According to the US Census Bureau, the Texas population has grown by 15.9% from 2010 to 2020. Although part of this increase is due in part to natural factors, like the number of people being born, a good chunk of Texas’ population increase can be attributed to migration from other states and regions around the world.
But why are people moving to Texas, and can you get in on the action? Read on and find out with this moving to Texas checklist.
1. Work Opportunities
The Lone Star State has been one of the top forerunners for work opportunities in tech in the U.S., so it’s a great place to move whether you have experience in business services, tech, or the gas and oil industry. Additionally, many Texans-to-be can expect a larger paycheck, especially in metropolitan areas like the bustling town of Dallas.
As of 2021, the average salary in Texas is a little over $63k, a few thousand dollars higher than the national average. And, Texans aren’t struggling for work — Texas’ unemployment rate hovers below the nation’s median percentage. Therefore, it’s easy to understand why workers are packing their bags and moving to the bluebonnet state.
Other prominent job markets include:
- Oil and Gas Industry
- Technology
- Aerospace and Engineering
- Business
- Healthcare
- Education
2. Cost of Living
So, you’re considering making the move to Texas. But can you actually afford to live there? The answer is likely, “yes.” The cost of living in Texas — whether you’re evaluating housing prices, utilities, transportation, or the amount you’re likely to spend on your weekly trip to the grocery store — is more or less sustainable for the average worker.
Texas’ cost of living is over 5% lower than the national average. This means living in top Texas cities, like Houston, the Dallas/Fort Worth area, Austin, and San Antonio, may help your wages go further. You’ll enjoy a higher standard of living and have a better shot at maintaining a comfortable lifestyle.
3. Affordable Homes
Land and housing are also relatively more affordable in Texas compared to many other states. But you can spend as little or as much as you want when finding your dream home — housing prices are relative to the city and neighborhood you choose to live in.
But, overall housing is affordable! The average cost of purchasing a new home in Texas is just over $173,000. There is also less red tape when it comes to land acquisition. With fewer time requirements, the ease of acquiring building permits for home construction, and fewer overall regulations, finding and acquiring the land you want will likely be much simpler than in your current state.
4. Lower Taxes
There are only seven states in the US without an income tax, and Texas is one of them. According to TurboTax, Americans paid an average rate of 9.9% in state and local taxes in 2019, with states like New York and California being the most expensive. Combine Texas’ lack of income tax with lower home prices, a sustainable cost of living, and business tax incentives, and you’ll find that more of your paycheck stays where you want it— in your wallet.
5. Year-Round Fair Weather
When weighing the pros and cons of living in Texas, the weather is something you’ll want to consider. For example, Houston (the thriving metropolitan near Galveston) is known for extreme Texas humidity, rising sea levels, and a growing heat index. Thankfully, other major cities in this southern state are more opportune.
Texas is the fourth hottest state in the U.S. With warmer temperatures year-round and mild Texas winter weather, it’s easy for those who live in regions with long, cold winters to consider making the switch. If wearing shorts on Christmas day is something you’ve always wanted to try, packing your bags and heading to Texas can turn your dreams into reality.
6. Diversity
“Everything is bigger in Texas,” including diversity. Texas is a thriving, multicultural hub that boasts over 160 spoken languages and is known as the second most diverse state in the country. People migrate to Texas from all over the world, and this ethnic vibrancy manifests in the region’s culture, food, art, business, and activities.
7. Vibes and Entertainment
There are many cities to choose from in Texas, whether you’re looking to make the switch into a thriving metroplex or are seeking something more family-friendly and ‘lax, With fair weather year-round, a bustling economy, and vast diversity rumbling throughout the region, there is no shortage of entertainment and fun to be had after you make the move.
From biking, hiking, and running to lounging your day away in large outdoor spaces, there are tons of activities for you and your family to try. Visit the plethora of museums, zoos, aquariums, and nightclubs in Dallas. Enjoy fine dining, the Space Center, and orchestras in Houston. Or attend live shows, watering holes, and eclectic restaurants in Austin. No matter where you go in any of these major cities, you’re bound to have a good time in Texas.
Make Your Texas Move with CORT
There is no place quite like the Lonestar State. With its thriving economy, rich culture, and southern hospitality, Texas is a one-of-a-kind place to live, work, and play. If you’re ready to make your move to Texas, call on CORT. Our customizable furniture packages make it easy to furnish and decorate your Texas home (even down to housewares). Find and customize a package that suits your needs online or work with our experts at your local CORT showroom today.
