Texas State Information

Moving to Texas

Texas boasts impressive job growth, diverse cities, and energy boomtowns. Add the rich culture and the relatively affordable housing, and it’s no wonder people are flocking to the Lone Star State. From large urban areas to miles of wide-open spaces, the vast regions of Texas offer new residents a great chance of finding a location that best fits their lifestyle and needs.

Are you ready to move to Texas?

Moving Advice

  • Hurricane season starts on June 1 and lasts through Nov. 30—though it usually peaks between August and September.

  • Moving companies in Texas must be licensed with the TxDMV, so make sure your moving company is properly licensed before hiring them.

  • No moving permits are required, but check local parking restrictions before moving.

  • Traffic congestion is a major issue in big cities. If you’re moving to a major metro area, avoid rush hours to make your move smoother.

  • Change your address online to ensure a seamless transition. Doing so is easy, inexpensive, and ensures your mail arrives at your new home with you.

Cities and Metro Areas

Texas has its own unique culture, and each city has a distinct micro-culture. Austin is music. Galveston is the Gulf. Houston is oil. But everywhere you go, you’ll experience a huge dose of Texas pride. Texas is named for the Hasinai Indian word tejas, meaning friends or allies.

Expect a warm welcome when you arrive. Residents and visitors alike are drawn to Texas for its weather, jobs, quality of life, leisure activities, and relaxation. Before you start packing, here are a few things to consider.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Texas varies widely by location. Generally, the state boasts an affordable cost of living in most suburban areas, with the exception of Austin, which remains a hot spot for real estate. Housing costs in Texas are below the national average, making it a desirable place to live. As one of the country’s fastest-growing states, Texas offers a wide variety of neighborhoods suited to different lifestyles.

As of September 2022, the median price for a home in Texas was $355,800, down 7% from its peak of $382,800 in May 2022. The rise in mortgage rates has impacted sales activity and affordability, leading to a drop in home prices.

Climate

Texas offers a variety of climates depending on where you choose to live. Average temperatures are mild, but summers can reach extremes over 100 degrees. If you’re moving to the Gulf Coast, be prepared for hurricanes, which can be a seasonal threat.

Education

Texas is vast, and so are its educational opportunities. Public, private, magnet schools, and more are available as schooling options. If school quality is a deciding factor in your move, research your prospective school district before purchasing a home.

Current school rankings (elementary, middle, and high schools), campus and district zoning maps, information, and reviews are available online to help parents make informed decisions.

Texas’ largest school districts include:

  • Dallas, Fort Worth, Arlington

  • Houston, Sugar Land

  • Austin, Round Rock

  • San Antonio

Texas is also a great place for higher education. Notable universities include:

  • University of Texas

  • Texas A&M University

  • Texas Tech University

  • Southern Methodist University (SMU)

  • Texas Christian University (TCU)

  • Texas Wesleyan College (TWC)

Government

Before moving to Texas, go to the Official Website for the State of Texas to find reliable information about everything to do with working and living in the state.

  • You are required to obtain a Texas driver’s license within 90 days of moving to the state. For more information, visit the Texas Department of Public Safety.

  • To register to vote in Texas, find out where your nearest polling location is, and get other related information, visit VoteTexas.gov.

  • Vehicle Registration: The Texas Department of Motor Vehicles has all the information you need about registering your vehicle in Texas.

Texas welcomes you with open arms. Whether you're drawn by the economy, culture, or lifestyle, you’ll find plenty of reasons to call Texas home!