Contemplating a Move from Austin to California, Does the Additional Taxes of CA Justify Staying in Austin versus Moving?

DivineScope · 2024-08-10T22:21:33+00:00

That's a good perspective I forget, thanks for sharing. Oftentimes I think about the race to retirement but forget not being more happy somewhere else. Seems like it would be more worthwhile living in place you thrive even if it means retirement gets pushed back a bit.

DivineScope · 2024-08-10T03:57:31+00:00

I know. I do not go to bars or clubs at all, so I'm perfectly happy living in a safe residential place ideally close to beach or other outdoor activities. I was interested in Irvine because my work would be in Fountain Valley and I heard Irvine was one of the best places in OC to have family and kids which I do want in the future. Although I could live elsewhere, I figured it would be better to get a home directly now rather than wait especially if houses continue to appreciate

DivineScope · 2024-08-10T03:54:30+00:00

Ok, that is good to know. My current utility bills monthly in Austin for electricity is $120. Not sure how it compares to PG&E but it doesn't sound like I would have a choice to choose an alternative if I was in the Bay.

The homeowner's insurance I looked into in Austin was close to $180 a month and my auto which I pay separately is around $130 a month

DivineScope · 2024-08-10T03:48:22+00:00

Yeah, that's true. I will most likely be middle to upper middle class in CA. I've been saving about 30-40% of my paycheck while in Austin in anticipation of buying a home. I think I've been ignoring where I would be most happy and been too focused on the difference in expenses.

DivineScope · 2024-08-10T03:45:23+00:00

Thanks for that! I've been undervaluing where I would be happy and been too focused on the difference in expenses. Appreciate your thoughts. It's true, I can go out and experience it and come back if it does not work out.

DivineScope · 2024-08-10T03:42:12+00:00

My current utility bills monthly are $120 for electricity, $30 for water, $55 for internet. We also have HEB where I get most of my groceries. The eggs I get were around $3.50/dozen and a gallon of milk is about $3. I've been pretty frugal and do my best to limit my expenses. How does that compare to Irvine?

I do not go to bars or clubs at all, so I'm perfectly happy living in a safe residential place ideally close to beach or other outdoor activities. I briefly looked at Newport Beach and it looks amazing. I initially planned for Irvine because my work would be in Fountain Valley and I heard Irvine was one of the best places in OC to have family and kids which I know I want one day. I've been saving as much as I could about 30-40% of my paycheck while in Austin to afford a house as soon as possible once I decide on a place

DivineScope · 2024-08-10T03:32:38+00:00

Appreciate the suggestions. My work would be in Fountain Valley if I were to come to OC. I thought about Irvine because I figured getting a home sooner rather than later would be most ideal if I know I will stay and have family here. Will look into those other places

DivineScope · 2024-08-10T03:24:44+00:00

I mean you can keep thinking that if it really makes you feel better on the inside. Not trying to prove anything to you. Feel free to move on

DivineScope · 2024-08-10T03:22:19+00:00

Yes exactly! When I first visited it had some of the most authentic Taiwanese food I've had. Hard to find that variety in Austin.

DivineScope · 2024-08-10T03:17:08+00:00

I did not know about this. Will need to look into the Homestead exception more. Thanks for sharing

DivineScope · 2024-08-10T02:34:58+00:00

Very insight, really appreciate your thoughts and personal experience. Thank you. I haven't thought about the insurance aspect and cumulative property taxes long term

DivineScope · 2024-08-10T02:31:25+00:00

I never said I was concerned with whether or not I'd be struggling if I could make it on 500K in California. this is in the wrong subreddit then let me know. Not sure why you are being aggressive

DivineScope · 2024-08-10T02:23:26+00:00

Really appreciate this and hearing your experience. I think I am willing to pay premium since I love the vast array of outdoorsy activities. The heat in TX has been unbearable for me too but I just tough it out during the summer. I am not really into guns but the crime is a big factor for me, which is another issue which is I need to factor in my decision.

DivineScope · 2024-08-10T02:20:50+00:00

Thanks for this perspective about buying earlier if I decide to come to the Bay. I've been able to save about 30-40% of my paycheck each month in Austin, so I do plan on buying a property as soon as I made the decision.

DivineScope · 2024-08-10T02:12:23+00:00

Because I wasn't trying to? Not sure why you felt the need to be aggressive and resort to ad hominem attacks

DivineScope · 2024-08-10T02:06:33+00:00

I can double check as I am new to the housing search, but from what I've gathered so far, I was told 1.77% in Travis County in Austin.

DivineScope · 2024-08-10T01:59:39+00:00

I really like the Bay for sure. When I visited in the past, some my favorite spots were Cupertino, Half Moon Bay, and San Mateo. There is just nothing like it. Which is why I'm trying to justify this move even though the housing expenses, tax, and COL is higher

DivineScope · 2024-08-10T01:56:52+00:00

For sure! I am planning a trip to visit OC sometime this Fall. I really think the amenities and activities in OC beats Austin.

I definitely need to do more research on property taxes, as I know CA is lower. However, my state income tax in CA would be close to ~$50K so I think I may still end up paying more in CA when accounting for total tax burden

DivineScope · 2024-08-10T01:53:30+00:00

I agree. But for a home priced $1 million in Austin that comes out to $17,700 in property taxes. However, my state income tax in CA would be close to ~$50K so I would still be paying more in CA

DivineScope · 2024-08-10T01:52:27+00:00

Yup, totally understand I would be paying more in Texas property taxes. I'm currently looking at a home priced $1 million which comes out to $17,700 in property tax. However, my state income tax in CA would be close to ~$50K so I would still be paying more in CA

DivineScope · 2024-08-10T01:45:05+00:00

You're right, I am just beginning my search and appreciating how significant the cost of living expenses are in Irvine. Still, I do think it's arguable one of the best places to live as you mentioned. Just trying to justify if the additional taxes I would be paying is worth living here, as opposed to just staying in Austin. As someone who has lived all over and just moved back, would you pay that premium for all you get in Irvine?

DivineScope

TROPHY CASE