Moving to Texas? Everything You Need to Know Before You Move
- Laura Garcia
- 2 days ago
- 12 min read
TL;DR
Thinking about moving to Texas? Start by comparing cities, building a realistic budget, and understanding what your lease requires before move-in day. It's just as important to plan for expenses beyond rent, including utilities, deposits, and renters insurance if your landlord requires it.
Moving with a dog or cat takes a little extra planning, too. Check your property's pet policy, update your pet's ID tags and microchip information, and find a local veterinarian once you've arrived. Taking care of these details before the move makes settling into your new home much easier.
There's a reason Texas keeps showing up on lists of the fastest-growing states in the country. Some people move for work, others want more space, and plenty are simply looking for a lower cost of living than they're used to. Whatever brought Texas onto your radar, planning ahead will make the transition much easier.
No two moves are the same. Living in downtown Austin feels completely different from renting a house in suburban Dallas or settling into a neighborhood outside Houston. Rental prices, traffic, weather, and even utility costs can change depending on where you land.
Before signing a lease or scheduling the moving truck, it's worth taking a closer look at what life in Texas is really like. Here's what to know before making the move.
Is Moving to Texas a Good Idea?
For a lot of people, it is. Texas offers something that's becoming harder to find in other parts of the country: strong job opportunities, plenty of housing choices, and cities that appeal to very different lifestyles.
You can live in the middle of a fast-growing tech hub, settle into a quiet suburb, or choose a smaller community where life moves at a slower pace.
That doesn't mean every city is the right fit. Austin tends to attract people working in technology and creative industries.
Dallas has a strong corporate presence, Houston is known for healthcare and energy, while San Antonio offers a more relaxed atmosphere and generally lower housing costs.
The weather is another adjustment. Summers are long, temperatures regularly climb into the 90s, and some parts of the state deal with hurricanes, hail, or flash flooding.
Knowing what to expect before you move helps you choose the right neighborhood and prepare for seasonal weather.
If you're renting, you'll probably notice another difference. Many apartment communities and property managers ask tenants to carry renters insurance before handing over the keys.
It's become a standard requirement across much of Texas, so it's something you'll want to plan for before move-in day.
Cost of Living in Texas
One of the first questions people ask before relocating is simple: Can I actually afford to live there?The answer depends on where you're moving.
Texas is often considered more affordable than states like California or New York, but living costs can vary quite a bit from one city to another. Rent, groceries, utilities, transportation, and even car insurance may look very different depending on your ZIP code.
The good news is that Texas gives you options. If you're flexible about where you live, it's possible to find a city that fits both your lifestyle and your budget.
How Much Does Rent Cost in Texas?
Rent will probably be your largest monthly expense, but the amount you pay depends on several factors. The type of property, its size, the neighborhood, nearby amenities, and even how recently it was built can all influence the monthly rent.
As you compare listings, look beyond the advertised price. Some rentals include parking, trash collection, or access to amenities like a fitness center or pool, while others charge separately for those services.
It's also worth asking about application fees, security deposits, pet fees, and any move-in costs before signing a lease.
Looking at the full monthly cost, not just the rent, will give you a much clearer idea of what fits your budget and help you avoid unexpected expenses after you move in.
Average Monthly Expenses You Should Expect
Rent is only part of the picture. Before moving, it's a good idea to build a monthly budget that includes the expenses people often forget about during the apartment search.
Depending on your lease, you may be paying for electricity, water, natural gas, internet, parking, and pet fees in addition to rent.
Summer electricity bills deserve special attention, since air conditioning runs almost nonstop across much of Texas for several months each year.
You'll also want to set aside money for moving expenses, security deposits, application fees, and renters insurance if it's required by your landlord. Having those costs planned out ahead of time makes the first few months in your new home much less stressful.
To help you plan your budget, here's a breakdown of common monthly expenses for renters in Texas. These are average estimates and may vary based on your location, property, and utility usage.
Expense | Average Monthly Cost* |
Electricity | $120–$220 |
Water & Sewer | $40–$80 |
Natural Gas | $20–$50 |
Internet | $50–$80 |
Parking (if not included) | $50–$150 |
Renters Insurance | $10–$25 |
*In addition to your monthly expenses, most renters should also budget for one-time move-in costs, such as an application fee (typically around $50), a security deposit (often $800 or about one month's rent, depending on the property), and moving expenses.
Best Cities to Live in Texas
There's no single "best" place to live in Texas. The right city depends on what matters most to you. Some people prioritize career opportunities, others want a shorter commute, better schools, more affordable rent, or easy access to parks and outdoor activities.
Texas is home to some of the fastest-growing cities in the country, and each one offers a different lifestyle. A city that's perfect for someone relocating for a tech job might not be the best fit for a growing family or someone looking to keep housing costs lower.
Taking the time to compare your options before signing a lease can make a big difference once you're settled in.
