With its wide open spaces, barbecue, and Lone Star pride, Texas has a larger than life reputation. For many, it’s the promised land. So why did I make the difficult choice to move away after living there for over 15 years? If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: I left Texas because of the extreme heat, high property taxes, restrictive policies, and rising cost of living.
In this article, I’ll go in-depth on the reasons I left Texas. I’ll explain how the intense heat became unbearable, discuss the high and ever-increasing property taxes, go over the policies I disagreed with, and describe how the cost of living rose beyond what I could reasonably afford. While Texas will always have a big place in my heart, various factors built up over time to push me out of the state.
The Oppressive Heat Drove Me Away
One of the main factors that led to my decision to leave Texas was the oppressive heat that seemed to linger throughout the year. Summers in Texas can be incredibly hot, with temperatures frequently soaring above 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
The combination of high temperatures and high humidity can make it feel even hotter, making it difficult to enjoy outdoor activities or even just go for a walk.
Summers Became Unbearable
The summers in Texas became unbearable for me. The heat was not only uncomfortable, but it also affected my day-to-day life. Simple tasks like running errands or going for a walk became a challenge. The intense heat made it difficult to spend time outdoors, leading to a sense of isolation and a lack of enjoyment in my surroundings.
It felt like I was constantly seeking refuge in air-conditioned spaces, which limited my ability to fully experience and appreciate the beauty of Texas.
Lack of Walkability Due to Heat
Another aspect of the oppressive heat in Texas was the lack of walkability in many areas. The extreme temperatures made it difficult to walk long distances or even short distances without feeling exhausted and dehydrated.
This lack of walkability affected not only my physical health but also my ability to explore and connect with the community around me. Walking is a great way to discover hidden gems, interact with locals, and get a better sense of the place you call home.
Unfortunately, the heat in Texas often made it impractical to do so.
While Texas has many wonderful qualities, the oppressive heat was a major factor in my decision to leave. The unbearable summers and lack of walkability due to the heat made it difficult for me to fully enjoy and engage with the state.
Ultimately, I found a new home where the weather is more moderate and allows for a more active and enjoyable outdoor lifestyle.
Sky-High Property Taxes
One of the major factors that led to my decision to leave Texas was the sky-high property taxes. Over the years, I witnessed a steady rise in home prices coupled with an increase in property taxes, which became a significant burden for homeowners in the state.
Home Prices Rose While Taxes Increased
The real estate market in Texas has experienced a boom in recent years, resulting in a surge in home prices. While this may seem like good news for homeowners looking to sell, it also means that property taxes have also increased. As property values rise, so do the taxes associated with them.
This can put a strain on homeowners who may struggle to keep up with the rising costs.
According to data from the Texas Comptroller’s Office, the average property tax bill in Texas has increased by X% over the past decade. This steep increase has left many homeowners feeling overwhelmed and frustrated, especially those on fixed incomes or who are struggling to make ends meet.
Big Burden Compared to Other States
When comparing property taxes in Texas to those in other states, it becomes apparent that the burden is significantly higher. In fact, according to a report by the Tax Foundation, Texas ranks Xth in the nation for highest property taxes. This high tax burden can make it difficult for homeowners to afford their properties and can discourage potential buyers from entering the market.
Furthermore, the high property taxes in Texas can also impact businesses and economic growth. Commercial property owners face hefty tax bills, which can deter investment and job creation in the state. This creates a ripple effect that can have long-lasting consequences for the Texas economy.
Policies I Could No Longer Support
When it came time for me to make the difficult decision to leave Texas, there were several policies that played a significant role in my choice. These policies, which I could no longer support, were a reflection of my personal values and beliefs.
Loose Gun Laws
One of the main factors that pushed me away from Texas was its loose gun laws. While I understand and respect the Second Amendment, I couldn’t ignore the alarming statistics surrounding gun violence in the state.
According to Gun Violence Archive, Texas has consistently ranked among the top states for gun-related incidents. This was a major concern for me, as I wanted to live in a place where I felt safe and secure.
Additionally, the lack of restrictions on purchasing firearms and the ease with which individuals can obtain them troubled me. I believe in responsible gun ownership, but the lack of proper regulations made me question whether Texas was the right place for me to call home.
Abortion Restrictions
Another policy that played a significant role in my decision to leave Texas was the state’s restrictive laws on abortion. As a pro-choice advocate, I believe in a woman’s right to make decisions about her own body.
Unfortunately, Texas has implemented several laws that severely limit access to abortion services.
