Hollywood Stars Choosing Homes Beyond California

In the glitzy realm of Hollywood, where stars often bask in the golden sunshine of California, some A-listers have chosen a different path. Contrary to the popular notion that Hollywood celebrities are bound to the charm of Los Angeles, an increasing number of renowned personalities have opted to call places far removed from the glamour of California their home. Here’s a closer look at the Hollywood stars who have chosen to reside outside the Golden State.

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Nicole Kidman: Nashville’s Southern Charms

Nicole Kidman, renowned for her roles in films like Moulin Rouge!, shares her primary residence with her husband, fellow Australian Keith Urban, in the enchanting Nashville, Tennessee. While they maintain homes in Los Angeles and Australia, the couple finds solace in the vibrant music scene and southern hospitality of Nashville.

Meryl Streep’s Connecticut Retreat

Meryl Streep, a 21-time Oscar nominee, has etched her legacy as an iconic figure in Hollywood. However, her heart finds comfort in the serene landscapes of Connecticut, where she has chosen to make her home. Despite occasional stints in Los Angeles, Connecticut has been her chosen haven for the majority of her adult life.

John Goodman’s Move to New Orleans

John Goodman, known for his roles in The Big Lebowski and various other films, bid farewell to the glitz of Los Angeles in the ’90s. He, along with his Louisiana-born wife, made a pivotal decision to settle in the vibrant city of New Orleans, finding refuge from the bustling life of California.

Matthew McConaughey’s Texan Roots

Matthew McConaughey, the charismatic Texan, has maintained a strong connection to his roots despite Hollywood’s allure. Born in Uvalde, Texas, and having studied in Austin, McConaughey has found solace on a ranch near the Texas state capital, steering clear of the paparazzi-filled streets of Malibu.

Bill Murray’s Charleston Sojourn

Bill Murray, a nomad in his own right, has ventured across Los Angeles, New York City, and Chicago. Yet, his heart lies in the charming town of Charleston, South Carolina. With his restaurant, Harold’s Cabin, and investments in the local minor league baseball team, Murray has become an integral part of the Charleston community.

Harrison Ford’s Wyoming Escape

Harrison Ford, synonymous with Indiana Jones, ventured to Los Angeles in the ’60s to pursue his acting dreams. However, once success embraced him, Ford sought refuge in the tranquility of his 800-acre ranch outside Jackson Hole, Wyoming, making it his primary residence since the 1980s.

Demi Moore’s Idaho Retreat

When the global pandemic hit in early 2020, Demi Moore retreated to her long-time residence in Sun Valley, Idaho, joined by her daughters and even her ex-husband, Bruce Willis. Despite other residences in Malibu, Sun Valley has been Moore’s haven for years.

Jeff Daniels’ Return to Small-Town America

Jeff Daniels, originally from Chelsea, Michigan, found success in Hollywood but chose to return to his roots. His heart belongs to the small town of Chelsea, exemplifying a genuine small-town connection amid the glitz of Hollywood.

Chris Rock’s New Jersey Comfort Zone

Chris Rock, an East Coast enthusiast, spent his formative years in Brooklyn and now resides in Alpine, New Jersey. Despite global fame, Rock has maintained his connection to the East Coast, finding comfort in the tranquility of New Jersey.

John Travolta’s Florida Sky High Living

John Travolta, a renowned aviation enthusiast, chose Ocala, Florida, as his home, strategically located with access to a nearby airport. His house, backing up to an actual airport, allows him to indulge in his passion for flying.

Tom Cruise’s Scientology Oasis in Clearwater

Tom Cruise, a global superstar, has homes across the world, including Los Angeles and London. However, a surprising addition to his list is Clearwater, Florida, where he owns a sprawling penthouse in close proximity to the Church of Scientology headquarters.

Taylor Swift’s Multifaceted Residences

Taylor Swift, a global music sensation, maintains homes in various locations, including Los Angeles, Rhode Island, and New York City. However, her connection to Nashville remains strong, showcasing her diverse choice of residences.

Chris Evans’ Massachusetts Roots

Chris Evans, known for his portrayal of Captain America, grew up just outside of Boston and chose to remain close to his roots. He and his wife reside near his childhood home in Sudbury, Massachusetts.

Chris Hemsworth’s Australian Return

Chris Hemsworth, originally from Australia, decided to return home after achieving stardom in Hollywood. Settling in Byron Bay, a small surfing community south of Brisbane, Hemsworth and his wife Elsa Pataky have embraced the serene Australian lifestyle.

Tommy Lee Jones’ Texan Retreat

Tommy Lee Jones, though Harvard-educated and a Hollywood fixture, harbors a deep affinity for Texas. He invested in a substantial tract of land, showcasing his Texan pride amid his illustrious acting career.

