Moving to Texas from New York? Here's What to Expect

Moving to Texas from New York? Here's What to Expect

Looking to trade the hustle and bustle of the Empire State for the expansive horizons and dynamic culture of the Lone Star State? Moving to Texas is more than a relocation; it’s a lifestyle upgrade with financial and quality-of-life benefits. This guide will walk you through the advantages, challenges, and practical steps involved in moving from New York to Texas.

Things New York and Texas Have in Common

Despite their differences, New York and Texas share several traits. Both states are home to vibrant cities brimming with cultural landmarks, entertainment, and nightlife. Texas’s Austin, Houston, and Dallas rival New York City’s allure with their music festivals, art galleries, and culinary delights. Both also offer access to coastal areas. New York has Atlantic beaches like the Hamptons, while Texas boasts the Gulf Coast’s scenic shores, including Galveston and South Padre Island. But Texans enjoy year-round access to warm waters, a luxury often seasonal in New York.

Pros of Relocating from New York to Texas

When you make this move, you leave behind the drawbacks of New York. Unlike in New York, Texas’s mild winters eliminate the need for shoveling snow or enduring freezing temperatures. Texas also offers more open spaces. While Texas cities have traffic, the overall pace is more relaxed than New York’s gridlock. Many Texas communities also provide quieter, cleaner environments.

Texas’s affordability is also a major draw. From housing to daily expenses, Texas has a significantly lower cost of living. Because the Lone Star State has no income tax, compared to a high income tax in New York, Texans keep more of their earnings. Texas also has a booming economy, especially in industries like energy, tech, and healthcare. And, of course, in Texas larger homes and properties are accessible at reasonable prices.

Cost Comparison: New York vs. Texas

Wages and Housing

Minimum wage in New York: $15/hour in NYC, $14.20/hour statewide. In Texas, it’s $7.25/hour (the federal minimum). Median household income in New York is $72,700; in Texas it’s $67,300. But the media home price in New York is $450,000, while in Texas it’s $301,000. And rent in New York City averaged $3,500 a month, while statewide in Texas it’s only $1,300 a month.

Popular cities like Austin and Dallas have seen rising home prices due to demand. However, compared to New York’s costs, Texas still offers more bang for your buck.

Daily Expenses

Child care in New York costs around $1,600 a month, while in Texas it’s $850. A gallon of milk costs a dollar more in New York ($4.50), and a gallon of gasoline in New York costs $4.10, but $3.50 in Texas.

Taxes and Utilities

New York’s state income tax is up to 10.9%. In Texas, it’s 0%! Sales tax in New York averages 8.52%, compared to Texas’ 8.20%.

Utilities are fairly comparable. Monthly electric bills in Texas are typically around $140, due to higher usage e.g. air conditioning, while in New York they are around $120. Water is $40 in New York, $35 in Texas. Gas is much more expensive in New York, averaging $90 a month compared to $60 in Texas. And while trash and recycling are included in taxes in New York, in Texas they’ll cost you around $25 a month.

Education and Safety

Let’s look at a few statistics, side by side:

• High School Graduation Rates: New York: 86%. Texas: 90%.

• Student-Teacher Ratios: New York: 12:1. Texas: 15:1

• Crime Rates (Overall per 100,000): New York: 1,900. Texas: 2,300

• Violent Crime Rates: New York: 350. Texas: 410.

• Each State’s Safest Cities: New York: Rye and Hastings-on-Hudson. Texas: Frisco and Flower Mound

Transportation and Infrastructure

New York has an extensive subway, train, and bus systems. In Texas, options are more limited, and most residents drive. Expect traffic congestion in Austin, Dallas, and Houston during peak hours, while New York City’s traffic is legendary. New York leads in terms bike lanes, but Texas cities are improving.

Lifestyle and Culture

Both states offer world-class museums, vibrant art scenes, and impressively diverse culinary adventures. For outdoor activities in New York, consider hiking in the Catskills or skiing in the Adirondacks. In Texas, you can go camping in Big Bend or boating on Lake Travis.

Adapting to Texas Life

New Yorkers accustomed to fast-paced living might find Texas’s relaxed vibe a welcome change. Texans are known for their hospitality. Attend barbecues, festivals, and church or local events. Grocery shopping might involve friendly conversations, and dining experiences are less rushed. When it comes to climate, New York has four distinct seasons, harsh winters, and humid summers – while Texas has hot summers, mild winters, and more sunny days year-round.

Ready to Move?

Relocating cross-country can be expensive. Moving services can range from $5,000 to $10,000. Renting a truck and moving yourself is significantly cheaper: around $2,000-$4,000. And when it comes to temporary housing in Texas, plan for $1,500-$3,000 per month.

We’ve put together a helpful checklist for New Yorkers moving to Texas:

• Declutter: Sell or donate items to lighten the load.

• Housing: Research neighborhoods and secure a Texas residence.

• Transportation: Prepare for car ownership if you rely on public transit.

• Utilities: Set up electricity, water, and internet.

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

• Registration: Register your vehicle and transfer plates.

• Weather Gear: Swap winter coats for light, breathable clothing.

Energy Considerations

Both states have deregulated energy markets, allowing customers to choose among energy providers. But Texas’s market is more competitive, offering cost-saving opportunities. Typical electricity costs in New York are around $0.21/kWh; in Texas, they’re $0.12/kWh. And, Texas leads the nation in wind power, offering green energy options.

Comparisons of Populations, City by City

• New York:

  • New York City: 8.5 million people (with a high cost of living)

  • Buffalo: 278,000

  • Rochester: 211,000

  • Syracuse: 148,000

  • Albany: 97,000.

• Texas:

  • Houston: 2.3 million (with affordable housing)

  • San Antonio: 1.5 million (and a family-friendly atmosphere)

  • Dallas: 1.3 million (boasting a dynamic job market)

  • Austin: 1 million (known as a cultural hub)

  • Fort Worth: 935,000 (offering affordable suburban life).

When You Get to Texas, Get in Touch!

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