I recently moved from California to Texas and found that many things are more expensive in Texas.

For instance:

  • Rent: A $1 million house in California rents for $3,400, while a $500K house in Texas rents for $3,200.
  • Groceries: Fruits and vegetables, especially those from California, are about $1 more expensive in Texas. For example, nectarines cost $6 in California but $7 in Texas.
  • Other Services: Services like PO boxes are also more expensive in Texas.

It sounds like the cost differences have been quite surprising for you! I not adjusting to the new environment very well. I expected the cost of living in Texas would be cheaper but its not.

At this rate, its better to live in California because you have much more job opportunities and better salaries because companies are willing to pay you more with more benefits.

About the only thing I've found to be cheaper is gas. But that is because the gas here in Texas is not a regulated or cleaned as the gas in California. You are typically are paying $1 more per gallon. The current gas price is about $3.17 as of August 2024.

I am now wondering if its worth going back?