Moving to Texas in 2026
Zero state income tax. 80,000+ remote job openings. A $150K earner saves $11,700/year vs California. Discover why Texas leads America in domestic migration.
0%
State Income Tax
80K+
Remote Job Openings
$1,700
Avg 2BR Rent (Austin)
230+
Sunny Days/Year
Why 1,000+ People Move to Texas Every Day
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Texas leads the nation in net domestic migration. Here's why:
Zero State Income Tax
Texas is one of 9 states with no income tax on wages. A $100K earner keeps an extra $5,000-$9,000/year vs. high-tax states like California or New York.
Strongest Job Market
Texas has 80,000+ remote job postings—highest in the nation. Major employers include Tesla, Apple, Oracle, and Samsung, all with Texas HQs or major campuses.
Affordable Housing
Average 2BR rent: Austin $1,700, Dallas $1,550, Houston $1,400, San Antonio $1,250. Compare to San Francisco's $3,500+ or NYC's $3,200+.
Year-Round Sunshine
230+ sunny days annually. No snow shoveling, no seasonal depression. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and those escaping harsh winters.
Choose Your Texas City
Each Texas metro has its own personality, cost structure, and job market. Find your fit:
Austin
Tech hub, live music capital, young professional haven. Tesla, Apple, Meta offices here.
Avg 2BR: $1,700 • Median income: $85K
Compare cost of livingDallas-Fort Worth
Corporate HQ capital, diverse economy, excellent suburbs. American Airlines, AT&T, ExxonMobil.
Avg 2BR: $1,550 • Median income: $75K
Compare cost of livingHouston
Energy capital, world-class medical center, incredibly diverse. NASA, MD Anderson, oil majors.
Avg 2BR: $1,400 • Median income: $68K
Compare cost of livingSan Antonio
Most affordable major city, rich history, military presence. USAA, Valero, H-E-B headquarters.
Avg 2BR: $1,250 • Median income: $58K
Compare cost of livingYour Potential Savings: Real Numbers
Based on 2026 IRS tax tables and state tax rates
$100K Salary
$5,500
Annual tax savings vs CA
$150K Salary
$11,700
Annual tax savings vs CA
$200K Salary
$18,200
Annual tax savings vs CA
Important Considerations Before You Move
Texas isn't perfect for everyone. Here's what to factor into your decision:
Higher Property Taxes (~1.8% average)
Texas compensates for no income tax with higher property taxes. On a $400K home, that's $7,200/year. Still cheaper than income tax for high earners, but significant for homeowners.
Brutal Summers (100°F+ for 4 months)
Air conditioning is essential June-September. Expect electricity bills of $180-$250/month in summer. The heat is intense—this is a real lifestyle factor.
Car-Dependent Cities
Public transit is limited outside downtown cores. Plan to own a car. Budget for insurance, gas, and parking. Commutes in DFW and Houston can be 45+ minutes.
The Net Math Usually Works
For most high earners ($100K+), the income tax savings outweigh higher property taxes and AC costs. Run your specific numbers with our calculator to be sure.
Ready to Calculate Your Texas Savings?
Get your personalized analysis. See exactly how much you'll save in taxes, housing, and overall cost of living.