How your housing costs change when you relocate. Based on 2026 data with 10% down, 6.5% rate, 30-year fixed.
Your housing costs will increase by approximately $2,760 per month ($33,120/year) when you move from Texas to California.
If you sell your median-priced Texas home ($310K) and buy in California ($785K):
Your Texas equity falls $64K short of a 20% down payment in California. You may need additional savings or could consider a lower down payment with PMI.
Over 10 years, this move costs you approximately $331K in housing costs alone.
Housing costs more in California. The median home is 61% higher than in Texas — a $475K jump. You may need to adjust your expectations on square footage or location, or come with a larger down payment to keep your monthly costs manageable.
Good news on taxes: California's 0.73% property tax rate is significantly lower than Texas's 1.8%. You'll save approximately $-150 per year on property taxes, which adds up to $-1,500 over a decade.
You'll save on insurance moving to California: $2,200/year versus $3,800/year in Texas. That's $1,600 less per year in premiums, putting $133 back in your monthly budget.
When you buy in California, expect about $9K in closing costs (1.2% of purchase price). This includes a 0.11% transfer tax. Budget for this amount on top of your down payment.
California's CalHFA Dream For All offers Up to 20% shared appreciation loan. If you haven't owned a home in three years (or are buying in California for the first time), you may qualify. Check eligibility requirements and income limits on California's housing finance agency website.