Google Founders Larry Page and Sergey Brin Signal California Tax Exit 2026

The architects of the modern internet are making their move. Google co-founders Sergey Brin and Larry Page appear to be distancing themselves from California—the state that fueled their rise to becoming some of the world's wealthiest individuals. This shift isn't just about a change of scenery; it's a calculated response to a looming multi-billion dollar tax bill.

Evidence of the Google Founders California Tax Exit

According to the New York Times, a flurry of legal activity began in December 2025. Sergey Brin terminated or converted 15 LLCs into Nevada entities. These LLCs oversee massive assets, including one of his superyachts and a private terminal at San Jose International Airport.

Larry Page is following a similar path. Roughly 45 LLCs associated with him have recently become inactive or moved out of state. Most tellingly, a trust linked to Page just dropped $71.9 million on a mansion in Miami. While both still own property in California, these administrative migrations suggest they're shedding their legal ties to the Golden State.

Dodging the 5% Billionaire Tax Proposal

The catalyst for this exodus is a potential ballot measure in November that would impose a one-time 5% tax on individuals worth more than $1 billion. Critically, if passed, it could retroactively apply to anyone residing in the state as of January 1, 2026. By shifting their primary domicile and legal entities now, the founders are likely aiming to stay clear of this fiscal dragnet.