If you're still deciding where to move, these four cities are usually at the top of the list for newcomers.
Austin
Austin has changed a lot over the last decade, but it continues to attract people from all over the country.
The city has a strong job market, especially in technology, and offers a mix of live music, restaurants, coffee shops, and outdoor spaces that appeal to young professionals and families alike.
Living here comes at a higher price than in most Texas cities. Rent is typically above the state average, particularly near downtown or popular neighborhoods like South Congress, The Domain, and East Austin.
If Austin is your destination, starting your apartment search early can give you more options and help you avoid paying a premium.
Dallas
Dallas offers a little bit of everything. It's home to major employers, a growing business community, professional sports teams, and neighborhoods that range from busy urban districts to quiet suburban developments.
Rent varies depending on where you choose to live. Areas close to downtown tend to be more expensive, while neighborhoods farther north or east often offer better value without adding an unreasonable commute.
For people relocating because of work, Dallas is usually one of the first cities worth considering.
Houston
Houston is the largest city in Texas and one of the most diverse in the country. It has a strong economy, a well-known medical center, and opportunities across industries like healthcare, engineering, energy, manufacturing, and logistics.
Housing is often more affordable than people expect for a city of its size, which is one of the reasons so many newcomers choose Houston.
If you're planning to rent here, take a few minutes to research the neighborhood before signing a lease. Some parts of the city are more prone to flooding than others, and it's always worth checking whether a property has experienced flooding in the past.
San Antonio
San Antonio offers a slower pace than Austin, Dallas, or Houston, but that doesn't mean there's less to do.
The city combines historic neighborhoods, military communities, growing healthcare employers, and a lower cost of living that attracts both families and retirees.
Rent is generally more affordable than in Austin, making it a popular choice for people who want to stretch their housing budget without giving up the benefits of living in a major city.
It's also one of the friendliest places in Texas for first-time renters looking to settle into a community for the long term.
How to Find Houses for Rent in Texas
Finding a rental home is easier than it used to be, but having dozens of listings doesn't always make the process simpler.
Good homes can disappear within days, especially in popular neighborhoods, so it's worth having your documents ready before you start scheduling tours.
If possible, begin your search a month or two before your planned move. That gives you enough time to compare neighborhoods, visit properties, and avoid rushing into the first house that becomes available.
Best Websites to Find Rental Homes
Finding a rental home in Texas can take a little time, especially if you're moving from another state and aren't familiar with the different neighborhoods.
Before you start scheduling tours, it's worth spending a few days comparing prices, commute times, pet policies, and what's included with each rental. Doing a bit of research upfront can save you from rushing into the first place that looks good.
The good news is that most of the search can be done online. There are several websites where you can browse listings, save your favorites, set alerts for new rentals, and compare properties side by side.
While no single platform has every listing available, using a few of them together usually gives you the best results.
Zillow: One of the most widely used rental platforms, with filters for price, bedrooms, pet-friendly homes, parking, amenities, and move-in dates.
Realtor.com: Offers houses, apartments, townhomes, and condos for rent, along with neighborhood information and market insights.
Redfin: A good option for browsing rental listings while comparing nearby schools, commute times, and local amenities.
Apartments.com: Ideal if you're looking for apartments or professionally managed communities, with virtual tours and detailed property information.
HAR.com: Originally created for the Houston market, but widely used across Texas. It often features listings that may not appear on other rental websites.
Whichever platform you use, try to schedule an in-person visit before signing a lease whenever possible. Photos can make a property look very different from reality, and spending a few minutes walking around the neighborhood can tell you just as much as the listing itself.
What Landlords Usually Require
Requirements vary from one property to another, but most landlords ask for similar information during the application process.
Be prepared to provide proof of income, a government-issued ID, recent pay stubs, and permission for a credit and background check. Some landlords may also ask for rental history, references from previous property managers, or proof of employment if you're relocating for a new job.
Many landlords in Texas also require renters insurance before you move in. If that's the case, you'll usually need to provide proof of coverage before you can pick up your keys. Since this is a common lease requirement, it's worth asking about it early in the application process so there are no last-minute surprises.
If you already know you'll need renters insurance, getting a quote ahead of time can save you one more task during your move. With Kanguro Insurance, you can get a quote online in seconds, purchase your policy, and receive your proof of insurance by email right away, ready to share with your landlord. And get help in English or Spanish if you need it
Having these documents ready before you apply can make the process much smoother, especially if you're applying for a rental in a competitive market.
What to Check Before Signing a Lease
Before you sign a lease, take a few minutes to read through every section, even if you're excited to move in. It's much easier to ask questions before signing than to discover unexpected rules after you've already moved.
Pay close attention to the lease term, security deposit, maintenance responsibilities, guest policies, parking rules, renewal terms, and any additional fees that aren't included in the advertised rent.
It's also worth checking how and when rent is due, whether there are penalties for paying late, and what happens if you need to end the lease early.
