As the California-to-Texas migration trend continues to gain momentum, Central Texas emerges as a popular relocation destination due to its more affordable housing prices. A recent StorageCafe study reveals that more than 111,000 people—or 300 a day—moved from California to Texas in 2021, a significant 80% increase since 2012. Although some Texans also moved to California, the numbers are notably smaller, only reaching 33,000 in 2021.
Austin, in particular, has become a favorite choice for new Texans. More than 16,000 Californians relocated to Williamson and Travis Counties last year, with Los Angeles County identified as the “main supplier” of new residents. Price disparities between the two regions play a major role in this migration. For instance, a typical home in Travis and Williamson Counties is 69% more affordable than a home in L.A. County. Making the switch from Redwood City, San Mateo County to Austin, Travis County results in average savings of over $1.2 million in home prices.
The study also found that renters benefit from the move, paying about 50% less in Greater Austin. Homeowners and renters moving from Santa Clara County to Williamson County experienced the most significant gains in living space—an extra 386 square feet for homeowners and 79 square feet for renters. In general, Texas homes are 17% larger than their California counterparts while apartments are 6% larger.
For more information on the California-to-Texas migration and its impact on Central Texas’ real estate market, check out the full [StorageCafe study](https://www.recenter.tamu.edu/news/newstalk-texas/?Item=29321).