Now we're learning where they're going, as some cities set up recruiting programs to lure workers.
RELATED: Hundreds of remote workers bite on Tulsa's offer to pay them $10,000 to move
According to move-Buddha, a site that compiles data on moving, the first pick for people leaving San Francisco is Austin, Texas.
That is followed by Seattle, New York, Portland, Chicago, and Denver.
This decrease in population has had impacts on the housing market, resulting in a decrease in average rent costs.
RELATED: Life after COVID-19: Silicon Valley reinventing future of work with hybrid model
According to Zumper, San Francisco had the biggest drop for a one bedroom apartment in the entire country. Rents are down 23% as of two weeks ago. Oakland is down 19% and 15% percent in San Jose.
If you have a question or comment about the coronavirus pandemic, submit yours via the form below or here.
Get the latest news, information and videos about the novel coronavirus pandemic here
RELATED STORIES & VIDEOS:
- From COVID-19 to Black Lives Matter, these 13 people defined the Bay Area in 2020
- Map: CA counties that can, can't reopen under new rules
- CALCULATOR: Find out how many people may get a COVID-19 vaccine before you
- VIDEO: When will I get the COVID-19 vaccine? We explain who goes 1st
- Analysts predict new trends in Bay Area rental market for 2021 as landlords struggle
- Want to get a COVID-19 test in time for the holidays? Here's what you need to know
- Updated number of COVID-19 deaths, cases in Bay Area
- Map shows everywhere you can get a COVID-19 test in the Bay Area
- COVID-19 Diaries: Personal stories of Bay Area residents during pandemic
- California EDD: The most commonly asked questions we get about unemployment and PUA
- Health experts urge flu shots in effort to avoid 'twindemic'
- How to tell the difference between seasonal allergies and coronavirus symptoms
- Here's which mask is better to protect from COVID-19
- First COVID-19 vaccine volunteers in US describe experience as Bay Area launches vaccine trials
- Coronavirus origin: Where did COVID-19 come from?
- What is a COVID-19 genetic, antigen and antibody test?
- What will it take to get a COVID-19 vaccine and how will it be made?
- What does COVID-19 do to your body and why does it spread so easily?
- Here's how shelter in place, stay at home orders can slow spread of COVID-19
- Coronavirus Timeline: Tracking major moments of COVID-19 pandemic in San Francisco Bay Area
- Coronavirus Doctor's Note: Dr. Alok Patel gives his insight into COVID-19 pandemic