Median Household Income
$76,235
National average: $83,894
9% below national average
Moving From Texas
Whether you're leaving Houston for a cooler climate, relocating from Dallas for a new opportunity, or heading out of Austin as costs keep climbing — planning a long-distance move from Texas starts with understanding costs, timing, and which movers serve your route. Below you'll find real data on what Texas residents pay, where they're moving, and how to compare screened movers for free.
35,374,017
Population
$76,235
Median Income
$304,205
Median Home
Get Quotes for Your Texas Move
Compare screened movers for your route. Free, no obligation.
35,374,017
Population
$76,235
Median Income
$304,205
Median Home Value
25.4 minutes
Commute Time
35.6%
College Educated
15.8%
Poverty Rate
Overview
Why People Are Moving Out of Texas
Texas has been America's top destination for inbound migration for years, but the outbound story is growing too. The same forces that attract millions — rapid job growth, no income tax, abundant housing — have created side effects that push some residents to leave. Property taxes in Texas are among the highest in the nation, often exceeding 2 percent of home value annually, and for many homeowners the property tax bill is larger than what they would pay in income tax elsewhere. Rising utility costs, extreme summer heat, and insurance premiums that have spiked after severe weather events all add to the financial picture that is not as favorable as the no-income-tax headline suggests.
The major metros each have their own push factors. Houston's economy is deeply tied to energy, and oil-price cycles create boom-and-bust employment patterns that drive migration in both directions. Dallas–Fort Worth has experienced explosive suburban growth that has pushed commute times higher and made affordable housing harder to find close to job centers. Austin — once the affordability darling — now rivals coastal cities on housing costs, with median home prices that have priced out many of the creative-class workers who built its culture. San Antonio remains more affordable but offers fewer high-paying career options.
Texas weather is a genuine push factor for many residents. Summers routinely bring weeks of temperatures above 100 degrees in much of the state, and the Gulf Coast faces annual hurricane risk that has intensified in recent years. Winter Storm Uri in 2021 exposed the vulnerability of the state's independent power grid and prompted some residents to reconsider whether the infrastructure could handle future extreme weather events. These climate and infrastructure concerns, combined with rising costs, have pushed Texas outmigration to record levels even as inbound migration remains strong.
The most common outmigration patterns involve professionals relocating to Colorado, Florida, or California for lifestyle reasons; families seeking lower property taxes and better weather in the Southeast; military families transferring from Fort Hood (now Fort Cavazos), Fort Bliss, or Joint Base San Antonio; retirees heading to Florida or Arizona; and remote workers who no longer need to be in a Texas metro to access its job market.
Cost of Living
How Texas Compares
Key financial metrics for Texas residents versus the national average.
Median Home Value
$304,205
National average: $447,430
32% below national average
Rent Burden
32%
National average: 33%
3% below national average
Median Age
34.7
National average: 37.6
8% below national average
Commute Time
25.4 minutes
National average: 26.4 minutes
4% below national average
College Educated
35.6%
National average: 38.3%
7% below national average
Texas has no state income tax, which is the single biggest financial talking point for residents and the first thing people lose when they leave. But the full picture is more nuanced. Texas property taxes are among the highest in the nation — rates of 2 to 2.5 percent are common in the major metros, meaning a $400,000 home generates an $8,000–$10,000 annual tax bill. Homeowners insurance has risen dramatically following severe weather events, and utility costs during Texas summers can be staggering. Housing costs vary enormously: Austin and the Dallas suburbs have become genuinely expensive, while Houston, San Antonio, El Paso, and smaller cities remain affordable. When comparing Texas to a destination state, the calculation is not simply about income tax — you need to compare the full cost picture including property taxes, insurance, utilities, and housing.
