Texas is a state full of diversity, with a rich history and plenty of attractions. It is the second most populous state in the United States, and it has a lot to offer. But there are some downsides to living in the Lone Star State, such as its vulnerability to severe weather conditions, high property taxes, and long drives. Texas is prone to extreme weather conditions, such as tornadoes, floods, hurricanes, wildfires, and thunderstorms.
Depending on where you live in the state, you may experience a wide range of these conditions. If you prefer a quiet and peaceful environment, there are small towns available in Texas. For example, Loving County is the least populated county in the United States, with only 19 people living in its seat of Mentone County. Although Texas does not collect income taxes, it makes up for it by raising property tax rates.
The property tax rate in Texas is approximately 60% higher than other states in the US. On the other hand, there are 89 state parks and 14 federally managed locations for outdoor activities. Plus, Texas has an entire coastline of beaches for beach lovers. When it comes to shopping, Texas has a higher sales tax rate than other states.
The maximum combined rate is 8.25%, but many households find that they can save more money each year after moving to Texas due to the lower overall tax burden. Texas is also known for its long drives. For instance, if you were traveling from Houston to El Paso, it would take you more than 740 miles and end up in a different time zone at the end of your trip. That's equivalent to more than 10 hours of driving while remaining in the same state! If you enjoy diversity, big skies, modern cities, and access to beaches, then Texas could be the perfect place to live.
You can find live music almost every night available in the city and have access to the rest of the state to explore. Plus, if you live near Houston or Dallas, you can reach almost anywhere in the United States in less than three hours with a direct flight from one of these cities' airports. Overall, Texas has a lot to offer for those who want to call it home. But it's important to consider both the pros and cons before making your decision.
