California vs Texas Cost of Living Calculator
Here's a table comparing the cost of living between California and Texas, summarizing key factors:
| Category | California | Texas |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Cost of Living | 50% above national average | 10% below national average |
| Living Wage (Single Adult) | $14.99/hour | $11.74/hour |
| Living Wage (1 Adult, 2 Children) | $37.46/hour ($65,245/year) | $27.83/hour ($50,795/year) |
| Median Home Price | $552,800 | $195,000 |
| State Income Tax | Yes (one of the highest) | No state income tax |
| Sales Tax | 7.25% (base rate) | 6.25% (base rate) |
| Average Utility Bill | $101.00 | $122.00 |
| Minimum Wage | $12.00 | $7.25 |
| Groceries | 24.1% higher than Texas | Baseline |
| Transportation | 18.9% higher than Texas | Baseline |
| Healthcare | Generally more expensive | Generally less expensive |
| Housing | 37.2% higher than Texas | Baseline |
| Childcare | 42.9% higher than Texas | Baseline |
| Entertainment & Sports | 30.2% higher than Texas | Baseline |
Key takeaways:
- California is significantly more expensive overall, with costs about 50% above the national average, while Texas is about 10% below.
- Housing costs show the most dramatic difference, with California's median home price nearly three times that of Texas.
- Texas has no state income tax, which is a significant advantage, especially for high earners and retirees.
- While California has higher costs in most categories, it does offer a higher minimum wage and potentially higher salaries in many industries.
- The choice between the two states often comes down to balancing cost of living with career opportunities, lifestyle preferences, and personal priorities1234.