Moving to Texas from California

Quick Read

When it comes to U.S. states, California and Texas are often seen as direct opposites, and for good reason! There are a ton of differences between the two states. If you’re moving to Texas from California, it’s good to learn those differences. We want to help you every step of the way, that’s why we put together this blog of important differences between the two states, some info on where to go and what to see, and some tips on how to go about your move.

If you’re considering a move as big as traveling halfway across the country, you’re probably trying to consider all the pros and cons, which can be pretty overwhelming. We want to help you by going over what makes Texas a great place to live, some great places to check out when you get there, and what moving there entails. Now, California is, of course, a beautiful state. The state is renowned for having perfect weather all year round, which is mixed with jaw-dropping views of the Pacific coast on the west and the Rocky Mountains coming in from the east. Texas is very different, yet still as great, just in different ways. There’s a reason that Texas is the most popular destination for Californians who are moving out of their state.

Differences Between California and Texas

If you’re living in California, you know how expensive it can be. Texas, on the other hand, can be quite cheap. In fact, a recent study found that seven Texas towns were in the top 25 cheapest cities to live in in the United States. Overall, California is more expensive to live in than Texas in many categories, including expenses for food, child care, medical care, housing, and transportation, according to data from MIT. Texas is famous for being a great place for food. Now, it can be tough to compare the authentic Mexican cuisine that’s found in Texas with the same type of food found in California, especially Southern California, since they’re both great states for Mexican food. Texas, on the other hand, is also known for its world-class barbecue. Even within Texas, there are distinct regions for barbecue, with South, East, West, and North Texas all hosting unique flavors. Be sure to try them all! As a state that is so large in a geographical sense, it’s understandable that the climate of where you’re moving to depends on where in Texas you end up being located. So be sure to plan accordingly!

Where to Go and What to See

We all know that “everything is bigger” in Texas, and that includes the cities. Texas is home to three cities in the top ten largest in the United States, and one clocking in at the eleventh largest. That includes Houston, San Antonio, Dallas, and Austin. While you very well may live in one of these cities if you move to Texas, it’s worth checking the rest out, since they’re all unique, both from each other and from anywhere else. Houston is home to the Space Center. Austin is the Live Music Capital of the World. Dallas hosts a gorgeous Arts District. San Antonio is where you can visit the Alamo. No matter which city you’re in, there will always be something to do when you’re in Texas.

How to Get Your Move Started

Moving is a major undertaking, but moving to a whole other state just makes it even more complex. We want to walk you through some steps on where to start and what to make sure you don’t forget.
  1. Get Quotes: When budgeting out your move, you’ll want to get three moving quotes to ensure that you’re getting a fair price.
  2. Check Out Your Movers: Before working with a moving company, make sure that they have the proper licenses to move you interstate and look to see if they have any complaints. An easy way to check is by searching the Department of Transportation’s Federal Movers Database.
  3. Look at Your Lease: If you’re renting, check out your lease agreement to understand any requirements your landlord has in regards to giving them a notice and any requirements for your movers.
  4. Talk To Your Movers: Every house is unique and every move is unique. The best way to have an effective move is to communicate with your movers so that they can plan the best course of action for moving your items.
  5. Visit Your New City: Paying an in-depth visit to the town that you’re going to call home isn’t just an exciting trip, but also a great way to plan around the amenities that the city offers.
  6. Enjoy Your New Home: Moving is exciting! The whirlwind of it all can cause people to lose track of that. Be sure to appreciate your new state and everything it offers you.