‘DWTS’ Stars Reveal Why They Fled Los Angeles for Florida: ‘Everything We Hoped For’

July 3, 2026 - 00:57

"Dancing with the Stars" professionals Peta Murgatroyd and Maksim Chmerkovskiy have opened up about their decision to trade the Hollywood hills for the Florida coast. The couple, who met and fell in love on the dance competition show, recently revealed that they packed up their family and left Los Angeles behind for a new life in the Sunshine State.

In a recent interview, the pair explained that the move was driven by a desire for a slower, more family-oriented lifestyle. "We wanted space. We wanted a yard. We wanted our kids to be able to run around without us worrying about traffic or the chaos of the city," Murgatroyd said. Chmerkovskiy added that the decision was not made lightly, but that Florida has exceeded their expectations. "It is everything we hoped for. The community, the weather, the pace of life... it just fits us better right now."

The couple, who share two young sons, noted that the rising cost of living and the competitive atmosphere in Los Angeles also played a role. "We love the work we do in entertainment, but we realized we could do that work from anywhere," Chmerkovskiy said. "We wanted to prioritize our family's well-being over the hustle."

Since settling in Florida, the duo has embraced a more relaxed routine, spending time at the beach and enjoying outdoor activities. They also hinted that the change has been good for their creative energy. "Sometimes you have to step away from the noise to hear your own voice," Murgatroyd said. "This move has been a reset for all of us."