Not everyone wants to stay in Texas these days, but what’s caused people to change their minds about the once sought-after Lone Star State? From the extreme weather conditions to the unpredictable housing market, there are numerous reasons why people are packing up and moving elsewhere. Check out these issues and more covered in this article!
Increased Cost of Living
Living in several parts of Texas, especially in urban areas such as Austin and Dallas, has become increasingly unaffordable due to rising housing prices. Everyday expenses are also on the rise compared to other states, and property taxes are becoming a significant burden for many residents.
Expensive Housing Market
The housing market is known for its rapid changes. Fluctuating home prices make the market unpredictable, making potential homeowners reconsider. With property taxes in the Lone Star State rising to 1.60%, above the national average of 0.99%, these create high entry barriers that are causing some residents to leave the state.
Rising Crime Rates
Texans are increasingly worried about the growing crime rates in more populated areas, causing many to feel less secure than before. As a result, more people are choosing to relocate to safer communities with lower crime rates. According to a recent safety study, Texas was ranked 47th out of 50 states, with 1 being the safest and 50 being the least safe. Additionally, the FBI stated that Texas is the 11th most dangerous state to live in.
Overcrowded Areas
One of the reasons individuals are leaving Texas is to find quieter, less crowded living environments. Between July 2020 – 2021, Texas acquired about 170,307 new residents. More residents create more housing needs and add to overcrowding in metropolitan areas.
Long Commutes
Is your daily work commute too long? Commuters in Texas would gladly trade places with most other states! With people returning to the workplace, commuting times are exceeding post-pandemic levels. Dallas-Fort Worth commuters spent two hours longer in rush hour in 2023, with increased drive times in Dallas-Fort Worth since 2021.
Strained Public Services
The job market in Texas has seen significant growth, leading to an influx of 170,307 new residents between July 2020 – 2021. However, the population increase is straining public services, which were already struggling to cope with existing demands. Metropolitan areas have become busier, leading to issues such as parking shortages and increased traffic.
Pollution
Major cities in the state, such as Houston and Dallas, are grappling with heightened congestion and pollution, which is understandably discouraging. The rapid growth of metropolitan areas is leading to longer commutes and a diminished quality of life for the average resident – something no one wants to contend with.
Difficult Living for Retirees
It can be frustrating for lifelong Texas residents to find that the state doesn’t offer the best conditions for retirement in terms of cost and healthcare access. Other states may provide more attractive retirement benefits and communities.
Political Tension
Some residents leaving Texas cite dissatisfaction with local and state political decisions and governance. Legislative changes impacting personal freedoms and rights, along with a growing political divide, contribute to their reasons for leaving.
Healthcare Accessibility
People in different parts of the state may have varying experiences with healthcare. For instance, rural areas are struggling with a shortage of healthcare providers. Overall, the lengthy wait times and expensive medical procedures are driving people to consider leaving.
Not Enough Public Transport
The lack of reliable public transportation options in Texas cities can be especially frustrating for those who don’t drive or are unable to afford a car. People are annoyed that the state’s public transit doesn’t meet the needs of the growing population, and having to rely on a car means higher living costs.
Extreme Weather
Tornadoes, extreme heat, floods, and…a snowstorm?! Yes, Texas has experienced all of the above. Four of the 15 hottest cities in the United States are found in Texas, where the temperature exceeds 90 degrees Fahrenheit. On the flip side, in 2021, Texas experienced an unusual snowstorm that caused power outages for days and resulted in many deaths.
Education
Texas’s education level needs to improve to match that of other states. Although Texas is not the lowest-ranked state, it falls below the average, placing 34th in education standards and outcomes. For parents with school-age children, this is a compelling reason to move to a state that prioritizes education more.
Changes in the Job Market
Texas leads in the number of Fortune 500 companies relocating their headquarters to the state. The Texas Governor claims that Texas has become the nation’s “economic engine room.” However, this also intensifies competition in the job market and makes it more unpredictable for job seekers searching for opportunities.
Natural Disasters
Texas is considered the most disaster-prone state in the U.S., having experienced 360 noteworthy disasters since 1953. In 2021, the state was hit by over 200 earthquakes with a magnitude of three or higher, mostly attributed to the oil industry’s activities. Texas also faces a high frequency of tornadoes, with the number seeming to increase annually. Additionally, wildfires are a common occurrence in Texas, with 371 individual fires burning 210,045 acres of land in 2022.
Traffic
The increasing traffic congestion on Texas roads is a growing concern. The influx of people to Texas has significantly increased traffic, leading to delays and frustration for drivers. With over 17 million licensed drivers in Texas, the roads have become busier. For instance, 92% of Houston residents own at least one car, making auto transportation more of a need to get around in Texas.
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