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Sep 6, 2024 · 4. El Paso. El Paso, located in far west Texas, faces several challenges that contribute to its reputation as one of the worst places to live in the state. The city’s proximity to the Mexican border has led to concerns about drug trafficking and related crime issues.
- Hutchins. This small town near Dallas has a high poverty rate of 35%, a high unemployment rate of 8.3%, and a high crime rate of 60% above the national average.
- Robstown. The small agricultural hub of Robstown near the Corpus Christi area offers very little outside of crop harvesting jobs. Nearly 40% of the population lives below the poverty line with limited access to resources for advancement.
- Livingston. This town located near Lake Livingston has a high crime rate of 90% above the national average. It has a low median income of $33,000, a low median home value of $88,900, and a low graduation rate of 77%.
- San Benito. Near the Mexico border and the Rio Grande Valley, San Benito suffers from high poverty levels reaching 30% of households, below-average incomes, under-resourced schools, as well as crime rates that are more than double state rates.
Austin here: It’s hot in the summer and traffic is pretty bad. People are decent, food is good, music is great, outside activities are really good. Politics are very tiring. Drivers when there is a little rain or ice, pretty much lose their minds, but it’s home and it’s a good place to live.
The rate of crime in Texas is 48.56 per 1,000 residents during a standard year. People who live in Texas generally consider the northeast part of the state to be the safest. Your chance of being a victim of crime in Texas may be as high as 1 in 12 in the west neighborhoods, or as low as 1 in 34 in the northeast part of the state.
- First, The Pros of Moving to Texas
- Cons of Moving to Texas
- Neutral Things You Should Know Before Moving to Texas
- Retiring in Texas FAQ
- Pros & Cons of Moving to Texas
- Pins | Moving to Texas
#1. Locals Are Genuinely Friendly
I can tell you definitively, above everything else, the warmth and hospitality of the people is the biggest perk of living in Texas. That southern charm is like a soothing balm on chapped summer lips, you can’t imagine life without it after being exposed. Prior to living in Texas, I lived in New York City. The Big Apple is known for being one of the most social cities in the country. It’s all about connections, overpriced alcohol and qualifying for the fast-walking Olympics (regardless of whe...
#2. Year-Round Sunshine
Who couldn’t use a little more sunshine in their life? Studies have proven, time and time again, that sunshine boosts moods. Luckily, Texas shines (some pun intended) in that department. If you’re a fan of sunshine and warmth then you’ll find living in Texas enjoyable (almost) year round. If you’re the active sort (so happy for you) you’ll be happy to know that the great outdoors are ripe for exploration, largely thanks to the blissful weather and year-round sunshine. Winters in Texas are mil...
#3. There’s No State Income Tax in Texas
Perhaps one of the biggest perks of moving to Texas is the lack of state income taxes. That’s right, Texas is one of only nine US states without an income tax. What does this mean for the average Joe? Well, your take-home pay will be much higher simply by living in Texas.Use that hard-earned cash to which can be used to save, invest, or spend as you please. Additionally, the absence of a state income tax makes Texas a more attractive place for large employers. In fact, there was ahuge migrati...
#1. You’ll Need a Car While Living in Texas
Let’s start with the obvious. Living in Texas without a car is like joining a sailing race with a surfboard under your arm. It’s not going to work out very well. Simply put, you’ll definitely need to own a car while living in Texas because things are spread far apart and public transportation is unreliable. The state is massive and if you plan to take advantage of the great outdoors, you’ll need to drive. Likewise, even daily errands (grocery shopping, etc.) will require driving. The city spr...
#2. The Summer Heat is a Bear
It doesn’t take long to learn that Texas’ intense summer heat is no joke. This is largely due to the state’s close proximity to the equator. The humidity and heat can be overwhelming and downright shocking for those moving Texas unprepared. This isn’t your mama’s summer weather (unless your mama lives in Texas, of course). Most Texans stay inside their AC’d homes and offices 24/7 during the summer months because the heat is intolerable. For perspective, the hottest temperature on record clock...
