Moving From California to Texas: Is the Grass Really Greener?

I. Introduction

The allure of Texas is undeniable. Every year, hundreds of thousands of Californians pack their bags and head east, drawn by the promise of lower costs, bigger homes, and a different way of life. But is moving from California to Texas really the path to a better life? This blog post delves deep into the pros and cons of making this significant move, providing a balanced perspective to help you decide if the grass is truly greener on the other side. Whether you’re considering a move for financial reasons, career opportunities, or simply a change of scenery, this guide is for you.

II. Why Are Californians Moving to Texas?

The Allure of the Lone Star State

• Lower Cost of Living: One of the primary reasons Californians are moving to Texas is the significantly lower cost of living. Sources indicate that Texas can be up to 50% cheaper than California. This difference can dramatically impact your finances, allowing you to save more, invest more, and generally enjoy a higher standard of living.
• Housing Affordability: The Texas housing market is a major draw for those fleeing California’s exorbitant real estate prices. In Texas, it is often possible to buy a larger home for the same price as a smaller property in California. However, it is important to note that certain areas, particularly in major cities like Dallas, have seen housing costs increase. This means that while Texas may offer more affordable options than California, it’s not necessarily a universally cheap option.
• No State Income Tax: Texas is one of the few states with no state income tax. This can lead to a noticeable increase in take-home pay, particularly for those in higher income brackets. However, this advantage can be offset by higher property taxes and sales taxes.
• Job Market Growth: Texas has a thriving job market, with diverse opportunities across various industries. Over the past year, Texas has been a national leader in job growth. Cities like Austin are seeing a surge in tech companies, making Texas a promising destination for job seekers.

Beyond the Bottom Line

• Business-Friendly Environment: Texas has a reputation for being business-friendly, with fewer regulations and a pro-growth environment that attracts entrepreneurs and businesses alike. This business-friendly climate can lead to more job opportunities and economic growth.
• Cultural and Recreational Opportunities: Texas has a unique culture that draws many new residents. The state has a diverse music scene from Austin City Limits to local venues across the state, along with vibrant sports culture, and plenty of outdoor activities. It is home to major sports teams including the Dallas Cowboys and the Houston Texans. There are also many activities for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Sense of Community: Many Texans pride themselves on their strong sense of community, which contributes to a welcoming environment for newcomers. The friendly and hospitable nature of Texans is often cited as a positive aspect of living in the state.

III. The Realities of Living in Texas: What You Need to Know

Navigating the Texas Landscape

• Climate Challenges: Texas summers are known for their extreme heat and humidity, which can be challenging for those used to California’s mild weather. High temperatures exceeding 90°F are common. Texans must also deal with the potential for severe weather events like hurricanes, tornadoes, and winter storms.
• Transportation: Having a car is essential in Texas as public transportation is limited in most major cities. It is important to consider the presence of toll roads which can add to the cost of living.
• “Two Texases”: Texas has a diverse landscape with a cultural divide between major metropolitan areas and rural areas. Understanding these nuances is crucial when deciding where to move. Major cities are diverse in personality and culture, while rural areas have a stronger sense of community.
• Driving Customs: Texas drivers tend to drive faster, and turning right on a red light is generally permitted where not explicitly prohibited by signage. Be prepared for more aggressive drivers and the need to use your horn more frequently.
• Tex-Mex Food: While Texas is known for its Tex-Mex cuisine, it can be quite different from traditional Mexican food found in California. This may be a disappointment for some people who enjoy the authentic flavors of Mexican food.

A Look at Finances

• Property Taxes: Although Texas does not have a state income tax, property taxes can be significantly higher than in California, especially when a home is reassessed. This can offset the benefits of not paying income tax.
• Sales Taxes: Sales taxes in Texas can be higher than in California. This can add up, especially for frequent shoppers.
• Utilities: Utilities, particularly electricity, can be more expensive in Texas, especially during the summer months when air conditioning is necessary. The deregulated energy market means that residents have a choice of providers, but this also means that you need to be careful to choose an affordable plan that is right for you.
• Workers Rights: Worker protections and benefits are generally less comprehensive in Texas compared to California. For example, tipped workers in Texas can be paid as little as $2.13 per hour, with the expectation that tips will make up the difference to the federal minimum wage.

Social and Cultural Nuances

• Political Climate: Texas is known for its conservative political landscape, which differs significantly from the generally liberal environment in California. However, cities like Austin are an exception as they are known as progressive enclaves.
• Social Etiquette: In some areas of Texas, especially in more rural settings, it is customary to use “Yes, Ma’am” and “No, Sir” as a form of politeness. Newcomers should be aware of and respect these local customs.
• Community Pride: Texans have a strong sense of pride in their state, and it is important to understand and respect local customs and traditions. This pride can be a positive aspect of living in Texas, but can also be perceived as arrogant or self-centered by those from other places.

