Why Californians Are Moving to Cedar Park, Texas – And Why You Should Too!

Robert Rutkowski
Mar 29
4 min read

Updated: Apr 17

If you’re a Californian considering a fresh start, Cedar Park, Texas, should be at the top of your list. Located just north of Austin, this fast-growing city offers an unbeatable combination of affordability, job opportunities, and an exceptional quality of life. Here’s why so many Californians are packing up and heading to Cedar Park—and why it might be the perfect move for you too.

1. More Home for Your Money

It’s no secret that California’s housing prices are sky-high. In Cedar Park, you can get a spacious home for a fraction of the cost compared to cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, or San Diego. Whether you’re looking for a brand-new home in a master-planned community or a charming house with a backyard, your dollar stretches significantly further here.

For example, while the median home price in California sits well above $800,000, Cedar Park offers beautiful single-family homes in the $400,000-$500,000 range, with options for even more affordable townhomes and condos. Not to mention, you get bigger lots, larger living spaces, and modern amenities that might be out of reach in California’s competitive housing market.

2. No State Income Tax

One of the biggest financial perks of moving to Texas? No state income tax! Compared to California’s high income tax rates, this can mean thousands of dollars in savings each year. More money in your pocket means more opportunities to invest in your future, whether that’s buying a home, starting a business, or simply enjoying life more.

In addition to no state income tax, Texas property taxes are reasonable compared to many areas of California. Plus, there are fewer business regulations and lower costs of living overall, making it easier to thrive financially.

3. Booming Job Market

Cedar Park is ideally located near Austin’s thriving job market, which is home to major employers in tech, healthcare, and finance. Companies like Tesla, Apple, and Dell are expanding in the region, offering high-paying jobs and career growth opportunities. Plus, Cedar Park itself has a growing business scene, making it a great place for entrepreneurs and remote workers alike.

Austin has been dubbed the "Silicon Hills" due to its booming tech industry. Many Californians who work in tech find the transition seamless, as they can continue working for top companies while enjoying a lower cost of living. If you’re an entrepreneur or freelancer, Texas’s business-friendly policies make it a fantastic place to start and grow your business.

4. Top-Rated Schools

For families making the move, Cedar Park is served by the highly acclaimed Leander Independent School District. With excellent academics, extracurricular programs, and strong community support, your kids will have access to top-notch education without the hefty price tag of private schools.

Some of the district’s schools have been recognized as National Blue Ribbon Schools, and they consistently rank among the best in Texas. Beyond traditional schooling, Cedar Park also offers a variety of private and charter school options, as well as strong homeschooling networks.

5. Unmatched Outdoor Lifestyle

Love spending time outside? Cedar Park has you covered with an abundance of parks, hiking trails, and recreational opportunities. You can enjoy boating on Lake Travis, explore the Texas Hill Country, or take a short drive to the Austin Greenbelt for outdoor adventures. The area’s mild winters make it easy to enjoy an active lifestyle year-round.

In addition to natural beauty, Cedar Park offers numerous sports facilities, golf courses, and fitness centers. If you enjoy cycling, you’ll love the area’s bike-friendly routes and scenic trails. And for those who love water activities, Lake Travis is a hotspot for boating, fishing, and paddleboarding.

6. Vibrant Community & Entertainment

Cedar Park strikes the perfect balance between small-town charm and big-city conveniences. The H-E-B Center hosts concerts, sports events, and family-friendly entertainment, while nearby Austin offers world-class dining, music, and nightlife. Whether you love live music, food trucks, or craft breweries, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

In addition to entertainment, Cedar Park has a strong sense of community. With farmers' markets, local festivals, and neighborhood events happening regularly, it’s easy to meet new people and get involved. For those who enjoy a social lifestyle, there are countless networking groups, hobby clubs, and fitness communities to join.

7. Lower Cost of Living Without Sacrificing Quality

While California’s high cost of living can make it tough to get ahead, Cedar Park offers a more affordable lifestyle without sacrificing quality. Groceries, utilities, transportation, and dining out all cost less in Texas than in major California cities.

For example, dining out in Austin and Cedar Park is significantly cheaper than in Los Angeles or San Francisco, without compromising quality. From top-rated BBQ joints to farm-to-table restaurants, the food scene here rivals any big city while keeping prices more budget-friendly.

8. A Smooth Transition from California

Many Californians who move to Cedar Park find the transition easier than expected. The community is welcoming, and there’s a growing number of former Californians who have already made the move. You’ll find familiar restaurants, great coffee spots, and a culture that embraces newcomers with open arms.

Another bonus: Cedar Park’s climate is similar to many parts of California, with plenty of sunshine year-round. While summers can be warm, most homes and businesses are well-equipped with air conditioning, and the area’s many lakes and pools offer a great way to stay cool.

9. Future Growth and Investment Potential

Cedar Park isn’t just a great place to live—it’s also a smart investment. As more people move to the Austin area, home values continue to rise. Buying a home now means you’ll likely see strong appreciation over time, making it a great financial decision whether you’re looking for a primary residence or an investment property.

New developments, improved infrastructure, and an increasing number of businesses moving to the area make Cedar Park a city with tremendous growth potential. Unlike California, where high taxes and regulations can make investing difficult, Texas remains a pro-growth state with fewer barriers to building wealth.

Ready to Make the Move?

If you’re tired of high costs, traffic congestion, and over-regulation in California, Cedar Park offers a fresh start with a better quality of life. Whether you’re moving for work, family, or simply a change of pace, Cedar Park is a place where you can truly thrive.

Interested in learning more about homes in Cedar Park? Let’s chat! I’d love to help you find the perfect place to call home in Texas.