Thinking of putting down roots in Texas? It’s a huge decision many Georgia residents are contemplating.
Texas is #1 in net migration in the country. More people are moving in than moving out year after year.
So, what’s drawing everyone in? And more importantly, is it the right place for you?
Here’s everything you need to know about moving to Texas from Georgia.
Is Moving To Texas a Good Idea?
For many people, yes. Texas offers better job opportunities, cheaper housing, and lower taxes. That said, it’s a big lifestyle shift. Texas is sprawling and weather-wise, pretty intense.
The culture can feel quite different too. More spread out, more independent-minded, and bigger in just about every way.
Why Are People Moving to Texas?
People have all kinds of reasons to move to Texas, but the main drivers are jobs and affordability.
Texas continues to attract big businesses and startups, especially in tech, energy, aerospace, and healthcare. Cities like Austin, Houston, and Dallas/Fort Worth are magnets for professionals.
On top of that, you’re likely to get more house and more land for less money in many parts of Texas. In short, people are moving to Texas for a better shot at life.
Benefits of Living in Texas
Let’s break it down:
- No State Income Tax: Property taxes are higher, but with no income tax, you can keep more of what you earn, especially coming from a state like Georgia that does tax income.
- Lower Cost of Living (in many areas): Outside of Austin, housing remains affordable in many Texas cities and suburbs. Groceries, gas, and entertainment are also cheaper.
- Strong Job Market: Texas is among the top states for job growth. Opportunities in tech, energy, aerospace, education, and healthcare are plenty.
- Diverse Communities: Whether you’re into big cities, college towns, quiet suburbs, or wide-open rural areas, Texas has options.
- More space: You’re more likely to find larger lots, open roads, and room to stretch out. If you’re outdoorsy, you’ll have parks, trails, rivers, and open skies in nearly every direction.
Things to Know Before Moving to Texas
Keep in mind:
- The Heat Is Real: Texas summers are brutal. Expect long stretches of 100°F+ days. Air conditioning is non-negotiable.
- You’ll Be Driving a Lot: Outside central Austin or parts of Dallas, public transportation is limited. You’ll likely need a car.
- Weather Can Be Wild: From tornadoes in the north to hurricanes on the coast, Texas gets its share of extreme weather.
- State Pride Runs Deep: Texans love being Texans. From mugs to flags, get ready to see (and hear) a lot of Lone Star love!
Georgia vs. Texas: A Complete Living Comparison
Here’s how Georgia vs Texas living differs:
Georgia vs. Texas: Cost of Living
In general, Georgia and Texas are neck and neck in overall affordability, ranking #27 and #30 respectively in cost of living by U.S. News.
When you compare the numbers more closely, Texas comes out slightly more expensive with a cost of living index at 92.7, compared to Georgia’s 91.3.
Groceries tend to be cheaper in Texas, which means more savings for families. However, utilities are higher, largely due to the scorching summers and year-round demand for air conditioning.
On the healthcare front, Texas typically comes out ahead with more affordable medical costs and insurance options, which can help balance out other living expenses.
Georgia vs. Texas: Jobs
Another key factor is the job market, and Texas makes a strong case. The Lone Star State ranks #1 for job growth and #6 overall in employment.
Texas has the second most Fortune 500 companies headquartered there, including:
- Exxon Mobil
- McKesson
- AT&T
- Tesla
- Dell Technologies
- Sysco
- Caterpillar
- American Airlines Group
- Oracle
Whether you’re in tech, energy, healthcare, education, or skilled trades, there are plenty of opportunities to explore. Another big perk? There’s no income tax (compared to Georgia’s flat 5.49%). That means more take-home pay for you.
Georgia, by comparison, only ranks #25 in employment and #18 in economy, with Atlanta as the state’s economic center. While it’s home to major companies like Coca-Cola, UPS, and Delta, its job market isn’t growing as quickly.
Overall, Texas outpaces Georgia in job growth, labor force participation, and unemployment rate. If you’re looking to advance your career, Texas is definitely an attractive prospect.
Georgia vs. Texas: Housing
If you’re thinking about buying a home, both Georgia and Texas offer more affordable options than much of the country. But Texas can give you more bang for your buck.
As of early 2025, the typical home value in Georgia is around $329,900, much lower than the national median of $416,900.
Texas comes in even lower, with an average house price of about $303,800. That’s roughly $26,000 less than Georgia’s and about 15% below the national median.
And with household incomes nearly on par with national figures, homeownership is more within reach in Texas.
Georgia vs. Texas: Lifestyle
Georgia, especially Atlanta, has deep cultural roots. It’s a hub for Black culture, music, and the arts.
Here, you’ll find a strong sense of community and Southern hospitality. Even within the city, you can find quiet, tree-lined neighborhoods where life moves at a gentler pace.
From the hats to highways, everything is bigger in Texas. Just as big is the state’s personality. Texans are quite proud of their history, independence, and size.
That energy is front and center in cities like Austin, lively and tech-savvy, or San Antonio and Houston, where Mexican, Tejano, and Southern traditions mix.
Life in metro Texas is faster and more business-driven. Still, there are plenty of quieter corners in rural towns that feel just as relaxed as anywhere in Georgia.
Georgia vs. Texas: Climate
Georgia has a humid subtropical climate, which means hot, stickier summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures typically reach the upper 80s to low 90s, often accompanied by afternoon thunderstorms. In winter, it’s rare for temperatures to stay below freezing for long.
Texas, on the other hand, spans several climate zones, so the weather varies a lot depending on where you live.
In general, summers are longer and hotter than Georgia’s, especially in central and southern cities like Austin, San Antonio, and Houston.