IV. The Cons: What You Might Miss About California

The Golden State’s Appeal

• Weather and Scenery: California’s mild, year-round weather and access to diverse landscapes including mountains, forests, and beaches are often missed by those who move to Texas. California is considered by some to be one of the most naturally beautiful states in the US.
• Culture and Variety: The state has a diverse and vibrant culture, with a multitude of recreational activities, entertainment options and unique social scenes. The variety of experiences available in California is difficult to replicate in Texas.

Other Potential Drawbacks

• Worker Protections: California provides more worker protections and benefits compared to Texas. These include higher minimum wages, overtime pay, and paid sick leave.
• Healthcare System: There are differences in access and views on healthcare, including reproductive rights, that may be concerning to some people considering a move from California to Texas. Texas has the largest uninsured population in the country.
• Quality of Life: For many middle-class individuals, moving from California to Texas can lead to a major decrease in their quality of life. Some people who move from California to Texas regret their move
  and ultimately move back to California.

V. Making the Move: Practical Tips and Considerations

Planning Your Relocation

• Research Specific Areas: It is crucial to research specific cities and areas in Texas that align with your lifestyle, preferences, and needs. Each city in Texas has its own unique character, culture and cost of living.
• Visit Before Moving: Before making a final decision to move, visit Texas to experience the environment, get a feel for the area, and assess the cultural differences firsthand. This can help to ensure you are making the right choice for your lifestyle.
• Secure Housing and Employment: It is best practice to secure a job and living arrangements before moving to Texas. This can help minimize stress and ensure a smoother transition.

Moving Logistics

• Moving Options: Consider various options for moving your belongings, including full-service movers, DIY moves, and portable containers like PODS. Full service movers will do all the work but are more expensive. A DIY move may be cheaper but will require more effort.
• Check Local Parking: Check for local parking restrictions before moving, as you don’t need any special moving permits in Texas. This can help avoid potential fines or issues when you move in.
• Vehicle Registration: Ensure you obtain a Texas driver’s license within 90 days of moving and register your vehicle with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles. This is a legal requirement that you must follow.
• Change of Address: Submit a change of address form to the USPS before you move so your mail is properly forwarded to your new address. This can help you avoid issues with important mail.

Settling In

• Be Open-Minded: It is crucial to be open to new experiences and the cultural differences you may encounter when moving to Texas. This can help you to better integrate into your new community.
• Get Involved in the Community: Build a new community and support system by getting involved in local activities, social groups and other gatherings. This will help you adjust more easily to your new life in Texas.

VI. Personal Stories and Experiences

Many people have shared their experiences of moving from California to Texas. Some have found the move to be incredibly positive, while others have experienced a significant decrease in their quality of life. Here are a few examples from the sources:

• One person who moved from Northern California to the hill country outside of Austin has had zero regrets, noting less crime and homelessness, friendly people, no state income tax, and good schools. They also appreciate that people are less obsessed with money and status in Texas.
• A former Texan who moved to California found the weather, natural beauty, and culture of California to be so appealing that they said they could “never fit in anywhere else”.
• One person who moved from Texas to California said that “no one gives a shit” where you are from, unlike in Texas where people hate outsiders. This is something to keep in mind when assessing the social climate of each state.
• A person who moved from Austin to Los Angeles in 2021 noted that nobody asks where you are from and they have had an overall good experience.
• A person who moved from Texas to California noted that the people in California have a generally accepting attitude, in contrast to Texas where people can be overtly hostile to those they view as different.
• Many people have noted that the high cost of living in California was a major reason for moving to Texas, and they have not been able to find comparable affordability anywhere else.
• Several people have said that they have found the heat, bugs and politics of Texas to be unbearable, and moved back to California as a result.
• Some people have found that the lower cost of living in Texas does not make up for other shortcomings such as fewer worker protections, poorer city planning, and a lack of diversity.
• One person who moved to Texas for work found that the toll roads were so expensive that the lower cost of living was no longer advantageous.

These diverse experiences underscore the fact that a move from California to Texas can be a very different experience for different people. It’s essential to weigh all the factors and understand what you value most.

VII. Conclusion

The decision to move from California to Texas is highly personal, with no one-size-fits-all answer. While Texas offers appealing benefits like lower cost of living, no state income tax, and job opportunities, it also presents challenges such as extreme weather, different cultural and political norms, and a less robust social safety net. On the other hand, while California may offer a superior climate and many cultural opportunities, its high cost of living and other issues are not a good fit for everyone. Ultimately, whether the move is “worth it” depends on your individual priorities, financial situation, and personal preferences. You may find that the grass is, in fact, greener in Texas, or you may conclude that California is the better choice for you. The most important thing to do is to carefully consider what matters most to you before you decide to move.

VIII. Call to Action

We encourage you to share your own experiences and questions in the comments below. Your insights can help others who are considering a move from California to Texas.

Further Reading and Resources:

• Moving to Texas Guide:
• Moving from Texas to California Guide:
• PODS Blog:
• ExitCalifornia.org:
• Allied Van Lines: