Jonah Hill Opens Up About Trading Hollywood for a "Very Small Town" in San Diego to Raise His Family

Actor Jonah Hill reveals why he and his wife Olivia Millar left Los Angeles for a small San Diego town to raise their two children away from the spotlight.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 27, 2026, 11:13 AM EDT

Source: People

A Quiet Life South of L.A.

Jonah Hill, 42, is officially a suburban dad. Speaking to SmartLess co-hosts Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, and Will Arnett at the Avalon Hollywood, the Outcome star revealed that he has spent the last three years living in a small coastal enclave in San Diego. Hill emphasized that the transition began shortly after the birth of his first child, as he felt a strong pull to provide a childhood for his kids that was disconnected from the "industry" environment of Los Angeles.

Neighbors, Not Fans

One of the primary perks of the move, according to Hill, is the anonymity. He praised his local community for treating him like a regular resident rather than a two-time Oscar nominee. "They never treat me weird or ask me about my job or anything," Hill noted. He gave a special shout-out to his neighbor and close friend, Dr. Sean, who attended the taping, highlighting that their friendship is built on personal connection rather than professional curiosity.

Reflecting on a 1990s L.A. Childhood

Hill’s decision to move comes from a place of deep familiarity with Los Angeles. Having grown up in the city during the 1990s, he recalled the "cool" aspects of a pre-internet Hollywood, such as skateboarding downtown and sneaking into comedy clubs to see legends like Chris Rock. However, he suggested that the modern landscape of the city has changed, making a quieter environment more appealing for his own family's "naughty stuff" like skating and graffiti away from the prying eyes of the internet.