Largest Cities
Top Cities in Texas
Key stats for the largest metro areas in Texas. These are the cities most movers service on routes out of the state.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Houston | 6,227,666 | $64,813 | $282,912 |
| Dallas | 5,968,322 | $70,518 | $322,831 |
| San Antonio | 2,096,390 | $65,056 | $233,012 |
| Austin | 1,940,039 | $93,658 | $552,730 |
| Fort Worth | 963,194 | $79,507 | $296,983 |
| El Paso | 866,309 | $59,745 | $186,575 |
| McAllen | 820,752 | $61,579 | $190,711 |
| Denton | 464,461 | $76,019 | $343,372 |
| Arlington | 397,742 | $75,171 | $304,029 |
| Corpus Christi | 341,912 | $67,394 | $207,557 |
| Plano | 290,594 | $112,253 | $465,829 |
| Lubbock | 283,565 | $60,895 | $209,126 |
| Killeen | 264,379 | $60,977 | $212,888 |
| Laredo | 257,619 | $63,915 | $192,963 |
| Irving | 256,492 | $81,830 | $314,587 |
City Profiles
Moving From Key Texas Cities
What movers and residents should know about the largest metro areas in Texas.
Houston
Pop. 6,227,666 Income $64,813 Home $282,912
Houston is Texas's largest city and the energy capital of the world, with a massive economy spanning oil and gas, healthcare (the Texas Medical Center is the world's largest), aerospace (NASA's Johnson Space Center), and international trade through the Port of Houston. The metro area's sheer size — over 6 million people spread across an enormous footprint — means that moving logistics depend heavily on which part of Houston you are leaving. The city's highway network (I-10, I-45, I-69) provides routes in every direction, and the high volume of commercial and residential moves keeps carrier options plentiful. Houston movers are experienced with the heat: most prefer early-morning starts during summer months.
Read full Houston guide →Dallas
Pop. 5,968,322 Income $70,518 Home $322,831
Dallas is the anchor of the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex, one of the fastest-growing metro areas in the country with nearly 6 million residents. The economy spans finance, telecommunications, technology, defense, and corporate headquarters — more Fortune 500 companies call DFW home than almost any other metro. Moving from Dallas benefits from excellent highway connectivity via I-35, I-30, I-20, and I-45, with strong carrier availability in all directions. The biggest logistical challenge is Dallas's suburban sprawl: movers in Plano, Frisco, or McKinney may charge different rates than downtown Dallas based on drive time and access.
Read full Dallas guide →Austin
Pop. 1,940,039 Income $93,658 Home $552,730
Austin has been one of America's hottest real estate and job markets for the past decade, attracting tech companies, young professionals, and transplants from California and the coasts. The city's economy centers on technology (Tesla, Apple, Google, Samsung, Oracle, and hundreds of startups), state government, education (University of Texas), and entertainment. Austin's rapid growth has made it significantly more expensive than the rest of Texas, which is now driving outmigration from residents who can no longer afford the city or who feel it has lost the character they came for. Moving from Austin follows I-35 north to Dallas or south to San Antonio, or I-10 east to Houston.
Read full Austin guide →San Antonio
Pop. 2,096,390 Income $65,056 Home $233,012
San Antonio is Texas's second-largest city by population proper and one of its most affordable major metros. The economy revolves around military installations (Joint Base San Antonio encompasses three major bases), healthcare, tourism (the Alamo, River Walk), and cybersecurity. Moving from San Antonio is straightforward via I-35 (north to Austin and Dallas, south to the border) and I-10 (east to Houston, west to El Paso). The city's lower cost of living translates to competitive moving labor rates compared to Austin or Dallas. Military families represent a large share of San Antonio's outbound movers.
Read full San Antonio guide →Fort Worth
Pop. 963,194 Income $79,507 Home $296,983
Fort Worth anchors the western half of the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex with its own distinct economy and identity. The city's major employers include Lockheed Martin, Bell Helicopter (now Bell Textron), American Airlines, and a growing number of tech and logistics companies. Fort Worth has experienced massive suburban growth in areas like Alliance and the Walsh Ranch development, attracting families seeking more affordable alternatives to Dallas. Moving from Fort Worth shares much of the same logistics as Dallas — the same highway network and carrier availability — though western routes via I-20 and I-30 are slightly more convenient from this side of the metroplex.
