From California to Texas: What AT&T Employees Need to Know Before Relocating to the Dallas Area

With AT&T’s return-to-office policies in full swing, many employees living in California are facing a big decision: relocate to Dallas or switch roles. If you’ve chosen to move, you’re not alone—thousands of professionals are making the same transition each year, trading California’s high cost of living for Texas’ affordability, space, and no state income tax.

If you’re an AT&T employee moving from California to the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) area, this guide will give you a clear, honest look at how life (and real estate) in Texas compares—and what you need to know before buying a home.

1. Cost of Living: Dallas vs. California

Let’s start with the numbers. Whether you’re coming from the Bay Area, Los Angeles, or San Diego, the Dallas area is significantly more affordable.

Category	California (Major Metros)	Dallas, TX
Median Home Price	$800K–$1.2M+	$400K–$500K
State Income Tax	9.3%–13.3%	0%
Gas Prices	$5–$6/gallon	$3–$3.50/gallon
Groceries/Utilities	10–20% above national avg	5–10% below national avg
Overall Cost of Living	40–60% higher than TX	—

Key Takeaway: Your dollar goes further in Texas. Many relocating AT&T employees find they can afford larger homes, shorter commutes, and lower monthly expenses.

2. Housing Market: What You Get in Texas vs. California

In California:

• $900K might get you a dated 1,200 sq ft home on a tight lot

• Intense bidding wars are the norm

• Property taxes are capped under Prop 13 (but values are still high)

In DFW:

• $500K can get you a new construction 4-bedroom home in a master-planned community with a yard, a garage, and HOA amenities

• Many homes include smart tech, energy-efficient appliances, and builder warranties

• New and resale options available in cities like Plano, Frisco, McKinney, Celina, and Allen

Caution: While home prices are lower, property taxes in Texas are higher (2.2%–2.7%). However, there’s no state income tax—so you’ll likely come out ahead overall.

3. Taxes: You’ll Notice a Major Shift

California:

• State income tax up to 13.3%

• Property tax ~1.1% (capped)

• Higher gas, sales, and vehicle registration fees

Texas:

• 0% state income tax

• Property tax: ~2.2%–2.8% (varies by county and school district)

• Sales tax: 6.25% state + up to 2% local

• Vehicle registration is lower

Tip: Texas offers a homestead exemption, which can lower your property tax bill if you occupy the home as your primary residence.

4. Lifestyle Differences: What to Expect

Space & Pace

• More space: Larger lots, wider streets, less traffic (outside rush hours)

• Slower pace: Especially in suburban areas like Celina, Melissa, or Prosper

• Friendly culture: Texans are known for hospitality and community involvement

Weather

• Texas summers are hot and humid (expect 95–105°F), but winters are short and mild

• No earthquakes or wildfires, but thunderstorms, hail, and tornado warnings are more common

Driving

• You’ll likely need a car unless you're in Downtown Dallas or a DART-accessible area

• Commute times are moderate, especially if you live close to work campuses in Plano, Richardson, or Downtown

5. Where Are AT&T Employees Buying?

Most relocating professionals choose to live in the suburbs for more space, schools, and affordability. Here are some of the top cities and what they offer:

Plano

• Close to AT&T’s regional and downtown offices

• Top-rated Plano ISD

• Great mix of established neighborhoods and luxury townhomes

• Price range: $400K–$800K

Frisco

• Master-planned communities with parks, trails, and top-tier schools

• Family-friendly, safe, and modern

• Price range: $450K–$900K+

McKinney / Allen

• Quiet, community-driven living

• Lower taxes than Frisco, strong resale potential

• Price range: $375K–$750K

Celina / Prosper / Melissa

• More space, new construction, lower price per square foot

• Growing communities with great long-term upside

• Longer commute (35–50 mins) but ideal for hybrid workers

• Price range: $400K–$700K+

6. What to Expect When Buying Your First Home in Texas

The buying process is different in Texas than in California. Here are some key differences:

• Option Period: You get 5–10 days after offer acceptance to inspect and negotiate

• No attorney closings: Title companies handle closing in TX, not attorneys

• Earnest Money + Option Fee: Required up front to secure the deal

• No contingency bidding wars: Fewer cash-over-asking battles than in CA (for now)

Tip: Many AT&T buyers also explore new construction, which is more available and affordable in Texas. Ask about builder incentives, closing cost credits, and warranty coverage.

7. Get Expert Help for a Smooth Relocation

Relocating across state lines is a big transition—and Texas has its own market quirks, builder practices, and tax structures. If you’re an AT&T employee moving to the Dallas area, working with a local agent who understands both relocation and the corporate buyer experience is critical.

A relocation-savvy agent can:

• Recommend top neighborhoods based on commute, lifestyle, and schools

• Coordinate virtual showings and remote closings

• Connect you with Texas-based lenders, inspectors, and builders

• Help you compare cost-of-living breakdowns by area

• Guide you through your first Texas contract and keep you protected

Final Thoughts

Relocating from California to Dallas as an AT&T employee comes with big changes—but also big opportunities. You’ll gain space, affordability, and a fresh start in one of the country’s fastest-growing, most opportunity-rich regions.

Whether you’re buying a townhome in Plano, a new construction home in Celina, or something in between, the key is getting expert advice early—so you can move with confidence, clarity, and zero surprises.

Let’s build your relocation game plan. From virtual tours to neighborhood guidance, I’ll help you find the right home and lifestyle for your new Texas chapter.

Call us at 469-269-6541 for more information about Plano real estate!

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