Are Luxury Buyers Still Moving to Southlake from California and Other States in 2026?

If you’ve been watching headlines, you’ve probably wondered: Is the relocation wave to Texas slowing down?

It’s a fair question — especially for luxury buyers coming from California, Illinois, New York, or Washington. But here’s what I’m seeing on the ground in 2026:

Yes — executives, entrepreneurs, and high-net-worth families are still choosing Southlake and Westlake. And they’re being very strategic about it.

They’re not just chasing lower taxes. They’re looking for lifestyle alignment, long-term value, and community.

Let’s break down why.

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The Tax Conversation: Property Taxes vs. State Income Tax

One of the first questions I get from California buyers is:
“Are Texas property taxes really worth it?”

Here’s the reality.

Texas has no state income tax. For high-income earners — especially business owners, executives, and equity-comped professionals — that matters. In many cases, the annual state income tax savings can significantly offset higher property taxes.

Luxury buyers relocating from:

• California

• Illinois

• New York

• New Jersey

…are often used to high state income tax and substantial property tax.

What they’re evaluating now is long-term net benefit. For many households earning $750K–$2M+ annually, Texas still offers meaningful financial advantages, particularly when combined with:

• Lower corporate tax environment

• Business-friendly regulations

• Estate planning considerations

• Larger properties for comparable or lower purchase prices

But the decision isn’t purely financial.

Luxury buyers today are lifestyle-driven.

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Schools Still Matter — Even at the Luxury Level

Even buyers in the $2M–$5M range care deeply about school zoning — whether they have school-aged children or not.

In Southlake, families are drawn to Carroll Independent School District, known for academic performance and a strong community culture.

In Trophy Club and surrounding areas, many buyers look at Northwest Independent School District, particularly Byron Nelson High School.

Westlake offers a unique appeal with Westlake Academy, an International Baccalaureate charter school that attracts globally-minded families.

For many executives relocating from California private school systems, the value proposition is compelling:

• Strong public or charter options

• Safe, community-oriented campuses

• Competitive athletics and extracurriculars

• Tight-knit parent networks

Schools aren’t just about education — they’re about community integration.

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Commute Times and Airport Access

For executives, proximity to Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport is a major driver.

One of the strongest advantages Southlake and Westlake offer:

• 10–20 minutes to DFW Airport

• Access to major corporate headquarters

• Manageable commute into Dallas or Fort Worth

• Proximity to Las Colinas, Alliance, and other business hubs

Compared to Los Angeles or the Bay Area, many relocation clients are genuinely surprised by commute efficiency here.

They can:

• Live on a half-acre or larger lot

• Have a private office

• Maintain travel-heavy careers

• Still be home for dinner

That balance is powerful.

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Community Culture: The Intangible Factor

Luxury buyers in 2026 are more intentional about where they live.

They’re asking:

• “Will this feel like home?”

• “Is it family-friendly?”

• “Are there other entrepreneurial families here?”

• “Is this a golf-cart community?”

Southlake offers a walkable, polished environment around Southlake Town Square, with strong neighborhood identity in communities like Timarron and Carillon.

Westlake delivers privacy, estate-style living, and gated communities like Vaquero — ideal for those wanting discretion and space.

Trophy Club blends golf-course living with a laid-back, family-first atmosphere.

For many California buyers, this feels like:

• Suburban luxury without losing sophistication

• Community involvement without congestion

• Upscale living without constant density

It’s not about replicating California — it’s about upgrading quality of life.

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What Has Changed in 2026?

Relocation hasn’t stopped — but buyers are more selective.

They are:

• Negotiating more intentionally

• Comparing multiple DFW suburbs

• Analyzing long-term appreciation potential

• Looking for move-in-ready, updated properties

The frenzy of 2021–2022 has normalized, but demand in Southlake and Westlake remains strong in the luxury tier because:

• Inventory is controlled

• Lot sizes are desirable

• School districts remain stable

• Proximity to DFW Airport is unmatched

In other words, these markets have structural advantages — not just hype-driven growth.

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So… Are Luxury Buyers Still Moving Here?

Yes.

But they’re moving with clarity.

Executives from California and other high-tax states are still choosing Southlake and Westlake because they offer:

• Strategic tax positioning

• High-performing schools

• Strong community culture

• Efficient airport access

• Estate-style living

And perhaps most importantly — long-term stability.

In every relocation conversation I have, it comes down to this:

Does this market support the life we want to build for the next 10–15 years?

For many families, the answer continues to be yes.

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If you’re relocating and want a real breakdown of neighborhoods, schools, commute patterns, and price points — I’m happy to walk you through what makes the most sense for your situation.

Every move is personal. And the right strategy makes all the difference.

 

Erin Arnold. Real Luxury 817-798-1001