CostByState

Who’s Moving To and From Texas?

In the latest Census data (2022), Texas gained about 123,978 more residents from other states than it lost — a net inflow. The most people arrive from California, and the largest number leaving head to California.

Where Texas residents move — top destinations moves per year California 37,005 Florida 31,333 Oklahoma 29,005 Colorado 26,252 Georgia 22,266
US Census ACS State-to-State Migration Flows · Source: US Census Bureau, ACS State-to-State Migration Flows · chart: CostByState

Top states moving into Texas

Where Texas residents move

Net interstate migration: +123,978 more people moved in than out (vs. the other 49 states).

Source: US Census Bureau, ACS State-to-State Migration Flows · as of 2022 · methodology

Where Texas residents go: the biggest destinations are California, Florida and Oklahoma. The single largest stream runs to California — about 37,005 people in a year. In total, roughly 449,425 residents left Texas for another state, versus about 573,403 who moved in.

Who moves to Texas: the largest inbound flows come from California, Florida and Louisiana, led by California with about 89,916 arrivals. These corridors tend to reflect geography, job markets, and — increasingly — the gap in taxes and cost of living between the two states.

Why people come: Texas is a net magnet, and its profile explains why — no state income tax let a paycheck stretch further than in the pricier states that feed it. Arrivals from California and other high-cost states are a large part of the story.

Thinking about joining one of these moves? The honest comparison is your full tax-and-cost picture, not one line of it. A move between Texas and California can change your take-home pay and monthly costs by more than people expect — worth running the numbers before you decide.

Compare Texas with any state in the comparison tool, check your take-home pay and cost of living, or see the national picture in the states Americans are fleeing and the state rankings.

Frequently asked questions

Are people leaving Texas?
On net, no — Texas gains more residents from other states than it loses, with a net inflow of about 123,978 in 2022. The most people arrive from California.
Which state do most people move to from Texas?
California is the top destination for people leaving Texas, with about 37,005 moves in the latest year, followed by Florida and Oklahoma.
Which states do people move to Texas from?
The largest inbound flows to Texas come from California, Florida and Louisiana, led by California with about 89,916 arrivals.