Moving from California to Texas
Compare cost of living, taxes, housing, and find the best moving companies for your California to Texas move.
Quick Comparison
Leaving California
Moving to Texas
Why Are People Moving from California to Texas?
The migration corridor between California and Texas is a popular interstate move. California has been experiencing net outflow while Texas continues to attract new residents.
Tax Savings: Texas has no state income tax, compared to 1%-13.3% in California. This tax difference is one of the primary financial motivations for this move.
Cost of Living: The cost of living in Texas is significantly lower than California, which is a major draw for relocating families. The average home price in Texas is $445,000 less than California, allowing movers to significantly upgrade their housing.
Climate & Weather: Summers in Texas average 96°F, compared to 85°F in California. Winters in Texas average 48°F, compared to 55°F in California.
Jobs & Industry: Texas's key industries include Energy, Technology, Healthcare, which attract professionals from California's Technology and Entertainment sectors.
Popular City-to-City Routes
Cities in California
Los Angeles
San Diego
San Jose
San Francisco
Fresno
Sacramento
Bakersfield
Anaheim
Santa Ana
Long Beach
Cities in Texas
Houston
San Antonio
Dallas
Austin
Fort Worth
El Paso
Arlington
Estimated Moving Cost
Based on the average distance of 1603 miles between California and Texas:
Estimates based on typical full-service interstate moves. Actual costs vary.
California → Texas Transition Checklist
Driver's License
You must obtain a Texas driver's license within 90 days of establishing residency.
Vehicle Registration
Register your vehicle in Texas within 30 days.
Voter Registration
Update your voter registration to Texas after establishing residency. You can typically register at your local DMV or online.
Vehicle Inspection
Texas vehicle inspection requirement: Required annually.
Things to Know About Texas
- • No state income tax but property taxes are relatively high
- • Annual vehicle safety inspections required
- • Texas is the only state that was an independent republic
What's Different: California vs Texas
Taxes
Weather
Cost of Living
Ready to make the move to Texas?
Get quotes from licensed interstate carriers that regularly run routes between California and Texas.