Moving to Texas from Washington State a Complete Guide

Moving to a new state can be an exciting experience. However, it also poses challenges, such as adapting to a new culture, understanding the cost of living differences, and setting up utilities. If you’re considering moving to Texas from Washington state, you should know several factors before packing up that moving truck and heading toward the Lone Star State. You’ll want to fully understand cost differences, the Texas housing market, state taxes, the job market, and more before hitting the road.  
Below, we’ll provide valuable information to help you decide about moving to Texas from Washington state. 
What Are the Primary Cost-of-Living Differences Between Texas and Washington State? 
When comparing Texas’ cost of living to that in Washington state, you’ll quickly find that Texas is generally a more budget-friendly environment. Based on the national average costs of key necessities, Washington state is 17% more expensive than the national average, whereas Texas is ​10% cheaper than the national average.  
​​​Keep in mind that these averages are dynamic and may vary based on the source of information and factors such as the size of your household, neighborhood, and lifestyle. However, in general, Texas tends to be more affordable. Let’s look at some of the key cost-of-living differences. 
Groceries 
Groceries, another critical necessity, is also cheaper in Texas. Compared to the national average, food in Texas is ​9.1​​6​% cheaper. Washington, however, is 12% higher than the national average for food. 
Utilities 
Utilities, such as electrical service, water, sewer, natural gas, and more, are 7% cheaper than the national average in Washington state. This is one area where Texas falls short, as it’s 3% more expensive to pay for utilities in Texas. 
Health Care 
Health care is another critical factor to consider, especially if you have an existing condition or are prone to getting sick. In Texas, health care expenses are generally 4% higher than the national average, whereas Washington state is 20% higher than the national average. 
Transportation 
You’ve got to be able to get around, whether that’s heading to work or just out for a night on the town. Transportation in Texas is 13.3% cheaper than the national average, whereas Washington is 27% higher than the national average. 
Find out why over half a million Texans trust Just Energy!
Goods and Services 
Finally, paying for goods and services is generally 4% cheaper​ than the national average in Texas. In Washington state, however, you can expect to spend 13% more than the national average. 
Again, while this is all great information to consider when moving to Texas from Washington state, these numbers are simply averages. In reality, your actual costs to live in each state vary based on where you live in the state and your expected lifestyle. For example, if you’re relocating from a rural area in Washington to one of the big cities in Texas, you may find housing costs and other key needs could actually be more expensive in Texas. 
Before moving to the state of Texas, determine which part you want to relocate to and study the costs of that specific area compared to your area of Washington. 
Are There Notable Cultural or Lifestyle Differences Between Texas and Washington State? 
Fitting in and feeling at home in a new area is a key part of a move, so you want to understand the cultural and lifestyle differences between Texas and Washington state. These two states have distinct cultural and lifestyle differences that may influence your decision to move. Both states have their own appeal, but you’ll want to consider variations in traditions, values, and ways of life. 
History and Activities 
Texas embraces its rich Western heritage and takes pride in its cowboy culture and deep-rooted traditions. Because of its warm climate, Texas has robust outdoor activities, such as barbecues and community gatherings, and with those comes a strong focus on southern hospitality. Meanwhile, Washington state has vast natural beauty that looks a bit different than Texas’ and is home to avid lovers of the outdoors. People tend to hike, fish, bike, and partake in other outdoor activities. 
Food 
One notable aspect of Texas culture is its love for barbecue and Tex-Mex cuisine. Barbecue is serious business for Texans, with some passing secret recipes down through generations. In contrast, Washington state is famous for its seafood, especially its salmon and Dungeness crab. Its focus on seafood is likely influenced by its proximity to the Pacific Ocean, which gives the state fresh and diverse seafood options. 
Sports and Outdoor Recreation 
Texas has a deep love for football, especially high school and college games, which become communal events. Texas football stadiums are often massive and packed with screaming fans rooting for their teams.Texas has a deep love for football, especially high school and college games, which become communal events. Texas football stadiums are often massive and packed with screaming fans rooting for their teams. 
Washington state residents are passionate about outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, fishing, and kayaking. The state is filled with diverse landscapes, such as mountains, forests, coastlines, and lakes, giving Washingtonians plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature and related outdoor activities. Texas also enjoys many of the same outdoor recreational activities, but with scorching summers, they often reserve these activities for the spring and fall.  
What Are Some Areas in Texas People From Washington Would Enjoy? 
When moving to Texas from Washington, finding a neighborhood where you can blend in relatively quickly is ideal for the adjustment. Of course, you have the typical big cities, such as Austin, Dallas, and Houston, but let’s check out some other great areas where you’ll quickly adapt to the culture. 
San Antonio 
San Antonio is a great destination for people moving from Washington and looking to relocate to Texas. San Antonio has a rich history, vibrant Spanish culture, and the famous River Walk, which is often referred to as the Venice of Texas due to its architecture and river boats hauling tourists to attractions. 
San Antonio carefully blends old-world charm and modern amenities, making it a charming spot for anyone to relocate to. 
​Hill Country Region 
The Hill Country region in central Texas is a great option for those seeking a more laid-back lifestyle. The Hill Country is stunning and picture-perfect, with charming small towns, wineries, outdoor recreational opportunities, and historical landmarks. It features everything a nature lover wants, from rolling hills to clear rivers to abundant wildlife. 
Austin 
Austin, Texas has slowly built a reputation as the California of the south, which could make it an ideal location for someone coming from a West Coast state like Washington. Austin has a booming tech scene with lots of job opportunities and beautiful weather to go along with it. Plus, you can take advantage of the nice climate by engaging in some of Austin’s great outdoor activities, such as biking, boating, visiting a water park, and more. 
How Do You Adjust to Climate and Weather Differences Between Texas and Washington? 