Pet owners should read the pet policy carefully. Some communities have breed or weight restrictions, while others charge a pet deposit, monthly pet rent, or both.
Finally, check whether renters insurance is required before move-in.
Many landlords in Texas ask for proof of coverage before handing over the keys, so confirming that requirement ahead of time can help you avoid last-minute delays.
Do You Need Renters Insurance in Texas?
If you're renting a house or apartment in Texas, there's a good chance your landlord will ask for renters insurance before you move in.
Even when it's not required, it's worth considering. Your landlord's insurance protects the building itself, but it doesn't cover your personal belongings if they're damaged or stolen.
Think about everything inside your home, your laptop, TV, furniture, kitchen appliances, clothes, bike, or gaming console. Replacing everything after a fire, theft, or certain types of water damage could be far more expensive than most people expect.
A renters insurance policy can help cover your belongings, provide liability protection if someone is injured in your home, and help pay for temporary living expenses if your rental becomes uninhabitable because of a covered loss.
Before purchasing a policy, compare what's included, the deductible, coverage limits, and whether you need additional protection for valuables like jewelry, cameras, or collectibles.
If you're moving into your first rental, getting renters insurance is one of those tasks that's easy to overlook until the leasing office asks for proof of coverage. Get a renters insurance quote here before move-in to avoid last-minute delays. Taking care of it before move-in day can make the entire process smoother.
Moving to Texas With Pets
Moving can be a big adjustment for pets too. Between the long drive, a new home, and unfamiliar surroundings, it's normal for dogs and cats to need a little time to settle into their new routine.
Ahead of moving day, update your pet's microchip information and ID tags with your new address and phone number. If you're driving to Texas, plan regular stops so your dog can stretch, drink water, and take bathroom breaks.
Bringing familiar toys, blankets, or their favorite bed can help your pet feel more comfortable during the first few days.
Take a close look at the property's pet policy before signing your lease.
Some communities charge a pet deposit or monthly pet rent, while others have breed or weight restrictions. Knowing those details ahead of time can help you avoid unexpected fees or delays during the move.
Once you've settled in, find a nearby veterinarian and save the location of the closest emergency animal hospital. Having both ready before you need them can make an already stressful situation much easier.
While you're getting everything in place, it's a good time to review your pet's insurance as well. Kanguro Insurance offers pet insurance for dogs and cats that helps cover eligible accidents and illnesses, with optional preventive care plans available. Get a pet quote online before your move so you're ready from day one.
Making the Move to Texas
Moving to Texas takes planning, but a little preparation goes a long way. Choosing the right city, understanding your monthly budget, finding a rental that fits your needs, and reviewing your lease carefully can help you avoid surprises after move-in day.
By the time you arrive, the goal is simple: enjoy your new home instead of worrying about everything you forgot to do before the move. Taking care of the final details ahead of time makes settling in a lot easier.
That includes making sure you have the right coverage in place. Many Texas landlords require renters insurance before move-in, and Kanguro Insurance makes it easy to get covered online in just a few minutes.
Your proof of coverage is sent by email as soon as your policy is active, so it's ready to share with your landlord.
A new home often means a fresh start for pets, too. New surroundings, new routines, and plenty to explore.
Kanguro Insurance offers pet insurance for dogs and cats that helps cover eligible accidents and illnesses, with optional preventive care plans available, helping you protect every part of your move.
Once the paperwork is behind you, all that's left is settling into your new neighborhood, discovering your favorite local spots, and making Texas feel like home.
The sooner you start preparing, the sooner Texas will start feeling like home.
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving to Texas
Is Texas a good place to move?
For many people, yes. Texas offers strong job opportunities, a wide variety of cities and neighborhoods, and housing options that fit different budgets and lifestyles. The best place to live depends on your priorities, whether that's career growth, affordability, good schools, or outdoor activities.
How much money should I save before moving to Texas?
In addition to your monthly rent, it's a good idea to budget for your security deposit, application fees, moving expenses, utility setup, and your first month's living costs. Having a financial cushion can make your transition much less stressful.
Do I need renters insurance before moving into a Texas apartment?
Many landlords in Texas require renters insurance before giving tenants the keys. Even when it's optional, renters insurance can help protect your personal belongings, provide liability coverage, and help pay for temporary living expenses after a covered loss.
Can I move to Texas with my dog or cat?
Yes. Most rental communities welcome pets, but many have pet policies that include deposits, monthly pet rent, or breed and weight restrictions. Before signing a lease, review the property's pet policy and update your pet's ID tags and microchip information with your new address.
Why choose Kanguro Insurance before moving to Texas?
Kanguro Insurance helps make move-in easier by offering renters insurance that can be purchased online in minutes, with proof of coverage sent by email as soon as your policy is active. If you're moving with a pet, Kanguro Insurance also offers pet insurance for dogs and cats, helping cover eligible accidents and illnesses, with optional preventive care plans available.
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