Moving to a new place can be intimidating, especially if you're moving to a big state like Texas. With a booming economy, warm weather, good schools and low cost of living, new residents are making their way to the Lone Star State quickly.
Why Move to the Lone Star State?
If you're thinking about moving to Texas, you're not alone. As the second most populated state in the U.S. and one of the fastest-growing states in the country, people all over the world are finding their way to this diverse state. With a hot job market, nearly 1,000 people move to Texas every day, and there are many other reasons to do so.
The pros of moving to Texas
The Texas economy is thriving, especially in big cities like Dallas and Houston. From Fortune 500 brands to startups, Texas offers a diverse job market with immense employment opportunities.
You don't have to worry about paying state income tax, so you'll have a lower cost of living than in most states.
The housing market is booming and land is plentiful and affordable. In fact, the cost of real estate in Texas is 6% lower than the national average. According to Zillow, the median home price in Texas is $197,500.
Most cities in Texas experience very warm and beautiful weather, making it a great state to relocate to if you’re not a fan of the cold.
Texas boasts 14 beautiful national parks, including Big Bend National Park and Guadalupe Mountains National Park, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
The Texas school system is excellent and the Lone Star State is home to top universities like Texas A&M University and the University of Texas, Austin (UTA).
Texas is known for its delicious food, fine dining and diverse cuisine (especially when it comes to barbecue and Tex-Mex).
Southern hospitality is a real thing and most people in this great state have a larger-than-life personality. Texans will make you feel right at home.
What to do before moving to Texas
Before you make the move to the Lone Star state, there are a few things you'll want to do to ensure a smooth move. Check out our moving tips below to make sure you have all of your ducks in a row before moving to Texas.
Looking for even more moving tips? Visit MyMove's Moving Checklist or our Moving Hub.
Do your research
If you're considering moving to Texas, it'll be important to do some digging to determine which city is best for you. Read up on popular Texas cities and neighborhoods online. If you have friends or family that live in Texas, reach out to them and ask questions.
What are popular Texas cities to move to?
Houston - The fourth most populous city in the nation, Houston is one of the most diverse cities in the Untied States. With a booming economy, award-winning cuisine and pro sports teams, Houston has a lot to offer.
Dallas - A mecca for finance and telecommunication companies, Dallas is another Texas city with a robust job market. The city is also known for the Dallas Cowboys football team and is considered to be very family friendly.
Austin - The capital of Texas has a lot to offer, especially if you're a music lover. From hosting South By Southwest (SXSW) and Austin City Limits, you'll hear some of the best live music in this thriving big city. People who move to Austin can also enjoy a variety of outdoor activities like biking and hiking. Some companies that have moved to Austin include Google and Tesla.
San Antonio - Just ninety minutes south of Austin you'll find the beautiful city of San Antonio. Home of the NBA team the Spurs and various festive seasonal events, there's always something to do in this popular Texas city. San Antonio is also known for famous vacation destinations like the Alamo and Sea World.
Find a moving company
Unless you plan on making the trek to Texas with a U-Haul yourself, you'll want to find a moving company that can transport your belongings safely and in a timely manner. Not sure where to start? Ask your friends and family members if they recommend a national moving company or browse reviews online.
Update your address with USPS
To ensure you receive the mail sent to your former address, make sure you update your address with USPS. All you have to do is visit the USPS change of address website, enter your contact information, and select a date to start forwarding your mail. There is a small $1 fee you'll need to pay to verify your identity. You should receive a confirmation email once everything is set up.
Compare Texas electricity providers
Before you move into your apartment, condo or home, be sure to compare Texas electricity providers so you're lights turn on when you arrive. Watch out for too-good-to-be-true introductory electricity rates and always read the fine print before signing up with an energy supplier.
At Rhythm, we offer transparent, green energy plans without hidden fees and unnecessary charges. Browse our electricity plans and see if Rhythm is available in your area. We can also inform you on what is your Electric Service identifier, a very useful information - because by knowing your ESI ID, you’ll quickly be able to figure out which electricity plans are available to you at your location. It also helps verify your identity and calculate possible savings in your area.
What to do after moving to Texas
Once you've moved to the Lone Star state, it's time to take care of business. We've provided a short list of things to consider upon moving to Texas below.
Voter registration
Visit your local voter registrar's office to register to vote or visit VoteTexas.gov to complete registration online. Pro tip: you'll want to do this at least 30 days before an upcoming election.
Vehicle registration
Need to register your vehicle? Within 30 days of moving to Texas be sure to register your vehicle with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles. You can do this by visiting your local DMV office, completing an application for a new vehicle registration, and providing proof of ownership. Keep in mind that you will need to pay the designated registration fees and taxes, as well as pass any required VIN inspections and vehicle safety inspections.
Driver's license
To get a new Texas driver's license you'll want to visit the local Texas Department of Public Safety office within 90 days of your arrival.
Enjoy your time in Texas
We hope that this Moving to Texas Guide has been helpful and that you enjoy your time in the Lone Star State. If you're looking for an energy supplier in Texas that offers transparent, green energy plans where new and existing customers get the same great rates, sign up with Rhythm today!
