Moving from California to Texas — What It Really Costs
Data: 2026-Q2 · BLS · HUD · KFFHousing difference
Median 1BR rent in Texas is $1,562/mo vs $2,085/mo in California — a difference of $523/month ($6,276/year).
Salary difference — purchasing power
Your $70,000 in California feels like approximately $46,515 in Texas — a purchasing power reduction of 34%.
Tax difference
On a $70,000 salary, take-home in Texas is about $57,631/year vs $51,121/year in California — a gain of $6,510/year from state income tax differences.
Breathing room comparison
California
Texas
Should I move? The bottom line
Moving from California to Texas changes your monthly housing by about $523 and your annual take-home by about $6,510. Your money won't stretch as far — purchasing power falls about 34%, so aim for a higher salary to hold your standard of living.
This is a picture, not a verdict.
Moving California → Texas — FAQ
Is it cheaper to live in Texas?
Yes — median 1BR rent in Texas ($1,562/mo) is lower than in California ($2,085/mo). Source: HUD FY2026 FMR.
How much do I need to earn in Texas?
To match the purchasing power of $70,000 in California, you'd need roughly $46,515 in Texas, after housing and taxes. Source: HUD FY2026 FMR, Tax Foundation 2025.
What is the cost of living difference between California and Texas?
Median 1BR rent differs by about $523/month, and take-home on a $70,000 salary differs by about $6,510/year due to state taxes. This is a picture, not a verdict.