The Lone Star State is known for having some of the friendliest people, being a foodie’s paradise thanks to the eclectic blending of Tex-Mex and barbeque flavors, and, of course, for everything being bigger in this state that is technically the second largest in square footage and residents!
Texas has been on your short-list for years, and you are finally ready to take the plunge and move to a major metropolitan area, but which is the right choice for your family, lifestyle, and budget?
At Rocky Movers, we love providing the best moving advice for beginners, and among some of the sagest wisdom we offer is narrowing down your options based on the living costs of a particular city.
Consumers will benefit significantly by not only understanding factors considered when creating a cost-of-living analysis but also the living costs of the five biggest Texas cities:
Moving to the Lone Star State: Factors to Consider Before Choosing Your New Hometown
An estimated 473,453 people moved to Texas between July 2022 and July 2023, providing the state with a record-breaking growth rate of 1.6%.
Before relocating or contacting any state-to-state moving companies, take the time to understand the costs associated with living in the area.
Remember, the cost of living varies significantly between cities, especially if you plan on living in a big city, where the living costs are typically much higher than in rural areas.
Here are common factors websites and companies use when creating a cost-of-living calculator:
Overall Cost of Living Index
Basically, an overall cost of living index is a way to compare the price of living in different cities.
The individual city’s index is then compared to the average cost of goods and services in the entire United States.
The cost of living in the United States is 100, and a number score is assigned to each city, which will help you understand how much more or less it will typically cost to live in that particular town or new city compared to the whole of the U.S.
For example, suppose you are starting over and moving to Boulder, CO. In that case, the cost-of-living index in Boulder is 141.3, meaning it would cost more for essential goods and essential services, from groceries to childcare, than the average person living in the U.S.
Housing Expenses/Rent
Another major factor considered in the overall living cost is the average cost of rent or a monthly mortgage payment.
For instance, if you are searching for a new job or new beginnings in Boulder, the average cost of housing is 322.6, making it over three times the national average.
Home prices can vary wildly, even between nearby towns, so do your homework to determine how much the median selling price of a new home has changed in the past year.
Transportation Costs
Living in the country or rural areas, where access to public transportation is minimal, transportation costs are often higher than in urban areas, where additional options are available, including buses, trains, and subways.
The cost of gasoline and maintaining a vehicle can significantly burden the typical household.
So, if you are considering the journey from Denver to a new state, such as Texas, keep the cost of gas and average vehicle prices in mind.
Average Salary
Although the average individual or household salary doesn’t factor into any cost-of-living index, it is a vital consideration, especially if you are relocating to a large urban area, where the living costs are typically much higher than in rural towns.
In addition to contacting an employer directly, The Bureau of Labor Statistics is a wonderful source of information about the average income and salary in a particular area.
Entertainment and Food Costs
Do you love to dine out or spend your weekends at the theater?
The costs of a week’s groceries have consistently been on the rise for several years, as have the costs of internet, cable, and a movie ticket.
Although these might seem like minor expenses, especially compared to the cost of rent or transportation, most Americans discount how much entertainment and food costs can undermine their anticipated monthly budget.
Other Factors to Consider
- Weather: Although the climate might seem hot and dry in Texas, there are areas more prone to severe weather and horrible natural disasters, such as the Gulf Coast and Houston, which has experienced 52 named hurricanes since 1930.
- Community Involvement: Remember, raising families takes a village, and you want to know that the neighborhood you call home is not only affordable but also has plenty of ways for you and your kids to give back.
- Taxes: The Texas state income tax rate is 0%. Sales tax is 6.25% with a maximum additional 2% local sales tax.
- Traffic: Traffic in any major city will be typically brutal, but there are some cities where the gridlock is downright awful, including Houston.
- Education Costs: Most major Texas cities have a named university and several private schools, so consider these costs when deciding where to relocate if you are moving out of Colorado Springs.
- Crime Rate: Texas’ overall crime rate is 38% higher than the national average, but each major city has its individual rates of property and violent crimes, as well.
For example, if you are saying Farewell Denver: Exploring Top Moving Destinations and looking at a specific city in Texas, check out the crime rates of the town and each neighborhood.
5 Popular Texas Cities to Call Home: A Cost-of-Living Analysis
Texas boasts an unbelievable 16 major cities; many are worthy of calling your next home.
Whether you are planning a last-minute move or want to pack for a long-distance move in less than a week, Quick Tips, the pros at Rocky Movers are here to help you relocate to any of these five most prominent cities in the Lone Star State:
Dallas
With a population of 1,245,124 residents, Dallas’s population is actually on the decline, even though most other cities are experiencing steady positive population growth.
D-Town, as it is affectionately called by locals, is known for its fantastic food, nightlife in the downtown area, the University of Texas Dallas, and the home of the largest art district in the United States.
Considering Dallas for your next hometown, here is some valuable information and the ultimate guide to long-distance moving:
Overall Cost of Living
The average cost of living in Dallas, Texas, is 100.2, meaning it is only slightly higher than the rest of the country.
