Well, I firmly believe that the social value of a human being far exceeds their financial impact. It’s almost tautological that if a person can pack up their suitcase and flee anytime taxation becomes slightly unfavorable, then they’re not socially or culturally integrated into local life. Like I said: a mercenary citizen.
You might have built businesses in California and Washington (and that’s great) but it doesn’t sound like you particularly care about being a Californian or Washingtonian. So who are your people? Who are you?
I'm also defined by my friends and family, but if I decide to move states because I don't want to pay taxes, they're certainly not going to follow me. As with most people, my social circle is largely built on connections in my local community, and is not portable.
How much money would it take for me to leave them behind and start anew? Certainly not 5% of my wealth (or even 20%). And even that calculation changes completely once a long-term partner and/or children are in the picture.
You might have built businesses in California and Washington (and that’s great) but it doesn’t sound like you particularly care about being a Californian or Washingtonian. So who are your people? Who are you?