From the Golden State to the Lone Star State: Californians Continue to Flock to Texas

PR Newswire

Texas Realtors analysis shows nearly 20% of people relocating to Texas came from California in 2021; nearly half of all newcomers were under 35

AUSTIN, Texas , Aug. 2, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Recent analysis of migration data from the U.S. Census reveals Texas as a popular destination for people moving from other U.S. states. In 2021, Texas experienced an influx of an estimated 591,400 people from other states, with the most new residents arriving from California , Florida and Colorado .

Texas was a top choice for Californians in 2021 with an estimated inflow of more than 107,500 people, the most from any U.S. state. Florida and Colorado followed, with estimates topping 31,000 and 30,000 individuals respectively.

"These migration trends highlight Texas as a popular destination for those seeking new horizons," said Marcus Phipps , Chairman of Texas Realtors. "The state's strong economy, business-friendly environment, and quality of life continue to attract people from across the United States and beyond. And with the historic property tax relief recently passed by the Legislature and signed by the governor, Texas is an even more appealing place for newcomers to call home."

Analysis of demographic data from IPUMS in 2021 reveals further insight on new residents. Nearly half of the individuals moving to Texas in 2021 were under 35, with an estimated 20.5% aged 24-35 and 29.4% under 24. Those aged 55 or older made up approximately 12% of new residents.

High earners accounted for a large portion of those moving to Texas , with an estimated 48.9% of new residents reporting household incomes over $100,000 . In contrast, an estimated 35.9% of individuals moving out of Texas had household incomes of at least $100,000 . Among those moving to Texas in 2021, many were seeking opportunities in manufacturing, retail trade, and agriculture or closely related industries, representing approximately 19%, 12% and 7% respectively.

While Texas continues to attract newcomers, the state also experiences its own outflow of residents, with an estimated 447,300 people leaving for other states. California was the primary destination for Texans in 2021, with an estimate of more than 33,500 individuals choosing California as their new home. Colorado and Florida again followed with estimated outflows of more than 29,700 and 28,200 Texas residents respectively.

Chairman Phipps added, "Whether moving to our great state or leaving for opportunities elsewhere, people often are buying or selling a home—or both. Nobody is better qualified than Realtors to help people make good real estate decisions when they move."

About Texas REALTORS ^®

With more than 150,000 members, Texas REALTORS ^® is a professional membership organization that represents all aspects of real estate in Texas . We are the advocate for REALTORS ^® and private property rights in Texas .

About the Relocation Analysis

This analysis was based on 2021 migration estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau, and from data provided by IPUMS Survey Documentation and Analysis (SDA) tool, 1-year estimates (2021). IPUMS means Integrated Public Use Microdata Series and provides census and survey data from around the world integrated across time and space. IPUMS is a part of the Institute for Social Research and Data Innovation at the University of Minnesota . Authors: Steven Ruggles , Sarah Flood , Matthew Sobek , Danika Brockman , Grace Cooper , Stephanie Richards , and Megan Schouweiler . IPUMS USA : Version 13.0 [dataset]. Minneapolis, MN : IPUMS, 2023. https://doi.org/10.18128/D010.V13.0