This is primarily thanks to the lower housing cost; a typical home costs $295,110, which is 12.5% lower than homes across the United States.
To live comfortably, a family must earn at least $56,520.
Costs of Living
- Housing: 89.1
- Groceries: 99.1
- Healthcare: 98.1
- Utilities: 100
- Transportation: 117.1
Fort Worth
With a population of 967,457, Fort Worth is always associated with the D-Town metro area, although, unlike its twin city, the population of Fort Worth is actually on the rise.
Although most people associate the two cities, Fort Worth is its own official city.
Nicknamed “Cowtown” for its history as a center of cattle drives in the American Southwest, Fort Worth also has a vibrant art center, a booming job market, a passion for football, and downright strange weather patterns!
If you are choosing from long-distance moving companies in Boulder, CO, consider these facts about what it’s really like to live in the Fort Worth area:
Overall Cost of Living
The overall living cost in Fort Worth is 101.5, making it also just above the rest of the country.
The cost of living is 7.7% higher than the rest of Texas, and unlike Denver, where the average cost of houses raises the living expenses in the city, you can enjoy the benefit of purchasing a home for around $306,700.
A two-bedroom apartment costs $1,590, 11.5% higher than the rest of the country and 19.5% higher than other urban areas in Texas.
Costs of Living
- Housing: 86.5
- Groceries: 97.7
- Healthcare: 99.3
- Utilities: 100.5
- Transportation: 113.9
Houston
The fourth largest city in the United States behind New York, Los Angeles, and the Windy City, Houston has a population of 2,345,606. However, the metro area’s population is just over 6 million residents.
Home to the Texans, Astros, Rockets, and Dynamo, Houston is known as being home to the NASA Johnson Space Center and multiple parks and green spaces.
Several businesses are based in Houston, including ExxonMobil, Enterprise Products Partners, and Sysco.
If you are considering Houston, we specialize in household moving made easy and provide you with 8 steps to choose the right moving company.
Overall Cost of Living
The cost of living in Houston is 96.9, which, like other major metropolitan areas in Texas, is below the rest of the nation.
Housing costs are actually very affordable, considering the size of Houston, and the average home price is $247,900, or 26.7% less than the rest of the country.
Rental prices are also reasonable, and you can expect to pay $1350/month for a two-bedroom apartment.
To live comfortably in this largest city in Texas, a single person must earn at least $45,200/year.
Costs of Living
- Housing: 75.4
- Groceries: 98.1
- Healthcare: 95.1
- Utilities: 96.5
- Transportation: 119
Austin
The state capital and one of the most unique areas in Texas and the rest of the United States, the population of Austin, TX, is 996,147.
Residents of Austin are proud of the city’s “weird” reputation, which can be felt when exploring the musical venues, historic theaters, trends boutiques, and museums scattered throughout downtown Austin, particularly historic 2nd Street!
Considering checking out the city’s world-renowned restaurants and breweries? Head to North Austin.
If you are packing up your Colorado home and heading for the “Live Music Capital of the World,” we can help you with this easy guide: How Long Does It Take Packers to Pack a House?
Overall Cost of Living
Unfortunately, unlike other major metropolitan areas in Texas, living in Austin is more expensive than in the rest of the country.
The overall cost of living in Austin is 129.1, primarily because of the typical home price of $557,400, 70.8% higher than the rest of the country.
Many other necessities, including miscellaneous expenses, transportation, and healthcare, are also more expensive than the rest of the country.
Considering renting, you will also pay more, as the typical two-bedroom costs $1,780/month, and the average person would need to earn at least $110,520/year to live comfortably in this area.
Costs of Living
- Housing: 189
- Groceries: 96.7
- Healthcare: 101.6
- Utilities: 99.1
- Transportation: 109.9
San Antonio
The most visited and arguably the most haunted city in Texas, San Antonio’s population is 1,456,069.
This area is known for its exceptional schools, burgeoning economy, affordable neighborhoods, and relative safety, especially compared to other large metro areas in Texas.
Home of the championship San Antonio Spurs, the Alamo, and the historic River Walk, Mission City is one of the best U.S. cities for retirees.
Forget Florida; if you want senior long-distance moving tips, the pros at Rocky Movers can help you expertly and quickly downsize and relocate to San Antonio.
Overall Cost of Living
Remember, the United States average cost of living is 100, and if you are looking for a relatively affordable place in Texas to call home, San Antonio, rated at 91.5, is the lowest overall cost of living among the five largest metro areas in the state.
Once again, this lower overall cost is thanks in large part to the relatively low amount you will pay for a house, as the average home costs $254,600, which is nearly 25% lower than the average price of a home in the United States.
Are you cross-country moving and intending to rent?
San Antonio is a great place to establish yourself after college or during retirement.
The average rent for a typical two-bedroom apartment is $1,300/month, or cheaper than the national average and slightly above the state average.
