The above statement is factually inaccurate. You can NOT gain resident status while enrolled in a California school.
https://www.calstate.edu/budget/student-fees/documents/csu-residency-policy.pdf
http://www.ucop.edu/general-counsel/_files/ed-affairs/uc-residence-policy.pdf
I meant he could establish residency before enrolling in the CC in the Spring.
He can establish residency with his mom for CC purposes by then. Take 1-2 years of classes at the CC, and then transfer to a UC .
This is what one of the above links states:
“Generally, establishing California residency for tuition purposes requires a combination of physical presence and intent to remain indefinitely…
A minor normally derives residency from the parent(s) they reside with or most recently resided with.”
“Evidence demonstrating intent may vary from case to case but will include, and is not limited to, the absence of residential ties to any other state, California voter registration and voting in California elections, maintaining California vehicle registration and driver’s license, maintaining active California bank accounts, filing California income tax returns and listing a California address on federal tax returns, owning residential property or occupying or renting an apartment where permanent belongings are kept, maintaining active memberships in California professional or social organizations, and maintaining a permanent military address and home of record in California.”
You and your mother need to research the residency implications in both states of your move in advance of applying to colleges. It is possible that you may lose in state residency in your current state but not gain it in CA. In that case, your college options will be more limited, unless your parents are willing to pay a lot more.
Of course, you want to find out what they will contribute now.
If you have high stats, you may find free ride merit scholarships, but you cannot be top picky on location.
As far as Econ programs, Northridge, SJSU, Cal Poly Pomona, Sonoma and Sacramento State are probably all within reach and are worth a look. UNR, (I know, not in CA but, very close to CA and it will be cheaper than a CSU out of state) is also worth a look.
You might also look at St Mary’s and UOP as private options. With GREAT test scores and a compelling essay, Chapman, LMU and USD could happen. Don’t let the list price throw you off, those schools are sometimes very generous with aid.