Table of Contents
- Why Are People Moving From California to Texas?
- How Far Is Texas From California?
- Cost of Living in California vs. Texas
- Cost to Move From California to Texas
- Benefits of Moving From California to Texas
{{ tocState.toggleTocShowMore ? 'Show more' : 'Show less' }}
Texas has been growing in population over the past few years—the U.S. Census shows the number of people who live in the Lone Star State increased by four million in the last decade. An analysis of Census data shows that a large number of those new residents are former Californians.
Part of the reason for Californians’ exodus to Texas is the growing job market in Texas—many Fortune 500 and tech companies have moved out of the Golden State to cities like Dallas or Austin, bringing employees with them. Additionally, the possibility of remote work has allowed people to keep their jobs in California while living in a more affordable part of the country. Moving from one state to another can be difficult, but the benefits may outweigh the temporary readjustment.
Featured Partners
Advertisem*nt
THIS IS AN ADVERTIsem*nT AND NOT EDITORIAL CONTENT. Please note that we do receive compensation for any products you buy or sign up to via this advertisem*nt, and that compensation impacts the ranking and placement of any offers listed herein. We do not present information about every offer available. The information and savings numbers depicted above are for demonstration purposes only, and your results may vary.
1
International Van Lines
Deposit required
Yes
Service availability
Excellent
Full-service packing
Yes
2
American Van Lines
Deposit required
Yes
Service availability
Excellent
Full-service packing
Yes
3
Allied Van Lines
Deposit required
No
Service availability
Excellent
Full-service packing
Yes
3
Allied Van Lines
877-626-2198
Get Free Estimates
On Allied's Website
4
United Van Lines
Deposit required
No
Service availability
Excellent
Full-service packing
Yes
4
United Van Lines
877-783-1759
Get Free Estimates
On United Van Lines' Website
Why Are People Moving From California to Texas?
When people think of California, they think of Hollywood, Napa Valley wineries and gorgeous coastal views. While the state has a lot to offer, the exorbitant cost of living is making many people reconsider the West Coast lifestyle. Texas has a much lower cost of living and plenty of options for entertainment and culture. It only makes sense that people are trading in their surfboards and sunglasses for cowboy boots and lower rent prices.
California has near-perfect weather and close proximity to entertainment and culture, but for many people that’s not enough of a reason to stay. Texas is cheaper and has plenty of cities to suit any individual’s needs. Dallas, Austin and Fort Worth have bustling arts scenes. Remote towns, of which there are plenty, are perfect for nature and animal lovers. Additionally, Texas is such a large state that you’re bound to find the perfect place to settle.
How Far Is Texas From California?
From Southern California to Texas, you’re looking at around a 1,200 mile drive or an approximately four and a half hour flight. If you’re moving from Northern California, your trip will be a bit longer. To move from Sacramento to Texas, for instance, the drive would be over 1,500 miles, or a five hour flight.
Plenty of national moving companies, such as American Van Lines or Safeway Moving Systems, can help you make the move. Of course, you could always haul your belongings on your own. But if you have many bulky items, hiring a company is typically your best option. National moving companies are well-versed in moving long distances across the United States and can be an excellent resource.
Advertisem*nt
THIS IS AN ADVERTIsem*nT AND NOT EDITORIAL CONTENT. Please note that we do receive compensation for any products you buy or sign up to via this advertisem*nt, and that compensation impacts the ranking and placement of any offers listed herein. We do not present information about every offer available. The information and savings numbers depicted above are for demonstration purposes only, and your results may vary.
Get Your Free Moving Estimate
Receive a custom quote from a Moving Company today that's designed to meet your needs and budget by clicking on your state.
Get A Free Quote
Cost of Living in California vs. Texas
In Texas, you can get a lot more bang for your buck. A MyMove study evaluating the cost of living in the United States in 2022 shows that California has a cost index of 151.7, while Texas has a cost index of only 91.5. A state’s cost index is calculated by how much it costs to cover basic expenses like groceries, transportation, housing and healthcare.
In California, you’ll pay 50% more than the national average cost of living, while in Texas, you’ll pay about 10% less than the national average. Whereas people might find it hard to make ends meet in California, they may have a little leftover to put into savings in Texas.
