If you're a California family thinking about relocating to Celina, Texas, you're in good company. As housing prices and cost of living continue to rise in California, more families are trading in crowded cities and tight lots for the space, affordability, and family-oriented lifestyle found in North Texas—especially in fast-growing communities like Celina.
Celina offers a blend of small-town charm, strong schools, and new home construction in master-planned neighborhoods. If you're considering making the move, this guide will give you everything you need to know before making Celina your new home.
Why California Families Are Choosing Celina
Celina is one of the fastest-growing cities in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. Located just north of Frisco and Prosper, Celina offers a mix of luxury homes, family-friendly communities, and new construction opportunities—all with significantly lower home prices and taxes than what most California buyers are used to.
What makes Celina attractive:
Spacious homes at a fraction of California pricing
Excellent public schools in Prosper ISD and Celina ISD
Master-planned communities with resort-style amenities
No state income tax
Family-focused lifestyle with access to major job hubs like Frisco, Plano, and Dallas
Want to start browsing available homes? Visit Celina, TX Homes for Sale
Cost of Living Comparison: Celina vs. California
Moving from California to Celina can mean significant financial relief. According to public data from BestPlaces.net, overall cost of living in Celina is 30%–40% lower than in many California cities. Housing alone is 50%–60% less in most cases.
For example:
A 4-bedroom, 3-bath new construction home in Celina may cost between $450,000–$750,000
The same home in San Jose or Orange County could easily run $1.2 million or more
You’ll also benefit from no state income tax in Texas, and much lower utility, insurance, and gas costs.
Want a personalized breakdown of monthly costs, including property taxes and HOA dues? Contact Nitin at nitinguptadfw.com/contact
Top Neighborhoods in Celina for Relocation Buyers
Celina’s new growth is centered around master-planned communities, each with its own unique feel, builder selection, and amenities.
Some of the most popular communities for relocating families include:
Light Farms
Zoned to Prosper ISD, Light Farms offers community pools, trails, playgrounds, tennis courts, and on-site elementary schools. Homes range from the high $400s to $1M+.
Mustang Lakes
One of Celina’s most luxurious communities, Mustang Lakes features a private lake, resort-style pool, fitness center, and walking trails. Also zoned to Prosper ISD.
Cambridge Crossing
A gated community with lakes, trails, and new homes by respected builders. Zoned to Celina ISD and perfect for buyers looking for newer construction with modern amenities.
Green Meadows
Offers a more affordable price point without sacrificing features. Includes parks, trails, and community events—ideal for families relocating on a tighter budget.
To explore homes in each of these neighborhoods, check out Celina Neighborhood Listings
School Districts: Prosper ISD vs. Celina ISD
School zoning is a top priority for many relocating families. Celina is split between two public school districts:
Prosper ISD: Highly rated, growing rapidly, known for academic excellence, sports, and newer school campuses.
Celina ISD: Smaller district with strong community support, modern facilities, and competitive programs.
To compare schools in more detail, visit GreatSchools.org.
Not sure which district your prospective home falls into? Nitin Gupta will help you navigate zoning maps and future school boundary changes.
'What to Expect in the Homebuying Process
Many relocating buyers choose new construction for the convenience, customization, and builder warranties. But buying a home in Texas is different from California, and working with a local, experienced agent is essential.
Nitin Gupta helps California families:
Tour homes virtually and in person
Compare builders, neighborhoods, and school zones
Understand Texas contracts, option periods, and closing timelines
Negotiate builder incentives and upgrades
Manage inspections and walkthroughs while you’re still out of state
Want to learn more about buying new construction? Visit New Construction Homes in Celina
Taxes, HOAs, and the Fine Print
Texas doesn’t have state income tax—but property taxes are higher than what some Californians are used to. Celina communities often fall into tax rates between 2.2% and 2.8%, depending on the MUD, PID, and school district.
Homeowners Association (HOA) fees typically range from $400–$1,200/year, depending on the amenities offered in your neighborhood.
Nitin Gupta will break down the total monthly cost of ownership—including mortgage, taxes, HOA, insurance, and utilities—so you can move forward with confidence.
Work with a Local Relocation Specialist
Relocating across the country is more than just a move—it’s a life shift. When you work with Nitin Gupta, Broker Associate, REALTOR®, you get a relocation expert who has helped many California families make a seamless transition to North Texas.
Here’s what clients love about working with Nitin:
Clear, consistent communication
Virtual showings and weekly progress updates
Detailed knowledge of builders and local market trends
Experience negotiating upgrades and builder incentives
Trusted vendors, lenders, inspectors, and moving resources
Thinking About Relocating to Celina?
You don’t need to navigate it alone. Whether you’re in the early research phase or ready to tour homes, Nitin Gupta is here to guide you through every step of the relocation process—honestly, thoroughly, and with your family’s needs in mind.
Explore current homes for sale in Celina:Celina, TX Listings
Schedule a relocation consultation:Get in Touch with Nitin
Call us at 469-269-6541 for more information about Celina real estate!
FIND A LUXURY HOME IN CELINA, TEXAS WITH NITIN GUPTA, BROKER ASSOCIATE, REALTOR®.
When purchasing a luxury home in Celina, Texas, it’s essential to consider factors such as location, architectural style, security, and amenities to ensure the home meets both lifestyle and investment needs. By selecting a property in a prestigious neighborhood with numerous amenities and security measures, buyers can ensure they’re making a valuable and rewarding investment in the vibrant Celina market.
For those looking to invest in luxury homes in Celina, Texas, Nitin Gupta is an expert real estate professional ready to assist. Known for his extensive experience, market insights, and numerous awards, he is committed to finding his clients the best properties in the area.
Contact Nitin Gupta at 469-269-6541 or send a message today to explore exclusive listings and secure your ideal luxury residence in one of Celina elite communities.
