Full Breakdown
Ellen DeGeneres Splits Time Between California and the UK After Recent Mansion Purchase
2/4/2026, 11:00:53 AM
New Real Estate Acquisition in Montecito
Ellen DeGeneres has purchased a mansion in Montecito, California, for approximately $27 million, marking a significant return to the U.S. after relocating to the United Kingdom. The purchase, which closed in November 2025, was made off-market from movie producer Brian Grazer. Despite this acquisition, sources indicate that DeGeneres, 68, and her wife Portia de Rossi, 53, will continue to split their time between California and the UK, having reportedly grown tired of life in England.
Background on the Move to the UK
DeGeneres and de Rossi moved to the Cotswolds in November 2024, shortly after Donald Trump was re-elected as president. DeGeneres publicly expressed her discontent with Trump's return to office, stating that the couple decided to leave the U.S. due to the political climate. Initially, they purchased a farmhouse in the Cotswolds but later sought a more suitable home that could accommodate de Rossi's horses. This led to a second purchase of a modern home with ample land for equestrian activities.
Reasons for the Return to California
Sources close to the couple have noted that DeGeneres and de Rossi missed the California weather and the local horse scene, which played a significant role in their decision to acquire a new home in Montecito. DeGeneres has been described as an avid house flipper, having owned numerous properties in California over the years. The couple's recent purchase reflects their desire to maintain ties to their home state while still enjoying life in the UK.
Criticism and Local Perspectives
While DeGeneres has been politically active, expressing sorrow over recent events in Minneapolis related to ICE, local residents in the Cotswolds have reported a lack of sightings of her in recent months. Some locals believed she had moved away, while others noted that she had not frequented local establishments for several months. This has led to mixed perceptions of her commitment to life in England.
Official Statements & Responses
An insider confirmed that DeGeneres is not fully relocating back to the U.S., stating, “She’s not moving back to the U.S. but will continue to split her time between both the UK and Montecito.” This sentiment has been echoed by various sources, indicating that the couple's lifestyle will remain bi-continental.
Verbatim Quotes
- “and woke up to lots of texts from our friends with crying emojis, and I was like, ‘He got in.’ … And we’re like, ‘We’re staying here.’” — Ellen DeGeneres, reflecting on her decision to move to the UK after Trump's election.
- “I just wanted to say I am so sorry for what is happening in Minneapolis and our country, really, but specifically Minneapolis right now,” — Ellen DeGeneres, expressing her concern over recent events in Minneapolis.
What's Next
As DeGeneres and de Rossi settle into their new Montecito home, it remains to be seen how they will balance their time between the U.S. and the UK. Their ongoing real estate ventures and public engagements will likely continue to attract media attention as they navigate their bi-continental lifestyle.
