Thinking about packing up and heading to the Lone Star State? Texas continues to attract families, professionals, and adventurers from across the country. Texas is an amazing place. But moving to a new state (especially one as big and unique as Texas) can feel overwhelming.
As a moving company serving Texas communities for over a century, this relocating to Texas guide shares what you need to know about moving here — from the weather, to jobs, to the best Texas cities for families. Let’s dive in!
Moving to Texas Checklist
When you’re considering a new location, it’s important to feel confident that the move will be successful for you and your family. Cost of living, schools, and the job market are all factors to consider. Let’s talk about important info to gather before moving to Texas.
Cost of Living and Housing Market
As you’re researching a new location, one of the biggest questions you probably have is “Can I afford to live there?”
The good news is that Texas generally offers a lower cost of living compared to many other states — though this varies depending on the city.
Texas offers:
- Affordable Living: Many families find their dollar stretches further in Texas, with reasonable housing prices in cities like San Antonio, El Paso, and Houston.
- Many Options: Austin is vibrant, trendy, and known for its music scene, but it has higher housing costs. Dallas and Houston offer neighborhoods for any budget, making them some of the best Texas cities for families.
Relocating to Texas Guide Pro Tip: As you consider a place for your potential move, here are ways you can get a feel for the area:
- Research neighborhoods using online tools and local forums.
- Compare the benefits of renting vs. buying — sometimes, buying makes more sense in Texas’s competitive market.
- Plan a visit to your top cities to get a real feel for the communities. When possible, nothing beats seeing a place in person.
When you’re moving, there’s a lot to remember. To help make the process easier, we’ve created this free, downloadable moving checklist!
Job Market and Economy
Next on our moving to Texas checklist is the job market. Finding work is a major part of any move. Texas shines with a strong, diverse economy.
Things to consider:
- Booming Industries: There’s the tech industry in Austin, healthcare in Houston, energy in Dallas, and manufacturing throughout the state.
- Taxes: There’s no state income tax, but keep in mind: Texas property taxes are some of the highest in the nation.
As you’re exploring employment opportunities in the Lone Star State, here are some tips:
- Start the job hunt before your move — many employers are eager to hire out-of-state talent.
- Check local job boards and connect with recruiters specializing in Texas placements.
- Consider the cost of living and how it balances with your potential salary.
Climate and Weather Conditions
Texas is huge, y’all. We’ve got a bit of everything when it comes to climate. If you’re moving to the west, you can expect dry, hot, sunny days. The Gulf Coast is hot and humid, and we can get significant winter weather in the north and east.
In general, you can expect long, sunny days. But it’s important to be prepared for severe weather, including tornadoes, droughts, and hurricanes (along the Gulf).
Wherever you’re moving, it’s important to be prepared by checking off these items on your moving to Texas checklist:
- Pack lightweight clothing, but don’t forget layers for unpredictable weather.
- Plan your move for early morning or later in the evening to avoid the heat.
Relocating to Texas Guide Pro Tip: Many people find that the milder weather in spring and fall are great times to move — and might cost less as well!
Lifestyle and Culture
Texas is more than just a place — it’s a whole vibe! Warm hospitality, delicious BBQ, and a love for music, sports, and the outdoors are all parts of the Texas way of life in the best Texas cities for families.
- Cultural Diversity: From bustling cities to charming small towns, there’s something for everyone.
- Events: Don’t miss out on local rodeos, music festivals, and community barbecues.
Dive into your town’s culture by:
- Getting involved in community events to meet new people and start settling in.
- Exploring local parks, museums, and attractions to immerse yourself in Texas culture.
Education and Schools
If you’re moving with kids, schools are likely a top consideration on your moving to Texas checklist. We have a mix of public, private, and charter options for kids — and some of the best universities in the country for college students.
- Top Universities: University of Texas at Austin, Texas A&M, and Rice University are just a few of the state’s academic gems.
- School Selection: Many of the best Texas cities for families are known for their strong school districts.
Relocating to Texas Guide Checklist:
- Research school ratings and reviews for your target area.
- Schedule tours or virtual meetings with schools to ask about curriculum, extracurriculars, and support services.
Transportation and Infrastructure
Like we mentioned earlier, Texas has a HUGE variety of cities and towns. Some are small, and others are big — really big! With all the highways and wide open spaces, many Texas cities are car-dependent, and public transportation can be limited.
- Getting Around: Major highways connect all the big cities, and airports make travel easy.
- City Layout: Factor in commute times and traffic when choosing where to live. The DFW area covers over 9,000 square miles!
Important factors to remember:
- Consider proximity to work, school, and amenities when you choose a home.
- If you don’t have a car, research neighborhoods with better access to public transit.
- If you own a car, don’t forget that vehicle registration is required soon after you move.
Logistics and Tips
Alright, after considering all the factors — from cost of living and culture to the best Texas cities for families and education — it’s time to start planning your actual move.
There are several decisions to make early on, like the best time to move and whether a DIY or hiring a professional moving company is right for you. A great moving partner (like Scobey) can help you get the info you need to have the best move possible.
Relocating to Texas Guide Pro Tips:
- Use a detailed checklist to stay organized.
- Start packing early and label boxes by room.
- If you’re hiring movers, book in advance — especially during peak moving seasons.