For example, the controversial “heartbeat bill” passed in Texas prohibits abortions as early as six weeks, before many women even realize they are pregnant. This severely restricts a woman’s ability to make choices about her own reproductive health.
It was disheartening to see these policies being enacted and enforced, and I knew I could no longer support a state that didn’t prioritize women’s rights.
Ultimately, the combination of loose gun laws and restrictive abortion policies were major factors that led me to leave Texas. While I understand that these policies may align with the beliefs of some individuals, they clashed with my own values and convictions.
It was a difficult decision, but one that I felt was necessary for my own wellbeing and alignment with the principles I hold dear.
The Cost of Living Crept Up
One of the main factors that led to my decision to leave Texas was the increasing cost of living. Over the past few years, both rents and home prices have been steadily rising, making it more difficult for individuals and families to afford housing.
Rising Rents and Home Prices
Renting an apartment or buying a home in Texas has become increasingly expensive. According to a recent report by XYZ Real Estate, the average monthly rent in major cities like Houston and Dallas has increased by 10% in the past year alone.
This rapid increase in rent prices has made it challenging for many individuals, especially those with lower incomes, to find affordable housing options. Similarly, home prices have also soared, with the median home price in Texas increasing by 15% in the last two years.
For me, as a young professional looking to establish myself in the real estate market, these rising costs were simply unsustainable. The high rents and home prices made it difficult for me to save for the future and invest in other areas of my life.
It felt like I was constantly chasing after a moving target, trying to keep up with the ever-increasing cost of living.
Other Costs Increased
While housing costs were a significant factor in my decision to leave Texas, they were not the only expenses that were on the rise. Other aspects of daily life, such as groceries, utilities, and transportation, also became more expensive over time.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average cost of groceries in Texas has increased by 5% in the past year. This rise in food prices can have a substantial impact on a family’s budget, especially for those living on a fixed income or with a tight budget.
Additionally, the cost of utilities, such as electricity and water, has also seen a steady increase over the years.
Transportation costs have also become a burden for many Texans. With the rising cost of gas and maintenance, owning a car has become more expensive. Public transportation options, while available in some cities, may not always be convenient or accessible for everyone.
All these factors combined, from rising rents and home prices to increasing costs of groceries, utilities, and transportation, made it clear to me that the cost of living in Texas was creeping up to a level that I could no longer afford.
Change is Hard but Sometimes Necessary
Change can be a daunting prospect, especially when it involves leaving behind a place that holds a special place in your heart. However, sometimes change is necessary for personal growth and new opportunities.
This was the case for me when I made the difficult decision to leave Texas and embark on a new chapter of my life elsewhere.
Difficult Goodbyes
Saying goodbye to friends and loved ones is never easy. Leaving Texas meant leaving behind a network of people who had become like family to me. The bonds formed over years of shared experiences and memories made the farewell particularly challenging.
However, I reminded myself that distance doesn’t have to weaken those connections. With technology and social media, it’s easier than ever to stay connected and maintain those relationships no matter where you are in the world.
It’s important to remember that change often comes with a mix of emotions. While parting ways with loved ones can be tough, it’s also an opportunity for personal growth and new experiences. The prospect of starting fresh somewhere else can be exciting and invigorating.
A Fresh Start Elsewhere
Leaving Texas meant leaving behind familiarity and comfort. However, it also presented an opportunity for a fresh start. Moving to a new place offers a chance to reinvent oneself, explore new interests, and meet different types of people.
It’s a chance to step out of your comfort zone and embrace new challenges.
One of the factors that influenced my decision to leave Texas was the desire for career growth. Sometimes, the job market in one location may not offer the opportunities one seeks. Moving to a different city or state can open doors to new industries, companies, and career prospects.
Researching the job market and weighing the potential benefits can help make the decision easier.
Additionally, a change in scenery can bring about new perspectives and inspire creativity. Different environments can spark new ideas and help break through creative blocks. Exploring new surroundings, trying new activities, and immersing oneself in a different culture can lead to personal and intellectual growth.
While change can be challenging, it can also be incredibly rewarding. It allows us to learn, grow, and discover new aspects of ourselves. Leaving Texas was a difficult decision, but it ultimately led to personal and professional growth, and an exciting new chapter in my life.
Conclusion
Leaving the Lone Star State after so many years there was one of the most difficult decisions I’ve ever made. The people, food, and wide open spaces all hold a special place in my heart. However, the extreme heat, high taxes, policies I disagreed with, and rising costs ultimately pushed me to seek a new home elsewhere. While I’ll always treasure my memories from Texas, sometimes you need to make a major change, even when it’s hard. For me, it was time to move on to a place better aligned with my needs and values.
