From California to Texas: A New Life in Austin

Rick Havacko spent the majority of his life in California, specifically Orange County, but a global shift in work dynamics prompted a major life change. After working remotely for years, he decided to leave the Golden State behind in search of a different pace of life and better affordability.

He ultimately settled in Dripping Springs, a suburb of Austin, Texas. While the move came with challenges—such as leaving behind long-time friends and favorite sports teams—the overall experience has been overwhelmingly positive. He describes the transition as one of the best decisions he has ever made.

Working remotely during the pandemic provided the springboard for Havacko to evaluate where he truly wanted to live. Born and raised in Orange County, he realized he didn't want to spend the rest of his life in Laguna Niguel. Despite its beauty, he found the area outside the city to be congested and prohibitively expensive.

Having been fully remote for Toshiba Business for 13 years, he received approval from his employer to relocate. The choice eventually came down to two cities: Austin, which he had enjoyed visiting previously, and Nashville, a city he had heard great things about.

My decision almost came down to a coin flip. Both areas featured all the benefits of city life with a rural feel.

After traveling to both locations in the summer of 2021, he chose Austin. One practical factor tipped the scales: the presence of his preferred gym, LA Fitness, which made him feel he could hit the ground running immediately upon arrival.

For Havacko, who had only moved as far as San Diego for college, the drive to Texas was his first permanent relocation. The trip was filled with uncertainty; he recalls driving all night and arriving in Tucson, Arizona around 1 a.m., wondering if he would actually like his new home.

However, those doubts vanished as he approached the Texas border. Driving through the Hill Country just before Fredericksburg, he was struck by the landscape. The sight of beautiful sawgrass and oak trees brought a sense of calm that confirmed he had made the right choice.

Upon settling in Dripping Springs, 20 miles west of downtown Austin, he found exactly what he was looking for. The area offered a distinct contrast to his former home.

• Significantly more affordable than Southern California
• Less congestion and traffic
• Immediate access to nature and wildlife
• Proximity to the vibrant Austin city center

The lifestyle change has been profound. Living in Dripping Springs allows Havacko to experience nature in ways that were impossible in Laguna Niguel. Looking out his window, he frequently sees deer, foxes, wild turkeys, and even Longhorn steers wandering past his fence.

Financially, the move has also been a win, though with a specific caveat. While Texas does not require a state income tax return, property taxes are significantly higher. However, the math works out in his favor.

The property he purchased in Texas is roughly twice the size of his previous home in California, yet it cost less. While Austin is considered one of the pricier cities in Texas, and living costs (excluding gas) are comparable to California, the lack of state income tax and lower property prices make it cheaper overall. Fortunately, he kept his same salary when he moved.

Adapting to a new culture has been a rewarding experience. Havacko appreciates the authenticity and friendliness of the locals in Dripping Springs, noting the visual and cultural differences, such as people wearing big belt buckles and cowboy boots.

Downtown Austin provides the energy he craves, described as one of the most vibrant places on the planet with live music at every turn and the influence of the University of Texas at Austin.

However, the transition hasn't been without difficulties. The biggest challenge has been missing his friends back home and his favorite sports teams. A longtime Angels and LA Galaxy fan, he misses attending games in California. To fill the void, he has joined local sports leagues, including volleyball, soccer, and softball, to meet new people. He has also adopted the University of Texas Longhorns as his new team for football and baseball.

After four and a half years in Texas, Rick Havacko has no regrets about leaving California. The combination of affordability, natural beauty, and a welcoming community has solidified his decision. While he maintains a fondness for his home state's beaches and sports culture, the benefits of his new life in the Lone Star State outweigh the nostalgia.

He has fully integrated into the local lifestyle, balancing the quiet of the Hill Country with the excitement of downtown Austin. With a permanent plan to stay, his story serves as a testament to the growing trend of professionals seeking a balanced life in Texas.