It used to be that if you wanted to make it big, you packed a U-Haul and aimed for the 405. Not anymore. Honestly, the "California Exodus" isn't just a talking point for local news—it’s a full-blown reality for some of the biggest names on your screen. Texas has become this weirdly perfect magnet for A-listers who are collectively over the traffic, the high taxes, and the constant feeling of being watched.
Whether it’s the rugged hills outside of Austin or the quiet horse ranches in Fort Worth, celebs who live in Texas are finding something they couldn't buy in Beverly Hills: peace. And maybe a better tax bracket. But mostly peace.
The Austin Hub: Podcasts, Comedy, and "Alright, Alright, Alright"
Austin is basically the headquarters for this movement. It’s got that "keep it weird" energy that makes stars feel like they can grab a taco at a food truck without five paparazzi jumping out of a bush.
Matthew McConaughey is the unofficial king of this scene. He didn't just move here; he’s a native who came back to his roots in 2012. He lives in a massive 10,800-square-foot Spanish-Mediterranean mansion in Austin with his wife, Camila Alves, and their kids. You’ll see him at UT football games or just wandering around town. He’s famously said that in Texas, "No one asks you, 'Hey, what do you do?' because I don't think anyone cares." That’s the dream, right?
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Then you’ve got Joe Rogan. His move in 2020 was a massive shift in the cultural landscape. He dropped $14.4 million on a Lake Austin estate and brought the entire Joe Rogan Experience with him. He even opened a comedy club, the Comedy Mothership, right on 6th Street. He basically turned Austin into a new comedy mecca overnight.
Who else is in the 512?
- Jensen and Danneel Ackles: The Supernatural star and his wife have a stunning lake house. They also own Family Business Beer Company in Dripping Springs.
- James Van Der Beek: The Dawson’s Creek alum traded LA for a 36-acre ranch in Spicewood. He’s been very open about how the move helped his family connect with nature, especially during his recent health battles.
- Chris Harrison: The former Bachelor host called Austin "the new Hollywood." He’s been living his best life there since 2020, far away from the rose ceremonies.
North Texas: Supermodels and Horse Power
While Austin gets the trendy headlines, North Texas is quietly pulling in heavy hitters who want a different vibe. We're talking more "cowboy" and less "craft cocktail."
Bella Hadid shocked everyone when she stepped back from the high-fashion runways to live a "ranch life" in Fort Worth. She’s dating professional horseman Adan Banuelos and has actually started competing in cutting-horse events. She’s not just posing with horses; she’s winning buckles. Her mom, Yolanda Hadid, followed suit and bought a place in Weatherford. It’s a total 180 from the Real Housewives drama.
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And don't forget Shaquille O'Neal. Shaq is everywhere in North Texas. He bought a big house in Carrollton a few years back and is constantly spotted at local Best Buys or helping people out at grocery stores. He’s basically a local folk hero at this point.
The Musk Factor and the Coastal Bend
We have to talk about Elon Musk. The guy who is literally trying to go to Mars decided his home base should be Texas. For a long time, he claimed his primary residence was a $50,000 tiny home in Boca Chica, right next to the SpaceX Starbase. It’s a prefab Boxabl unit. Imagine being one of the richest men in history and living in a space smaller than most people’s garages. He’s since moved more operations to Austin, but his presence has turned the Texas tech scene into a juggernaut.
Why are they actually moving?
It’s not just one thing. It’s a cocktail of reasons.
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- Privacy: You can actually have a "normal" life.
- Space: Your dollar goes way further. A "mansion" in LA is a regular house in Texas.
- No State Income Tax: Let’s be real, when you’re making millions, that 13% California tax hurts.
- Community: There’s a "live and let live" attitude that stars find refreshing.
The Trade-offs
It’s not all sunshine and bluebonnets. Some celebs, like comedian Tim Dillon, have poked fun at the "lack of talent" in Austin compared to LA. Plus, the summer heat in Texas is no joke. 105 degrees for 40 days straight can make even the most dedicated Texan miss a coastal breeze.
Actionable Insights: How to Spot (and Respect) Celebs in Texas
If you’re living in or visiting Texas and want to catch a glimpse of your favorite stars, here is the unofficial guide to doing it right:
- Check the local spots: In Austin, places like Mozart’s Coffee or the Barton Creek Greenbelt are hotspots. In Fort Worth, hit the Stockyards.
- Don't be "that" person: The reason celebs who live in Texas stay here is because we don't bother them. If you see McConaughey, a simple "hook 'em" or a nod is usually plenty.
- Look for the business owners: Support the shops they own. From Sandra Bullock’s Walton’s Fancy & Staple to the Ackles' brewery, these are spots where the stars are actually invested in the local economy.
Texas isn't just a pit stop for these celebrities anymore; it's home. The migration has changed the DNA of cities like Austin and Dallas, bringing a bit of Hollywood glitz to the rugged heart of the South.