Moving From California to Texas: What You Need to Know

• Moving from California to Texas can mean differences in housing costs, taxes, climate and everyday lifestyle. 
• Texas has no individual state income tax, but property taxes can be a larger consideration for homeowners. 
• Austin, Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston and San Antonio each provide different employment, entertainment and lifestyle opportunities. 
• Homebuyers should compare home prices, property taxes, insurance, transportation and other recurring expenses for the specific area they’re considering. 
• Buyers moving to Texas should also consider whether a new construction or resale home better fits their priorities.

Moving From California to Texas: What You Need to Know

Trading California for Texas is a big move, and the differences go well beyond geography. Housing costs, taxes, climate and even how you get around can change when moving from California to Texas.

For homebuyers considering the Lone Star State, understanding those differences can make it easier to decide where to live, what to budget for and what to expect from the move.

Why Californians Are Making the Move

There isn’t one reason behind California moving to Texas. Housing costs, employment opportunities and lifestyle can all factor into the decision. Texas also has no individual state income tax, which can be an important financial consideration for some households.

The lifestyle shift matters, too. Texas has major metropolitan areas alongside suburban communities, and warmer weather makes outdoor activities possible throughout much of the year. Buyers should also prepare for hotter summers and the greater role cars can play in everyday transportation.

Comparing the Cost of Living

For many people moving to Texas from California, housing is one of the biggest considerations. Housing and some everyday expenses can be lower in Texas than in California, although the actual difference depends heavily on where you live.

Taxes also work differently. Texas does not levy an individual state income tax, but property taxes can represent a larger homeownership expense. Rather than focusing on a single cost-of-living number, compare home prices, property taxes, insurance, transportation and other recurring expenses for the specific area you’re considering.

Choosing Where to Live in Texas

The right Texas city depends on what you want from your move. Coventry Homes builds in Austin, Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston and San Antonio, giving relocating buyers four distinct metro areas to consider.

Austin is known for its technology industry, music and entertainment. Dallas-Fort Worth combines major employment centers with sports, entertainment and suburban communities. Houston is a large, diverse employment hub, while San Antonio brings together history, culture and a more relaxed pace.

For anyone moving from CA to TX, researching the metro area first can help narrow your home search around work, lifestyle and everyday priorities.

Buying a Home in Texas

The basic home-buying process is similar, but some costs and considerations differ between California and Texas. Property taxes, homeowners insurance, HOA assessments and local tax obligations should all be reviewed when comparing homes.

Relocating can also be an opportunity to decide whether new construction or a resale home better fits your needs. Coventry breaks down the differences between buying a new vs. used home, including considerations such as personalization, maintenance, energy efficiency and warranties.

Making Texas Feel Like Home

Relocating involves more than comparing costs. Think about your commute, career, preferred pace of life and what you want from your new home and community.

Coventry Homes has been building new homes in Texas for decades, with communities across Austin, Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston and San Antonio. Learn more about Coventry Homes and discover the homes, communities and locations available as you plan your move to Texas.

FAQ

Why are so many people moving from California to Texas?

Housing costs, employment opportunities, lifestyle and Texas’ lack of an individual state income tax can all influence the decision to relocate.

How does the cost of living compare between the two states?

Some everyday expenses and housing can be lower in Texas, but costs vary by location. Property taxes, insurance and transportation should also be considered.

What are the best Texas cities for former Californians?

It depends on your priorities. Coventry builds in Austin, Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston and San Antonio, each with its own employment, entertainment and lifestyle opportunities.

How does the home-buying process differ in Texas?

The general process is similar, but buyers should consider Texas property taxes, homeowners insurance, HOA assessments and other location-specific expenses.