Moving from Pennsylvania to Texas
Moving from Pennsylvania to Texas is a big change, but many people decide that going to the Lone Star State is the correct choice for them. Some people move to enjoy the lower cost of living, others move for work, or because they are closer to their families. No matter what your reasons are for moving, you can definitely enjoy life in Texas.
Benefits of Moving From Pennsylvania to Texas
Texas is a great place to live. There are several large cities and hundreds of small towns you can choose to live near. Plus, you have ample opportunities in business.
There are More People in Texas
There are nearly three times as many people in Texas as Pennsylvania. Much of the state's population is split between the four largest cities. However, many of the suburbs surrounding Houston, San Antonio, Dallas, Fort Worth, and Austin, are great places to live. There are fewer people in these areas, but they are still close enough to the city to enjoy the amenities of living in town.
The Weather is Different in Texas
Texas is large, and the weather differs depending on the area where you live. However, most of the state's summers tend to be hotter, and winters are milder than Pennsylvania, for the most part. Texas residents do enjoy snow occasionally, but it never lasts very long.
Job Opportunities
Texas has a booming economy and plenty of places to find a job. Many people move from other states to find work. If you are having trouble finding work in Pennsylvania, you might have luck looking for a job in Texas in your chosen field.
Lower Cost of Living
The cost of housing and other necessities is cheaper in Texas. So, you get more for your money. Many people enjoy living in a large home or apartment in Texas. While wages are similar to other states in the country, the cost of living is among the lowest.
There is No State Income Tax
On top of enjoying better job opportunities, lower living costs, and all that the state has to offer, you do not have to pay state income tax as a Texas resident.
Cost of Moving From Pennsylvania to Texas
The average linehaul moving cost from Pennsylvania to Texas with Allied is $4,200. Many factors go into calculating moving costs: the number of belongings you are moving, distance, packing, unpacking, special items you own, and much more, so the best bet to know the true cost is to fill out the Instaquote above.
Major Cities in Texas
Each of the four major cities in Texas has a different feel. San Antonio, Austin, Dallas, and Houston all have excellent food, attractions, and housing options. Choosing to live in one of these large metropolitan areas guarantees you close access to entertainment, sports, outdoor activities, and more.
Houston
Houston is the most populous city in Texas. It makes up a large portion of Harris County. Inside the city, there are several popular areas, including:
- Uptown/Galleria
- Downtown
- Midtown
- Inner Loop
- Outer Loop
- Suburbs
World-Class Shopping
There are shopping malls throughout Houston. One of the most popular spots for shopping is the Galleria, where there are designer brands and smaller local vendors. In the center of the Galleria mall, there is a famous ice skating rink that draws visitors throughout the year.
Places to Eat
Houston is home to many restaurants, and you can almost always find a new place to try. As a melting pot of cultures, the city features fare from all over the world. Try Mediterranean food at Fadi's, Greek food at Yia Yia Mary's, seafood at Truluck's, or BBQ at Pappas' BBQ. You can also visit Chinatown off Bellaire Blvd for late-night dining and exquisite Asian dishes.
Recreation/Museums
There are numerous places to relax, workout, or visit art exhibits in Houston. Below is a list of some of the most popular attractions in the area:
- The Menil Gallery
- The Houston Zoo
- Eleanor Tinsley Park
- Discovery Green
- The Houston Museum of Natural Science
- The Children’s Museum of Houston
- The Houston Arboretum
- Memorial Park
The Medical Center
The Houston Medical Center is world-renowned. There are some of the best hospitals in the country clustered together in a section of downtown. Many people throughout the country relocate to Texas to take advantage of the medical expertise in this area.
Austin
Austin is the capital of Texas. It is a college town and home to the University of Texas, so there is always something going on in Austin. It is a strange place that is a little out of place in Texas, but it is a favorite vacation spot for residents and visitors to the Lone Star State.
Lake Travis / New Braunfels
Lake Travis and New Braunfels are both popular attractions located near Austin. Lake Travis is a huge man-made recreational area that attracts thousands of people each summer. Boaters gather on the lake for lively parties.
There is nothing quite like floating on the Guadalupe River in New Braunfels if you want a more relaxed experience. There you can rent tubes and party with other people making their way down the river.
6th Street
After a long day on Lake Travis or floating on the river, people make their way to 6th Street to hear live music. The restaurants and bars are open late, and the city blocks off the street to allow people to walk from spot to spot. During the day, you will find places to grab a bite to eat or a patio to sit outdoors while enjoying drinks with friends.
SXSW
South by Southwest is a yearly music event that draws people from around the world. It is an excellent opportunity to listen to well-known and up-and-coming artists. You can also attend presentations from some of the most successful entrepreneurs from around the globe during the event.
Dallas/Fort Worth
Dallas/Fort Worth area is very upscale. It is arguably one of the nicer cities in the state. If you like the finer things in life, Dallas is a great place to live.
Music and Nightlife
Dallas has a lively nightlife and music scene. Several venues in the area where you can listen to a live band and blues, country music, and rock are favorite genres.
Amusement Parks and Museums
If you like going to museums, zoos, and amusement parks, Dallas has plenty. Visit Six Flags Over Texas for thrilling roller coaster rides, enjoy a Dallas Cowboys game, or visit the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Park to learn more about JFK's assassination. Or you can relax at one of the many parks found around the city.
San Antonio
There are always fun things to do in San Antonio. It is a family-friendly city, and it is unique. If you want to live in an area with a smaller town feel with easy access to attractions, San Antonio might be a good fit for you.
History, Attractions, and Museums
San Antonio has a rich history. One of the most popular attraction is the Alamo. Thousands of people visit the site each day, and there are often reenactments. In downtown San Antonio, there are also several other museums, including:
- Ripley’s Believe It or Not
- The Buckhorn Saloon and Museum
- San Antonio Missions Historical Park
- Spanish Governor’s Palace
- San Antonio Aquarium
- Six Flags Fiesta Texas
The Riverwalk
The San Antonio Riverwalk is an ample outdoor entertainment, dining, and tourist location. There are shops, restaurants, and shows. It is an upscale area where you can enjoy a night out on the town or dinner with your family. Then, you can take a nighttime boat ride on the river.
How to Move from Pennsylvania to Texas
Moving from Pennsylvania to Texas is easier than you might think. It does require some planning, but once you decide where you want to live, secure housing, and find a job you love, all you have to do is set a date.
Decide Where You Want to Live
It might be challenging to choose the one that best fits you with so many great cities in Texas. The larger cities in the state offer unique attractions, plenty of dining options, excellent job opportunities, and outdoor activities. However, numerous small towns between the major cities make great places where families and people are looking for a quieter life.
Decide When You Want to Move
Choosing the best time to move depends on your situation. The most popular times to move are usually during the summer or early spring.
Look for a Job
You will need a job when you start your new life in Texas. Many people move to the state for work, but if you do not have a job before deciding to move to Texas, you need to find work you enjoy doing.
Look for a Home
Housing is relatively easy to find in Texas. So, after you find a job and decide what city you want to move to, you need to look for a house you love. HAR is an excellent website for finding rental properties and homes for sale in Houston and surrounding areas. You can also search for places on sites like Zillow, Hotpads, and FRBO.
Hire a Moving Company
Once you decide on a place to live, you need to contact a moving company that is knowledgeable and trustworthy. Finding the right moving company can make a huge difference when transitioning to life in a new city.