Blake Shelton and Gwen Stefani’s Dual Residences

The unlikely Hollywood couple, Blake Shelton and Gwen Stefani, divide their time between Los Angeles and Shelton’s ranch in Tishomingo, Oklahoma. Their house in Oklahoma serves as a tranquil escape from the glitz of Hollywood.

Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds’ Westchester Retreat

Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds, an enduring Hollywood couple, chose the quiet town of Bedford in Westchester County, New York, as their primary residence. Living a luxurious yet understated life, they embrace the serenity away from the bustling city.

Mark Ruffalo’s New York Mountain Retreat

Mark Ruffalo, widely recognized for his role in the Avengers franchise, finds solace in the small town of Callicoon in the Catskill Mountains of New York State. Choosing the tranquility of the mountains over the Hollywood lights, Ruffalo enjoys a peaceful life with his wife.

Elijah Wood’s Austin Haven

Elijah Wood, known for his role in the Lord of the Rings trilogy, calls Austin, Texas, his home. Steering clear of major city life, Wood enjoys the unique charm of Austin, as evidenced by his recommendations for the best local meals.

Dave Chappelle’s Ohio Sanctuary

Dave Chappelle, the legendary comedian, surprised many by choosing Yellow Springs, Ohio, as his permanent residence. Despite his Hollywood success, Chappelle’s heart remains in the town where he grew up.

Julia Roberts’ New Mexico Hideaway

Julia Roberts, a Hollywood icon, invested in a ranch in Taos, New Mexico, several years ago. While she splits her time with a residence in Malibu for work, Taos offers her the peaceful retreat she craves.

Daniel Day-Lewis’ Irish Retreat

Long before Daniel Day-Lewis retired from acting in 2017, he had already settled into the serene surroundings of Ireland’s County Wicklow. His choice to reside in Ireland reflects his desire to escape the spotlight, aligning with his selective approach to acting roles.

John Cena’s Floridian Loyalty

John Cena, despite his rising Hollywood stardom, continues to call Land o’ Lakes, Florida, his home. His connection to the town outside Tampa remains steadfast, showcasing a commitment to his roots.

Vera Farmiga’s Woodstock Abode

Vera Farmiga, known for her roles in The Conjuring series, finds solace in the famous artist colony of Woodstock in the Hudson Valley, New York. Retreating from the Hollywood limelight, Farmiga embraces the serene life offered by the picturesque town.

Woody Harrelson’s Hawaiian Retreat

Woody Harrelson, known for his eclectic career, chose to reside in Maui, Hawaii, adding a touch of his unconventional style to the island life. Even during a semi-retirement phase, Harrelson maintains a residence off the beaten path.

John Mayer’s Montana Oasis

John Mayer, the renowned guitarist of Dead & Co, has opted for a quieter life in the small Montana town of Livingstone. While life on the road may bring its wild moments, Mayer finds solace in the peaceful surroundings of Montana.

Ken Jennings’ Seattle Connection

Ken Jennings, co-host of Jeopardy!, may have embraced the Hollywood spotlight, but his heart remains in Seattle. Despite the show’s shooting location in Los Angeles, Jennings continues to call Seattle home, opting for a commuter’s lifestyle.

Robert De Niro’s New York Residence

It’s no surprise that Robert De Niro, a quintessential New Yorker, has chosen to live in the heart of the city. His commitment to New York is evident not only through his residency but also in his efforts to uplift the Tribeca neighborhood after the 9/11 attacks.

Jennifer Lawrence’s Bi-Coastal Lifestyle

Jennifer Lawrence, a versatile actress, maintains residences on both coasts. While she has a house in Los Angeles, her primary abode aligns with her husband Cooke Maroney’s art business in New York City, making the Big Apple their mainstay.

Dan Aykroyd’s Canadian Pride

Dan Aykroyd, a proud Canadian, has remained loyal to his roots by residing in Sydenham, Ontario. Not far from his hometown of Ottawa, Aykroyd continues to celebrate his Canadian identity.

Jennifer Hudson’s Chicago Connection

Jennifer Hudson, a global superstar, cherishes her Chicago roots by choosing to live in the suburb of Burr Ridge. Despite her international acclaim, Hudson remains connected to the city that shaped her.

Nikki Glaser’s St. Louis Return

Comedian Nikki Glaser, in a departure from the norm, returned to her hometown of St. Louis, Missouri, during the pandemic. Finding fulfillment away from the coastal hustle, Glaser embraced the charms of her hometown.

Beyond the Hollywood Lights

While Los Angeles may symbolize the city of dreams, it’s evident that for many of the biggest stars in the world, home is found beyond California’s borders. Whether in the serene landscapes of the Midwest, the charming towns of the East Coast, or even in far-off international locations, these Hollywood stars have chosen unique havens that reflect their personal preferences and provide a retreat from the glitz and glamour of the entertainment industry.

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Mohammad Mo: Senior TV Reporter

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