Best Texas to California Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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TX to CA Moving Specialists

Moving from Texas to California marks the beginning of an exciting adventure and a significant life change for you. Swapping the Lone Star State's cowboy boots and barbecues for the Golden State's surfboards and silicon dreams represents a major lifestyle shift. To ensure that this long journey goes smoothly for you, it's crucial to entrust your belongings to trusted and reliable professional movers. At Great Guys Moving, we rank the best movers in the country using an unbiased algorithm, helping you find the true best for your interstate adventure.

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Best Texas to California Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Phoenix Express Specialty Moving & Delivery9.72A+Authorized For HHGContact
OCD Moving Services LLC9.66A+Authorized For HHGContact
Pure Moving9.64A+Authorized For HHGContact
New Braunfels Moving Company, LLC9.56NRAuthorized For HHGContact
King Moving Company9.53A+Authorized For HHGContact
Evolution Moving Company9.49A+Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from California to Texas guide.

6 Best TX to CA Moving Companies

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Phoenix Express Specialty Moving & Delivery Logo

Phoenix Express Specialty Moving & Delivery

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.72/10
based on 2,440+ data points

About Phoenix Express Specialty Moving & Delivery

Started as a courier service in 1999, Phoenix Express eventually expanded its service offerings, becoming the full-service moving and delive...Read More >>

Services

  • Full service moving
  • In-Dallas moves
  • In-Texas moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2857394 / 67516

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans7
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved110,000 (2023)
View Full Review
1
OCD Moving Services LLC Logo

OCD Moving Services LLC

Exceptional9.66/10
based on 3,273+ data points

About OCD Moving Services LLC

For over five years, OCD Moving Services LLC has been providing Oakland and the Bay Area with residential and commercial relocation services...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Commercial Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2597230 / 911812

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved153,000 (2022)
View Full Review
2
Pure Moving Logo

Pure Moving

Exceptional9.64/10
based on 8,688+ data points

About Pure Moving

Pure Moving has six locations across California, including an office in Los Angeles. This locally operated business moves over 10,000 client...Read More >>

Services

  • Residential moving
  • Commercial moving
  • Long-distance moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3207734 / 1115049

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved100,000 (2022)
View Full Review
3
New Braunfels Moving Company, LLC Logo

New Braunfels Moving Company, LLC

Exceptional9.56/10
based on 2,238+ data points

About New Braunfels Moving Company, LLC

New Braunfels Moving Company, LLC was established in 2014, after its founder and owner had acquired over 15 years of experience in the indus...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Statewide Moving
  • Business Relocation

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2992735 / 1117672

Authorized For HHG

Carrier/Shipper

Registered Trucks/Vans0
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved35,000 (2022)
View Full Review
4
King Moving Company Logo

King Moving Company

Exceptional9.53/10
based on 3,200+ data points

About King Moving Company

Established way back in 1995 as a moving company that specialized in moving antiques and decorative items for different antique malls and in...Read More >>

Services

  • Local and long-distance moving
  • Moving antiques and high-value items
  • Household moving (houses and apartments)

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1933649 / 755801

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans12
Registered Drivers10
Total Annual Miles Moved100,000 (2024)
View Full Review
5
Evolution Moving Company Logo

Evolution Moving Company

Exceptional9.49/10
based on 3,805+ data points

About Evolution Moving Company

Founded in 2013 in New Braunfels, Evolution Moving Company has expanded its professional moving and storage business to Dallas, Fort Worth, ...Read More >>

Services

  • Long Distance Moving
  • Labor Only
  • Residential Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 8/23/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2467590 / 1239409

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved10 (2021)
View Full Review
6
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Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!

Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:

  • No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
  • Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.

Pros and Cons of Moving from Texas to California

Moving from Texas to California brings a mix of opportunities and challenges. This guide provides an honest reflection on moving from Texas to California , comparing the pros and cons to help you weigh your decision carefully. Through these charts, we aim to provide clear insights into what changes you can expect in terms of lifestyle, environment, and costs.

