Why So Many Californians Are Moving from California to Texas Hill Country
Lower costs, no state income tax, stunning scenery — 7 reasons the Hill Country is leading the relocation trend.
What You Need to Know About Moving from California to Texas
Over the past few years, a major migration trend has emerged across the United States: thousands of people are moving from California to Texas. While cities like Austin and Dallas often grab the headlines, many newcomers are discovering something even more appealing — the Texas Hill Country.
Located between Austin and San Antonio, this region offers stunning scenery, thriving communities, and far more affordable housing compared to California's major metro areas. For professionals, families, and retirees seeking a better quality of life, Texas Hill Country real estate has become one of the most attractive relocation opportunities in the country.
The Economic Advantage: Cost of Living California vs Texas
One of the biggest drivers behind people moving from California to Texas is simple economics. Housing, taxes, and everyday expenses are dramatically lower across much of Texas — especially in the Hill Country.
Housing Prices: California vs Texas Hill Country
When comparing California vs Texas housing costs, the difference can be staggering.
🌴 Typical California Costs
- Median home prices: $900K – $1.4M+
- Smaller homes and dense neighborhoods
- High insurance and regulatory costs
- State income tax up to 13.3%
- Higher fuel and utility costs
⭐ Texas Hill Country Costs
- Median home prices: $350K – $600K
- Larger homes and larger lots
- New master-planned communities
- Modern homes with upgraded features
- 0% state income tax
For many Californians selling a home, this means they can buy a significantly larger property in Texas and still save money — one of the biggest reasons Californians are moving to Texas Hill Country in record numbers.
Texas Has No State Income Tax
California has some of the highest state income taxes in the country, reaching over 13% for high earners. Texas has 0% state income tax. For professionals relocating from Silicon Valley, Los Angeles, or San Diego, this can result in tens of thousands of dollars in annual savings.
The Lifestyle Upgrade: Living in Texas Hill Country
While economics bring many people to Texas, the lifestyle is what makes them stay. The Texas Hill Country offers a unique blend of scenic beauty, outdoor recreation, and welcoming communities.
What Makes the Hill Country Special
Unlike the dense urban environment of many California cities, the Hill Country offers rolling limestone hills, live oak trees and wildflower fields, open space and breathtaking sunsets, charming small-town downtown districts, and a strong sense of community. Cities like New Braunfels, Boerne, and Fredericksburg offer a lifestyle that feels relaxed without sacrificing convenience.
The vast majority of Californians who move to Texas did so for a reason — wanting to embrace what makes Texas unique. Get involved locally, support local businesses, and embrace the hospitality that makes the Hill Country such a special place to live.— Steve Tomaselli · Mortgage Broker · NMLS #358920 · Edge Home Finance
Outdoor Recreation and Natural Beauty
The Hill Country is known for its incredible outdoor experiences. Popular activities include:
- ★ Tubing the Guadalupe River
- ★ Boating & fishing at Canyon Lake
- ★ Hiking & biking Hill Country trails
- ★ Fredericksburg wine country
- ★ Exploring state parks & scenic drives
- ★ Fishing the Blanco & Guadalupe Rivers
Silicon Hills: Why Tech Workers Are Moving from California to Texas
Another major factor behind the surge of Californians moving to Texas is the rapid growth of Austin's tech industry. Often called "Silicon Hills," Austin has become a major hub for technology companies relocating from California.
Major companies with significant operations in the region include Apple, Tesla, Oracle, Google, Samsung, and Dell. Many professionals in tech are choosing to live in Hill Country communities near Austin while enjoying more space and lower housing costs.
Best Texas Hill Country Cities for Californians
If you're researching where Californians are moving in Texas, these Hill Country communities consistently stand out.
New Braunfels
Located between Austin and San Antonio with a charming historic downtown, access to the Guadalupe and Comal Rivers, and easy commuting distance to both cities.
Boerne
Beautiful historic Main Street, excellent schools, easy access to San Antonio, and luxury Hill Country estates. Popular with LA and Orange County transplants.
Fredericksburg
Over 50 nearby wineries, incredible Hill Country views, a charming historic downtown, and a slower pace of life. A top destination for California retirees.
Dripping Springs
A popular Austin-area suburb with beautiful Hill Country views and a growing community of families and tech professionals from the Bay Area.
Remote Work Makes Moving from California to Texas Easier
The rise of remote work has made interstate relocation easier than ever. Today, many professionals can keep their California salary, enjoy the Texas cost of living, and upgrade their home and lifestyle in one move.
This is one of the reasons Texas Hill Country real estate continues to attract remote workers, entrepreneurs, and tech professionals. For many Californians, relocating to the Hill Country means finally having more space, lower costs, and a better work-life balance.
Planning Your Move: Getting Pre-Qualified Before You Relocate
Relocating across the country can feel overwhelming. Many people considering moving from California to Texas have questions like: How much house can I afford in Texas? What are property taxes like? Can I qualify for a mortgage before moving?
Pro tip: Getting pre-qualified before your move — even while still in California — makes the relocation process far easier. You'll know exactly how much home you can afford in the Texas Hill Country market and can make competitive offers quickly.
Figure Out How Much You'll Net Selling Your CA Home
Use our Seller Net Proceeds Calculator to estimate what you'll walk away with — then see what that buys you in Texas.
Open Net Proceeds Calculator Get Pre-Qualified NowTexas Welcomes You: The Truth About "Don't California My Texas"
You may occasionally hear jokes or comments online about Texans not liking Californians moving to Texas — but the reality on the ground is much more welcoming. Texas has always been a state shaped by newcomers, and communities across the Texas Hill Country — including New Braunfels, Boerne, and Fredericksburg — have welcomed thousands of new residents from across the country.
Most concerns stem from rapid population growth, rising home prices, or differences in politics and culture. In everyday life, however, people relocating from California typically find Texans to be friendly, helpful, and community-oriented. Many Hill Country neighborhoods already include families who moved from California, making it easy to connect with others who made the same transition.
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving from California to Texas
Ready to Make Your Move to Texas Hill Country?
Book a free 15-minute consultation with Steve Tomaselli — 33 years of experience helping families finance their dream homes in Central Texas.
Book a 15-Minute Consult Get Pre-Qualified Now