A record number of Californians are leaving the Golden State and heading to Texas, with more than 100,000 relocating each year, according to new research from StorageCafe. That’s roughly the size of Santa Barbara moving to Texas annually, making California the top source of new Texas residents.
Los Angeles County leads the exodus, accounting for six of the top 10 routes between the states. The study found that nearly one in five out-of-state newcomers to Texas now comes from California. StorageCafe’s analysis used U.S. Census data and real estate trends to track the migration and rank the most popular paths.
Californians cite high housing costs, state income taxes, and declining affordability as key reasons for leaving. Texas, by contrast, offers no state income tax, more affordable housing, and a growing economy under Governor Greg Abbott’s leadership. Average housing in Texas costs 63% less than in California.
Younger generations are driving the shift, with millennials making up 31% of those leaving, followed by Gen Z at 20%, and Gen X at 15%. Austin and Houston, in Travis and Harris counties respectively, are top destinations, each receiving over 10,000 Californians a year. Those priced out of California markets are finding homes in Houston two-thirds cheaper and rent 30% lower than in Los Angeles.
The study also highlights the migration of workers from Silicon Valley, particularly Santa Clara County. More than 8,000 of them have moved to places like Williamson and Collin counties, seeking lower-cost living while keeping high tech salaries via remote work.
While the influx is fueling housing demand and prices in Texas cities, experts say it remains unclear how much of that pressure comes specifically from California. Nonetheless, the trend continues. Texas leads the nation in job growth and migration, while California sees nearly 700,000 residents leave annually.
