Have you considered the tax advantages? Texas residents keep more of their paycheck, thanks to the absence of state income tax. This unique benefit sets Texas apart from most other states, letting you stretch your earnings further.

#02 Jobs and Economic Growth

Texas added 4.8 million new residents since 2010, bringing fresh talent to the workforce.

The state’s economy spans multiple sectors. While it began with agriculture and energy, Texas now leads in technology, aerospace, and biomedical sciences.

Fifty-three Fortune 500 companies have made Texas their headquarters. Companies like AT&T, DELL, and ExxonMobil drive substantial job creation across the state.

Professional salaries remain competitive here. Texas households earn a median income of $76,292, matching the national average.

What draws tech companies to Texas? A skilled workforce, combined with business-friendly policies, has transformed the state into a technology hub.

Tourism, agriculture, and energy sectors continue to expand. This growth creates diverse employment opportunities for both new graduates and experienced professionals.

Would your career path align with Texas’s growing industries? While some focus on the energy sector, others find opportunities in healthcare, technology, or aerospace.

Professional development programs open doors to advancement. The Governor’s University Research Initiative specifically supports innovation and research positions.

#03 Business Friendly State

Texas stands as the eighth-largest economy globally, outpacing many independent nations.

Companies thrive under the state’s zero corporate income tax policy. Employees keep more earnings too, as Texas charges no personal income tax.

A highly skilled workforce drives business success across the state. Through well-developed infrastructure, companies easily connect to global markets.

Clear, practical regulations help businesses operate efficiently. This streamlined approach has earned Texas consistent praise from the nation’s top CEOs.

What sets Texas apart? Its combination of tax benefits, skilled workers, and strategic location creates unique advantages for companies of all sizes.

#04 Top-Tier Education Institutions

Thirty-six public universities serve students across Texas. These institutions range from large research centers to specialized schools.

The University of Texas at Austin and Texas A&M University lead as the state’s flagship schools. Both drive innovation and research across multiple fields.

Several universities are gaining research prominence. The University of Texas at San Antonio and Texas State University continue expanding their academic programs.

Rice University stands out among private institutions. Located in Houston, it has earned national recognition for research excellence.

Strong education extends to younger students. Public school districts offer diverse academic programs and activities.

Each city presents unique educational opportunities. Students can choose from specialized programs that match their interests and career goals.

#05 Delicious Food Scene

Texas offers distinct regional flavors that shape its cuisine. Local specialties range from smoked meats to Gulf Coast seafood.

Barbecue enthusiasts explore the Texas Barbecue Trail. Each stop reveals unique smoking techniques and special rubs.

Austin’s Ramos Tex-Mex Restaurant serves authentic regional dishes. Their menu combines traditional Mexican flavors with Texas cooking styles.

Houston’s seafood scene thrives with fresh Gulf catches. Brennan’s of Houston specializes in redfish preparations.

UB Preserv, under Chef Chris Shepherd, creates innovative snapper dishes. Meanwhile, Fisherman’s Wharf has built its reputation on expertly prepared sheepshead.

#06 Moderate Winters & Plenty of Sunshine

Texas winters stay mild, especially in the Piney Woods and Gulf Coast areas. Most days remain comfortable for outdoor activities.

Snow rarely falls in Texas. Even northern regions see few snow days throughout winter.

January temperatures average 58°F across the state. This moderate climate allows for year-round outdoor activities.

Sunshine dominates the Texas sky. Most cities experience hundreds of clear, sunny days annually.

#07 Plenty of Outdoor Activities

Texas offers endless adventure opportunities. The warm climate enables year-round outdoor activities.

Natural landscapes invite exploration. Rock climbers tackle limestone cliffs while kayakers navigate winding rivers.

State parks showcase diverse terrains. Big Bend National Park features desert canyons, while Guadalupe Mountains rise dramatically from the plains.

Outdoor enthusiasts find their niche here. Hikers explore hundreds of trails while anglers cast lines in coastal waters.

Palo Duro Canyon reveals colorful rock layers. Known as the “Grand Canyon of Texas,” it attracts hikers and mountain bikers.

Enchanted Rock’s pink granite dome beckons climbers. The surrounding park offers prime spots for stargazing.

Cons

#01 Extreme Summer & Natural Disasters

Summer heat dominates Texas life. Daily temperatures in July range from 74-97°F.

2023 brought record-breaking temperatures. Most regions experienced unusually high heat and humidity levels.

The state faces diverse weather threats. Hurricanes strike coastal areas while tornadoes affect northern regions.

Humidity amplifies summer discomfort. Coastal cities experience particularly sticky conditions.

Severe storms occur regularly. These bring intense rainfall, flooding, and dangerous lightning.

Natural disasters reshape local landscapes. Wildfires threaten western areas while floods impact urban centers.

Weather patterns vary by region. Yet summer heat affects everyone, from Amarillo to Brownsville.

Extreme weather requires preparation. You can learn more about Texas’ natural disasters and safety precautions here.

#02 Skyrocket Property Taxes

While Texas offers lower home prices than many states, its high property taxes offset some of these savings.

The state’s effective property tax rate of 1.60% significantly exceeds the national average of 0.99%, which means homeowners face substantial yearly expenses despite moderate housing costs.

When buying property in Texas, careful budget planning becomes essential since annual tax payments can reach thousands of dollars.

#03 Not So Good Public Transportation

Major cities like Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, and Austin maintain public transit systems, yet smaller towns lack reliable options.

Getting around Texas without a car proves challenging due to its vast size and limited transportation infrastructure.

Public transit trips often take twice as long as driving, according to Lonely Planet. This inefficiency, combined with infrequent service in suburban and rural areas, makes car ownership nearly essential for Texas residents.

#04 Gun Violence

The 2021 constitutional carry law eliminated license requirements for public firearm possession. Any Texas resident with the legal right to own a gun can now carry it openly.

This law significantly reduced restrictions on firearm possession and public carry. Critics argue these changes make weapons more accessible to dangerous individuals.

#05 Bugs & Mosquitoes

Texas’s warm, humid climate creates ideal conditions for insects. The state’s annual rainfall of 27.25 inches attracts various pest species.

Common household pests include roaches, wasps, mosquitoes, and multiple ant species. These insects thrive particularly during humid summer months.

Mosquitoes pose a persistent challenge in most regions. Regular pest control becomes necessary for many homeowners, especially in areas near water sources.

So, Is Texas a Good Place to Live?

Texas offers substantial benefits: a robust economy, diverse job opportunities, and lower living costs compared to many states. The lack of state income tax, combined with affordable housing in many areas, helps residents build financial stability.

The state provides varied lifestyles, from vibrant cities to quiet rural communities. Strong educational institutions, year-round outdoor activities, and rich food culture enhance quality of life.

However, significant challenges exist. Extreme summer heat, natural disasters, and high property taxes impact daily life.

Limited public transportation outside major cities creates car dependency, while weak gun regulations concern many residents.

Your decision to move to Texas should weigh these factors against your priorities. Consider your career goals, budget, preferred lifestyle, and tolerance for climate extremes.

Living in Texas – FAQs

Is Texas Safe?

Crime rates in Texas run slightly above national averages. The state records 4.32 violent crimes and 23 property crimes per 1,000 residents. While many communities maintain strong safety records, crime rates vary significantly by location.

Is Texas a Good State for Foreigners?

Texas welcomes international residents with diverse opportunities. Major cities actively recruit global talent across various sectors. The absence of state income tax and multicultural environment make transition easier for newcomers.

Is It Better to Live In Texas or California?