Read full Fort Worth guide →City Moving Guides in Texas
Detailed guides for the most popular moving origins in Texas.
Planning Your Move
What to Know Before Leaving Texas
What Your Move Will Likely Cost
Moving out of Texas typically costs $2,000–$7,000 for a 2-bedroom household, depending on distance. Texas is a big state, so even moves to neighboring Oklahoma or Louisiana can be significant distances. Moves to Colorado or the Southeast run $2,500–$5,000, while cross-country moves to the coasts range from $4,500–$9,000. The high volume of Texas migration keeps carrier options competitive. Getting 3–5 quotes is essential given the price variation.
Timing and Seasonal Considerations
Texas summers are brutal — temperatures regularly exceed 100 degrees from June through September in most of the state, and Houston's humidity makes outdoor work dangerous. Spring (March–May) and fall (October–November) are the best times to move. Winter is mild in most of Texas and offers the lowest rates. Gulf Coast residents should be aware of hurricane season (June–November) and avoid scheduling moves during active storm threats. End-of-month and summer weekends are the most expensive and hardest to book.
Taxes and Financial Factors
Texas has no state income tax, and leaving the state may mean picking up an income tax bill for the first time. Colorado charges a flat 4.4 percent, California's top rate exceeds 13 percent, and even Florida — another no-income-tax state — has higher costs in other areas. However, Texas property taxes are among the nation's highest, so you may offset your new income tax with lower property taxes at your destination. Run the full comparison before assuming you will pay more.
The Size of Texas Matters for Moving
Texas is enormous — El Paso to Houston is over 740 miles, farther than Houston to Atlanta. When getting moving quotes, be precise about your origin and destination. A move from El Paso to Denver is fundamentally different from one starting in Houston. Carriers that serve East Texas routes may not serve West Texas at all. Your geographic location within Texas significantly affects which movers are available and what you will pay.
Downsizing Before Your Move
Long-distance movers charge by weight and volume. Texas homes tend to be large — suburban homes often exceed 2,500 square feet — with spacious garages and storage that accumulate belongings. Start decluttering six to eight weeks before your move. Dallas, Houston, Austin, and San Antonio all have active resale markets on Facebook Marketplace. Reducing your shipment weight by 1,500 pounds can save $400–$700 on a cross-country move.
Utilities and Address Changes
Before leaving Texas, schedule disconnects with your electricity provider (Texas has a deregulated market, so this varies), water utility, and gas company. File a change of address with USPS at least two weeks before moving. Update your address with the Texas DPS (Department of Public Safety), your county tax assessor, bank, insurance providers, and subscription services. If you have a Texas concealed handgun license, check reciprocity with your destination state.
Timeline
Your Texas Moving Timeline
1
8 Weeks Before
Research and compare movers
Start collecting quotes from licensed interstate movers. Be specific about your Texas city — carrier availability and pricing vary significantly across the state. Verify USDOT numbers and check FMCSA complaint history before committing.
2
6 Weeks Before
Declutter and create an inventory
Go room by room and decide what to keep, sell, donate, or discard. Texas homes tend to be spacious — garages, walk-in closets, and storage rooms accumulate more than you realize. Create a detailed inventory for your mover and insurance purposes.
3
4 Weeks Before
Book your mover and confirm dates
Lock in your preferred moving company and sign the contract. Confirm building move-out procedures if leaving an apartment in downtown Dallas, Austin, or Houston. Verify that your mover is experienced with your specific route.
4
3 Weeks Before
Start packing non-essentials
Begin with seasonal items, books, decor, and anything you will not need before moving day. Label every box with contents and destination room. If packing during Texas summer, do not leave packed boxes in the garage — heat can damage electronics, candles, and adhesives.
