Hollywood star Ty Burrell’s bold decision to abandon Los Angeles for Utah after “Modern Family” ended proves that putting family values first over career ambition still matters in today’s entertainment industry.

Story Highlights

• Burrell moved his family from Los Angeles to Salt Lake City in 2020 to prioritize raising his daughters
• The actor described the relocation as “spectacular” with zero regrets about leaving Hollywood behind
• Utah offers affordable living, family-friendly environment, and outdoor recreation compared to California’s chaos
• Burrell joins growing trend of celebrities fleeing Los Angeles for better quality of life
• He continues creative work through podcasting while maintaining strong family priorities

Family Over Fame: A Refreshing Hollywood Decision

Ty Burrell made a decision that stands in stark contrast to typical Hollywood priorities when he relocated his family from Los Angeles to Salt Lake City immediately after “Modern Family” concluded its 11-season run in 2020. The actor, known for his portrayal of Phil Dunphy, told People Magazine that the move has been “lovely and a great place to raise the kids.” This choice reflects traditional American values that prioritize family stability over career advancement, a refreshing departure from entertainment industry norms.

Now that's smart.
‘Modern Family‘ Star Ty Burrell Has No Regrets about Abandoning L.A. for Utah https://t.co/CkTgymYowm via @BreitbartNews

— American Revivalist (@MikeCBurlew) August 9, 2025

Utah’s Appeal: Common Sense Living Over California Chaos

The Burrell family’s choice of Utah over California highlights the stark differences between these states’ approaches to family life and fiscal responsibility. Salt Lake City offers significantly lower costs of living, safer neighborhoods, and abundant outdoor recreational opportunities compared to Los Angeles’ high taxes, crime rates, and urban decay. Burrell and his wife Holly had longstanding connections to Utah, frequently visiting and appreciating the state’s natural beauty and affordability. The COVID-19 pandemic further emphasized the benefits of leaving overcrowded, over-regulated California cities for more livable environments.

Watch: Ty Burrell: “We moved from LA to Utah, and I have no regrets.” – YouTube

Celebrity Migration Pattern Emerges

Burrell’s relocation represents part of a broader exodus of entertainment professionals leaving California’s failing policies behind. Other celebrities including Katherine Heigl and Ariel Winter have made similar moves, citing family priorities and quality-of-life concerns. This trend reflects growing dissatisfaction with Los Angeles’ deteriorating conditions, including excessive taxation, regulatory overreach, and declining public safety. These moves demonstrate that even wealthy Hollywood figures recognize the superior governance and lifestyle opportunities available in red states like Utah.

Maintaining Career While Embracing Traditional Values

Despite relocating away from Hollywood’s epicenter, Burrell continues his creative pursuits through projects like the scripted podcast “The Good Life,” which draws from his childhood experiences. He has also embraced Utah’s local culture, attending Utah Jazz games and participating in the state’s Olympic bid presentation. Burrell’s approach proves that geographical proximity to Hollywood is no longer essential for entertainment industry participation in our digital age.

The actor’s honest assessment of his Utah experience provides hope for other families considering similar relocations. His willingness to publicly discuss the benefits of leaving California sends a powerful message about the importance of choosing environments that support traditional family structures and values over superficial career considerations.

Sources:

Why This Modern Family Star Left Hollywood for Utah: ‘No Regrets’
Ty Burrell on leaving Hollywood behind for Utah family life after Modern Family: ‘I don’t have any regrets’
Modern Family star Ty Burrell on life in Utah
Ty Burrell on Why He Moved Family to Utah