More Than One-Third of California Voters Chose Between Rent, Food, and Utilities Last Month

The Emerson College poll also found that more than half have considered leaving the state.

A customer shops at a grocery store in Mill Valley, Calif., on June 11, 2024. Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

Emerson College has released new polling data showing that the California economy remains top of mind for the state’s voters ahead of Election Day. The poll also shows that more than half of Californians have considered leaving the Golden State altogether because of the cost of living.

Thirty-one percent of California voters consider the economy to be the top issue, with 19 percent viewing housing affordability as the biggest issue facing the state. Other responses in the poll make it clear why California voters view the economy as so important, as they provide a snapshot of a state that is clearly suffering economically.