Winters in these areas are also short and mild. However, if you’re in North Texas or the Panhandle, expect the occasional cold snap and even some snow.
Georgia vs. Texas: Education
Georgia has made steady progress in public education over the years, with notable investments in pre-K programs and support for struggling districts.
Georgia students are assessed using the Georgia Milestones system, and many families get help paying for college through HOPE and Zell Miller scholarships.
Meanwhile, Texas has one of the largest and most diverse K–12 systems in the country. Oversight comes from the Texas Education Agency, and students take STAAR exams to track progress.
Texas offers more higher ed options overall, including nationally recognized institutions like:
- University of Texas at Austin
- Texas A&M University
- Rice University (private, in Houston)
Texas has also been a leader in charter schools and specialty programs, especially those focused on STEM.
Georgia vs. Texas: Transportation
In Georgia, especially outside of Atlanta, having a car is pretty much a must. While Atlanta does have the MARTA system, it doesn’t reach far enough for most commuters.
On the plus side, Atlanta is home to Hartsfield-Jackson, the busiest airport in the world, making air travel super convenient.
Texas is less car-dependent, even with its massive size and more spread-out cities. Public transportation options are a bit more developed in some major areas.
Dallas has DART, Houston has METRO, and Austin has CapMetro. However, transit coverage thins out once you’re outside the urban cores.
Best Places to Live in Texas
So, where is a good place to live in Texas? You’ll be spoilt for choice, but here are our top picks and why:
- Austin: Tech-driven, progressive, great music and food scene.
- Dallas-Fort Worth: Big-city energy with plenty of suburbs, family-friendly, lots of jobs.
- Houston: International, affordable, diverse.
- San Antonio: Slower pace, historic, affordable.
- College Station: Safe, community-oriented, university town with a small-city feel.
- Pearland: Clean, diverse, affordable, fast-growing, close to Houston.
- League City: Coastal access, quiet neighborhoods, great schools.
- Round Rock: Job hotspot, family-friendly, close to Austin.
Long Distance Movers in Texas
Interstate moves can be stressful. That’s why you need a moving partner like Word of Mouth Moving.
From planning and packing to heavy lifting and delivery, they do it all with care, attention to detail, and zero stress on your part.
What sets them apart?
- Experienced Crews: Skilled professionals who know how to move efficiently and carefully.
- Personalized Service: Your move isn’t one-size-fits-all, and they treat it that way.
- Reliable & On-Time: No waiting around wondering where your movers are.
- Fully Insured: Your belongings are covered in case anything unexpected happens.
- Clear, Fair Pricing: Transparent quotes with no surprise fees.
How to Choose the Right Long-Distance Moving Company
Follow this quick guide to find a mover you can trust:
- Check Licensing and Insurance
Any mover crossing state lines needs to be registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT).
Most companies list their USDOT number on their website. You can double-check it using FMCSA’s official search tool.
Also, ask about insurance. You want to be covered if something gets lost or damaged. No insurance is a deal-breaker.
- Read Reviews
Ignore the hand-picked testimonials. Instead, head to Google, Yelp, or the Better Business Bureau.
Look for patterns, like multiple people complaining about surprise fees, late arrivals, or broken stuff. One bad review isn’t a red flag; a dozen saying the same thing is.
- Ask for a Detailed Quote
Get at least 2–3 written estimates. Provide your moving date, inventory, and whether you need extra services (like packing or storage).
Watch out for vague pricing or large deposits. A legit company will be transparent and thorough.
- Avoid Bait-and-Switch Pricing
If the quote seems way cheaper than the others, ask why. Some shady movers lowball you, then pile on charges later. Go with someone who’s clear about fees from the beginning.
- Ask Questions
You’re trusting these people with everything you own, so don’t be afraid to ask. Before you sign anything, get all the details you need:
- Do you offer packing, unpacking, shrink-wrapping, or furniture assembly?
- Are there additional fees for stairs, elevators, long carries, or delays?
- What happens if something is damaged?
- How long will the move take?
- Do you offer discounts or promotions?
- Look for Experience with Long-Distance Moves
Not every mover handles cross-country jobs well. Choose one with a solid track record, and ideally, specific experience with the Georgia-Texas route.
Thinking of making the move?
Check out Word of Mouth Moving. They specialize in long-distance relocations and come highly recommended for their reliability, transparent pricing, and local expertise.
Tips for Relocating to Texas from Georgia
Here are some practical tips to ease the move:
- Visit first if you can. Drive around, check out commute routes, and get a feel for the local vibe.
- Figure out what matters most to you. Do you want nightlife, top-rated schools, a quiet suburb, or a walkable community? Research accordingly.
- Budget smart. Long-distance moves aren’t cheap. Compare quotes and factor in travel, hotels, or deposits.
- Prep for the climate. Georgia summers are hot, but Texas takes it up a notch. Make sure your new place has reliable A/C.
- Know local taxes. Texas has no state income tax, but sales and property taxes may be higher than what you’re used to in Georgia.
- Research schools early if you have kids. Use tools like GreatSchools.org and check district maps before signing a lease or buying.
- Once you’re settled in, sort out your paperwork:
- Register your vehicle in Texas.
- Get a Texas driver’s license.
- Update your voter registration.
- Notify your bank and providers of your address change.
Should You Move to Texas from Georgia?
Texas has a lot going for it: lower taxes, more job opportunities, and affordable housing (in many areas). It’s a great place to build a career, buy a home, or simply start fresh.
But if you’re deeply tied to Georgia’s way of life, research Texas neighborhoods and weigh your long-term goals.
Bottom line: Texas isn’t better or worse. It’s just different. If you’re open to change and ready for a new chapter, the Lone Star State might be worth the leap.