5
2 Weeks Before
Transfer utilities and update your address
Contact your electricity provider (varies by deregulated market area), water company, and gas utility to schedule disconnects. File a USPS change of address. Notify the Texas DPS, your county tax office, bank, employer, and insurance providers.
6
1 Week Before
Confirm everything with your mover
Reconfirm the pickup window, review your inventory, and clarify access instructions. Pack an essentials box with documents, medications, chargers, and a change of clothes. If driving, plan your route to avoid the worst of Texas heat during midday hours.
7
Moving Day
Supervise loading and document condition
Be present when movers load. Note conditions on the inventory sheet and take photos of valuable items. Confirm delivery details and crew contact information. In Texas metro areas, plan loading to start early — before the heat and traffic peak.
8
First Week After
Settle in and handle paperwork
Register your vehicle and update your driver's license in your new state within the required timeframe — most states require this within 30 to 90 days. Transfer car insurance and register to vote. If moving to a state with income tax, consult a tax professional about your filing obligations for the transition year.
Demographics
Texas at a Glance
Household Income
Under $25K 16.3%
$25K–50K 18.4%
$50K–75K 16.7%
$75K–100K 12.6%
$100K–150K 15.9%
$150K+ 20.2%
Age Distribution
Under 20 27.1%
20–29 15.6%
30–39 15.2%
40–49 12.9%
50–59 11.2%
60+ 18%
Education Level
Less than High School 15.6%
High School 22.9%
Some College 26%
Bachelor's Degree 22.1%
Graduate Degree 13.5%
Texas is the second-most-populous state in the nation with over 35 million residents, and its demographic profile reflects enormous diversity across geography, income, and education. The major metros — Houston, Dallas–Fort Worth, Austin, and San Antonio — contain the vast majority of the population and economic output, while rural Texas and border communities have significantly lower incomes and educational attainment. Texas has one of the youngest median ages in the country, driven by high birth rates and a constant influx of young workers. Income distribution shows strong upper-income presence in Austin, Plano, and the Dallas suburbs, alongside significant poverty in border communities, rural areas, and parts of Houston and San Antonio. Education levels vary enormously: Austin's college-educated share approaches 60 percent, while many rural areas and border cities fall below 25 percent. The state's diversity — Texas is a majority-minority state — shapes its communities, economy, and culture in ways that differ from most other large states. These patterns influence outmigration: professionals leaving for lifestyle reasons, military families on rotation, retirees seeking cooler weather, and residents of expensive metros seeking relief.
State Comparisons
How Texas Compares to Popular Moving Destinations
Side-by-side data for the states most Texas residents move to.
Moving to Florida From Texas
| Metric | Texas | Florida |
|---|---|---|
| Median Income | $76,235 | $73,239 |
| Median Home Value | $304,205 | $406,275 |
| Median Age | 34.7 | 41 |
| Commute Time | 25.4 minutes | 27.2 minutes |
| College Educated | 35.6% | 36.1% |
| Poverty Rate | 15.8% | 14.7% |
Florida is a top destination for Texas residents, especially retirees and those seeking coastal living while keeping the no-income-tax advantage. Both states have no state income tax, so the financial comparison comes down to property taxes (Texas is higher), insurance costs (Florida homeowners insurance is among the nation's highest), and housing prices (varies widely in both states). Houston to Jacksonville is about 850 miles, making this a multi-day move costing $3,000–$6,000. Florida offers beach access and a different lifestyle but shares Texas's hurricane risk and summer heat, though with higher humidity.
