Nashville Wins Over Hollywood Stars With Lower Bills and Stronger Values

Kirk Cameron, the former teen star of “Growing Pains,” explained that his family relocated from California to Tennessee two years ago. The move was driven by a combination of the state’s liberal politics and high cost of living, which he said made everyday life challenging for parents.

Growing Up in California: The Easy Days

• Childhood Convenience
  Cameron recalled that as a child, parents could cover everything. “You could hit the beach or ski without thinking about costs,” he said, enjoying cheap burgers and fast‑food stops in Hollywood.

• Transition to Adulthood
  Once his kids began managing their own money, the true expense of California became apparent. “They saw how expensive it is in the Golden State,” Cameron noted, adding that politics further complicated matters for families.

The Decision to Move

• Need for Thriving
  “Suddenly we realized we needed a place where we could really thrive, or at least survive,” Cameron explained.

• Missed California
  He admitted missing the weather but expressed hope to return someday, acknowledging that California still offers many attractions. “Tennessee is improving, but California remains special,” he said.

Tennessee’s Appeal

• Migration Trend
  Cameron highlighted the shift from states like New York and California to Tennessee, especially around Nashville in middle Tennessee. “It’s a hot spot for creatives who share good values and love their families,” he observed.

• Local Culture
  He praised Nashville’s pride in country culture and its top‑notch whiskey. “If you enjoy whiskey and spicy chicken, Nashville is the place to be,” he added.

Reflections at 55

At 55, Cameron reflects on his Los Angeles upbringing and how that background helped shape his career, emphasizing the contrast between his early life in California and his current life in Tennessee.