CONs
PROs
Texas iconTexas
  • Higher property taxes
  • Hot summers
  • Less diverse landscapes
  • Fewer major cities
California iconCalifornia
  • More progressive policies
  • Milder climate
  • Diverse natural beauty
  • Multiple large urban areas
California iconCalifornia
  • Higher living costs
  • Expensive real estate
  • Complex tax system
  • More crowded spaces
Texas iconTexas
  • Lower cost of living
  • Affordable housing
  • Simple tax structure
  • Big open spaces

When considering moving from Texas to California, you're trading off the Lone Star State's sprawling landscapes and affordable living for the Golden State's beautiful coastlines, and dynamic urban lifestyles. For example, while Texas boasts vast open spaces and a simpler tax structure, California offers unparalleled natural beauty, from the beaches of Malibu to the forests of Yosemite. However, this comes at a cost, with California's notoriously high living expenses and real estate prices. In urban areas like Los Angeles and San Francisco, you'll find a vibrant mix of restaurants, like Gjelina in Venice for foodies and iconic sights such as the Golden Gate Bridge for explorers. Comparatively, Texas offers more affordable housing, but with fewer major urban centers and a hotter climate that might not suit everyone. This move invites you to weigh these significant considerations carefully, as each state presents its unique lifestyle and opportunities.

Texas vs. California Food Guide

When you decide to move, it's essential to consider all aspects of your new home, including the local food scene. Understanding this comparison of the local cuisine between Texas & California helps you dive deep into what makes each area unique and prepares you for the culinary experiences that await. Let's explore the food culture in your future home.

TexasCalifornia
Most iconic local food itemBBQ BrisketSourdough Bread
Most popular meat dishSmoked RibsFish Tacos
Most popular street food itemTacosBurritos
Most popular vegan foodTex-Mex Inspired Vegan BowlsAvocado Toast
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
  • Chateau Marmont
  • n/naka
  • Chef Tanya's Kitchen
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Texas, the smoky scent of BBQ brisket fills the air, a testament to the state's deep-rooted love for barbeque, with places like Franklin Barbecue in Austin leading the charge. Street food in both states reflects their vibrant food truck cultures, though Texas favors tacos while California offers a wide variety of burritos, epitomized in neighborhoods like Los Angeles's Mission District. California, on the other hand, takes pride in health-conscious eats such as the ubiquitous avocado toast, with Chef Tanya's Kitchen in Palm Springs offering some of the best vegan options. Whether you're moving from Texas's meat-rich plates to California's fresh, veggie-forward dishes, you're in for a delicious transition.

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Texas vs. California Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This guide compares real estate aspects between Texas and California , to help you grasp how each state meets your living preferences and essentials. Know before you go what to expect in terms of housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle .

ComparisonTexasCalifornia
Typical Architecture StyleRanch, ColonialModern, Spanish
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSpacious yards, GaragesOcean views, Eco-friendly features

In comparing Texas and California, the differences in housing costs are quite stark, with California's median home prices significantly higher than Texas's. This disparity can greatly impact your decision, especially on a tight budget. California compensates with its urban lifestyle score, highlighting the state's vibrant city life and cultural offerings. Additionally, California’s focus on modern and eco-friendly living is evident in its real estate listings, often featuring ocean views and sustainable home features, a stark contrast to Texas's more traditional spacious yards and garages. This makes California ideal for those prioritizing sustainability and beach access, while Texas offers more affordable living with ample space.

Texas vs. California Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Texas to California, understanding the weather differences is vital for adapting to your new environment. This comparison focuses on weather variations between Texas and California, highlighting key aspects like temperature, sunshine, and natural disasters. Knowing what to expect will help you prepare better for your relocation.

Summer icon
94/72

Texas

85/60

California

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
60/40

Texas

68/48

California

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
21-56, varies by region

Texas

22-45, varies widely with region

California

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0-15, mostly in northern areas

Texas

0-200+, mountain areas

California

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonTexasCalifornia
Air QualityVaries widelyGenerally good, with exceptions in urban areas
Natural DisastersHurricanes, TornadoesEarthquakes, Wildfires
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Understanding weather-related differences between Texas and California is crucial for a smooth transition. California generally offers milder summers and more days of sunshine compared to Texas, which may be a relief for those moving from hotter, more humid Texan climates. However, California's susceptibility to wildfires and earthquakes presents unique challenges Texans might not be used to. On the other hand, Texas experiences severe weather in the form of hurricanes and tornadoes, conditions less common in California. Adapting to the air quality and seasonal allergies in your new locale, influenced greatly by these environmental factors, will also be an important part of settling in.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Texas to California

When planning a move from Texas to California, it's crucial to comprehend the financial implications of such a transition. Comparing the cost of living, taxes, and housing expenses between Texas and California highlights the monetary aspect of relocating. This enables you to make an informed decision tailored to your financial circumstances and lifestyle preferences.