Transitioning from the Pacific Northwest to Texas will involve dealing with significant differences in climate and weather. You’ll want to consider these changes before the long-distance move from Washington state to Texas. 
For the most part, Texas has a hot and humid climate that includes scorching summers and mild winters. Of course, the winters are cooler in the furthest northern parts of Texas. Regardless, getting accustomed to Texas heat may require modifying your daily routine, including hydration, consistent sunscreen use, and planning outdoor activities during cooler times of the day or year. You’ll also want to be aware of the severe weather that certain parts of Texas encounter, such as hurricanes, thunderstorms, and ice storms. 
There are also major vegetation differences between Texas and Washington. Washington is known for its lush green forests fed by the abundant rainfall in the area. However, Texas has a harsher and drier climate in most areas, which creates vast deserts, prairies, and scrublands. Because of this climate, the Texas’ vegetation has adapted to plants like cacti and mesquite trees. 
The climate differences also impact the culture and social gatherings in the two areas. For example, during the cold winter months in Washington, it’s common to curl up indoors with friends and family, drinking hot cocoa and playing games. Meanwhile, Texas’ hot summers lead people indoors during the summer and outside for outdoor activities during the cooler months of spring and fall. 
What Are the State Tax Structure Differences Between Texas and Washington State? 
When moving to Texas from Washington state, you’ll want to fully understand the state tax structures. One of the biggest benefits of moving to Texas has no personal state income tax, but Washington state also has no state income tax. So both states allow more of your hard-earned income to go into your bank account. 
However, it’s essential to remember that Texas and Washington still rely on other forms of taxation, such as sales tax and property tax. Property and real estate taxes can vary depending on the home values, county, and city, so always research this while searching for regions to move to in Texas. 
As for sales tax, Texas has a base state sales tax rate of 6.25%. Local sales tax also applies, and Texas limits the local tax rates to 2%, so you could pay sales tax rates as high as 8.25%. Washington, on the other hand, has a 6.5% state sales tax and a local tax cap of 4.10%, so you could pay upward of 10.6% sales tax in some areas. 
Find out why over a million customers trust Just Energy!
How Do I Set Up Essential Services Like Utilities in My New Texas Residence? 
When moving to Texas from Washington, setting up essential services like utilities is an important part of the process. This process will vary by provider but should be fairly straightforward. 
First, you’ll need to determine who your electricity, water, and other utility providers are. You can find this online or speak with your landlord or realtor. With this information, you can go to the providers’ websites and learn how to establish new services. Many companies will offer online applications and customer support to help you. 
It’s a good idea to start this process a few weeks before your move to avoid any issues in your new home. 
Welcome to the Lone Star State 

Moving to Texas from Washington state can be a thrilling prospect. You can help minimize stress and maximize excitement by fully understanding the differences in cost of living, job market, culture, climate, tax structures, and setting up essential services.  
With all this information, you can make a well-informed decision about your move and enjoy a smooth transition into your new life in the Lone Star State. Whether you’re moving to live in a more affordable area, escape the cold winters, take on a new career, or just need a change of scenery, Texas offers a diverse and welcoming environment to call home. 
Brought to you by justenergy.com
All images licensed from Adobe Stock.