If you’re planning to move to Texas, you’re not alone. About 1,000 people move to Lone Star State every day. In fact, the state has become a hot spot for relocation, and its population grew by nearly 4 million people in the past decade. Luckily, with excellent job opportunities, affordable land prices, and a warm climate, Texas can accommodate everyone’s budget and lifestyle.
But before you can call Texas your home, check these seven things you should know.
Real Estate Is Affordable
Texas has a significant supply of undeveloped land, huge development potential, low tax rates, and readily available building supplies, all of which contribute to the state’s affordable real estate market. In addition, Texas has one of the strongest economies in the world and the state’s low cost of living further lowers the cost of housing. According to the latest data, the average price of 1 acre of land for sale is $6,471 for a small piece of land and $3,249 for rural acre property. The median home price is $350,000, which is 15% lower than the national average.
There Are Good Job Opportunities
Texas has the greatest population growth in the nation, and as the population grows, so does the demand for jobs. The state’s economic diversification is one of the reasons why the labor market had a quick rebound following the COVID-19 pandemic. Contrary to states like Nevada or New York, which are still recuperating from the toll the pandemic has taken on the tourism and entertainment industries, Texas doesn’t rely primarily on any one business.
In August 2022, the Lone Star State created 16,400 non-farm jobs overall, experiencing new employment highs for the tenth consecutive month. The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate in Texas was 4.1%. So, moving to Texas presents a fantastic opportunity to find your dream job.
The Weather Is Warm
Because Texas is a large state, weather conditions can vary greatly depending on where you live. Texas weather can range from humid to dry, and from moderate to extreme. Winters average in the mid-60s with sporadic decreases, while summers are often hot and temperatures average in the mid-to-upper 90s. If you’re not a fan of cold weather, moving to Texas would be the best choice for you!
The Electricity Bills Are Cheaper
Texas is one of 23 states with a deregulated energy market. This means that you get to choose from several energy providers based on rates and product offerings that suit your budget and needs best. As a result, Texas is the ninth state with the lowest electricity costs, with combined rates averaging 9.02 cents per kWh.
Texas Has No State Income Tax
Texas is one of only seven states in the United States with no income tax. The state is partly funded by taxes and royalties on the oil and gas industry in addition to the 6.25% sales tax and taxes on vehicle sales and fuel. Additionally, the Lone Star State has the fifth-lowest average tax burden nationwide. According to the Tax Foundation, residents typically pay 7.6% of their income in state and local taxes which is lower than the national average rate.
Texas Is a Foodie’s Paradise
The state of Texas is a fusion of culinary delights. Chili peppers, Tex-Mex buffets, and delicious barbecue are just a few of the many culinary adventures this state offers. There are many options available to satiate your wandering palette, and you’ll surely find it difficult to resist the charms of scrumptious fajitas and fresh guacamole!
Be Prepared for Congested Roadways
The Lone Star State is geographically dispersed. Unfortunately, the absence of comprehensive public transportation is one of the genuine difficulties you will have to deal with. Every Texan who lives in a city will tell you that they’ve experienced the annoyance of being stuck in traffic. The reason for such heavy traffic is that the roadways in most areas have not kept up with the rapid growth of the population. So, expect to spend a significant amount of time traveling unless you live within a 3 to 4-mile radius of your place of employment.
Final Thoughts
Now that you’re armed with the essential information for moving to Texas, you might find starting the relocation process a bit simpler. If you’re a job seeker, adventurer, or BBQ lover, you’ll have much to choose from in the magnificent Lone Star State. And, you’ll inevitably enjoy the beautiful views, abundant wildlife, amazing food, lack of income tax, prolific economic opportunities, and warm climate. So, pack your cowboy boots and look for your perfect property to build your dream home!
