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People have their reasons to relocate to other states. It may be the job market, education, weather, or neighborhoods. We can say clearly that Texas checks all the above boxes. The Lone Star State has a lot to offer regarding leisure and entertainment. It is more than just cowboys, ranches, and country music as portrayed in films. Also, numerous concerts and countless films are produced from this state, and the people are friendly.
What makes Texas special to move in? Our detailed article will guide you through all the aspects of living in Texas.
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One thing is certain: New Mexico and Texas have warm, humid summers and clear skies. If you’re wanting the same summer feel, then Texas earns top priority in your planning list. Winters in New Mexico are relatively more lenient than in other states, but it’s not advisable to visit New Mexico from December to February. Especially in the northern part of New Mexico, where the elevation rises from Santa Fe upward. On such a day, residents enjoy a hot cup of coffee, or skiing enthusiasts perform aerials in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
New Mexico is known as the 'land of two climates' where pleasant warm summers account for those chilly winters. It’s the ideal time for people to enjoy New Mexico's scenery while river rafting, cycling, or hiking. This is the time when the aspens, cottonwoods, and chili harvest contribute to New Mexico's aesthetic value following shades of yellow and red.
But, this cannot be said about summers in Texas. Get your ice-cold beverages and a stack of ice cream ready as you’ll be met with extremely hot and humid climatic conditions. August is the hottest month with temperatures spiking up to 100°F. Therefore, it is advisable to move into Texas after summer. Particularly, in fall or winter, when the climate is slightly pleasant.
Winters are milder as compared to other states, but it can get colder especially in the northern part of Texas, sometimes even dropping below freezing temperature. You might want to sleep with a blanket at night since temperatures drop below 23°F.
Here’s the difference in temperatures that you can expect during the winter months:
Not fond of chilly evenings? Then you’re in luck in Texas. To endure winter in Texas, a comfortable sweater or jacket is enough to get you through the season. It rains or snows at least twice a month.
Here's the difference in temperatures that you can expect during peak summertime:
However, you should know that Texas encounters numerous hurricanes, especially during late summer and fall, along the Gulf coast. And the east and north of the state are prone to thunderstorms, during summer and spring. Hence, you may want to account for these factors as well before moving.
Few Things To Bear In Mind About Texas Weather:
It only makes sense to move into another state if the cost of living is lower or suited to your budget. In this case, Texas is 1.4% higher than New Mexico but 8% lower than the national average. It’s not a significant difference but is quite affordable. Maybe you’ll have to make minute changes to your lifestyle for your needs in Texas.
See also: Moving to Texas - Relocation Guide
While accounting, you need to factor in housing as well. Property taxes take a major chunk of your salary and depending on that, you need to plan expenditure on utilities. Unfortunately, property taxes are higher in Texas than in New Mexico. An average Texas homeowner pays $3,390 yearly in property taxes as opposed to New Mexico's $1,403. Being the seventh-largest state in property taxes, the average property tax is 1.69% as compared to the national average. This is 0.62% higher than the country's average.
This comparison will give you a broader picture of the difference of property taxes:
Why the stark difference, you may ask. The reason is a majority of these taxes fund the infrastructure and manpower of the state that includes schools, law enforcement, roads, and water systems. Apart from that, property values increase, and along with that, the taxation as well.
On the contrary, you do not have to pay state income tax in Texas, which is a slight relief to your budget and wallet. Also, you will have to pay 4.8% less for groceries. One pound of apples will cost you $4.23, whereas a pound of bananas will cost $1.50. That is 30% cheaper than New Mexico's rate.
Transportation in Texas is 2.7% higher than in New Mexico. Since gasoline prices are cheap ($2.79 per gallon to be precise), and navigating through a large state by car is easier, people prefer driving to work as compared to taking public transport. A monthly public transit pass is $45.92, which is 36% higher than New Mexico's $33.70.
Childcare is certainly cheaper than New Mexico’s system. An average of 3.5% difference with the best available facilities will make you think of your child’s future as well. Middle school for one child, two semesters will cost you $11,586.74 as compared to $15,288.33 (New Mexico’s average rate).
Restaurants are 0.6% less expensive. It is not much of a difference, but money saved is money earned.
If you’re thinking about the scope of work in Texas, you’re thinking right. Texas has a plethora of work opportunities in its state. The job market is evolving and adapting to current trends, making it promising and easier to find a job of your choice. With a GDP second-highest in the country and home to some of the companies on the Fortune 500 list, Texas ranks as the ninth-largest economy in the world. New Mexico's GDP ranks nowhere to Texas' goliath economy.
Usually, when you talk about Texas, you may liken the state to farms and ranches. Although agriculture is one of its primary contributors, these are some of the other sectors that do as well:
Looking at New Mexico, it’s comparatively poorer than other states and is not a large contributor to the country's economy. While most of its GDP comes from the service sector, the residents earn their living through other sectors such as mining and oil production. The unemployment rates are some of the lowest in the country with 7.9% as compared to 6.5% in Texas. Earning in Texas will be a breeze since the standard of living is much higher than its neighbor and the opportunities are plentiful.
When it comes to household incomes, you will notice a fairly significant difference between them. This comparison will help you have a rough idea of how much one earns annually:
If you’re living on your own, you’ll require approximately $30,780 to cover all utilities and bills. However, if you’re splitting the expenses with your spouse, then you’ll need to earn just $23,155 annually.
Moving in with a family is a whole different ball game altogether. The more members you have, the more it will cost. If you’re a single parent providing for one child, you need to earn a minimum of $59,652 annually. On the other hand, if you and your spouse both work and have 3 kids, you should earn $93,782 per year.
