Texas is undeniably one of the hottest destinations in America for people looking for a new home. With a thriving economy, warm weather, diverse culture, and a low cost of living, it's no wonder that nearly 1,000 people flock to the Lone Star State every day. Moving can be a daunting task, but we’ve got you covered. Our step-by-step guide is here to make the process easier and more manageable.
What Brings People to Texas?
Lower taxes
Compared to many other states, Texas offers the advantage of lower taxes. First of all, all residents benefit from the absence of state income tax, which is a feature shared with only six other states. Secondly, the state sales tax is relatively moderate, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a favorable tax environment.
Affordable costs of living
Texas has affordable living costs, resulting in reduced expenses for essential necessities such as healthcare and food. This factor is a primary motivation for individuals contemplating a move from other states that have high living costs. For example, if you're moving from California to Texas, you can expect lower living costs. According to a 2022 study on the cost of living in the United States, California has a cost index of 151.7, whereas Texas has a significantly lower cost index of only 91.5.
Meanwhile, the housing market here is booming and land is plentiful and affordable. In fact, the cost of real estate in Texas is around 6% lower than the national average.
Warm Weather
Most cities in Texas experience warm and beautiful weather, making it a great state to relocate to if you’re not a fan of the cold. Summers can be very hot, so it's important to be prepared for the heat and take necessary precautions, such as staying hydrated and seeking shade.
Rising Labor Market
Texas has a thriving job market that is experiencing significant growth, especially in big cities like Dallas and Houston. From Fortune 500 brands to startups, Texas offers immense employment opportunities. For example, moving to Austin might be an excellent choice, regardless of your profession, considering that this job market is expected to see a remarkable 47 percent growth in the coming years.
A Place for Food Lovers
Texas boasts extraordinary BBQ and Tex-Mex cuisines, making it an ideal destination for food enthusiasts. From mouthwatering briskets to delectable ribs to Chili Con Carne, the state offers a culinary haven for those who appreciate exceptional flavors and a wide range of food experiences.
Diversity of Cultures
If you are moving to Texas, be ready for cultural diversity celebrated through festivals and traditions. Texas is a place of diverse cultures that contribute to its unique identity. From the vibrant Hispanic and Mexican heritage to the strong Native American influence, Texas showcases a rich cultural mosaic.
Strong Schools
The Texas school system is strong and the Lone Star State is home to top universities like Texas A&M University and the University of Texas, Austin (UTA). The Texas Education Agency’s 2023 Annual Report puts it well: “With skilled educators, strong school system leaders, and statewide policies passed by lawmakers that prioritize the needs of our students, Texas has taken significant steps to ensure that education is a pathway to success for all, regardless of zip code or circumstance.”
Amazing Outdoors
Texas is often associated with its desert regions, but it is worth mentioning that the state boasts 14 beautiful national parks, including Big Bend National Park and Guadalupe Mountains National Park, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families. The green oases in Texas are perfect for relaxing and escaping hot summers.
Great Place for Frequent Travelers
Texas is an incredibly convenient place for individuals who frequently travel. With major international airports, well-connected transportation infrastructure, and a central location within the United States, Texas offers easy access to various destinations.
Energy deregulation: Texas has implemented energy deregulation, allowing consumers to choose their electricity providers, potentially leading to increased competition and lower energy costs for residents and businesses alike.
Cities and Neighborhoods
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 United 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. It hosts South By Southwest (SXSW) and Austin City Limits, where 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 into 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 many 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.
How Do You Become A Resident Of Texas?
Becoming a resident of Texas is an essential step toward making the state your new home. Establishing residency enables numerous benefits, including obtaining a driver's license, registering your vehicle, and accessing local perks and discounts. As a Texas resident, you can enjoy exclusive privileges like discounted access to in-state tuition rates at colleges and universities.
Before completing your moving checklist, you should see how to become a resident of Texas. Here are some of the options:
Rent or buy a home
Secure employment in Texas
Register to vote in the state
Start a business in Texas
Enroll your children in a Texas primary or secondary school.
In addition to this, you will need to spend more than 6 months or 183 days in state within a 12-month period. Once those initial steps are completed, you can proceed as a permanent resident, applying for a driver's license and voter registration.
Moving to Texas – Checklist
Moving to a new state can be a daunting and time-consuming task, requiring careful organization and detailed planning. From packing and cleaning to dealing with moving companies and energy providers, the to-do list can seem endless. For small business owners, the list grows even longer. However, if you focus on a well-organized checklist, things become more manageable. There are many moving tricks and tips to help you save time and energy.
1. Two Months Before Moving
Begin with the important task of finishing agreements in your current state:
Give notice to your landlord if you're renting, following the timeline outlined in your lease agreement.
Find a moving company within your budget to secure their services (this is also a good time to stock up on moving boxes and supplies).
Ensure that your insurance coverage remains unaffected by the state change.
If you have children, notify current schools about their departure and gather any necessary paperwork.
2. One Month Before Moving
Handling utility transfers or setups is crucial to ensure a seamless transition. You should take all necessary steps to transfer or set up services such as water, trash pick-up, electricity, and gas.
The next thing on your moving to a different state checklist should be a truck rental. Make a reservation early to avoid unnecessary delays and last-minute complications.
At the end of the month, you might organize a garage sale to get rid of the stuff you don't need anymore. Slowly, start packing larger items that are not immediately needed.
3. One Week Before Moving
As you enter the final week before your move, there are crucial tasks to complete:
Start by changing your mailing address, taking advantage of the free first-year mail forwarding service provided by USPS.
Confirm your moving service or truck reservation to ensure a smooth transition.
If needed, make childcare arrangements for move-in day, and enroll your children in their new schools, ensuring everything is in order.
Lastly, consider getting your old home or apartment professionally cleaned.
The last few days are usually reserved for packing essentials and using the rest of the perishable foods at home.
What To Do After Moving to Texas
Once you've moved to the Lone Star state, there are a few other things to sort out. We've provided a short list below.
1. 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.
2. Vehicle Registration and Insurance
Need to register your vehicle? Within 30 days of moving, 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. You’ll also need to update your insurance policy.
3. 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.
4. Update Tax and Financial Information
It's important to update your tax information in a timely manner and inform the IRS about your new address. Also, send updates to your financial institutions: notify your bank and other financial institutions about your relocation to Texas and your new address.
5. Compare Texas electricity providers
Before you move into your apartment, condo or home, be sure to compare Texas electricity providers so your electricity turns 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 Energy, 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 of your Electric Service Identifier (ESI ID) – 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.
Is Texas easy to move to?
Moving to Texas can be a smooth process if you are well-organized and prepared. Texas is a huge state with amazing nature, a booming job market, and affordable costs of living. Moreover, it has no income tax and has a deregulated energy market, meaning that you benefit from great, renewable energy plans. It's no surprise that so many people decide to move to Texas.
