My Thoughts

On a recent trip to Texas I pondered whether moving out of California would be a viable option for me? I have lived in California my entire life. But like many native Californians, I have begun to consider moving out of state.

I personally know many people who have moved out of state for greener pastures. I recently had a deep conversation with a colleague of mine about moving to Arizona. She recently went on a trip and fell in love with the town she visited. Although she mentioned it being extremely hot, she considered moving.

Her primary reason for leaving the Golden State was the skyrocketing cost of housing. She said that although she loves California, working just to pay a mortgage is simply not appealing. She also mentioned that the amount of people here is becoming uncomfortable. The traffic is horrendous and many people have a me-first attitude.

Housing Costs in California

Home ownership in California has become unaffordable for many people. I would say that most people wanting to buy are priced out at the moment.

The median home price in California is $584,460 according to the April 2018 numbers provided by California Association of REALTORS®. With no money down, an annual interest rate of 4.0%, and a thirty year term, you're paying $2790.30 for the median home price of $584,460. That is only principal and interest. When you include taxes and hazard insurance, you're paying well over $3,000! Unfortunately, that is becoming the norm in the Golden State.

Texas Housing Market

Texas

Compared to California, Texas is a steal. With a median home price of $224,500, Texas looks pretty attractive. Median home price provided by Texas Association of REALTORS®. That's 61.5% cheaper than living in California.

With an annual interest rate of 4.0%, 30-year term, and no money down, your payments are a whooping $623.61!. That is for principal and interest. Include taxes and hazard insurance, and your payments will be around $1,000.

However, I don't know what the job market is like in Texas. But, when I traveled there in early May, I would have to say that their economy is chugging right along. I didn't see any homeless people near the airport like you do in L.A.

Arizona Housing Market

Arizona

With a median price of $238,500, Arizona is 59% cheaper than California. If you like dry and hot weather, this state is for you.

I have been to Arizona. I can say that I fell in love with the landscape. It's much different than the Golden State. It has a wild west feel about it. I also loved traveling to the Grand Canyon. I could see myself moving to Arizona because of its beautiful landscape. I enjoy hiking. And with so much undeveloped land, it would be perfect for me

Conclusion

Now you have to ask yourself, is moving the right option for me? I would say that if you want a slower paced life, and a much cheaper cost of living, then it's a no brainer. Moving out of California is the right move for you.

However, you have to consider many other factors other than just price. What about moving your entire family to another state? How would they feel about it? Would you be able to get another job quickly?

I have to say that moving out of state is appealing from a financial point of view. Many people have built up a lot of equity in their homes over the recent years. You could take all that equity and put a large down payment on a home in another state. That would substantially decrease your mortgage. You would have money to really enjoy life and not simply work to pay your mortgage.

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