California to Texas Moving Guide

Pros and Cons of Moving from California to Texas

ConsCalifornia

• High Cost of Living
• Traffic Congestion
• Wildfire Risk
• High Taxes
• Limited Water Resources

ProsTexas

• Affordability
• Smoother Traffic
• Lower Natural Disasters
• No State Income Tax
• Better Water Supply

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Texas

• Less Diversity
• No Ocean Access
• Extreme Weather
• Slower Economic Growth
• Fewer Top Schools

California

• Cultural Diversity
• Scenic Coastlines
• Mild Climate
• Innovative Economy
• Renowned Universities

Pros of moving from California to Texas

• Say goodbye to high cost of living and hello to affordability
• Look forward to moving away from traffic congestion and moving to Texas with smoother traffic
• Swap the wildfire risk of California for lower natural disasters in Texas
• Get ready for no state income tax in Texas

Cons of moving from California to Texas

• Unfortunately, you'll be moving away from cultural diversity in California to live with less diversity in Texas
• You'll lose out on the pro of scenic coastlines and have to settle for the con of no ocean access
• Time to bid farewell to mild climate and get used to extreme weather in Texas
• Swap innovative economy for slower economic growth

California vs. Texas: Comparing the Local Foodie Scene

If you're moving from California to Texas, you will be trading the iconic sushi of California for the equally delicious Texas BBQ brisket of Texas. And while the locals in California rave about their flavorful tri-tip steak & sumptuous fish tacos, Texas residents know they have tasty smoked brisket and breakfast tacos to savor. While the vegan transplants might be saying goodbye to the acai bowls they've grown to love, they can get ready for the vegan Tex-Mex of Texas. In the days before your move, make sure you get one final trip to iconic California eateries like Chez Panisse, Inotheke, and n/naka. After the boxes are unpacked in Texas, don't wait too long before making your way to Texas' acclaimed eateries like Franklin Barbecue, Killen's Barbecue, and Underbelly.

When comparing lifestyles, Texas shows less emphasis on fitness and health consciousness than California. Food truck fans will discover a less desirable selection in Texas, compared to what you are used to in California. Also, the overall foodie scene is less bustling in Texas.

Real Estate & Lifestyle Differences between California and Texas

• The Modern and Spanish architecture that California is known for will be replaced with the Ranch and Colonial architecture typical of Texas.
• Compared to California's real estate listings that commonly reference proximity to the ocean and eco-friendly features, Texas real estate listings often highlight features like spacious land and energy efficiency.
• You can keep your walking shoes packed away; Texas is less walkable than California.
• You might want to think twice before moving your bike; Texas is less bike-friendly than California.
• Texas has less of an urban feel than California.
• Texas housing costs are 61% less expensive than they are in California, with a median home price of $304,027 compared to California’s $783,666.
• Over the prior 5 years, home prices in Texas have increased by 45% compared to a 42% increase in California.
• Rent in Texas is 37.90% more affordable than in California.

Your Move, Your Forecast: Key Weather Differences between California and Texas

• The shades won't be used as much for your move from California to Texas. Texas gets 18% fewer sunshine days than California.
• Texas has higher humidity and a higher average UV index compared to California.
• Say goodbye to the possible earthquakes and wildfires in California, but be on the lookout for potential hurricanes and tornadoes in Texas.
• Get ready for warmer summers. The average summer high temperature in Texas is 10 degrees warmer than in California.
• The average winter lows are 2 degrees warmer than they are in California.
• Your umbrella might be more overworked in Texas. Texas receives 12 more inches of rain compared to California.

Financial & Community Snapshot: California and Texas

• When it comes to your monthly paycheck, residents in Texas tend to earn about 21% less than in California
• The COLI in Texas will be 33% lower than what you are used to living in California
• Hooray, moving to TX means you'll no longer have state income taxes
• The affluence in Texas is moderate compared to high in California
• The poverty level is lower in Texas compared to moderate in California
• In terms of homelessness, it is high in California and lower in Texas

Political and Religious Climate in California vs. Texas

• California tends to lean Liberal/Democratic in its political climate
• Texas, on the other hand, is often described as Conservative/Republican
• Texas's religious environment can be described as more religious with a Christian majority (Protestant and Catholic)
• California's residents' religious practices can be generally categorized as more secular with diverse religious communities

Education Guide When Moving from California to Texas

How Much Do California to Texas Movers Cost?

Moving 1,412 miles from California to Texas will typically cost between $3,000 and $7,000 to hire full service movers. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by home size.