- Eva Longoria splits her time between Mexico and Spain with her husband and son.
- Is California facing a homelessness crisis?
- Yes, California has a significant homelessness problem, accounting for a large percentage of the nation’s homeless population.High housing costs and limited affordable housing options contribute to the issue.
- What are California’s income tax rates?
- California has some of the highest state income tax rates in the U.S., with the top rate exceeding 13% for high-income earners.
- What is California doing to address homelessness?
- California has implemented several initiatives aimed at increasing housing supply, providing support services for homeless individuals, and preventing homelessness.
Leaving California: An Interview with Financial analyst, Amelia Chen on Economic Trends and Resident Migration
Introduction
Welcome, Archyde readers! Today, we have financial analyst Amelia Chen joining us to discuss the recent trends in California, including the exodus of residents like Eva Longoria, and the underlying economic factors at play. Amelia,thank you for being here.
The California Exodus: An Overview
Archyde: Amelia, Eva Longoria’s decision to leave Los Angeles, citing high taxes and homelessness, has sparked a lot of discussion. From a financial outlook, what are the main economic drivers behind this trend of people leaving California?
amelia chen: Hello, it’s a pleasure to be here. The situation is multifaceted, but certainly, the cost of living is a primary factor. Housing prices,as the article mentioned,are significantly above the national average. When you combine that with the state’s high income tax rates, it puts a strain on many households, particularly those in the middle class. This, coupled with concerns about public services, including addressing homelessness, makes other locations more attractive.
Housing Costs and Tax Burdens
Archyde: the article highlights the median home price exceeding $800,000. how does this impact the overall economic picture in California?
Amelia Chen: Well, it impacts everything. It affects affordability, obviously, making it harder for people to buy homes or even rent decent apartments. Businesses struggle to attract and retain talent when the cost of living is so high. It drives up wage demands which can,in turn,impact the competitiveness of Californian businesses. The high tax rates are also relevant. As mentioned, the state income tax, at its highest bracket, is above 13%. The article also mentions that this can encourage high earners to look at locations with lower rates.
Homelessness and Quality of Life
Archyde: The severity of homelessness is another meaningful concern mentioned by those leaving California. How does homelessness factor into the financial equation and the overall perception of the state?
Amelia Chen: Beyond the social ramifications, the visibility of homelessness has a tangible economic impact in various areas. it stresses public resources, increases demand for social services, and can even impact local businesses. In many areas, it also affects perceived safety and the overall appeal of certain neighborhoods. This can translate into declining property values and reduced investment in certain areas.
Governmental Initiatives and Solutions
Archyde: the article details some initiatives California is taking to combat homelessness. Do you think these initiatives and others will adequately address the state’s challenges?
Amelia chen: It’s a start, but progress takes time and requires significant investment. The California government has allocated billions toward programs like Project Homekey and the Homeless Housing, Assistance, and Prevention Program (HHAP). While well-intentioned, it’s a complex undertaking to turn around issues around housing, and funding alone isn’t a guaranteed solution. It requires a multi-faceted strategy involving not only housing provision, but also mental health services, addiction treatment, and job training, to name a few.
The Appeal of California
Archyde: Even with these issues, California remains an attractive destination.What makes the state still desirable for many professionals and businesses?
Amelia Chen: The Californian economy is diverse and robust. It’s a center for innovation, particularly in technology and entertainment. The climate, natural beauty, and access to top-tier universities are definite draws. The state’s appeal isn’t easily dismissed, but the issues we’ve discussed are certainly creating headwinds for the foreseeable future. What will be fun to see are the results of investment and legislation over the next few years.
The Future of California
Archyde: Looking ahead, how do you see the situation evolving in California? Do you expect to see more people leaving or potential signs of advancement in the coming years?
Amelia Chen: That’s the million-dollar question, isn’t it? It’s likely that the trends of high costs of living and a push for improved quality of life will continue to be a factor in outmigration for some time. The success of governmental initiatives, along with the economic choices being made, will determine the long-term outcome. There will be opportunities for those who are ready and willing to take them.
Archyde: Thank you for your valuable insights, Amelia.It’s crucial to understand the financial underpinnings of these trends. Are there any further tips related to people considering a move from, or into any state, like California?
Amelia Chen: I would recommend that any person consider the following items: thoroughly research the tax implications and overall cost of living in the destination location. The article mentions consulting with a financial advisor, and it’s vrey good advice. When contemplating such a move, one may research the best way to plan strategically for the future.
Reader Discussion
Archyde: Do you think California can reverse these trends, or are the problems too deep-rooted? Share your comments below!
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