Eagle, Idaho has gained a new nickname as the “Little Orange County” due to the influx of former California retirees moving to the city. According to a Los Angeles Times analysis, nearly 90,000 members of California’s main public employee retirement system (CalPERS) received their pensions from out of state, with many settling in low-tax areas like Eagle, Idaho. The city, with a population of about 30,000 people, received the largest amount of CalPERS money compared to any other zip code.
Eagle Mayor Jason Pierce, a former California native himself, attributes the city’s appeal to its smaller, more open feel. He believes that the trend of California retirees moving to Eagle will continue to grow as long as the city remains a more affordable place to live compared to California.
Pierce also emphasized that the cost of living in Eagle is still cheaper compared to areas in California, which has contributed to the city’s growth. He pointed out that the influx of new residents has led to a perception of increased activity in the city, but the reality is that Eagle has always been bustling, and the recent influx of new residents has just amplified that sense of activity.
Eagle City Council President Brad Pike, a former California firefighter and mayor, also moved to Eagle following his retirement. He won the run-off election to succeed Pierce as mayor and has repeatedly praised the differences between the two states, citing a desire to escape the liberal, socialistic view of the government in California.
Support for conservative politics in maintaining the city’s character has also been expressed by both Pike and Pierce. They believe that any potential change in the political landscape could impact the city’s appeal to new residents.
Former California police officers and pension receivers have praised Eagle, Idaho for its differences from their former homes, including the demoralizing political climate and the sense of community in the city. One retiree, Jorge Grajeda, who retired in September, mentioned feeling unsupported in California and has since moved to Eagle where he now owns multiple properties.
Overall, the influx of California retirees to Eagle, Idaho has transformed the city and created discussions about the impact of conservative politics and the favorable living conditions in driving this trend.