Moving to Colorado From Texas
| Metric | Texas | Colorado |
|---|---|---|
| Median Income | $76,235 | $96,496 |
| Median Home Value | $304,205 | $571,322 |
| Median Age | 34.7 | 36.5 |
| Commute Time | 25.4 minutes | 24.5 minutes |
| College Educated | 35.6% | 49% |
| Poverty Rate | 15.8% | 10.3% |
Colorado attracts Texas residents seeking mountain scenery, outdoor recreation, cooler summers, and a different lifestyle. Denver and Colorado Springs have booming economies in tech, aerospace, and outdoor industries. The move from Dallas or Austin to Denver is about 850–900 miles on I-25, a common and well-served route. Colorado has a flat income tax of 4.4 percent, which is a new expense for Texas residents. However, Colorado property taxes are significantly lower than Texas's, which can partially offset the income tax. Housing in Denver has become expensive — comparable to or exceeding Austin — but Colorado Springs and smaller cities remain more affordable.
Moving to California From Texas
| Metric | Texas | California |
|---|---|---|
| Median Income | $76,235 | $102,309 |
| Median Home Value | $304,205 | $848,651 |
| Median Age | 34.7 | 37.7 |
| Commute Time | 25.4 minutes | 28.9 minutes |
| College Educated | 35.6% | 37.9% |
| Poverty Rate | 15.8% | 12.6% |
California and Texas are often framed as opposites, yet significant migration flows in both directions. Texans moving to California are typically drawn by specific career opportunities in tech (Silicon Valley, Los Angeles), entertainment, or specialized industries that do not exist at the same scale in Texas. California's income tax is the highest in the nation (top rate above 13 percent), and housing costs in major metros dwarf even Austin's prices. This is one of the longest and most expensive domestic moves — Houston or Dallas to Los Angeles is over 1,400 miles, costing $5,000–$9,000. The lifestyle change is dramatic in terms of climate, culture, and cost.
Moving to Oklahoma From Texas
| Metric | Texas | Oklahoma |
|---|---|---|
| Median Income | $76,235 | $64,956 |
| Median Home Value | $304,205 | $201,170 |
| Median Age | 34.7 | 35.7 |
| Commute Time | 25.4 minutes | 21.1 minutes |
| College Educated | 35.6% | 30.5% |
| Poverty Rate | 15.8% | 16.6% |
Oklahoma is one of the shortest and most affordable moves from Texas, especially for residents of the Dallas–Fort Worth area — Dallas to Oklahoma City is just 200 miles on I-35. Oklahoma offers significantly lower housing costs and a similar cultural environment. The state has an income tax (up to 4.75 percent), but property taxes and overall living costs are lower than most Texas metros. Oklahoma City and Tulsa have growing economies in energy, aerospace, and healthcare. For DFW residents priced out of the suburbs, Oklahoma provides a similar lifestyle at a fraction of the housing cost.
Moving to Arizona From Texas
| Metric | Texas | Arizona |
|---|---|---|
| Median Income | $76,235 | $82,118 |
| Median Home Value | $304,205 | $410,149 |
| Median Age | 34.7 | 38.1 |
| Commute Time | 25.4 minutes | 25.2 minutes |
| College Educated | 35.6% | 33.6% |
| Poverty Rate | 15.8% | 12.9% |
Arizona attracts Texas residents — particularly from El Paso, San Antonio, and Houston — with desert scenery, a booming Phoenix economy, and retirement-friendly communities like Scottsdale and Tucson. Phoenix has one of the fastest-growing job markets in the country, especially in tech, finance, and healthcare. Arizona has a flat income tax of 2.5 percent, which is low compared to most income-tax states. Housing in the Phoenix metro has risen significantly but remains below Austin's levels. El Paso to Phoenix is about 430 miles, while Houston to Phoenix is over 1,100 miles — so moving costs vary dramatically depending on your starting point within Texas.
Common Routes
Where People From Texas Move
The most popular destinations for residents leaving Texas, based on migration patterns.
FL
Florida
Popular cities: Miami, Tampa, Orlando, Jacksonville
CO
Colorado
Popular cities: Denver, Colorado Springs, Aurora, Fort Collins
CA
California
Popular cities: Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, Riverside
OK
Oklahoma
Popular cities: Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Norman, Broken Arrow
AZ
Arizona
Popular cities: Phoenix, Tucson, Mesa, Gilbert
FAQ
Common Questions About Moving From Texas
How much does it cost to move out of Texas?
