To be near family and friends, school districts, cost of living, to spend more time with the babies. 

So far, when I look at a property I tend to look at: what did other properties in the area sell for, how are the schools (I.e if I want to attract families), how much does rent typically go for in that area, how much is property taxes in that area,etc.

The top employers are the UC Merced, the County, and the school districts.

Consider reaching out to the Texas Bar Association, local law schools, or your network for attorney recommendations.

This home is in a great area within walking distance to an elementary school, a middle school, (both great schools) Whole foods, and the list goes on!

What are your plans after grad school? 

And I live in one of the most sought after school districts in the country.  

If you have had residence in Texas for more than a year and sign up in Texas, you and your kids get free tuition at any Texas state school.  2.  

I also have a SFH in an Indianapolis suburb with great schools (long story but I left California for many years moved to Indiana them moved back to CA).

Very close to Walled Lake schools.