Yahoo Finance Why Many Regret Moving to Texas Post-Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic of 2020 was a time of massive migration for a large portion of Americans. Those who were living in expensive, highly populated areas saw an opportunity. With the movement to online workspaces and the need for much more physical space between neighbors, city dwellers could move from places like New York and California to other states, such as Texas and Florida.
In fact, Texas was behind only Florida among the states with the highest net migration rates during the pandemic. However, four years later, many who made the move to the Lone Star State have second thoughts about their decision to uproot and move their family there.
Read Next: Don’t Buy a House in These 10 US Cities: Growing Populations and Overcrowding
Check Out: Become a Real Estate Investor for Just $1K Using This Bezos-Backed Startup
“I’ve observed several reasons why some individuals who moved to Texas post-pandemic might be experiencing regrets,” said Jolean Olson of Olson Home Buyers, who has extensive experience in the Texas housing market. “While Texas offers numerous benefits, such as a lower cost of living, no state income tax and a thriving job market, there are also challenges and downsides that have become apparent to some new residents.”
Here are some reasons people may regret moving to Texas post-pandemic.
Wealthy people know the best money secrets. Learn how to copy them.
Weather Extremes
Texas has a reputation for some very hot summers and incredibly devastating weather events, including hurricanes, tornadoes and flash floods, just to name a few.
“Many new residents might not have been fully prepared for the intensity of Texas summers, with temperatures often soaring above 100 [degrees Fahrenheit],” Olson noted.
Additionally, Olson pointed out the effects of the harsh winter storm Texas experienced in early 2021. This storm caused shortages of resources like water but also knocked out power across Texas. The storm, Olson said, highlighted “the state’s vulnerability to extreme weather and insufficient infrastructure to handle such crises.”
Learn More: 7 Locations Where Housing Prices Are Plummeting Post-Pandemic
Infrastructure and Public Services
“The rapid influx of new residents has put a strain on Texas’s infrastructure and public services,” Olson said.
Major cities like Austin, Dallas and Houston have seen worsening traffic congestion on their highways and local side streets, contributing to increased commute times and only adding to the frustration of being on the road.
“Public transportation options are limited compared to other states, which can be a significant adjustment for those used to more extensive transit systems,” Olson said.
Housing Market Pressures
“While Texas has historically been known for affordable housing, the surge in demand during the pandemic has driven up home prices and rental rates significantly,” Olson remarked. “Many who moved expecting to find affordable housing options are now facing a competitive and expensive market.”
Olson pointed out how the housing market intensity has contributed to bigger bidding wars, property taxes hikes and, in a few instances, “disappointment among those unable to secure their desired homes within their budget.”
Higher Property Taxes
Buying a house is only one of the issues when it comes to owning property in Texas. The other is the property taxes, which can be a significant increase to some new residents who have just settled down. According to WalletHub’s property tax report for 2024, Texas has the seventh-highest property taxes in the country.
Homeowners may be taken somewhat aback to find out that the savings expected from not having a state income tax can be mostly if not entirely consumed by one’s property tax bill. This will be particularly true of those moving to Texas from states where this average is quite low.
Cultural and Lifestyle Adjustments
Texas has a one-of-a-kind culture. This can be very charming and alluring, but it can also take time for those who are new to the state to get used to.
“Texas has a distinct cultural identity that might not resonate with everyone,” Olson highlighted, describing how “the political climate is more conservative compared to states like California or New York, which can be a significant adjustment for those with differing viewpoints.”
Additionally, Olson said that a Texas-based lifestyle, particularly for residents who do not live within the state’s major urban centers, “can be more suburban and less cosmopolitan, which might not align with the expectations of those moving from more urbanized environments.”
Employment Market Realities
The chances of finding a good job that fits a worker’s skill set and provides an adequate income for a family can be tough in Texas, even as the state touts a job market that is better and thriving compared with those of other states.
“Some newcomers have found that the job opportunities available do not always match their skill sets or salary expectations,” Olson said. “The competition for high-paying jobs has also increased with the influx of new residents, making it harder for some to secure desired positions.”
Education System Concerns
The quality of public education varies widely across Texas, according to Olson. “While there are excellent school districts, some areas suffer from underfunded schools and lower educational outcomes,” she said.
Depending on the location in Texas, the school system could be disappointing. “Families moving to Texas with school-aged children might find themselves disappointed with the public education options available in their chosen communities, leading to additional stress and potential relocation within the state,” Olson said.
Overall, according to Olson, while Texas offers many positives, there are a lot of factors to consider when deciding whether to move there. “While Texas offers many advantages, it’s crucial for potential movers to weigh these against the challenges they might face,” she explained. “Understanding the full scope of life in Texas, beyond the appealing headlines, is essential for making an informed decision.
“As a real estate expert, my advice is always to thoroughly research and, if possible, visit the areas you are considering to ensure they meet your expectations and needs,” Olson said.
More From GOBankingRates
This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: Why Many Regret Moving to Texas Post-Pandemic
