Kirk Cameron Says He Left California Over “Terrible” Politics

Kirk Cameron said he left California and moved to Tennessee because he believes the Golden State’s politics and high cost of living make it difficult to raise a family. Speaking on the “Adam Carolla Podcast,” the “Growing Pains” star said California was enjoyable when he was a child because his parents paid for everything and he could enjoy beaches, skiing, In-N-Out, and time in Hollywood. But once his children became adults and had to support themselves, he said they saw how expensive life there has become and how hard it can be to build a stable family life.

Cameron said the move was driven by a desire to find a place where his family could “thrive” and, at minimum, “survive.” He added that he still hopes to return to California someday, and said he believes the state still has a lot to offer overall. Despite his criticism, he did not dismiss California entirely, describing it as a place with strong appeal and many advantages.

The actor also praised Nashville, where he now lives, calling it a city full of creative people who share his values and care about family. He said he appreciates that many people there are proud of the country, and he highlighted the food and drink culture, joking that the whiskey is excellent and that Nashville is a great place for those who enjoy whiskey and hot chicken.

Cameron is best known for playing Mike Seaver, the oldest son in the Seaver family, on ABC’s “Growing Pains.” He appeared in all seven seasons of the sitcom, which aired for 167 episodes. The show made him a household name and remains one of the most recognizable titles from his acting career.

His comments reflect a broader trend of public figures discussing the challenges of living in California, especially around affordability, politics, and family life. Cameron framed his relocation not as a rejection of his home state, but as a practical choice for his family’s future. At the same time, he made clear that California remains personally meaningful to him and that he may eventually return if circumstances change.

In Nashville, Cameron said he has found a more comfortable environment and a community that better matches his lifestyle and beliefs. He portrayed the city as a place where creative work, family values, and patriotism coexist, along with a vibrant food and beverage scene.