Moving from LA to Dallas: Relocation Guide

Moving from LA to Dallas is more than just a change in location. It’s a shift in lifestyle, cost of living, and overall opportunity. Whether you’re motivated by career prospects, the chance to buy a home, or a desire for more space and stability, Dallas offers a compelling alternative to LA’s high prices and fast pace. This guide covers everything you need to know before making the move, beginning with why so many Californians are choosing to start fresh in Texas.

Why are so many Californians moving to Dallas?

More and more Californians are making Dallas their new home. The reasons are straightforward:

• Los Angeles has become increasingly unaffordable, especially when it comes to housing.
• Meanwhile, Dallas offers significantly lower living costs and better access to homeownership and economic prosperity.
• Texas also does not have a state income tax, which puts more money back in the hands of professionals and families.
• Dallas is a hub for career growth across several high-demand sectors, including technology, healthcare, and financial services.
• The city also benefits from a business-friendly environment with fewer regulations, attracting both corporations and startups.

How far is LA from Dallas and what does the move cost?

The distance between Los Angeles and Dallas is about 1,450 miles by road. Driving the full route typically takes between 20 and 24 hours. Flying is a faster option, with nonstop flights averaging around three hours.

According to MoveBuddah, the average total cost of hiring a full-service moving company to relocate from Los Angeles to Dallas ranges from $1,168 to $8,612, depending on home size, timing, and packing services. Renting a moving truck and driving it yourself will usually cost between $1,090 and $2,976. Shipping a vehicle will add another $1,423 and $1,956 to your budget, according to FreightWaves.

Summer is the most expensive time to move due to high demand. Booking early can help lock in a lower rate and ensure better availability.

Lifestyle differences between LA and Dallas

Relocating from Los Angeles to Dallas means more than changing your zip code. You’re stepping into a new cultural rhythm, social structure, and physical environment. While both cities are major metropolitan hubs with access to job opportunities and entertainment, the day-to-day experience in Dallas feels notably different.

People often cite more breathing room, a stronger sense of community, and lower levels of stress. For those used to the fast, image-driven culture of LA, Texas brings a refreshingly grounded lifestyle with its own unique advantages.

Here’s how life compares across key categories:

Job market in Dallas

Dallas has established itself as one of the strongest job markets in the country. Texas supports a diverse economy, with growth in tech, energy, healthcare, defense, and financial services. Major employers include AT&T, Southwest Airlines, Texas Instruments, Lockheed Martin, and JPMorgan Chase.

The city also has a growing startup scene and continues to attract remote workers, particularly in areas like Deep Ellum and Uptown. With no state-level corporate income tax and a relatively low cost of doing business, Dallas continues to draw employers and entrepreneurs. Commuting is primarily car-based, but it’s more manageable and predictable than Los Angeles traffic.

Climate: What to expect with Dallas weather

If you’re coming from Los Angeles, expect a noticeable change in weather patterns. Dallas experiences a true four-season climate, with far greater temperature fluctuations and significantly more humidity. Summers are long, hot, and humid, with daytime highs often reaching 100°F or more between June and September. Heat indexes can climb even higher, so reliable air conditioning and a solid energy plan are essential for both comfort and cost control.

Winters, on the other hand, are generally mild. Daytime highs typically range from the mid-50s to mid-60s, but cold fronts can quickly drop temperatures into the 30s or below. Ice storms, while infrequent, can disrupt travel, power, and services for several days at a time. Dallas doesn’t get regular snowfall, but freezing rain and sleet are more common.

Severe weather is also a regular part of life in North Texas. Spring and early summer bring frequent thunderstorms, which may include high winds, large hail, and occasional tornado activity. While most storms are short-lived, they can be intense and unpredictable.

The upside is that Dallas has more seasonal variation than LA. Fall brings cooler air and vibrant foliage, while spring delivers pleasant temperatures and blooming wildflowers. Although you’ll trade coastal breezes for inland winds and humidity, you’ll gain more defined seasons and a wider variety of outdoor experiences.