#3. Home Prices Are Rising
Although there’s no denying that affordable home prices are a big impetus for those moving to Texas to start a family, the trend doesn’t seem like it will last long. Texas’ housing market it nuts right now and doesn’t show signs of slowing anytime soon. For example, when we originally wrote this article in spring of 2022, the median price of a home was $300,000. But at the start of 2023 (six months later), the price has increased to $315,000. That’s not an easy market to keep up with. In Aust...
#1. Texas State Politics
Texas is a red state and even with the recent influx of liberals, Texans by and large tend to be proud Republicans. Expect to see republican-themed apparel and flags in every town, practically every storefront and every restaurant. Those that sway with Republican policies will feel comfortable and welcomed while living in Texas. Liberals will also be welcomed, but it may be harder to find your footing for a while. However, it’s definitely possible and Texans are a kind bunch.
#2. Gun Culture
As you probably know, Texas is a loud and proud gun carrying state. It’s not uncommon to see people openly carrying firearms while running errands. It took me a while to get used to this, but after living in Texas for 10+ years, I barely notice it now. It’s not uncommon to get invited to gun ranges by friends and coworkers. Admittedly, this may take some getting used to if you’re moving to Texas from a more liberal city like NYC, LA or San Francisco.
#3. Football is a Way of Life
Texas has two religions: Religion and football. Everyone and their dog roots for one team or another so you better be prepared. Texas has some pretty awesome professional sports teams, like the Dallas Cowboys, the Houston Astros, and the San Antonio Spurs. These teams have tons of fans, and many Texans will fight to defend their honor. The passion isn’t reserved just for professional teams though. You’ll need to pick a favorite college team and maybe a high school team for good measure. The e...
Moving to Texas seems to be on a lot of people’s minds lately. Hard to blame them! Friendly locals, affordable housing, access to nature and year-round sunshine. Texas is a great place to live, as long as you find the city that fits your needs and have a good-paying salary so that you can enjoy all the Lone Star State has to offer. If you’re consid...
If you’re planning on moving to Texas, here’s a quick recap of the pros and cons of living in Texas. I hope you found this post helpful. 1. The locals are friendly 2. Access to outdoor recreation 3. Constant sunshine 4. No state income tax in Texas 5. Booming job market 6. Texas is diverse 7. Affordable cost of living 8. Homes are still affordable ...
Further Reading for Texas
Best Cities to Live in Texas: 10 Best Places to Live in Texas Best Cities to Retire in Texas: 10 Best Places to Retire in Texas Living in Austin: 15 Honest Pros & Cons of Living in Austin Best Neighborhoods in Austin: 10 Best Neighborhoods to Live in Austin Austin vs Portland: Living in Austin, Texas vs Portland, Oregon Living in San Antonio: 15 Honest Pros & Cons of Living in San Antonio Living in Houston: 15 Honest Pros & Cons of Living in Houston Living in Dallas: 15 Honest Pros & Cons of...
Life in Other Parts of the South
Living in Louisiana: 15 Honest Pros & Cons of Living in Louisiana Living in Missouri: 15 Honest Pros & Cons of Living in Missouri Living in Georgia: 15 Honest Pros & Cons of Living in Georgia Living in Mississippi: 15 Honest Pros & Cons of Living in Mississippi Living in Arkansas: 15 Honest Pros & Cons of Living in Arkansas Living in Tennessee: 15 Honest Pros & Cons of Living in Tennessee Living in Florida: 15 Honest Pros & Cons of Living in Florida Living in Alabama: 15 Honest Pros & Cons of...
Jul 25, 2023 · Pro: Cost of Living. One of the biggest pros you’ll find in moving to Texas is the low cost of living. Compared to places on the East and West coasts, Texas is quite affordable. This definitely helps raise the quality of life in Texas! From food to housing, things in Texas cost less than in many other states.
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Mar 18, 2024 · Overall, Texas ranked sixth for the worst state to live in. The five states that ranked worse than Texas were Louisiana, Tennessee, Arizona, South Carolina, and California. A recent report ...
