This article is Sponsored by Robinson Relocations

Thinking about moving from Ohio to Texas? You’re about to experience a big change — new opportunities, a different lifestyle, and a fresh environment. 

Whether it’s for work, the weather, or a new start, knowing what to expect will make your move easier.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the main differences between living in Ohio and Texas, using reliable data to help you prepare for your new adventure.

Cost of Living: Ohio vs. Texas

According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis and cost of living indexes, Texas generally has a slightly lower overall cost of living compared to Ohio, about 6% less expensive on average. However, this varies by city.

For example, housing in Texas cities like Dallas and Houston is competitive, with median home prices around $330,000, while Ohio cities like Columbus have median home prices near $260,000. 

Texas has no state income tax, which can result in significant annual savings — on average, Texans save around $2,500 annually compared to Ohio residents.

Utility costs in Texas tend to be higher due to hot summers that drive up air conditioning use, but transportation expenses, including gas prices and vehicle registration fees, are often lower.

Weather and Climate

Ohio has four distinct seasons, with cold winters featuring snowfall averaging 25 inches annually in Columbus and even more in northern parts. 

Texas has a much warmer climate, with some cities like Houston averaging only 4 inches of snow annually and experiencing long, hot summers where temperatures can exceed 100°F for weeks.

If you’re moving from Ohio to Texas, prepare to swap winter coats for summer gear and adjust your lifestyle to the hotter, more humid climate, especially in East and Gulf Coast Texas.

Jobs and Employment

Texas is a powerhouse for job growth. The Texas Workforce Commission reports that Texas added nearly 500,000 jobs in 2023 alone, with booming sectors including technology, healthcare, and energy. Cities like Austin have been ranked among the fastest-growing tech hubs in the U.S.

Ohio has a stable job market with strengths in manufacturing, healthcare, and education, but Texas’s rapid economic expansion offers more opportunities in high-growth industries.

When planning your move, consider how your career aligns with these trends, and if you’re relocating from Ohio, working with a Cincinnati moving company can ease your transition.

Education and Schools

Texas is home to several highly ranked public school districts and large state university systems, including the University of Texas and Texas A&M. According to U.S. News & World Report, districts in cities like Plano and Frisco rank in the top 10% nationwide.

Ohio schools, especially suburban districts near Columbus and Cincinnati, also rank highly and offer strong educational programs. Each state provides a range of educational options, so researching local districts is essential when choosing where to live.

Culture and Lifestyle

Texas culture is known for its proud heritage, barbecue traditions, and live music scenes, especially in cities like Austin — the “Live Music Capital of the World.” The state’s population growth (over 13% since 2010) reflects a vibrant and diverse cultural landscape.

Ohio offers a quieter Midwestern lifestyle with seasonal festivals, historic towns, and strong community ties. Moving to Texas means embracing faster-paced urban life with a big-city feel and southern hospitality.

Taxes and Finances

One of Texas’s biggest financial draws is the lack of a state income tax, which can add up to thousands of dollars in savings each year. However, property taxes in Texas average 1.69% of a home’s assessed value, higher than Ohio’s average of 1.38%.

Sales taxes also tend to be higher in Texas (up to 8.25%) compared to Ohio’s 7.0%. Overall, many residents find the total tax burden comparable, but the structure differs significantly.

Food, Entertainment, and Local Attractions

Texas offers some of the best barbecue and Tex-Mex cuisine in the country, alongside major sports teams, rodeos, and music festivals like South by Southwest (SXSW) in Austin.

Ohio cities like Cincinnati have rich culinary scenes and cultural events but on a smaller scale. Texas’s larger population and tourism industry support a broader variety of entertainment options year-round.

Transportation and Commute

Texas’s sprawling metro areas mean longer average commute times — about 27 minutes in Dallas and Houston, compared to Ohio cities like Columbus, which average around 22 minutes.

Public transit options are limited in many Texas suburbs, so owning a car is essential. Ohio offers more centralized urban areas with better transit access, which might require adjusting your commuting habits after moving.

Final Thoughts

Is moving from Ohio to Texas right for you? If you’re looking for a warmer climate, booming job markets, and tax benefits, Texas has a lot to offer.

Remember to research cities carefully, compare costs, and plan. Whether you’re drawn to Dallas’s energy or the charm of San Antonio, Texas has a place for you.

If you’re relocating, connecting with a trusted Cincinnati moving company can make your move smoother and less stressful.