Moving from Ohio to Texas? Here's What to Expect
| Consejos para mudanzas
Moving from Ohio to Texas? Here's What to Expect
If you’re leaving the Buckeye State for the Lone Star State, you’re in for a big lifestyle shift and some serious cost savings. Texas offers more space, warmer weather, no state income tax, and a booming job market. From energy plans to climate and culture, here’s everything you need to know to make your move smooth and simple.
From Ohio to Texas: Key Differences You’ll Notice
Climate
Ohio winters come in cold and hard, with icy roads and sky-high heating bills. In Texas, you’ll trade snow shovels for sunscreen. Summers are hotter, no doubt, but most homes come with efficient cooling systems. Depending on where you land, you might also see drought-friendly yards, more sun, and occasional storms on the coast.
Lifestyle
Ohio’s cities are walkable and industrial-rooted, while Texas is known for wide-open living — larger homes, more land, and cities that sprawl out instead of up. You’ll likely need a car, but you’ll also enjoy more room to breathe.
Culture
Ohio’s got rock 'n' roll, aviation history, and Big Ten pride. Texas brings a different kind of flair — cowboy heritage, live country music, massive football rivalries, and some of the best brisket you’ve ever had.
Why Texans Don’t Miss Income Tax
In Ohio, state income taxes can take a bite out of your paycheck. In Texas, there’s no state income tax at all. That means more of your hard-earned money stays with you — a big reason folks and businesses are relocating here in droves.
Texas Job Market: Bigger and Busier
Texas has one of the strongest economies in the country. If you’re moving for work, you’ll find solid opportunity in:
Energy – Texas is a leader in oil, gas, and renewables
Tech – Especially in Austin, known as Silicon Hills
Healthcare – Houston’s Texas Medical Center is the largest on the planet
Manufacturing & Aerospace – Centered around DFW and San Antonio
Choosing a Texas City to Call Home
Ohio Cities You Might Be Leaving:
Columbus – Vibrant, but pricey
Cleveland – Artsy and historic
Cincinnati – Culturally rich with Midwest charm
Toledo – Affordable with an industrial edge
Akron – Healthcare-centered, smaller city feel
Popular Texas Picks:
Houston – Affordable, diverse, full of job opportunities
Dallas – Strong business presence with suburban living
Austin – Tech jobs, live music, and a creative vibe
San Antonio – Family-friendly with historic roots
Fort Worth – Growing arts scene and laid-back living
Need help narrowing it down? Check out our guide to the best places to live in Texas.
What Makes Texas Electricity Different
Ohio has a partially deregulated energy market, which means some choice — but not much. Texas, on the other hand, lets you fully choose your electricity provider. That means lower rates, more renewable options, and no surprises on your bill. With Energy Texas, you get fixed-rate plans, simple terms, and good old-fashioned service.
Your Move-to-Texas Checklist
1. Research Housing Options
Look into Texas suburbs and rural areas for bigger homes and more land. Look for energy-efficient features to help with summer cooling.
2. Map Your Route
I-70 west to I-35 south is a common route from Ohio into Texas cities like Dallas and Austin.
3. Estimate Costs
Most moves from Ohio to Texas run between $4,000 and $6,500 depending on what you're hauling.
4. Pack Smart
Leave the snow gear behind (but bring a jacket for winter) and stock up on lightweight clothes.
5. Handle the Paperwork
Texas gives you 90 days to transfer your driver’s license and 30 days to register your vehicle.
Need help staying organized? Our moving efficiency guide covers all the basics.
Settling In: What to Expect
Education – Texas has a 90% high school graduation rate compared to Ohio’s 87.6%. Class sizes are about the same.
Crime Rates – Cities like Frisco and McKinney are consistently ranked among the safest in the country.
Energy Usage – You’ll use less heating in the winter but more cooling in the summer. Thanks to efficient HVAC and smart electricity plans, it balances out.
Renewables – Texas is #1 in wind energy and rising fast in solar.
FAQs
Is it cheaper to live in Texas than Ohio? Yes — especially when you factor in no income tax and more competitive utility rates.
What’s the biggest difference in utilities? Texas summers mean more A/C use, but electricity is cheaper here, and you get to pick your provider.
Can I get renewable energy? Absolutely. Energy Texas offers 100% green energy plans, backed by wind and solar.
Will I need a car in Texas? Yes. Most cities are spread out and public transit is limited outside urban cores.
How does electricity deregulation benefit me? You can choose the plan that fits your budget and lifestyle. No bundled monopolies, no tricks.