Costs of Living
- Housing: 75.5
- Groceries: 91.4
- Healthcare: 95.7
- Utilities: 94.4
- Transportation: 99.3
Whether You Are Moving to San Francisco, Chicago, Idaho, or San Antonio, You Can Rely on Rocky Movers!
Congratulations! You are entering a very exciting season of your life and are ready to relocate and start a new adventure in a new state or city.
Whether you decide to call the Lone State State home or are considering relocating to any other location in the United States, the long-distance moving experts at Rocky Movers are here to help you plan an affordable, fast, and, most importantly, stress-free relocation.
Are you considering transitioning from big cities to smaller towns, or are you planning on moving to the Mile High City and need insider tips and insights for moving to Denver?
Our team of qualified, seasoned, dependable professional movers is ready to assist you with planning any type of relocation, big or small.
The Best Movers in the Denver Metro Areas: Tips for What Questions to Always Ask Movers Before Signing on the Dotted Line
Are you ready to find long-distance movers near you but unsure what qualities to look for in a professional moving company?
Chances are you have many questions, and the team at Rocky Movers has the answers.
For example, are you concerned about the canned goods in your pantry or want to learn about particular packing services?
We have the answers; check out Do Long Distance Movers Pack Clothes? Your Questions Answered, and Will Long Distance Movers Move Canned Goods? Get the Facts!
Ask questions of your long-distance moving company too to ensure they are reputable and can always meet your needs, including:
- Do you offer packing services? If you don’t have time to pack an entire household, ask about professional packing services.
- Do you sell packing supplies? If you want to pack yourself, look for free moving boxes on Marketplace or Offerup before you buy.
- Are you licensed and insured? Make sure that any movers you work with are licensed not only through the United States Department of Transportation but also by the state of Texas and carry proper ability insurance.
- What is your cancellation policy? Life plans can change instantly, so make sure you clearly understand the cancellation policy or if you can easily change your moving date.
- How many years have you been in business? Look for a moving company that has been in business for several years and has a proven track record for excellence and customer satisfaction.
Our Customers Also Ask
Is moving to Texas worth it?
There are several pros and cons to calling Texas home, including:
- No income tax: Like North Dakota, Alaska, New Hampshire, and Florida, there is no individual income tax liability in the state of Texas.
- Affordable housing: Purchasing a home and renting a modest apartment is much cheaper in most urban and rural areas of Texas, especially when compared to the higher housing costs in Colorado, particularly Denver.
- Friendly people: Don’t want to give up the friendly smiles and warm neighbors you’ve come to love in Colorado? You are in luck because some of the nicest people call Texas home!
- High property taxes: With an average residential property tax rate of 1.8%, Texas boasts the 14th highest property taxes in the United States.
- The heat and bugs: If you love the moderate, arid temperatures in Colorado, be prepared to say goodbye because the typical Texas summer is filled with bugs, unrelenting sunshine, and even more bugs!
Colorado is classically a swing state, meaning there is a healthy mixture of Republicans and Democrats.
However, if you move to Texas, be prepared to live amongst a mostly conservative citizenship, which might be difficult if you are a diehard liberal.
How much money should I have to move to Texas?
To live comfortably in Texas, you will need to earn between $56,000 and $80,000 annually.
Of course, the amount you will need to live in each individual city can differ significantly.
For example, suppose you want to enjoy the sites in Austin, Arlington, El Paso, and Lubbock.
In that case, you will need to earn a higher income than other, more inexpensive cities, including Amarillo, Brownsville, or Wichita Falls!
Are you considering moving to Denver instead of Texas and want to take it easy after the moving truck pulls away?
Follow this simple guide, Relax Post-Move: Discover Denver’s Best Coffee Shops!
Is it worth moving to Austin, Texas?
The answer to the question about living in Austin, Texas, is, “It depends.”
For example, if you are a post-graduate millennial, Austin is a great place to live, as it is known for its nightlife, and around 31% of the people in Austin fall into this age group.
The food in Austin is fantastic, and there is no shortage of unique outdoor activities throughout the entire year.
Unfortunately, there are some downsides to living in Austin, including:
- The heat: It is not unusual for Austin to experience highs in the 90s and 100s throughout the entire summer, which is a stark contrast to the mild temperatures you experience living in Denver.
- Lack of transportation options: For the city’s size, Austin’s public transportation is underdeveloped, meaning you will need to rely on a car to get around the city.
- Locals aren’t always kind to newcomers: Unlike other major areas in Texas, the tried-and-true citizens of this “weird” city don’t always welcome strangers with open arms.
What salary do I need to live in Dallas/Fort Worth?
Although the salary requirements will vary depending on several variables, the average single adult must earn at least $17.82/hour to live comfortably in the metro area.
If you have one child, you must earn at least $33.62/hour to cover all the necessary expenses.
If you are considering retiring in this region of Texas, check out our Senior Moving Services in Denver, CO: A Trusted Guide.
