If you're a California homeowner thinking about moving to another state, you're part of a growing trend.

Texas is currently one of the top destinations for people moving out of California. Census-based migration data shows that approximately 77,200 people moved from California to Texas in 2024, making Texas the most common destination among Californians who relocated to another state that year.

More recent 2026 moving-interest data also shows Texas ranking #1 among destinations Californians are researching for a move.

But why are so many Californians considering Texas?

Here are 10 of the biggest reasons Californians are moving to Texas.

One of the biggest reasons Californians consider Texas is the potential for a lower overall cost of living.

Housing, utilities, transportation and everyday expenses can vary dramatically depending on where you live. For many California homeowners, selling a high-cost California property and purchasing in another market can create an opportunity to change their monthly financial picture.

California's housing costs are a major consideration for homeowners looking to relocate.

Texas offers a wide variety of housing markets, from major metropolitan areas such as Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, Austin and San Antonio to smaller communities and suburbs.

That variety gives California homeowners more choices when it comes to finding a home that fits their budget and lifestyle.

Texas does not impose a state individual income tax.

For people moving from California, where state income taxes can be significant, this can be an important factor when comparing the long-term financial implications of relocating.

Important: Property taxes, insurance and other costs should also be considered when comparing the total cost of living between California and Texas.

Employment continues to be one of the major reasons Americans move between states.

The 2025 United Van Lines National Movers Study found that new jobs or company transfers accounted for approximately 26% of interstate moves, second only to moving closer to family.

Texas has major employment centers in technology, healthcare, energy, manufacturing, finance, logistics and other industries.

Many Californians are looking for something they feel is increasingly difficult to find in California:

More house, more yard and more space.

Depending on the Texas market and neighborhood, buyers may find larger homes and properties at price points that would purchase considerably less space in many California communities.

Texas has developed a strong reputation for attracting businesses and entrepreneurs.

Companies relocating or expanding into Texas can create additional employment opportunities and contribute to continued population growth.

For California business owners, Texas can also be an attractive state to investigate when considering a relocation.

Moving isn't always about money.

According to the 2025 United Van Lines National Movers Study, being closer to family was the #1 reason Americans moved to another state, accounting for 29% of interstate moves.

For some Californians, moving to Texas means being closer to children, grandchildren, parents or other family members.

Texas has a wide range of growing communities, from large metropolitan areas to smaller suburban and rural markets.

That gives relocating Californians the ability to choose between an urban lifestyle, suburban neighborhoods, master-planned communities or more rural living.

Some Californians aren't necessarily looking to leave California because they dislike it.

They're simply looking for something different.

More space. Different communities. Shorter commutes. A different pace of life. And potentially a lower-cost lifestyle.

The 2025 United Van Lines study identified a broader migration trend toward smaller cities and towns, with affordability and lifestyle playing important roles.

For California homeowners who have owned their property for many years, accumulated home equity can become an important part of the relocation decision.

Selling a California home and using the equity toward a purchase in another state may allow homeowners to:

• Purchase a different type of property
• Reduce their mortgage
• Increase their purchasing power
• Move closer to family
• Downsize for retirement
• Relocate for employment
• Purchase an investment property
• Start a new chapter

Before making a decision, homeowners should speak with qualified real estate, tax and financial professionals about their individual situation.

Before you put your California home on the market, you need a plan.

What is your home worth?

How much equity do you have?

What will it cost to sell?

Where are you going to live next?

Who will help you coordinate the move?

That's where our team can help.

Moving out of California involves much more than selling a house.

That's why Team Hovde / Dallas Legacy Group has developed a network of trusted vendors and service providers who can help make your move smoother.

Depending on your needs, our vendor network can help connect you with professionals for:

• Moving companies
• Packing and unpacking
• Storage
• Cleaning
• Handyman services
• Repairs
• Contractors
• Junk removal
• Estate sale services
• Home preparation
• Landscaping
• Staging
• Photography
• Notary services
• Transportation
• And other relocation-related services

Our goal isn't simply to help you sell your California home. It's to help make the entire transition easier.

If you're considering moving from California to Texas, another state, or simply want to understand your options, let's start with your home equity.

We can provide a no-pressure home value and equity review to help you understand what you may have available before making a move.

Team Hovde | Dallas Legacy Group

Serving Fresno, Clovis and the Central Valley

Whether you're moving across town or across the country, we're here to help you understand your options, maximize your home's value and connect you with the resources you need for a smoother transition.

Thinking about moving out of California? Contact us today for your personalized Home Equity & Relocation Review.