Dennis Quaid says leaving Los Angeles was part of a growing realization that the city he once loved was no longer the same place.

According to Fox News, the 72-year-old actor, who relocated to Nashville, Tennessee, with his wife Lauren Savoie in 2020, recently reflected on why he joined thousands of others who have moved away from Southern California.

Speaking with Fox News Digital at CMA Fest, Quaid said he watched conditions in Los Angeles worsen over the years.

“It used to be such a great town and the ’90s was nice. And then it’s been kind of going downhill and I feel like people pay these taxes for no services is what it gets down to,” he said.

Quaid believes the devastating California wildfires in early 2025 highlighted deeper frustrations many residents already felt.

“And then fire happens and it kind of exposes all those things that go on that should be taken care of,” he said. “So people are — people are angry and half angry, and they’re half kind of feel like giving up, to tell you the truth.”

The actor said he still hopes the city can recover despite his disappointment.

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“I’m just one of thousands who have left, and I don’t know, I hope the town comes back,” Quaid said. “I really do. It used to be such a fantastic town. It was. It was a great community, too. And something’s happened. People need to be inspired there.”

Although Nashville is now home, Quaid still owns property in Los Angeles. He was forced to evacuate his Brentwood house during the January 2025 fires.

NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE – JUNE 06: EDITORIAL USE ONLY. (L-R) Tanya Tucker and Dennis Quaid speak onstage at the CMA Close Up Stage during CMA Fest 2026 day three on June 05, 2026 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Tibrina Hobson/Getty Images)

In the aftermath of the disaster, Quaid became an outspoken critic of Los Angeles leadership and participated in “They Let US Burn” protests.Beyond politics, Quaid said Nashville’s music scene has been one of the biggest draws.The actor continues performing with his band Dennis Quaid & The Sharks and recently discussed the release of his gospel song “On My Way to Heaven,” featuring Tanya Tucker, Kris Kristofferson, and Brandi Carlile.Reflecting on country music’s appeal, Quaid said its connection to everyday people remains strong.“That’s the way country music has always been, and it’s grown,” he said. “I can’t think of a genre that’s bigger. Everybody loves it.”