Moving from California to Prosper, Texas, can be an exciting adventure, especially if you’re looking for a change in pace and cost of living. Prosper, located in Collin and Denton Counties, offers a blend of small-town charm and proximity to the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, making it a popular choice for transplants. But how does the cost of living compare to California? Let’s break it down to help you prepare for your move.
Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost-of-living calculations, and Prosper offers significant advantages over many California cities.
Home Prices: As of 2025, the median home price in Prosper is approximately $600,000, which is a bargain compared to California’s median home price of $830,000. Prosper’s homes often include larger lots, modern designs, and access to top-tier schools, providing excellent value.
Rental Costs: Renting in Prosper is more affordable than in most California cities. A three-bedroom home in Prosper typically rents for $2,800–$3,500 per month, compared to $3,500–$5,000 in areas like Los Angeles or the Bay Area for a similar property.
Utilities
Texas’s warmer climate means lower heating costs in the winter but higher cooling costs in the summer.
Electricity: Expect slightly higher electricity bills during the summer due to air conditioning. On average, monthly utility costs in Prosper are around $150–$250, compared to California’s $200–$300 range, depending on the region.
Water: Water bills in Prosper are relatively modest, averaging $40–$70 per month.
Transportation
Transportation costs in Prosper can vary depending on your commuting needs.
Gas Prices: Texas generally has significantly lower gas prices than California, thanks to lower state taxes on fuel. As of 2025, gas in Texas averages $3.10 per gallon compared to $5.00 in California.
Car Insurance: Car insurance premiums in Texas are comparable to California, with rates depending on your driving history and coverage needs.
Public Transportation: Public transit options are limited in Prosper, so owning a vehicle is a necessity for most residents.
Groceries and Dining
The cost of groceries and dining out in Prosper is significantly lower than in California’s urban areas.
Groceries: A weekly grocery bill for a family of four in Prosper averages $125–$150, compared to $200–$250 in cities like San Francisco or Los Angeles.
Dining Out: A meal at a mid-range restaurant in Prosper costs about $15–$20 per person, while similar meals in California often range from $20–$30.
Healthcare
Healthcare costs in Prosper are comparable to national averages and often lower than in California.
Doctor Visits: A standard doctor’s visit costs about $120–$150 in Prosper, slightly less than California’s $150–$200 range.
Health Insurance: Premiums in Texas are generally similar to California but can vary depending on your provider and plan.
Taxes
One of the biggest financial perks of living in Texas is the lack of a state income tax. This can result in significant savings compared to California, where the state income tax rate can be as high as 13.3%.
Property Taxes: Texas has higher property tax rates than California, with Collin County’s average rate around 2.1%. However, the lower home prices in Prosper help offset these costs.
Recreation and Entertainment
Prosper offers a variety of affordable family-friendly activities and outdoor adventures.
Local Attractions: Enjoy free or low-cost activities like visiting Frontier Park or attending local events such as Prosper Founders Fest.
Proximity to Dallas-Fort Worth: For larger-scale entertainment, the nearby metroplex offers museums, theaters, and sports events at a fraction of the cost compared to California’s urban scene.
Education
Families moving to Prosper will appreciate the excellent schools within the Prosper Independent School District.
Public Schools: The cost of public education is minimal, with high-quality schools providing great value.
Private Schools: For those considering private education, tuition costs are on par with or slightly lower than California’s private schools, averaging $10,000–$15,000 annually.
Conclusion
For California transplants, Prosper, TX, offers a lower cost of living without sacrificing quality of life. With affordable housing, no state income tax, and a welcoming community, it’s an ideal place to plant roots. By understanding these cost-of-living differences, you’ll be well-prepared to make the most of your move to this charming Texas town.
Call us at 469-269-6541 for more information about Prosper real estate!
About us: Prosper New Construction Expert Real Estate Agent
As a Top Real Estate Professional in Prosper, I understand the challenges that arise when buying a new construction home. There are over 100 builders in the DFW area. I work with most of the new home builders in Prosper and understand how various builders operate. I am familiar with the options they offer, current incentives and I frequently visit the upcoming communities they are building. I guide my clients through all steps of the new home construction process and aggressively protect their interests in the transaction.
As a holder of top real estate industry certifications and designations like CRS, ABR & GRI, I can offer my clients experience as a Buyer's Agent and REALTOR®, top Industry Customer Service, in-depth, up-to-the-minute and comprehensive market knowledge; honesty, integrity, dedication, and professionalism in my business.
Whether you are a first time buyer in Prosper looking to buy a home in Fields or whether you are relocating to Prosper from California or moving your entire family from areas like San Francisco, Fremont, Palo Alto, Los Angeles, San Diego in California due to job transfer with your company, I can help you find a new construction home in Prosper. Our relocation team eases the transition - whether you are moving across town or across the globe. We will work with you to find an area that best suits your professional, family and lifestyle needs. We have all the tools you need to help your home search. Whether it is video previews of homes, extended work hours, digital signatures for documents or more, we can make this process as comfortable as possible no matter where you are located.
What is most important to you in your new construction home in Fields in Prosper? Send us an email at info@NitinGuptaDFW.com or give us a call at (469) 269-6541 to schedule a no-obligation consultation. We’ll give you honest advice about Prosper that you can use to help make your home-buying decision.
