What to Expect When Moving to Texas from Illinois

What to Expect When Moving to Texas from Illinois

Relocating from Illinois to Texas offers a fresh start in a state known for its vast landscapes, vibrant culture, and economic opportunities. Living in Texas means embracing a lower cost of living, warmer climate, and dynamic opportunities. With this guide, your transition from Illinois to Texas will be both cost-effective and rewarding.

Similarities between Illinois and Texas

While Illinois and Texas differ in many ways, they share some important similarities. Both have major urban centers, with bustling cities like Chicago in Illinois and Houston, Dallas, and Austin in Texas. These urban areas offer diverse job markets, cultural attractions, and vibrant social scenes. They also both have diverse economies: agriculture, manufacturing, energy, and technology are prominent in both states. And both boast incredible sports teams (from the Chicago Cubs to the Dallas Cowboys), top-notch healthcare facilities, and growing suburbs. But there are some advantages to living in the Lone Star State.

Leaving Behind Illinois’s Drawbacks

Harsh Winters

Illinois winters are notorious for their frigid temperatures and heavy snow. In contrast, Texas offers mild winters, with only occasional snow in northern regions.

High Taxes

Illinois has a flat state income tax rate of 4.95%, while Texas has no state income tax at all. And property taxes in Illinois rank among the highest in the nation. Texas also has high property taxes, but offsets them with no income tax.

Urban Density

Chicago transplants may find Texas cities less densely populated, with more space to breathe and larger homes.

Tornado Risk

While tornadoes occur in Texas, they are less common than in Illinois’s Tornado Alley regions.

Food and Festivities

Illinois and Texas both boast strong barbecue traditions, but Texas takes it to another level with its brisket-centric offerings. And the Texas State Fair in Dallas is a grander version of the Illinois State Fair, showcasing larger-than-life attractions including Big Tex, incredible fried food, and impressive livestock exhibitions.

Key Differences in Climate, Lifestyle, and Culture

Climate

Illinois has four distinct seasons, with cold winters and humid summers. Texas has hot summers, mild winters, and significantly more sunny days. Prepare for warm-weather adaptations like wearing lighter fabrics and installing energy-efficient air conditioning.

Lifestyle

Illinois residents often endure long commutes and dense traffic, especially in Chicago. Texas offers a mix of sprawling cities and relaxed suburban living.

Culture

Texans embrace a blend of southern hospitality, cowboy culture, and diverse influences. The social environment is friendly and community-focused, with plenty of festivals, rodeos, and outdoor activities.

Job Market and Economic Opportunities

Texas’s booming economy offers diverse opportunities. Key industries include energy, technology, healthcare, finance, and agriculture. And when it comes to employment prospects – Texas has a lower unemployment rate and a faster-growing job market compared to Illinois. Cities like Austin and Dallas are tech hubs, while Houston excels in energy.

Cost Comparison: Illinois vs. Texas

Wages and Housing

• Minimum wage:

  • Illinois: $13/hour (rising to $15 in Chicago).

  • Texas: $7.25/hour (federal minimum).

• Median household income:

  • Illinois: $72,200

  • Texas: $67,300

• Median home price:

  • Illinois: $245,000

  • Texas: $301,000

• 2-Bedroom apartment rent:

  • Chicago: $2,300/month

  • Texas: $1,300/month (statewide average).

Daily Expenses

• Average cost of child care (Monthly):

  • Illinois: $1,300

  • Texas: $850

• Cost of 1 gallon of milk:

  • Illinois: $4.00

  • Texas: $3.50

• Cost of 1 gallon of gasoline:

  • Illinois: $4.20

  • Texas: $3.00

Utilities

• Electricity (monthly):

  • Illinois: $110

  • Texas: $140 (higher summer usage).

• Water (monthly):

  • Illinois: $45

  • Texas: $35

• Gas (monthly):

  • Illinois: $90

  • Texas: $60

Benefits Comparison: Illinois vs. Texas

Education

• High School Graduation Rates:

  • Illinois: 87%

  • Texas: 90%

• Student-Teacher Ratios:

  • Illinois: 15:1

  • Texas: 15:1

• Safest Cities:

  • Illinois: Naperville, Buffalo Grove

  • Texas: Frisco, McKinney

Crime Rates (Overall per 100,000)

• Illinois: 2,000

• Texas: 2,300

Transportation

• Major Airports:

  • Illinois: O’Hare, Midway

  • Texas: DFW, Austin-Bergstrom, Houston Hobby

• Public Transit: Chicago offers extensive options, while Texas cities are car-dependent.

Energy Considerations

Both Illinois and Texas allow energy provider choice, but Texas’s market is more competitive, offering lower prices and renewable options. Average electricity costs in Illinois are $0.14/kWh, while in Texas they are lower, at $0.12/kWh. Plus, Texas leads in wind and solar energy, making green choices more accessible.

City Comparisons: Illinois vs. Texas

Illinois Cities

• Chicago: 2.7M, high cost of living.

• Aurora: 180K, suburban feel.

• Naperville: 150K, family-friendly.

• Rockford: 145K, affordable housing.

• Springfield: 115K, government jobs.

Texas Cities

• Houston: 2.3M, affordable housing.

• San Antonio: 1.5M, rich history.

• Dallas: 1.3M, business hub.

• Austin: 1M, tech and culture.

• Fort Worth: 935K, suburban charm.

Cost of Relocation

The average cost of moving from Illinois to Texas ranges from $4,000 to $9,000, depending on distance, home size, and moving services. Budget for additional costs like temporary housing, car shipping, and utility deposits.

Moving Checklist: Illinois to Texas

1. Declutter: Minimize your belongings to save on moving costs.

2. Housing: Research neighborhoods and secure a home in Texas.

3. Transportation: Prepare for car ownership if you’re used to Chicago’s public transit.

4. Utilities: Set up electricity, water, and internet services.

5. Driver’s License: Obtain a Texas license within 90 days.

6. Vehicle Registration: Register your car in Texas and update your insurance.

7. Climate Adaptations: Invest in warm-weather clothing and energy-efficient cooling solutions.

8. Community Engagement: Join local organizations and attend events to meet people.

When You Get to Texas, Let’s Chat!

Moving from Illinois to Texas will open up new opportunities for your family to put down roots in wide open spaces… and also 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.