Best Cities to Move to in Texas (2026 Guide)
Leaving California? Explore the top destinations in the Lone Star State offering booming job markets, no state income tax, and affordable living in 2026.
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Top 4 Texas Destinations for Californians
We analyzed job growth, housing affordability, and culture to bring you the best choices for 2026.
1. Austin
The Tech Hub. Known for its “Keep Austin Weird” culture, strong tech industry, and vibrant music scene. Best job market.
2. Dallas
The Business Center. A major corporate and financial hub. Offers a blend of urban amenities and expansive suburban living.
3. Houston
Energy & Diversity. The largest city in Texas, known for its world-class medical center, energy industry, and immense cultural diversity.
4. San Antonio
Affordable & Historic. Offers the lowest cost of living among the major Texas cities, with a rich history centered on the River Walk.
Why Californians Are Choosing Texas in 2026
No State Income Tax
Texas is one of the few states with no personal state income tax, resulting in immediate savings for former CA residents.
Economic Opportunity
The state has explosive growth in tech, energy, and finance, leading to numerous high-paying job opportunities.
Housing Affordability
Even in fast-growing cities like Austin, housing costs remain significantly lower than in California’s metropolitan areas.
Smooth Transition
Abwini specializes in the CA-to-TX corridor, ensuring your long-distance move is handled quickly and efficiently.
Other Popular Texas Destinations
Beyond the major metropolitan hubs, consider these growing communities.
Frisco
Sports, excellent schools, upscale suburbs.
Plano
Corporate headquarters & diverse food scene.
Fort Worth
Western heritage & unique cultural districts.
El Paso
Bilingual culture, mountain setting, affordable.
Corpus Christi
Coastal living on the Gulf of Mexico.
Round Rock
Family-friendly suburb north of Austin.
The Woodlands
Master-planned community near Houston.
McKinney
Historic downtown & fast population growth.
Lubbock
West Texas charm & Texas Tech University.
Success Stories: CA to TX Moves
“Moved from San Diego to Austin. Abwini made it so easy!”
– Sarah J.“We love our new life in Dallas. No state income tax is great.”
– Mike D.“Houston is amazing. The movers were professional and fast.”
– Emily R.“Everything arrived safely in San Antonio.”
– Tom H.“Love our new home in Frisco. Thanks for the help!”
– Jessica L.“Moved from San Diego to Austin. Abwini made it so easy!”
– Sarah J.“We love our new life in Dallas. No state income tax is great.”
– Mike D.“Houston is amazing. The movers were professional and fast.”
– Emily R.“Everything arrived safely in San Antonio.”
– Tom H.“Love our new home in Frisco. Thanks for the help!”
– Jessica L.Moving to Texas FAQ (2026 Edition)
What is the biggest financial benefit of moving to Texas?
Texas does not have a state income tax. While property taxes can be higher, the overall tax burden is often significantly lower than in California.
How long does a move from CA to TX take?
Since this is a long-distance move, standard transit time is typically 4–7 business days, depending on the distance and delivery schedule.
What is the climate like compared to California?
Texas is known for its high humidity, especially in the East (Houston, Austin). Summers are very hot, but winters are generally mild, though ice storms can occur in the Panhandle and North Texas.
How soon do I need to get a Texas driver’s license?
New residents must obtain a Texas driver’s license within 90 days of moving. You must also register your vehicle with the state within 30 days.