As more companies move their headquarters to Texas and as the more affordable living cost entices people to move to the Lone Star State, Californians are making the big move across the country. The Lone Star State is one of the most popular inbound states in the country for many reasons.
If you’re making a move from California to Texas, here are a few things to know before you arrive and a few tips to make the long-distance move easier.
What to Know Before Moving to Texas
Stated by Dallas long distance movers, as with any move, it’s a good idea to learn a bit about your new home. Every state in the union is unique, and the Lone Star State certainly stands out as one with a rich and proud history. The diverse group of people who live in Texas love the large expanse and wide-open land.
It’s a state where there is still room for cattle to roam and plenty of big city life for those who want a taste of culture. Here are just a few things we think you should know about moving to the great state of Texas.
Cost of Living
If you’re moving from California, you’re going to be happy about all the money you’ll save. Many items are far cheaper in Texas, including:
- Child Care
- Health Care
- Home Ownership
- Food
- Transportation
- Entertainment
When it comes to the cost of purchasing a home, prices vary widely depending on how urban vs. suburban you decide to live. The more urban, the more expensive. The farther outside of town, the less expensive you’ll find housing costs.
It’s a good idea to do some preliminary looking before arrival, so you have an idea of your price range and desired location.
Climate
In general, you can expect more weather in Texas than you’ve experienced in California. Summers are hot and humid with highs familiar to those moving from Southern California – the triple digits.
Winters are relatively mild for most of Texas, with only the northernmost tip near Oklahoma getting some snow. Texas is 100% earthquake free, but there are hurricanes and tornadoes to watch out for.
Food
The food you’ll find in Texas is some of the best the United States has to offer. Thanks to the shared borders with Mexico, Texas boasts a robust and thriving population of Latinos. Tacos, Mexican food, and Tex-Mex abound.
You’ll also find southern favorites such as barbeque, brisket, and fried chicken.
If you’re coming from health-conscious Southern California, don’t fret. There are plenty of health-conscious restaurants, vegetarian, and seafood options in larger towns like Dallas and Austin.
Southern Hospitality
Texas is the land of southern hospitality, and you might find it a pleasant change from California. Texans are friendly, welcoming, and will go out of their way to show kindness.
Politeness runs in Texans veins, and they’ll just as soon address you as “Ma’am” or “Honey” while opening the door for you as they will say “Howdy” when passing you on the sidewalk.
How to Make Your Move
Moving is an exciting time, but it can also be stressful. By implementing a few key strategies to help your trip go smoothly, you’ll be able to focus more on the adventure and less on the monumental task it takes to uproot your life and plant yourself in a new location.
Plan Ahead
Planning is essential to make sure your move goes as smoothly as possible. Moving companies will take a load of stress and pressure off your shoulders when moving long-distance. Start reaching out to your top three moving company choices around three months before your move.
Get quotes, talk to the companies, and ask for available dates. This is especially important if you’re planning to move during the summer.
In-Home Estimates
From each company, you’ll want an in-home estimate. That means you’ll be receiving three quotes. Never settle for a company that only wants to give you a quote over the phone.
There are too many variables or a moving company to give you an estimate based on what you’re telling them – they need to see the items they’ll be moving.
Show the mover everything they’ll be expected to move so they can give you as accurate an estimate as possible. Always get estimates in writing – a verbal guesstimate is never enough and will never be binding.
Hire Long Distance Movers
For a long-distance move, it’s crucial to hire a moving company that is experienced in long-distance moves. Compare the estimates you received from your three companies and figure out what the companies offer the best price for the services offered. Price is not the final factor, however.
Consider how well you worked with each person, their customer service skills, the company’s ratings and reviews, and their standing with the American Moving and Storage Association (AMSA) and the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Downsize
The final cost you’ll end up paying the moving company is greatly related to the gross weight of the items you’ll ask them to move. The more you move, the more you pay.
So, if you want to save some money, downsizing would be a wise option.
Go through your things and decide what needs to go with you and what can stay. Divide your things into two categories – one for keeping and one for leaving behind. Host a garage sale with all the items you’ll be leaving behind to raise a little extra money for your trip.
Take whatever doesn’t sell and donate unneeded items to The Salvation Army or another charitable organization that can take used items.
You’re Ready to Move
Hopefully, this has helped you learn more about your future residence in Texas and how to make your move as smooth as possible. We’re sure once you arrive, you’ll enjoy the vibrant food, southern hospitality, and a diverse population.
If you follow these tips above, it will help make your long-distance move easier, and you’ll be enjoying your new life in Texas before you know it.
