Moving to Texas: Your Ultimate Relocation Guide to the Lone Star State
Texas is known for it’s big open spaces, cowboy vibes, and a larger-than-life attitude towards everything, but there’s so much more to the Lone Star State when you move here.
Texas offers a unique combo of opportunity for all, cultural diversity with a Mexican influence, and an unmatched quality of life down South.
From cities like Austin with emerging tech hubs to Dallas’s fashion district, to the wide-open spaces of West Texas, the state provides something for everyone!
Read on as we’ll explore everything you need to know about moving to Texas, from housing and cost of living to the best things to do. The Lone Star state awaits your arrival, now just don’t order the large soda or you won’t know what you’re in for.
Why Move to Texas? Let’s Begin
Texas has quickly become a popular destination for people relocating from all over the United States, and even abroad. Here are some of the top reasons written by a local why moving to Texas could be a great choice for you and your family:
1. Job Opportunities and Economic Growth
Texas has earned a reputation as a business-friendly state with it’s economy growing at a faster rate than many other state in the US. With no state income tax and a low cost of doing business, Texas attracts both large companies looking to save big and small startups.
You will find the top of the line companies in technology, healthcare, energy, aerospace, and finance. Major cities like Austin are known for their tech focus, while Dallas is known for business and finance opportunities. Houston, last and not least is known for it’s growing energy sector.
2. Affordable Cost of Living For All
One of the biggest draws of Texas is its affordable cost of living. While cities like Austin and Dallas have seen increases in housing costs in recent years, Texas overall remains more affordable than many other states, particularly those on the coasts.
Whether you’re renting or buying a home, you’ll likely find more space for your money in Texas compared to other states. Additionally, Texas has no state income tax, which means more of your income stays in your pocket.
3. Diversity is Real
Texas is a cultural melting pot, with strong influences from Mexico, the American South, and beyond. This cultural diversity is highly felt in the state’s food, festivals, music, and daily life. The signs along the streets are usually in at least two languages to accomodate for all.
From the Tex-Mex delicious foods and BBQ culture to country music and art galleries, Texas offers a real cultural experience wheere thigns are simply larger than life. The state is also known for its down South hospitality, with locals described as friendly, proud, and very welcoming. Get excited!
6. Perfect Weather For Those Who Hate Cold
Texas is known for its warm weather, especially in the south and central parts of the state. The winters aree mild and hardly felt, with temperatures rarely dipping below freezing in cities like Houston, San Antonio, and Dallas.
Summers are very hot, especially in the more southern parts of the state, which is perfect for year-round outdoor fin, like hiking, biking, and outdoor festivals. Pool days are plenty in sunny Texas.
Best Cities to Move to in Texas: A Biased Outlook
Choosing the right city for your move to Texas depends on your personal desires and needs. Here’s a quick look at some of the best cities in Texas according to my favorites:
1. Austin
What could be better than a place known as the Live Music Capital of the World,” Austin is a rapidly growing city with a laid-back vibe, tech-heavyinfluence, and a fun cultural and nightlife scene. The city is home to the University of Texas, a major hub for tech and innovation.
Austin has an incredible music and arts scene and hosts some pretty great festivals all year round. Famous for its food, particularly tacos and BBQ, Austin is one of the fastest-growing cities in the country. Housing here can be a tad more expensive due to this growth.
2. Dallas
Dallas is one of the largest cities in Texas, and offers great job opportunities in industries like finance, technology, healthcare, and comm.
You will find it all in Dallas, from trendy downtown lofts to suburban family-friendly areas. Dallas also has excellent restaurants with many Michlein star favorites,, shopping for all budgets, and entertainment options, making it a great choice for those who enjoy city life and the hustle and bustle.
3. Houston
As the largest city in Texas and the fourth-largest in the U.S., Houston is a global hub. The city is incredibly diverse, offering a mix of cultural vibes, excellent restaurants of all types, and world-class museums.
Houston’s cost of living is lower than average making it an attractive option for families. Houston is known for it’s pub scene with great home brewed beers.
4. Fort Worth
Fort Worth is often considered the “other half” of the Dallas-Fort and is usually known for it’s name due to the airport. Known as well for its cowboy culture, Fort Worth is perfect for those who want a blend of big-city convience and small-town charm.
The city is growing and offers affordable housing as well as a low cost of living. Fort Worth is a great choice for those who want to experience Texas at a fraction of the price, while still being close to Dallas for work and fun.
Cost of Relocation To Texas
Let’s get our Lone Star attitude on and get you off to hit the road. Cross-country moving will cost you a pretty penny, but the savings of living in texas will outweigh these inital upfront payments. Pricing Van Lines has your back every step of the way and we will handle all the paperwork
Wrapping Up
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of year to move to Texas?
The best time to move to Texas is in the spring or fall, when temperatures are not too hot, and the weather is more comfortable for moving.
Summers in Texas are usually extremely hot, especially in the southern and central parts of the state, so it’s best to avoid moving during the peak of summer if possible. As well many families prefer to move in the summer for school so moving beforehand will help you save big.
How can I build my own inventory list pre-move?
Pick up a pen and paper (or your phone) and just start listing things. Start with the big items and work your way through to the small household items in every room.
Keep a tally and write everything down along with photo evidence. Count the number of beds, bed frames, tvs, and so on so that you can hold your mover accountable and know what you have to work with.
What’s the best way to clean out my old home before moving?
First things first, you’ll need all the items out and packed up. Don’t even try cleaning room by room as you pack or you’ll end up exhausting yourself and cleaning the same place multiple times. Things get dirty from boxes and tape.
Embrace it and once fully packed up, stack your cartons in a central place that allows you to Dyson and mop all the floors. Wipe down common surfaces such as countertops and the insides of drawers. You can always hire a cleaning crew post-move if you don’t have time and energy.
Do I need a car in Texas?
Yes to make life simple. While public transportation exists in larger cities, it’s generally limited compared to other major metro areas. Texas is a car-dependent state, and having a private car is often a need, especially if you plan to live outside major cities.
What is the weather like in Texas?
Texas is known for its hot summers, especially inthe south of the state. Winter temperatures vary, with northern Texas experiencing colder temperatures and occasional snow. Overall winters are quite mild but sometimes you will experience the occasional hurricane in the Gulf.