Why a California Budget Buys You a Dream Home in Fair Oaks Ranch & Boerne — 2025 Perspective
I drove around California with this license plate.
After almost 40 years in high tech — 30 of them in Silicon Valley — I moved to Fair Oaks Ranch/Boerne, Texas in 2021. Since then, I’ve helped out-of-state families, especially Californians, evaluate whether life here could mean more space, less financial pressure, and a better long-term fit.
This article is for anyone who has ever asked themselves, “What would my housing dollars buy somewhere else?”
The California Squeeze vs. Texas Opportunity
Many people in California feel the strain: high home prices, heavy tax burdens, limited space, and a cost of living that never seems to back off.
A typical $1.2M–$1.8M home budget in many California markets often translates to:
Modest square footage
Small or no usable yard
Tight lots with neighbors close by
High state income taxes
A monthly payment that leaves little breathing room
Now compare that with Fair Oaks Ranch and Boerne, Texas — right outside San Antonio in the Hill Country.
Here, the same budget often means:
A larger, newer home with modern amenities
A real yard — for kids, dogs, gardening, or a pool
Space between you and your neighbor
No state income tax
High-quality schools and tight-knit communities
Easy access to San Antonio’s business, medical, and airport corridors
This isn’t theoretical. It’s what I see firsthand with families who choose to relocate.
What the Same Money Buys: Los Gatos vs Boerne/Fair Oaks Ranch
| Los Gatos, CA (Example) | Fair Oaks Ranch / Boerne, TX (Example) |
|---|---|
| ~$1.6M Purchase Price | ~$1.6M Purchase Price |
| 3 Bed / 2 Bath | 4–5 Bed / 3–4 Bath |
| Approx. 1,650–2,000 sq ft | Approx. 3,200–4,200 sq ft |
| Built 1960s–1980s | Built 2015–Present |
| Lot size ~6,000–9,000 sq ft | Lot size 0.25–0.5+ acre |
| State Income Tax: ~9.3%+ (typical bracket) | State Income Tax: 0% |
| Small yard, tight spacing | Space for pool, pets, playscape |
| Traffic + dense congestion | Quieter Hill Country living |
A visual like this is what makes a buyer stop scrolling and think.
Same dollars — completely different lifestyle outcome.
The Realities People Should Understand Up Front
I believe transparency builds trust:
Property taxes are higher here — but many relocating families still net ahead without CA state income tax.
Summers are hot — shade, insulation and HVAC matter here.
Community culture is real here — people wave, kids play outside, neighbors talk.
Not better or worse — just different.
Different is often the point.
How Relocation Works Smoothly
When I work with out-of-state buyers, we focus on:
Running a budget comparison first
Connecting early with Texas lenders (process differs)
Touring neighborhoods virtually before you fly out
Scheduling efficient in-person tours when you're ready
I lived this move myself. That experience matters.
What Your Budget Could Become
If you're in California and want to know what your dollars buy here — I’ll put together a side-by-side financial breakdown for you. No pressure. No sales pitch. Just information that can change perspective and direction.
Reach out if you want one.
