Moving from Oregon to Texas

Moving from Oregon to Texas

Relocating from Oregon to Texas can be a transformative experience, offering diverse opportunities, a different climate, and significant cost savings. Texas offers a unique blend of affordability, job opportunities, cultural diversity, and sunshine – so whether it’s enjoying a vibrant city like Austin or exploring the serene countryside, there’s something for everyone. The lack of state income tax and lower cost of living also make it a financially sound choice for former Oregonians looking for a fresh start.

Do People Who Move from Oregon Enjoy Living in Texas?

Less Rain, More Sunshine

Oregon is known for its overcast skies and frequent rain, whereas Texas offers sunny days and warmer weather, providing more opportunities for outdoor activities.

Environmental and Green Energy Initiatives

Both states have a focus on renewable energy, but Texas leads in wind power production and has rapidly expanding solar energy programs.

Coastal Accessibility

While Oregon has the Pacific coastline, Texas’ Gulf Coast offers warmer waters and beach-friendly cities like Galveston and Corpus Christi.

Lower Cost of Living

Texas cities generally have a lower cost of living compared to Oregon’s major urban areas like Portland.

Expanding Culinary Scene

Texas’ food scene is a melting pot of cuisines, from Tex-Mex and barbecue to global flavors, rivaling Oregon’s reputation for farm-to-table dining.

Key Differences Between Oregon and Texas

Climate: Oregon is cool, with wet winters and mild summers. In Texas, you’ll experience hot summers, mild winters, and a wide range of climates depending on the region.

Lifestyle and Social Environment: Oregon is progressive, environmentally conscious, and community-focused. Texas is diverse, with a mix of traditional values and modern urban lifestyles.

Culture: Texas is known for its rich history, cowboy culture, and live music scene, while Oregon offers a quirky and artistic vibe.

Job Market and Economic Opportunities in Texas

Texas boasts a thriving economy driven by:

• Energy: Leading the nation in oil, gas, wind, and solar energy production.

• Technology: Austin’s tech industry is rapidly growing.

• Healthcare: Texas Medical Center in Houston is a global leader.

• Manufacturing and Aerospace: Dallas-Fort Worth is a hub for these industries.

State Income Taxes: Oregon vs. Texas

Oregon has a state income tax ranging from 4.75% to 9.9%, depending on income levels. In contrast, Texas has no state income tax, significantly boosting take-home pay for residents.

Energy Markets

Oregon’s energy market is regulated, offering fewer options and higher costs compared to Texas. But in Texas’ deregulated market, residents can choose from numerous electricity providers, fostering competitive rates and renewable energy options.

Cost of Living: Oregon vs. Texas

Minimum Wage: Oregon: $15/hour in metro areas, Texas: $7.25/hour.

Median Household Income: Oregon: $71,186, Texas: $68,093.

Median Home Price: Oregon: $485,000, Texas: $309,000. Homes in Texas often offer more space and modern amenities.

Average Monthly Apartment Rent (2-Bedroom): Oregon: $1,600, Texas: $1,200.

Child Care Monthly Costs: Oregon: $1,200, Texas: $913.

Cost of 1 Gallon of Milk: Oregon: $4.50, Texas: $3.60.

Cost of 1 Gallon of Gasoline: Oregon: $4.10, Texas: $3.20.

Your Moving Checklist

Housing

Research suburban and rural neighborhoods in Texas offering larger, more affordable homes. Consider homes with energy-efficient features to offset cooling costs.

Moving Costs

The average cost to relocate from Oregon to Texas is $5,000 to $8,000, depending on distance and volume.

Route Planning

A popular route? Take I-5 south to I-10 east, which connects major Texas cities.

Utilities

Set up electricity, water, and internet services in advance.

Tips for Settling into Texas

Education: High school graduation rates in Oregon are 81%, while in. Texas they are 90%. Average student-to-teacher ratio in Oregon is 20:1, vs. 16:1 in Texas.

Healthcare Accessibility: Texas offers world-class healthcare facilities, especially in urban centers like Houston and Dallas.

Crime Rates: While both states have safe and less safe areas, cities like Frisco and McKinney in Texas rank among the safest nationwide.

Driver’s License and Vehicle Registration: Be sure to obtain a Texas driver’s license within 90 days of moving, and complete your vehicle registration within 30 days.

Energy Usage

Average Cost of Electricity: Oregon: 11.4 cents/kWh, Texas: 12.5 cents/kWh.

Energy Usage Patterns: In Oregon, you’ll have higher heating costs due to cold, wet winters, Texas has higher cooling costs in summer, but with lower overall energy costs.

Renewable Energy Options: Texas leads in renewable energy production, offering wind and solar power options.

Heating vs. Cooling Costs: In Oregon, heating bills average $200/month in winter. In Texas, cooling bills average $150/month in summer with energy-efficient HVAC systems.

City-by-City Comparison

Oregon

1. Portland: Population 650,000; progressive and expensive.

2. Eugene: Population 176,000; college town with a relaxed vibe.

3. Salem: Population 179,000; state capital with affordable living.

4. Bend: Population 102,000; outdoor paradise with rising costs.

5. Medford: Population 85,000; smaller city with natural beauty.

Texas

1. Houston: Population 2.3 million; diverse and opportunity-rich.

2. Dallas: Population 1.4 million; business and cultural hub.

3. Austin: Population 964,000; tech-savvy and vibrant.

4. San Antonio: Population 1.5 million; historic and family-friendly.

5. Fort Worth: Population 935,000; thriving arts and culinary scenes.

When You Get to Texas, Let’s Chat!

Moving from Oregon to Texas will let your family put down roots in wide open spaces… and also 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.