Should I Move to Texas? Pros and Cons of the Lone Star State

Texas is one of the fastest growing states in America, thanks to an affordable cost of living, strong job market, warm weather, and the fact that there’s always something to do! We’ve put together a list of pros and cons so you’ll know what to expect, if you do make the move.

Pros of Living in Texas

Affordable Cost of Living

The Lone Star State is more reasonably priced, in terms of cost of living, than most other areas of the U.S.. On average, it’s around 6-8% lower than the national average. This is in part because of home prices: as of October 2023, the median price of a home in Texas was $342,000, which is about $50,000 lower than the national median (although, of course, house prices depend on where you buy.

Here are a few snapshots of how the overall cost of living may shift, depending on where you live:

Austin	3% lower than the national average.
Dallas	One of the 10 largest cities in the U.S. and one of the more affordable, at 2.7% lower than the average.
Harker Heights	About 11% lower than the national average, thanks to particularly affordable housing.
Little Elm	3.7% lower than the national average, due to its proximity to Dallas
Pearland	Despite its proximity to Houston, still about 5% less expensive to live here than the national average.
San Antonio	Despite its size (larger than Dallas!) the cost of living is lower than the national average by about 10%.

Strong Job Market

Texas has long been linked to jobs in oil and energy, but the job markets in healthcare, tech, education, and finance are also strong. Our job growth ranked fifth in U.S. states, in the number of jobs added. The unemployment rate is low and wage growth overall remains high.

Pro-Business Environment

Along those same lines, Texas is a great place to start (or move) a business. Chief Executive magazine runs an annual survey of CEOs’ assessments of each state’s business climate, workforce, and quality of life. Every year, Texas has topped the list.

No State Income Tax

Only a handful of states have no personal income tax or state income tax, and Texas is one of them. And sales taxes are reasonable, giving residents more incentive to shop as well as set up businesses.

Warm Weather

We’ve got warm weather for most of the year – sometimes downright hot – with plenty of sunny days. Statewide, typical summer highs are around 94° Fahrenheit, with winter lows around 36°.

Diverse Cities

You’ll find a variety of urban environments, ranging from booming cities like Houston and Dallas to more chill burgs like Austin and San Antonio. And in the suburbs and smaller towns? The pace is relaxed and lovely.

Deregulated Energy Market

Texas has a deregulated energy market, which means that electricity providers must compete to offer customers the best plan – one that suits their lifestyle and budget. Deregulation also encourages innovation in energy generation and distribution, as well as encouraging better customer service. If you take the plunge and move here, check out our affordable plans, reliable service, and great customer support at gotrhythm.com.

Vibrant Cultural Scene

We’ve got a rich cultural history. From cowboy culture to the influence of First Nations and our Latinx neighbors to the south, you’ll find it all celebrated here. Enjoy festivals like Viva! El Paso, Fiesta De La Flor in Corpus Christi, and Fiesta San Antonio. Visit the 150 museums around Houston, particularly in the beloved Museum District. In Austin, you’ll find SXSW for films and tech innovations as well as live music at Austin City Limits and hundreds of other venues.

Outdoor Activities

With 600 miles of beaches along the Gulf Coast, the open plains of West Texas, the majestic Guadalupe Mountains, and 150 miles of trails in Big Bend National Park, outdoor lovers will never be disappointed. Hiking, biking, fishing, boating, and even hunting are always on offer year-round.

High Quality Healthcare

Houston has world renowned hospitals, including Texas Children’s Hospital and the M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, which was ranked number one in the nation for cancer care by U.S. News and World Report. And in Dallas-Fort Worth you’ll find leading medical facilities like Parkland Memorial Hospital, Baylor University Medical Center, and Children’s Medical Center of Dallas.

Solid Schools and Excellent Universities

89% of Texas public school parents are satisfied with the quality of education that their child is receiving, compared to 80% nationally. The high-school graduation rate is 90%, which is above the national average of 87% and exceeds the graduation rates of other states, such as California and New York. And the state is home to leading universities and colleges, such as the University of Texas, Texas A&M University, Baylor University, Rice University, and reputable community colleges throughout the state

Delicious Food

Whether you’re a fine foodie or a down-home diner, it’s easy to find the dinner you’re looking for in Texas. Yummy Tex-Mex and traditional barbecue are just about everywhere, but you’ll also find cuisine that draws on Native American, Asian, German, Czech, and Middle Eastern roots.

Easy Travel Options

Centrally located in the country, it’s easy to drive to the Southeast, Midwest, and even California from Texas, although it may be a long road trip! And the state has airports that make national and international travel simple, including Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport, San Antonio International Airport, and Houston’s airport system.

Strong Sports Culture

If you play sports or just love to cheer from the sidelines, Texas is the place for you. We’ve got plenty of professional teams, including 2 NFL football, 2 MLB baseball, 3 NBA basketball, 2 MLS soccer, and even 1 NHL hockey squad. And the collegiate, high school and even pee-wee sports scene is second to none.

Friendly and Welcoming Residents

Get ready for howdys and hugs! Texas is a neighborly place, known for its genuine friendliness and hospitable culture. As they say, there’s no such thing as a quick trip to the grocery store, because someone is sure to strike up a conversation with you in the checkout line.

Cons of Living in Texas

Extreme Weather

We’ve got high temperatures in summer and the risk of severe weather events like hurricanes, tornadoes, and floods.

High Property Taxes

While there is no state income tax, property taxes can be high. In fact, they’re some of the highest in the country.

Limited Public Transportation

Because everything is so spread out, once you get outside of major cities there is limited public transportation. Almost everyone has a car, and during metro rush hours it can seem like they’re all on the road at the same time.

Air Quality

Some areas, particularly major urban centers like Dallas and Houston, can have issues with air quality and pollution.

Water Shortages and Droughts

Can be a concern in certain regions, particularly in the hot windswept plains of West Texas.

Come for a Visit, Stay for a Lifetime

Whether you’re just passing through or decide to put down roots here, you’re welcome in Texas. If you choose to make our state your new home, be sure to visit gotrhythm.com to check out our 100% renewable electricity plans. We’d love to make you part of the Rhythm Energy family.

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