Texas is one of the largest, most diverse states in the nation, which can make moving to Lone Star State pretty darn intimidating. However, thanks to its great economy, world-class healthcare, and low cost of living, people are moving here in droves. The Texas Tribune estimates that approximately 345 people move to Texas every day. Most of these are moving in from across the state, coming from other states like California, Florida, and Illinois. Drive through places like Austin, and you’ll see California license plates announcing the arrival of the latest migrants who seem to be overrunning the Capitol city. While native Austinites feign distaste for new arrivals, in truth, the majority of Texans embrace newcomers with a friendly Texas welcome. But, before you pack your boxes and call Great Guys Moving (find on Facebook and about.me), there are a few things that you should know before moving here:
1. Most of the State is Pro-Gun
Texas is very much a pro-gun state. People love their guns, and they aren’t afraid to say it. In fact, it’s legal for most citizens to buy, own, and carry guns in Texas. This includes carrying concealed weapons as long as they complete an all-day training course to obtain the special permit.
2. It’s Home of America’s Largest State Fair
Do you enjoy state fairs? You will be happy to hear that Texas has the largest fair in all of the United States. The State Fair of Texas, which takes place in Dallas, starts on the last Friday in September and lasts for 24 days. At the fair, you’ll find a bevy of fried foods, a livestock show replete with longhorn cattle, rides at the Midway in the shadow of a Texas-sized Ferris wheel, and tons of other activities for the whole family. It’s a must-see for anyone who loves rides, music and food.
3. Texans Love Their Sports Teams
From the Dallas Cowboys to the Houston Rockets, Texans are loyal when it comes to their sports teams. While they understanding that you may like a non-Texas team, don’t expect them to show any mercy come game day.
4. Don’t Expect a White Christmas
Texas is known for being hot, real hot. However, it’s also a large state, which means that weather varies greatly depending on the area in which you live. In general, the west side of Texas is hot and dry, while the eastern side is more hot and humid – walking around in Houston is like being swathed in a hot, wet blanket. Regardless of where you end up in the state, the majority of Texas has mild light winters and long summers.
5. Cowboy Boots Are a Fashion Statement
People from outside Texas seem to think that the state is simply overrun by cowboys. While there are real cowboys living in Texas, the majority of people live a normal, modern life. Cowboy boots, however, are a staple of Texas fashion, from sorority girls at UT who don them for football games to the regulars at local honkytonks who shuffle their boots across the dance floor.
6. Texas Is Big
It’s already been covered a few times that Texas is a large state, but you really need to understand just how big. Driving from El Paso in the west to Orange in the east can easily take you 13 hours. That’s right. After 13 hours of driving, you’re still in the same state.
7. It’s Surprisingly High-Tech
While it may not seem like it from the outside looking in, Texas is high-tech. In fact, tech and entrepreneur-friendly Central Texas, has been nicknamed the “Silicon Valley of the South”. This is thanks to all of the high-tech companies like Dell, 3M, Google, Facebook, Cirrus, and National Instrument that have set up shop in Austin.
8. Texas Has a Deep, Rich History
Texas has been ruled by six nations, including the United States, the Confederate States of America, Spain, France, Mexico and the Republic of Texas. This has given the state one of the most diverse backgrounds in the country and a theme park named Six Flags over Texas.
9. Living Here is Relatively Cheap
Texas has a lot of land to build on, and it has done a great job keeping up with growing demand. This keeps the cost of living lower, which is why so many people consider moving here.
10. There’s a Large Native American Population
Texas has one of the largest Native American populations in the United States. This is because there has been a total of 12 Native American tribes in the state at one point or another.
11. Texas Lets You Keep More of Your Paycheck
Texas is one of the seven states that doesn’t have personal income tax. Additionally, Texas’ tax legislation is favorable for doing business. This proves to be another reason why many people move their businesses and families to Texas.
Texas is a unique place filled with friendly people. Though it has its quirks, you’re sure to enjoy Lone Star State.