If you're living in California and wondering if your housing budget could stretch further somewhere else, you're not alone. More and more families are asking, What could we afford if we moved to a different state?
To answer that question, we compared actual homes for sale in California and Tennessee across four price points: $400K, $650K, $900K, and $1.25M. The goal? To show you the real difference in what your money can buy, because the contrast is bigger than you might expect.
We pulled listings from well-known cities in each state:
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California: Reseda, Chatsworth, San Diego, Huntington Beach
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Tennessee: Spring Hill, Mt. Juliet, Franklin, Brentwood
Across the board, Tennessee offered newer homes, more land, and lower monthly expenses, without sacrificing style or quality of life.
🏠 $400,000: Condo Living vs. Full Backyard
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Reseda, CA: $400K typically gets you a small condo or townhouse with shared walls and limited privacy. HOA fees are common, and outdoor space is often minimal.
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Spring Hill, TN: The same price in Spring Hill could buy a 3-bedroom single-family home with a private backyard, garage, and no shared walls.
✅ Tennessee wins for space, privacy, and value.
🏠 $650,000: Needs Work vs. Move-In Ready
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Chatsworth, CA: At this price, expect an older home under 1,500 square feet. These homes may be charming but often need significant updates. Lot sizes are small and maintenance costs can be high.
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Mt. Juliet, TN: $650K can get you a spacious, modern home with an open floor plan, newer finishes, and a large fenced yard. Ideal for families or entertaining.
✅ Tennessee wins for newer homes and livability.
🏠 $900,000: Cozy with Character vs. Room to Grow
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San Diego, CA: You might find a cute, walkable home, but most houses at this price are older, small, and may need upgrades. Parking and yard space are usually limited.
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Franklin, TN: For the same amount, you can buy a luxury home with over 3,000 square feet, a spacious yard, updated finishes, and access to highly rated schools.
✅ Tennessee wins for comfort, schools, and long-term value.
🏠 $1.25 Million: Beach Proximity vs. Lifestyle Upgrade
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Huntington Beach, CA: You’ll likely find a 3-bed, 2-bath home on a small lot. The weather and location are desirable, but high taxes, insurance costs, and maintenance add up fast.
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Brentwood, TN: In Brentwood, $1.25M buys you a custom home over 4,000 square feet with land, upgraded finishes, and flexible living spaces like offices, gyms, or guest suites.
✅ Tennessee wins for luxury, land, and lifestyle freedom.
💵 The Cost of Living Difference
The value isn’t just in the purchase price. It’s also in what you spend every month.
Tennessee has no state income tax, while California’s top marginal rate climbs as high as 13.3%. You'll also save on property taxes, gas, utilities, groceries, and insurance in Tennessee. Those monthly savings can significantly impact your financial freedom and peace of mind.
📦 Why So Many Are Leaving California
In 2024, over 338,000 people left California. While new immigration has helped keep population numbers stable, longtime homeowners and families are increasingly relocating to states like Tennessee, Texas, and Arizona. It's not just about affordability; it's about seeking more space, lower taxes, and a higher quality of life.
Tennessee stands out because of:
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Lower cost of living
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No income tax
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Spacious suburban communities
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Strong job growth and infrastructure
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Friendly culture and a slower pace of life
💬 Thinking About Making a Move?
We’ve helped dozens of families explore what life could look like outside California. For most, it’s not about starting over. It’s about finally living the way they’ve always imagined: more space, less pressure, and a home that truly fits their needs.
If you’re curious what your California equity could buy in Tennessee, we’d love to help you compare homes, neighborhoods, and opportunities that align with your goals.
📲 Schedule a free 30-minute discovery call to talk through your options. No pressure. Just honest answers from someone who’s made the move and helps others do the same.
👉 https://calendly.com/masonsignaturehomes/30min
Whether you’re just starting to explore or ready to take the next step, we’re here to guide you one conversation at a time.