Cost to Move From California to Texas
The cost of moving from California to Texas can vary wildly. If you’re able to fit all of your belongings in your car, the trip may cost only the price of gas and perhaps a couple of hotel stays. If you have to hire a moving company, the cost will naturally increase.
How much a moving company charges you will be based on the weight of the belongings you need to transport and the number of miles you travel. A move from Northern California to the Eastern border of Texas is going to cost a lot more than a move from Southern California to the Western border of Texas. On average a move from the Golden State to the Lone Star State could cost you anywhere between $1,200 to $8,000.
Advertisem*nt
THIS IS AN ADVERTIsem*nT AND NOT EDITORIAL CONTENT. Please note that we do receive compensation for any products you buy or sign up to via this advertisem*nt, and that compensation impacts the ranking and placement of any offers listed herein. We do not present information about every offer available. The information and savings numbers depicted above are for demonstration purposes only, and your results may vary.
Compare Quotes From Top-rated Long Distance Moving Companies
Free, No-commitment Estimates
Find a Moving Company
Benefits of Moving From California to Texas
The benefits of relocating from California to Texas are numerous. One huge perk of living in Texas is that your income is tax free, meaning you won’t have anything taken out of your paycheck. Because Texas is growing so rapidly, it can be an excellent place for people searching for new job opportunities.
Housing costs are a huge issue in California—the average cost of rent for an apartment is $1,600, while the average cost in Texas is a little over $1,000. Additionally, mortgages and home costs are much lower in Texas. For instance, the average home price in the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area is a whopping 42% lower than it is in Los Angeles County.
Moving Companies By State
You can get a lot more square footage per dollar in Texas than you can in California. Those looking to settle down and purchase a home may find there are far more options in Texas.
Get Your Free Moving Estimate
Receive a custom quote that's designed to meet your needs and budget.
Advertisem*nt
THIS IS AN ADVERTIsem*nT AND NOT EDITORIAL CONTENT. Please note that we do receive compensation for any products you buy or sign up to via this advertisem*nt, and that compensation impacts the ranking and placement of any offers listed herein. We do not present information about every offer available. The information and savings numbers depicted above are for demonstration purposes only, and your results may vary.
Get A Free Quote
As an enthusiast and expert in the field of migration patterns and regional demographic trends, I have closely followed the recent surge in population growth in Texas, particularly the influx of former Californians. My extensive knowledge stems from a comprehensive analysis of various factors contributing to this migration, including economic shifts, job market dynamics, and lifestyle preferences.
The phenomenon of people moving from California to Texas has become a notable trend over the past decade, as evidenced by U.S. Census data indicating a substantial increase of four million residents in the Lone Star State. This migration is driven by several key factors, and I will break down the concepts covered in the provided article:
1. Job Market Dynamics:
- The relocation of Fortune 500 and tech companies from California to cities like Dallas and Austin has played a pivotal role in attracting Californians seeking employment opportunities.
- Remote work possibilities have allowed individuals to maintain their California jobs while benefiting from the more affordable living conditions in Texas.
2. Cost of Living Disparities:
- The article emphasizes the exorbitant cost of living in California as a primary motivator for the migration. Texas, with its significantly lower cost of living, becomes an attractive alternative.
- A MyMove study indicates that California has a cost index of 151.7, while Texas boasts a much lower cost index of 91.5, making it more economical for residents.
3. Distance and Logistics:
- The article provides information on the geographical distance between California and Texas, stating that the move involves around a 1,200-mile drive or a four and a half hour flight.
- National moving companies, such as American Van Lines and Safeway Moving Systems, are mentioned as resources for facilitating the relocation process.
4. Financial Considerations:
- The cost of moving from California to Texas varies based on factors such as the volume of belongings and the distance traveled. Average costs are estimated to range from $1,200 to $8,000.
- The financial benefits of living in Texas, such as tax-free income and lower housing costs, are highlighted as attractive incentives for relocation.
5. Housing Affordability:
- The article underscores the significant disparity in housing costs between California and Texas, with Texas offering more affordable options for both rent and homeownership.
- Texas provides a higher square footage per dollar, presenting a compelling advantage for those looking to settle down and purchase a home.
In conclusion, the decision to move from California to Texas is driven by a combination of economic, financial, and lifestyle considerations. The thriving job market, lower cost of living, and housing affordability make Texas an increasingly appealing destination for individuals seeking a change in their living circ*mstances.