Importantly, Dallas is not prone to earthquakes, which offers a sense of stability that Californians may not be used to. While the weather requires some adjustment, it also adds richness and rhythm to the year. With proper planning, the climate shift can become one of the more enjoyable parts of the move.

Cost of living comparison: LA vs. Dallas

Homeownership costs

Texas has higher property taxes, but the absence of a state income tax helps even the scale. Qualifying for a mortgage in Dallas is typically easier thanks to lower property values. New construction is also more readily available in the suburbs.

Renting costs

Renters in Dallas benefit from newer apartment complexes with more amenities. Monthly costs are significantly lower, and many buildings offer flexible lease terms. Rent‑to‑income ratios are notably better in Dallas. Most renters spend under 30% of their income on housing, whereas in Los Angeles it is common for renters to allocate 40 to 50%, or more, of their earnings toward rent.

Neighborhood comparisons: Find your Dallas match

Dallas is home to a wide range of neighborhoods. Here’s how some of them compare to well-known LA areas.

Uptown Dallas – walkable, modern, and highly social

• Walkability: High (Walk Score ~85)
• LA equivalent: West Hollywood or parts of Downtown LA
• Lifestyle: Young professionals, luxury apartments, trendy bars and gyms
• Best for: People who value nightlife, social interaction, and convenience

Bishop Arts District – creative and community-driven

• Walkability: Very good in a compact, charming layout
• LA equivalent: Echo Park or Silver Lake
• Lifestyle: Independent shops, murals, coffeehouses, local music
• Best for: Artists, creatives, and people seeking culture and connection

Lakewood – residential with natural beauty

• Walkability: Moderate, anchored by White Rock Lake
• LA equivalent: Los Feliz or Studio City
• Lifestyle: Mature trees, traditional homes, outdoor activities
• Best for: Families and professionals who prioritize peace and access to nature

Plano – suburban, spacious, and family-focused

• Walkability: Lower, but very high livability
• LA equivalent: Woodland Hills or Pasadena
• Lifestyle: Master-planned communities, top schools, corporate campuses
• Best for: Families wanting more space and a suburban lifestyle

What Dallas offers that LA doesn’t

Dallas provides several benefits that are harder to find in Los Angeles:

• Large-scale events such as the State Fair of Texas and rodeos
• Abundant land, lakes, and trails for recreation
• Strong sports culture, with professional teams across all major leagues
• Lower housing density, larger properties, and more modern developments
• Better highway systems and faster commutes

Setting up your new home in Dallas

Once you’ve secured your new address, it’s time to handle the essentials. From utilities to vehicle registration, getting settled in Dallas requires a few key steps. Fortunately, most of the setup is straightforward, and with a little planning, you can avoid common pitfalls.

• Electricity: Texas has a deregulated energy market, meaning you choose your provider. Be wary of plans with usage tiers, time-of-use gimmicks, or unclear terms. Look for fixed-rate plans with transparent pricing and no unnecessary fees.
• Water and trash services: Usually managed by your city or HOA.
• DMV: You must update your license and vehicle registration within 30 days of establishing residency.
• Voter registration: Can be completed during your license update.
• Pro tip: If you’re moving during the summer, start early in the day to avoid peak heat and maximize moving efficiency.

Getting these logistics out of the way early lets you focus on settling into your new routine and gives you a chance to explore everything Dallas has to offer.

Save on electricity plans with BKV Energy

Relocating is the perfect opportunity to evaluate your electricity provider. At BKV Energy, we offer fixed-rate electricity plans with no base charges, no minimum usage penalties, and no fine print.

Our Bluebonnet plan is designed for simplicity, savings, and reliability. Whether you’re moving into a Dallas high-rise or settling in the suburbs, we provide energy service you can count on. Enter your zip code below to look at available plans and rates today.

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