Dec 26, 2022

Is Moving from California to Dallas Texas a Good Idea?


Are you considering moving from California to Dallas, Texas? Moving from one state to another is a big deal and can be very stressful. There are a lot of factors to consider, which can be overwhelming. What kind of job opportunities are there? What is the cost of living in the new state? Will I like the climate? And a million other similar questions.

So if you’re considering a move from California to Dallas, you’re probably wondering if it’s a good idea. It’s a move of over 1,000 miles. 

Here’s what to consider before making the move in order to make the transition as smooth as possible.

Comparing the Cost of Living in Texas and California

Want more bang for your buck? Move to Texas. A MyMove study showed that California has a cost index of 151.7 and Texas has a cost index of only 91.5. The calculation of the cost index comes from evaluating costs of food, transportation, housing, healthcare, and other expenses. 

California is a more expensive place to live overall. You’ll pay 50% more for the cost of living than the national average. Yet in Texas, you’ll pay 10% less than the national average. 

Seeing the numbers in favor of Texas, Dallas is a great option to move to. The average household income in Dallas is about $88,000 and the median household income is around $58,000, and the median home price is around $280,000. Also, the city has a low crime rate and a reliable public transportation system, making it ideal.

Pros and Cons of Moving from California to Texas

California and Texas are two of the largest states in the United States. They are both home to a large number of people and have a lot to offer in terms of culture, food, and entertainment. But their individual cultures, food, and entertainment are distinct.

In terms of the economy, California is the largest state in the country, while Texas is second. Both states are great places, but which one is better?

Some of the pros and cons of Texas and California are:

In Texas you can choose your lot and your house, etc, which makes it feel more like a custom home. Yet in California you don’t get the option. 

Texas is a very clean state. They keep the roads paved and looking nice. The Toll you pay actually goes to the maintenance of the roads. Yet in California, it’s not like that. There are a lot of potholes and disrepair. 

Some people like the option to choose your doctors and where you go to see specialists. However, it’s easier for many Californians to have everything in one facility: the eye doctor, pediatrician, primary care, etc. That’s not how it is in Texas and it can be a difficult adjustment for those coming from California.

There are a lot of Tollways in Texas, many more than in California. But if you need to get somewhere faster, you need to take a tollway and the cost can add up quickly.

Another thing that could be a shock to someone moving from California is the property taxes are higher in Texas. California is around 1.8% and Texas is around 2%. It doesn’t seem like much, but it makes a difference. 

Climate: Texas vs California

California has a Mediterranean climate, characterized by mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. It’s on the coast, so you get beaches and warmer weather. 

Texas has a more diverse climate, with desert conditions in the west and humid, subtropical conditions in the east. Dallas in particular is very hot in the summer months and has severe storms part of the year. 

Which climate is better? It depends on what you prefer. They both have some great weather. 

Education: Texas vs California

Texas has very welcoming schools. The teachers follow up with parents about when their kids do great things like scoring high on tests. In California, if a parent gets a call from their child’s teacher, it usually means there’s a problem. 

California has a well-educated population, with over 56% of residents having a college degree. The state is home to many prestigious universities, such as Stanford, UC Berkeley, and University of Southern California.

Dallas is home to a number of excellent educational institutions as well, including the University of Texas at Dallas, Southern Methodist University, and the University of North Texas. Additionally, the city is home to a number of K-12 schools, both public and private that are excellent with high standards. With its exceptional education system, Dallas is a great place to raise a family.

Job Opportunities: Texas vs California

One of the most important factors to consider when moving to a new state is employment opportunities. Texas is a great state for finding a job. The unemployment rate is only 3.4%, which is much lower than the national average of 4.4%. Dallas, in particular, has a strong job market. The city’s unemployment rate is even lower than the state’s, at 2.8%.

Dallas is also a great place to start or expand a business. The city is home to a thriving business environment, with a large number of Fortune 500 companies headquartered in the area. 

And the city is a hub for technology, finance, and healthcare, with many opportunities for entrepreneurs and startups. In addition, the cost of doing business in Dallas is relatively low, making it an attractive option for businesses looking to expand.

California’s top industries include agriculture, entertainment, high-tech, and tourism. 

Culture: Texas vs California

The southern charm, hospitality and respectfulness in Texas is real. Californians are more laid back and casual. But in Dallas, you will hear people address you with sir and mam. That doesn’t happen in California.

Dallas is an exciting city with a rich culture and plenty of entertainment options. The city is home to a number of museums, galleries, and theaters, as well as a thriving music and nightlife scene. California shares this love of a rich culture with music, art, theatre, and nightlife. 

Dallas is also home to a number of professional sports teams, including the Dallas Cowboys, Mavericks, and Stars. With its diverse range of attractions, Dallas is the ideal place to explore and have fun. California is also home to a number of professional sports teams, including the 49ers, Lakers, and the Golden State Warriors.

In Conclusion

Which is better, California or Dallas? In our opinion, it’s a no brainer. We’d choose Dallas any day. California has some great qualities, but Dallas far exceeds the expectations of everyone who moves there. And with its vibrant culture and entertainment scene, excellent schools, great housing options, and lower cost of living, Dallas is the perfect place to live. 

It’s no secret that Dallas is our favorite city in Texas. We love it and we know you will too. So if you’re looking to buy a house in Dallas, Texas or its surrounding areas, give us a call or text or schedule a free strategy call with us. We’d love to help.

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Let's schedule a meeting! During this initial consultation, we'll learn more about your situation and what you're seeking in a home. We'll provide advice and address any concerns you may have in order to determine the best approach to achieving your goals. By the end of our conversation, we'll have a solid plan of action and next steps for moving forward.

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Connect with Living in Dallas Texas Team

Ready to take the next step?

Let's schedule a meeting! During this initial consultation, we'll learn more about your situation and what you're seeking in a home. We'll provide advice and address any concerns you may have in order to determine the best approach to achieving your goals. By the end of our conversation, we'll have a solid plan of action and next steps for moving forward.

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