ComparisonTexasCalifornia
Avg. Household Income$72,284$91,551
Cost of Living Index91.1136.4
State Income Tax0%Up to 13.3%
Avg. Property Tax1.81%0.77%
Avg. Sales Tax8.19%8.56%
Top 3 IndustriesEnergy, Technology, AgricultureTechnology, Agriculture, Entertainment
AffluenceModerateHigh
PovertyHigherLower
HomelessnessNotableSignificant

Comparing Texas and California reveals significant differences in the cost of living and tax structures. For instance, California's higher average household income comes with a cost of living index significantly above the national average, whereas Texas offers a more affordable living situation with no state income tax. The property tax rate in Texas is notably higher, reflecting different taxation strategies between the states. Furthermore, the industries driving each state's economy vary, potentially affecting job opportunities in your field. Considering these factors can provide a clearer picture of what to expect financially, helping you plan a smooth transition.

Texas vs. California Political & Religious Comparison

This brief comparison offers a snapshot of the politics between Texas & California, highlighting the distinctive political, and religious makeup of each state's residents. Understanding these differences can help you better align with your new community.

TexasCalifornia
Political Make-upTraditionally Conservative, but increasingly competitiveStrongly Liberal, especially in urban areas
Local PoliticsVaries by region; urban areas more liberalGenerally liberal, with some conservative regions
ReligionChristian majority, with evangelical Protestantism being significantDiverse; large numbers of Catholics, Protestants, Jews, Muslims, and non-religious

While Texas has traditionally been a stronghold for conservative politics, major cities like Dallas and Houston have started to show a more liberal shift, reflective of the state's changing demographics. California, on the other hand, is widely recognized for its liberal stance, particularly in major urban centers such as Los Angeles and San Francisco. Religious diversity is more pronounced in California, offering a broad spectrum of faiths and belief systems compared to Texas's predominantly Christian population. This varied fabric of religious and political beliefs in both states shapes the community culture, potentially affecting your social integration and personal life.

Education Guide When Moving from Texas to California

Moving from Texas to California presents various changes and adaptations, especially when it comes to education. To better understand what the comparisons are between school options in Texas and California, the following chart and detailed paragraph will guide you through the essential information, helping you make an informed decision for your family's educational needs.

TexasCalifornia

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Texas at Austin
Texas A&M University
University of HoustonUniversity of California
Los Angeles
University of California
Berkeley
Stanford University

Top 3 Elementary Schools

William B Travis Academy/Vanguard for the Academically Talented and Gifted (Dallas)
River Oaks Elementary School (Houston)
School for the Talented & Gifted in Pleasant Grove (Dallas)Point Vicente Elementary School (Rancho Palos Verdes)
Pacific Elementary School (Manhattan Beach)
Old Adobe School (Petaluma)

Top 3 Middle Schools

William B Travis Acad./Vang. for the Acad. Tal. and Gift. (Dallas)
St. Mark's School of Texas (Dallas)
Young Men's Leadership Academy (San Antonio)The Nueva School (Hillsborough)
The Mirman School (Los Angeles)
The Harker School (San Jose)

Top 3 High School Schools

Liberal Arts and Science Academy (Austin)
School for the Talented and Gifted (Dallas)
Westlake High School (Austin)Henry M. Gunn High School (Palo Alto)
California Academy of Mathematics and Science (Carson)
Troy High School (Fullerton)

Top 3 private high schools

St. Mark's School of Texas (Dallas)
The Hockaday School (Dallas)
The Kinkaid School (Houston)Harvard-Westlake School (Los Angeles)
Phillips Academy (Andover)
The Webb Schools (Claremont)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

The Village School (Houston)
The John Cooper School (The Woodlands)
Greenhill School (Addison)The Nueva School (Hillsborough)
Crossroads School for Arts & Sciences (Santa Monica)
Head-Royce School (Oakland)

Top 3 School Districts

Eanes Independent School District (Austin)
Carroll Independent School District (Southlake)
Coppell Independent School District (Coppell)Palo Alto Unified School District (Palo Alto)
San Marino Unified School District (San Marino)
La Cañada Unified School District (La Cañada Flintridge)

In comparing the educational environments of Texas and California, certain patterns emerge that might influence your decision. Notably, California boasts several highly regarded universities recognized globally, such as Stanford University and the University of California campuses in Los Angeles and Berkeley. This could be a significant factor if your children are near college age and aiming for top-tier higher education. Also, the primary and secondary education systems show a diversity in focus and excellence. Texas is home to some of the best public schools in the country, like the Liberal Arts and Science Academy in Austin, known for its strong STEM focus. Meanwhile, California's private schools, like the Harvard-Westlake School in Los Angeles, offer robust arts and humanities curriculums alongside their STEM offerings. This variety ensures that no matter your child's interests or your educational preferences, both states offer excellent options.Liberal Arts and Science Academy, Harvard-Westlake School.

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