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Living in Texas: Cost of Living, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in Texas | Expat Exchange
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Austin, Texas

Living in Texas

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Feb 16, 2023

Summary: People often describe life in Texas as vibrant, diverse, and full of opportunity. People love the warm weather, the friendly people, and the abundance of outdoor activities. The cost of living in Texas is slightly below the national average, with the median home price being around $200,000. The approximate population of Texas is 28.7 million, and the largest cities are Houston, San Antonio, Dallas, Austin, and Fort Worth. The cons of living in Texas include the hot summers, the lack of public transportation, and the high cost of living in some areas. Additionally, the state has a high rate of uninsured residents, and the state government has been criticized for its lack of investment in public education.

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Is the cost of living in Texas high?

We asked people about the cost of living in Texas, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Texas is generally considered to be lower than the national average. The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Texas is typically around $1,000 per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment is usually around $1,400 per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Texas typically costs around $15 per person," said one expat.

What type of recreational facilities are in Texas?

When we asked people living in Texas about recreational activities, they mentioned:

"In Texas, residents can enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, such as parks, beaches, lakes, rivers, trails, and golf courses. There are also many museums, art galleries, and theaters for those who prefer cultural activities. For outdoor enthusiasts, there are plenty of opportunities for camping, fishing, hunting, and bird watching. Texas also has a wide range of sports facilities, including baseball, basketball, football, and soccer fields, as well as tennis and racquetball courts. In addition, there are many amusement parks, water parks, and zoos for families to enjoy," said one expat living in Texas.

What is the weather like in Texas?

"The weather in Texas can vary greatly depending on the season and region. In the summer, temperatures can reach the high 90s and even triple digits in some areas. In the winter, temperatures can drop to the low 30s and even below freezing in some areas. Spring and fall are generally mild with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to the mid-80s. Texas also experiences a variety of weather conditions, including thunderstorms, hail, and occasional tornadoes," said one expat living in Texas.

Are there good restaurants in Texas?

"Franklin Barbecue in Austin, Texas is a favorite restaurant among locals and visitors alike. Known for its slow-smoked brisket, ribs, and sausage, Franklin Barbecue has been featured in numerous publications and has been named one of the best barbecue restaurants in the country. Another popular restaurant in Texas is Pappas Bros. Steakhouse in Houston. This upscale steakhouse offers a variety of cuts of steak, as well as seafood, salads, and sides. Pappas Bros. Steakhouse is known for its high-quality steaks and attentive service. In Dallas, Texas, Pecan Lodge is a favorite restaurant for barbecue lovers. Pecan Lodge serves up classic Texas-style barbecue, including brisket, ribs, and sausage. The restaurant also offers a variety of sides, including mac and cheese, coleslaw, and potato salad. Finally, in San Antonio, Texas, La Gloria is a popular Mexican restaurant. La Gloria serves up traditional Mexican dishes, such as tacos, enchiladas, and tamales. The restaurant also offers a variety of margaritas and other cocktails," commented one expat who moved to Texas.

Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Texas?

"People living in Texas typically buy groceries and do other shopping at supermarkets, convenience stores, department stores, and specialty stores. Additionally, many people in Texas take advantage of online shopping options, such as ordering groceries for delivery or curbside pickup," commented one expat who moved to Texas.

What are the visa & residency requirements in Texas?

"In order to obtain a visa to enter Texas, applicants must first submit an application to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This application must include proof of identity, proof of financial support, and a valid passport. Once the application is approved, the applicant will receive a visa that will allow them to enter the United States. In order to apply for residency in Texas, applicants must first submit an application to the Texas Department of Public Safety. This application must include proof of identity, proof of financial support, and proof of legal status in the United States. Once the application is approved, the applicant will receive a residency card that will allow them to live and work in Texas," commented one expat living in Texas.

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Texas?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Texas can be expensive. The cost of healthcare in Texas is higher than the national average, and the cost of health insurance premiums is also higher than the national average. Additionally, Texas has some of the highest out-of-pocket costs for healthcare services, meaning that even with health insurance, Texans may have to pay a significant amount for their healthcare," mentioned one expat inTexas.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

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