Over the past few years, a noticeable shift has been taking place: more and more Ohioans are packing up and heading south to Texas.
Whether it’s the promise of warmer weather, the lure of no state income tax, or the desire for new opportunities, many are choosing to make this big move.
But how does life compare between these two states?
In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about moving from Ohio to Texas, from cost of living and taxes to climate and job opportunities.
Relocation Logistics: What to Know Before the Move
The logistics of any move can be daunting, but understanding the key factors that affect a long-distance move from Ohio to Texas can make all the difference.
- Average Cost of a Long-Distance Move from Ohio to Texas:
The cost of this long distance move varies based on the size of your home, how much you’re moving, and the time of year.
On average, moving from Ohio to Texas can cost anywhere between $3,000 and $6,000. You can contact our moving company in Cincinnati and request a free quote. - Recommended Timing for the Move:
If possible, plan your move in the spring or fall. Summer months can be the busiest for moving companies, while winter can bring unpredictable weather, particularly in northern Ohio.
Spring and fall offer more favorable conditions for both travel and logistics.
Comparing the Cost of Living: Ohio vs. Texas
One of the most significant factors for anyone considering a move is the cost of living.
Texas, especially in cities like Houston, Austin, and Dallas, offers a more affordable housing market compared to many cities in Ohio.
While the overall cost of homes in Ohio can be lower, Texas offers a range of affordable housing options, particularly in suburbs and smaller cities.
Renting, however, can be slightly higher in Texas, especially in major metropolitan areas.
- Utilities, Groceries, and Transportation Differences:
On average, utility costs in Texas tend to be higher, particularly in the summer when air conditioning is a must.
Nonetheless, the overall cost of groceries and transportation tends to be comparable, or slightly lower, than in Ohio. Gas prices in Texas, for example, are usually more affordable than in Ohio due to the state’s proximity to oil fields. - Hidden Costs to Consider:
Although Texas may seem more affordable in some areas, be prepared for potentially higher property taxes. This is a trade-off for the lack of state income tax.
Job Market & Economic Opportunities
Both Ohio and Texas offer great job markets.
The Texas job market is diverse and rapidly growing. Major industries include technology, energy, healthcare, and manufacturing.
Texas has also become a hotspot for startups and entrepreneurs, especially in cities like Austin. In contrast, Ohio is more known for its manufacturing base and stable, traditional industries.
With the rise of remote work, many Ohioans moving to Texas are doing so to take advantage of the state’s favorable tax policies.
Without a state income tax, your paycheck can go further, especially if you’re working for a company based outside Texas.
Tax Benefits
One of the most attractive financial benefits of moving from Ohio to Texas is the difference in taxation.
Texas does not impose a state income tax, which is a huge advantage over Ohio. This is undoubtedly a significant benefit for those relocating to Texas.
Crime Rates: Understanding Safety in a New State
Texas, like Ohio, has cities with both high and low crime rates. Houston and Dallas have higher crime rates compared to Ohio cities, yet that should not discourage you, because many suburban and smaller Texas towns offer a much safer environment.
Be sure to research specific neighborhoods before making a decision.
Texas offers many safe, family-friendly neighborhoods. Areas like Plano, Frisco, and The Woodlands in Dallas-Fort Worth, or West University in Houston, are known for their low crime rates.
Education Systems and School Districts
For families with children, education is a key factor when considering a move.
Texas and Ohio both have strong public school systems, but there are some differences. Ohio’s public schools tend to score higher in national rankings, especially in cities like Columbus and Cleveland.
Nevertheless, Texas offers many excellent school districts, particularly in suburbs like Plano and Sugar Land.
Access to Higher Education and In-State Tuition
Both states offer access to prestigious universities, but Texas has more affordable in-state tuition for residents. The University of Texas at Austin and Texas A&M University are top-tier institutions that draw students from all over the country.
Weather and Climate: What to Expect Year-Round
One of the most significant adjustments for Ohioans moving to Texas will be the climate.
Ohio experiences all four seasons, while Texas has a predominantly warmer climate. Expect hot summers with temperatures regularly reaching 90°F or more, especially in cities like Austin and Dallas.
Winters are mild, although the northern part of Texas can experience occasional cold snaps and snow.
Texas is prone to severe weather, including thunderstorms, tornadoes, and hurricanes. In contrast, Ohio sees more moderate weather patterns, but also experiences harsher winters.
Final Checklist Before You Move
Once you’ve decided to move, use this checklist to stay organized:
- Address Change, Mail Forwarding, and Utilities Transfer:
Be sure to change your address with the USPS and notify important institutions. Transferring utilities should be one of the first things you do once you’ve finalized your moving date. - School and Medical Record Transfers:
If you have children, arrange for the transfer of school records. You’ll also want to have your medical records forwarded to your new healthcare provider. - Settling-in Tasks:
Finding New Providers, Voter Registration, etc: Don’t forget to register to vote in Texas and find new doctors and service providers. The quicker you take care of these tasks, the smoother your transition will be.
Conclusion: Making the Most of Your Move to Texas
From the warmer climate and booming job market to the affordable cost of living and the bonus of no state income tax, Texas has a lot to offer newcomers.
But as with any major move, the success of moving to Texas from Ohio is all about the planning.
That’s where we come in.
At Robinson Relocations, we’ve helped numerous families and individuals make the journey from Ohio to Texas.
