I agree much of Texas is nothing like Nor Cal, but I think Austin is (at least the Marin County/Berkley area I grew up in): About the same amount of rainfall (33 inches), an eclectic mix of hippies, high tech, and students, lots of trees and green and lakes and rivers, and a genuine social awareness and character.
Put that together with warm weather, low cost of living, and happy people, and you have Austin!