Moves to neighboring states like Oklahoma or Louisiana run $1,500–$3,000 for a 2-bedroom household. Moves to Colorado, Florida, or the Southeast range from $2,500–$6,000. Cross-country moves to California cost $5,000–$9,000. Texas is enormous, so your city of origin significantly affects pricing.
Where do most people from Texas move to?
The most common destinations are Florida, Colorado, California, Oklahoma, and Arizona. Florida offers no income tax and coastal living. Colorado attracts those seeking cooler weather and outdoor recreation. California draws tech professionals. Oklahoma and Arizona offer proximity and affordability.
When is the cheapest time to move from Texas?
Late fall and winter (November through February) offer the lowest rates and the most comfortable weather outside of summer. Spring is pleasant but starts the busy season. Avoid summer weekends and end-of-month dates — these are the most expensive and hardest to book.
Will I pay more in taxes after leaving Texas?
If you move to a state with income tax, yes — you will have a new tax expense. But Texas property taxes are among the nation's highest, so your overall tax burden may actually decrease if your destination has lower property taxes. Run a full comparison for your specific situation.
How do I choose a mover for a long-distance move from Texas?
Compare at least 3 quotes from licensed interstate movers. Be specific about your Texas city, as carrier availability varies. Verify USDOT numbers, check FMCSA records, and look for experience on your route. MoveFinch screens movers for Texas routes.
How long does a long-distance move from Texas take?
Moves to Oklahoma take 1–2 days. Moves to Colorado, Florida, or the Southeast take 3–5 days. Moves to California take 5–7 days. Cross-country moves to the Northeast can take 7–14 days. Get delivery windows in writing.
Do I need to update my driver's license after leaving Texas?
Yes. Most states require a new driver's license within 30 to 90 days of establishing residency. Bring your Texas license, proof of new address, identity documents, and Social Security card to your new state's DMV.
Does the size of Texas affect my moving costs?
Absolutely. Texas is so large that your city of origin dramatically affects pricing. A move from El Paso to Denver is much shorter than one from Houston to Denver. Always get quotes based on your specific address, not just the state.
Should I move myself or hire professional movers?
For short moves to Oklahoma or Louisiana, a rental truck can save money. For longer moves to Colorado, California, or the coasts, professional movers are typically worth the cost — especially given the distances involved. Compare both options for your situation.
What should I look for in a moving contract?
Look for a binding estimate, detailed inventory, pickup and delivery windows, total price with no hidden fees, and liability coverage options. Confirm whether charges are based on weight or volume, and get the delivery timeline in writing before signing.
Making the Decision to Leave Texas
Texas sells a compelling story — no income tax, abundant jobs, affordable housing, and a business-friendly environment. For millions of people, that story delivers. But the fine print matters: property taxes that rival income taxes in other states, summer heat that confines you indoors for months, insurance costs that keep rising, and an infrastructure that has shown vulnerability to extreme weather. For residents who came to Texas for affordability and find that rising costs have eroded that advantage, the next chapter may be in a state that offers a different balance of tradeoffs.
The decision to leave Texas is rarely about one thing. It is usually a combination — property taxes plus heat plus commute times plus a specific opportunity elsewhere. Professionals move for career growth in Colorado or California. Retirees seek Florida's coast or Arizona's desert. Military families go where orders take them. And a growing number of remote workers are discovering that if they do not need to be in Austin or Dallas for work, they can find a better quality of life for less money somewhere else.
If you are considering a move from Texas, start with accurate cost estimates for your route. Texas's size means costs vary enormously depending on where you are starting and where you are going. Comparing quotes from multiple screened movers gives you a real number to build your budget around. From there, you can run the full financial comparison — income taxes, property taxes, insurance, utilities, and housing — to see whether leaving the Lone Star State actually saves you money or simply shifts the costs around.
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