What Shocked Me Most About Moving to Texas (And What I Wish I Knew)

Moving to Texas was one of the most exciting decisions I’ve ever made. It was also one of the most surprising.

As someone who now helps others relocate to this incredible state, I’ve come to realize that no matter how many YouTube videos you watch or articles you read, nothing fully prepares you for the reality of life in Texas. There’s something about stepping into this place, into its culture, climate, and communities, that immediately reshapes your expectations. I thought I knew what I was signing up for when I made the move. I’d done the research. I knew the housing market, the cost of living, and where the best schools were. But it’s the other stuff, the everyday things that no one really talks about, that left the biggest impression.

So to help you avoid some of the same surprises I encountered, I want to share what truly shocked me about moving to Texas, and what I now wish someone had told me from the start.

Texans Are Genuinely Friendly

One of the first things that hit me after moving here was just how warm and welcoming Texans are. Of course, I’d heard about Southern hospitality before. I assumed it meant people would be polite, maybe hold the door open or nod hello. But what I didn’t expect was the sheer depth of kindness that would come from complete strangers.

In Texas, people wave when they drive past you, even if they don’t know you. They strike up conversations in grocery store aisles and check on their neighbors during storms or heat waves. I was honestly caught off guard by how much people cared, not just in passing, but in a way that made it feel like I was being invited into a real community. That level of friendliness felt foreign at first, especially coming from a place where small talk is often avoided. But I’ve grown to love it. I’ve found that when you open yourself up to those connections, they quickly turn into meaningful relationships.

What I wish I knew is how important it is to respond in kind. If someone waves, wave back. If a neighbor stops to talk, stop and talk. Because building a life here means becoming part of the social fabric. And in Texas, that fabric is stitched together with genuine connection.

The Weather Isn’t Just a Topic of Conversation. It’s a Lifestyle.

Another major surprise was the weather. I knew it would be hot. Everyone knows Texas summers are intense. But the reality of that heat, and the way it shapes your daily life, was something I hadn’t fully grasped.

In the middle of summer, even stepping outside in the afternoon can feel like walking into an oven. And depending on where in Texas you live, you might deal with different extremes, blistering humidity near the Gulf Coast, dry heat out west, or violent storms in Central Texas.

It’s not just hot. It’s unpredictable. Spring can bring severe thunderstorms and hail. Fall might feel like an extension of summer. And winter? One year you’ll be in shorts, and the next, an ice storm might shut everything down.

It took me a while to understand how much Texans adapt their daily routines around the weather. Morning walks become essential because afternoons are too hot. Outdoor activities are often planned during cooler months. And you learn quickly that sunscreen, water bottles, and good A/C are non-negotiable.

What I wish I knew is that embracing the weather means adjusting your lifestyle, not just your wardrobe. It’s about being smart, staying safe, and working with the environment rather than against it.

It’s Not All Cowboys and BBQ. Texas is Diverse in Every Sense.

There’s a certain stereotype about Texas that often gets passed around: cowboys, wide-open spaces, and barbecue on every corner. While those things absolutely exist and are a beloved part of Texas culture, they only tell part of the story.

What really surprised me was just how diverse Texas is. Not just in terms of population or food, but in geography, culture, and personality. Austin has a completely different energy than Houston. San Antonio feels more historical and family-oriented. Dallas-Fort Worth leans metropolitan and fast-paced. Then there are the charming small towns that dot the Hill Country, each with its own unique story and style.

Culturally, Texas is home to people from every background imaginable. This creates an incredible fusion of traditions, languages, cuisines, and celebrations. I’ve had some of the best Vietnamese food of my life in Houston. I’ve attended community events that celebrate cultures from around the world. And I’ve learned that being “Texan” can mean many different things to different people.

What I wish I knew is that exploring the state, even just a little bit, helps you understand why people are so passionate about calling Texas home. Every region offers something different, and you don’t have to fit one mold to belong here.

The Housing Market is Fast, But the Value is Real

When I started house hunting in Texas, I was both excited and slightly overwhelmed. Depending on the city or neighborhood, homes can go quickly, sometimes within a matter of days. Bidding wars can happen, and certain areas are highly competitive, especially if you’re looking near good schools, popular suburbs, or cities with booming job markets.

But here’s the thing that shocked me in the best way: the value you get in Texas is still remarkable compared to many other parts of the country. Larger lots, more square footage, and family-friendly layouts are much more accessible here. Even in areas where prices have risen, you’re often getting more home for your money.

As someone who now helps others navigate this process, I’ve learned the key is preparation. Pre-approval, understanding the local market, and having a responsive, relocation-focused agent can make all the difference.

What I wish I knew is that timing and guidance are everything. Having someone in your corner who understands both the emotional and logistical parts of relocating to Texas can take a lot of the stress off your shoulders.

Living Local Is More Than a Catchphrase. It's a Way of Life.

Perhaps the most beautiful surprise of all is how deeply Texans believe in supporting their communities. “Living local” isn’t just a marketing slogan. It’s how people operate on a day-to-day basis. Whether it’s buying produce at the farmer’s market, attending local festivals, or cheering on the high school football team, Texans show up for each other.

That kind of community support is incredibly grounding, especially when you’re new and trying to find your place. I started Living Local Texas because I wanted to create a space where newcomers could plug into that same energy. Where relocation didn’t feel like a transaction, but rather a transformation. A chance to connect with the people, places, and traditions that make Texas so special.

What I wish I knew is that the more you participate in local life, whether by shopping small, volunteering, or just getting to know your neighbors, the quicker you’ll feel like you belong.

Thinking About Moving to Texas?

If you're planning a move to Texas, or even just thinking about it, I hope this gave you a more honest, personal look at what to expect. It’s not always easy, and there’s plenty to learn along the way. But if you’re willing to embrace the quirks, weather the surprises, and lean into the community spirit, Texas has a way of feeling like home faster than you’d expect.

As a relocation specialist who’s gone through it all myself, I’d love to help make your move smoother, smarter, and more enjoyable. Let’s talk about what kind of home and community will truly suit your lifestyle and goals. Whether you’re looking for a buzzing city vibe, a peaceful suburb, or wide-open space to grow into, there’s a perfect spot for you here in Texas.

When you're ready to take the next step, I’m just a call or message away!

Post written by Michael Stephens from Living Local Texas.