* Economic opportunities: The West Coast has always been a magnet for economic migrants, due to its abundance of natural resources, its rapidly growing cities, and its relatively high wages. In the early days, the California Gold Rush and the Homestead Act drew people to the West in search of fortune and opportunity. In recent decades, the high-tech industries of Silicon Valley have continued to attract workers from all over the country.
* Land availability: The United States has a vast amount of land, and much of it is located in the West. This has made it possible for people to move west and start new lives with relatively little difficulty. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, the federal government encouraged westward migration by offering land grants to settlers.
* Climate: The West Coast has a more temperate climate than the East Coast, which has made it a popular destination for retirees and others seeking a warmer climate. In addition, the West Coast has a longer growing season, which makes it ideal for agriculture.
As a result of these factors, the West Coast has experienced rapid population growth in recent decades, while the Northeast and Midwest have seen population decline. This trend is expected to continue in the future, as the West Coast continues to offer economic opportunities, land availability, and a desirable climate.