Adrian Berlutti
Texas offers great opportunities but also tough challenges. Understanding what life really looks like helps you see the full picture. These facts reveal the everyday realities that shape what it means to live in the Lone Star State.
Surprise Tax Burdens
Texas may lack a state income tax, but property taxes more than make up for it. Ranked among the highest in the nation, these taxes can take homeowners by surprise as local governments rely on property levies to keep rates high. So, prepare for an unexpected financial hit when buying a home.
Limited Walkability
Outside a few revitalized downtown areas, most Texas cities offer little pedestrian infrastructure. In many neighborhoods, sidewalks are scarce and shade is minimal, which makes walking uncomfortable. Moreover, essential services are often spread out, so owning a car is not a luxury—it’s nearly unavoidable.
High Insurance Costs
Homeowners and drivers often face steep insurance premiums due to a mix of factors, such as frequent hailstorms, the threat of hurricanes, and localized flooding. Additionally, higher crime rates in some areas contribute to the burden. As a result, insurance becomes a necessary part of any budget.
Scorching Summers
Texas summers bring intense heat, with temperatures often soaring above 100°F between June and August. Heat waves make conditions even hotter, especially in cities like Austin and Houston. The extreme heat can make outdoor plans difficult and create serious challenges for staying cool and safe.
Healthcare Challenges
Healthcare access in Texas remains a major challenge. As per the Texas Legislative Study Group, nearly 5 million Texans lack insurance, the highest uninsured rate in the nation. Rural areas also face severe doctor shortages, with over half of the counties lacking primary care.
Safety Concerns
According to USAFacts, crime rates in Texas vary, with cities like Houston and Dallas facing higher risks. In 2023, there were 406 violent crimes and 2,200 property crimes per 100,000 people. Therefore, it’s important to research neighborhoods carefully before relocating to ensure safety and make informed decisions.
Education Disparities
Education quality in Texas public schools varies widely. Many districts face underfunding, staff shortages, and limited resources. As of 2020–2021, Texas AFT reports that 91% of students attend underfunded schools. Texas ranks 44th nationally in education funding, highlighting serious disparities that impact student success across the state.
Flooding Issues
Heavy rains often turn streets into rivers, particularly in flood-prone cities like Houston. Because flash floods are so common, drainage systems frequently fail to manage the volume of water. Consequently, even modest storms can disrupt daily life, damage property, and force residents to rely on flood insurance.
Long Distances Between Cities
Texas is vast, making road trips long. Driving from El Paso to Houston or Dallas to McAllen takes over 10 hours. The huge distances between cities make travel time-consuming. This highlights why getting around often requires significant planning and patience.
Wildlife Encounters
Texas isn’t just home to longhorns and coyotes. You might also find scorpions hiding in your boots or fire ants taking over your yard. Newcomers often struggle to adapt to these wild surprises. In some areas, alligators linger near water, and rattlesnakes appear without warning.
