Planning a Move from Maryland to Texas
Relocating from Maryland to Texas is a significant transition that comes with exciting opportunities, cultural shifts, and practical adjustments. This article will guide you through the key aspects of this move, from lifestyle and climate to economic advantages and settling into your new Texas community.
Shared Coastal Culture and Historical Significance
Both Maryland and Texas boast coastal areas rich in culture and lifestyle. Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay is iconic for its maritime traditions and delicious blue crabs. Similarly, Texas’ Gulf Coast, including Galveston, offers a vibrant beach culture and fresh seafood, including Gulf shrimp and oysters.
Maryland is also home to historical sites such as Fort McHenry, the birthplace of the U.S. national anthem, while Texas’ Alamo represents a pivotal moment in American history. Both states celebrate their heritage through museums, festivals, and preserved landmarks.
Maryland | Texas | |
State Nickname | Old Line State | Lone Star State |
Population (2023) | ~6.2 million | ~30 million |
Capital City | Annapolis | Austin |
Largest City | Baltimore | Houston |
Size (Area) | 12,407 sq. miles | 268,596 sq. miles |
Economy (GDP) | ~$460 billion | ~$2.4 trillion |
Famous for | Crabs, Chesapeake Bay, naval history | BBQ, live music, and rodeos |
What You Leave Behind in Maryland
High Cost of Living
Maryland’s proximity to Washington, D.C., inflates housing, groceries, and general living expenses. Moving to Texas offers immediate savings in these areas.
Colder Weather
Texas’ warm, sunny climate contrasts sharply with Maryland’s very cold winters and humid summers. While Texas summers can be hot, air conditioning and energy-efficient homes make adaptation manageable.
Political Tensions
Living near the nation’s capital often means dealing with heightened political discourse. Texas, with its independent spirit, offers a more laid-back political atmosphere.
High Housing Costs
The average home price in Maryland significantly exceeds that of Texas, making homeownership more attainable in the Lone Star State.
State Income Tax
Texas has no state income tax, a stark contrast to Maryland’s rates of up to 5.75%. This means more take-home pay and significant savings for Texas residents.
Crime Rates
Baltimore’s crime rates overshadow many Texan cities, which have lower violent crime statistics and safer neighborhoods.
Crowded Public Transportation
Maryland’s reliance on public transit like the MARC train and metro systems often results in overcrowding. In Texas, you’ll likely rely on personal vehicles, which can be a more comfortable and flexible option.
Lifestyle
The Texan lifestyle emphasizes outdoor activities, barbecues, and a strong sense of community. Maryland has a fast-paced, urban vibe.
Culture
From Tex-Mex cuisine to rodeos, Texas’ cultural offerings provide a fresh and exciting change from Maryland’s traditional East Coast ambiance.
Economic Opportunities and the Job Market
Texas’ economy thrives in industries like energy, technology, and healthcare. Cities such as Austin, Houston, and Dallas offer ample job prospects in these fields. Maryland’s job market, while robust, leans heavily on federal employment, which can feel limiting compared to Texas’ diverse opportunities.
Deregulated Energy Markets
Both Maryland and Texas have deregulated energy markets, allowing residents to choose their electricity providers. However, Texas’ market is larger and more competitive, often resulting in lower energy costs and more renewable options.
Lower Cost of Living in Texas
Minimum wage
Maryland: $13.25/hour (2024).
Texas: $7.25/hour. While the minimum wage is lower, the overall cost of living offsets this difference.
Median household income
Maryland: $91,431.
Texas: $68,093. Despite lower median incomes, Texas’ affordability ensures better purchasing power.
Median home price
Maryland: $419,000.
Texas: $309,000. Housing affordability in Texas makes homeownership more accessible.
Average apartment rent (2-bedroom):
Maryland: $1,700/month.
Texas: $1,200/month.
Child care costs
Maryland: $1,278/month.
Texas: $913/month.
Cost of 1 gallon of milk
Maryland: $4.50/gallon.
Texas: $3.60/gallon.
Cost of 1 gallon of gasoline
Maryland: $3.80/gallon.
Texas: $3.20/gallon.
Electricity Bills
Maryland: $139/month.
Texas: $122/month.
Other Benefits of Living in Texas
Education
Schools in Texas offer diverse programs, with a slightly higher student-to-teacher ratio compared to Maryland. And when it comes to high school graduation rates, Texas’ 90% edges out Maryland’s 88.4%.
Crime Rates
Texas has numerous cities ranked safer than Baltimore – including Frisco, McKinney, and Plano.
Transportation
Texas’ major airports (DFW, IAH) provide easy travel, while driving is the primary mode of transport.
Energy Costs
Electricity in Texas averages 12.5 cents/kWh, lower than Maryland’s 13.3 cents/kWh. Texans benefit from renewable energy options like wind and solar.
A City-by-City Comparison
Maryland:
Baltimore: Population 585,000; High cost of living.
Annapolis: Quaint but expensive.
Rockville: Suburban with urban amenities.
Frederick: Historic with rising costs.
Columbia: Family-friendly but pricey.
Texas:
Austin: Population 964,000; Vibrant tech hub.
Houston: Population 2.3 million; Affordable with job opportunities.
Dallas: Population 1.4 million; Diverse industries.
San Antonio: Population 1.5 million; Rich in culture.
Fort Worth: Population 935,000; Affordable and growing.
Before You Move: A Checklist
Research Housing
Explore Texas’ housing markets in areas like Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio. Leverage the lower prices to upgrade from Maryland’s cramped apartments to spacious homes.
Plan Utilities
Look at the many different energy providers in Texas’ deregulated market for cost-effective and renewable options.
Vehicle Transition
Be sure to update your driver’s license within 90 days of moving, and register your vehicle in Texas.
Declutter and Pack
Moving into larger Texas homes may inspire you to downsize your possessions for a fresh start.
Hire Movers
The average cost to relocate from Maryland to Texas is around $5,000, depending on the volume of goods and distance.
When You Get to Texas, Let’s Talk Energy!
Moving from Maryland to Texas will open up new opportunities for you to choose an electricity provider. Compare rates and plans by doing some research online, and be sure to check out the affordable, 100% renewable energy from Rhythm Energy. To find out what’s available in your area, visit gotrhythm.com and enter your zip code.