Traveling in New Mexico is not efficient. Being rural and underdeveloped, you’re left on your own in terms of traveling. There are a few train services and buses that connect to smaller towns within the state, but that’s the most you’ll get out of New Mexico's state public transportation system. This is a complete contrast to Texas' extensive network of roadways and choice of transportation.
You have Brazos Transit District, Capital Metro, DART, DCTA that will connect you intrastate or interstate. However, people prefer to travel by car as it is convenient and can take you to places beyond the reach of public transportation. Texas is known for its quality roads on interstate highways, hemmed with gas stations every few miles along the way.
Through Texas, Amtrak operates three major train lines. The Sunset Limited traverses between New Orleans and Los Angeles, halting at Beaumont, Houston, San Antonio, and El Paso. Between Los Angeles and Chicago, the Texas Eagle Line runs with stops in San Antonio, El Paso, Austin, and Dallas. The fares are a bit pricey, but that’s somewhat accounted for by the state's scenery.
If you desire a more upscale environment, then The Woodlands is best suited for you. Having world-class dining areas and shopping malls, you’ll always have something to pass your time on in this city. And if that doesn’t entice you, take a stroll along The Waterway or paddle along the stream at Riva Row Boat House. Visit the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion to enjoy concerts and nightlife.
Safety is a top priority in The Woodlands. Periodic patrolling by the station police ensures less criminal activity and safer neighborhoods. The public schools are among the top in the country such as the Creekside Forest Elementary School, Creekside Park Junior High School, College Park High School, and The Woodlands High School.
Median Home Value: $374,200 Median Rent: $1,566
Housing can be expensive. Many factors contribute to the increasing costs. However, Round Rock caters to your budget needs where real estate is concerned. According to Niche, this city is voted as one of America's best cities to buy a house. Apart from that, Round Rock is regarded as the ‘Sports Capital of Texas.’ So all you baseball fanatics will love its state-of-the-art stadium and field.
However, this city loses a few points on safety, but the job market offers numerous opportunities. With a median household income of $82,676, you’ll find work in the IT, medical, and catering industries.
Median Home Value: $244,300 Median Rent: $1,316
If you want to experience Southern hospitality at its finest, then Waco should be on your checklist. Situated in the heart of Texas, with a population of 135,858, you’ll find the city’s finest tourist attractions: Magnolia Market, the Dr. Pepper Museum, and the Armstrong Browning Library. If you want to learn about some of America’s fine heritage, visit the Waco Mammoth National Monument or the Texas Rangers Hall of Fame.
Median Home Value: $125,300Median Rent: $862
Also See: Moving To Waco, TX
Amarillo has a rich historical advantage over other cities. It may not be as grand compared to other cities, but it has a small-town vibe to it. Nevertheless, there are countless things to do such as the 72-ounce Steak Challenge at The Big Texan Steak Ranch. If you’re not able to complete that steak, you’ll have to pay for your meal. Speaking of its historical advantage, visit the Route 66 Historic District to learn more about America's past.
Median Home Value: $132,500 Median Rent: $850
Wichita Falls has a historical and economical advantage as well. Known as the ‘Gateway to Texas’, this quaint city has some of the state's most innovative architecture and flourishing arts scene. Real estate is easy on the budget and the rent is affordable as well. The Wichita Theatre Performing Arts Center and Castaway Cove are testaments to some of the city's aesthetics.
Median Home Value: $102,400 Median Rent: $794
The distance between the two states is approximately 400 miles. Firstly, you need to have an open conversation with your mover. Find out every detail, the hidden or extra costs beforehand, so that you may not feel scammed later. Go through their website and schedule a meeting with them to get your doubts cleared.
Most of your costs will come in transporting your furniture and boxes. You may even need trailers and containers to aid in moving conveniently. Check the price out and ask for discounts on their services.
Depending on the size of your home, the costs will increase. Here is a rough estimate of moving from Albuquerque to Dallas:
To lower costs, transport only what is needed. The rest you can either sell or donate.
See also: Affordable Moving Companies
Conclusion
Both New Mexico and Texas have their pros and cons. Texas has no state income tax but has high property tax. The job opportunities are numerous and one of the highest contributors to the country's GDP. It’s rich in history and cultural heritage, which makes it advantageous to learn something new about the state. But all the same, the weather can be harsh at times.
Overall, Texas is a lovely place to be in. As stated earlier, Texas is just 1.4% more expensive than New Mexico. So you’ll not feel the pinch on your salary. The people are friendly, helpful, so you won’t feel left out in any situation. The schools provide quality education and playgrounds are in abundance. There are more positive than negative points in this state. Hence making the move easier and reliable.
Texas is 1.4% more expensive than New Mexico. With no state income tax, Texas has a high property tax that finances the state’s infrastructure. You will have to cut some corners here and there to adjust your budget, but that should not be a problem since the median household income is higher than the land of enchantment.
See also: Lowest Cost of Living States
According to World Population Review, property crimes and homicide rates are higher in New Mexico than in Texas. Keeping the national average crime rate as 5 deaths per 100k people, New Mexico’s homicide rate is 7.1, whereas Texas’ rate is 5. With these statistics, it is safe to say that Texas is a lot safer than New Mexico.
It all depends on the complexity of the move. The cost of moving into a one-bedroom apartment can range between $1,700 to $1,900, whereas moving into a 5+ bedroom apartment can cost up to $4,000 or even more. So always carry less when you are moving and compare quotes from at least 3 movers before finalizing a deal.
See also: How Much Does it Cost to Move Out of State | Moving From Colorado To Texas | Moving from Florida to Texas – Expert Tips & Advice
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