The Lone Star State is not to be messed with and there are many reasons people are moving there. Texas draws more than 1,000 new residents each day, and with good reason too. The Lone Star State is a chance to experience advantages that make it different from all other U.S. states.
Texas’s reliable economy, zero state income tax, and rich cultural heritage create countless benefits for its residents. People here enjoy an exceptional quality of life that blends modern amenities with traditional values. Texas’s influence reaches way beyond cowboys and oil fields – it has become a vibrant center of innovation, culture, and growth.
This complete guide walks you through 15 great things about Texas that show why millions of people make this remarkable state their home. Whether you’re thinking about moving or just curious about what makes Texas special, these benefits explain why the Lone Star State remains one of America’s most attractive places to live.
Contents
- 1 No State Income Tax Benefits
- 2 Thriving Job Market
- 3 Affordable Housing Options
- 4 Rich Cultural Heritage
- 5 World-Class Food Scene
- 6 Excellent Education System
- 7 Outdoor Recreation Paradise
- 8 Strong Sports Culture
- 9 Friendly Community Spirit
- 10 Entertainment Options
- 11 Diverse City Choices
- 12 Year-Round Activities
- 13 Growing Tech Hub
- 14 Shopping Destinations
- 15 Healthcare Excellence
- 16 Good Things About Texas Frequently Asked Questions
No State Income Tax Benefits
Texas attracts families with its unique tax structure. The state’s constitution bans personal income tax, making Texas one of just nine states that give residents this valuable financial advantage.
Tax Savings for Families
Texas families keep more of what they earn. Residents pay only 7.6% of their income in state and local taxes, which is less than the national average of 10.3%. These savings help families with:
- Family budgeting and savings
- Education fund planning
- Emergency fund building
- Retirement savings
Financial Planning Advantages
Life without state income tax makes financial planning easier for Texas families. Working families can predict their take-home pay better and plan their finances. Texas stands as the 5th state with the lowest tax burden per capita. This lets families put more money toward their financial goals.
Comparison with Other States
The numbers tell a clear story about Texas’s financial benefits:
| State | Tax Burden |
|---|---|
| Texas | 7.6% |
| New York | 14.1% |
| National Average | 10.3% |
This tax benefit drives population growth steadily. States without income tax have gained 285,000 new residents from income-tax states. The economic results are clear – states without income tax grew at twice the national rate in the last decade.
Thriving Job Market
Texas’s job market has become one of the state’s biggest success stories. Its remarkable growth continues to draw professionals nationwide. The state reached a new milestone by adding 78,000 jobs in just one month, which demonstrates its economic strength.
Top Industries in Texas
The state boasts a rich economic landscape with multiple thriving sectors. Manufacturing, technology, and healthcare show exceptional performance. Texas has maintained its status as the top high-tech exporting state for ten consecutive years and leads the nation in energy production. Recent job additions include:
- Professional and Business Services (added 12,700 jobs)
- Leisure and Hospitality (added 15,500 jobs)
- Construction (showing 4.4% growth)
Career Growth Opportunities
The state’s employment growth rate of 2.2% consistently exceeds national figures. Job seekers can explore more than 580,000 openings in companies of all sizes. 28 locally managed workforce boards help connect talented professionals with employers.
Average Salary Ranges
The compensation packages in Texas are competitive. The median annual salary has reached $68,744 in 2023, which is substantially higher than the national average. The state’s dynamic economy supports varied salary ranges:
| Industry | Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Healthcare | Up to $413,510 (Cardiologists) |
| Technology | Above state median |
| Manufacturing | Competitive market rates |
Texas’s strong job market and business-friendly climate make it a perfect destination for professionals looking to advance their careers and build financial security.
Also Read: 12 Good Things About California
Affordable Housing Options
Texas maintains its edge in housing affordability, making homeownership possible for families of all income levels. The housing market has changed dramatically. Buyers now need 167% more income to purchase a home than they did a decade ago. Texas still gives homebuyers plenty of attractive options.
Home Buying Benefits
Texas helps homebuyers with many support programs. The Texas State Affordable Housing Corporation can provide up to 5% down payment assistance through their Home Sweet Texas Home Loan Program. First-time buyers can get:
- Zero-interest deferred loans
- Forgivable second mortgages
- Mortgage tax credits worth up to $2,000 annually
Popular Neighborhoods
Texas communities offer exceptional value to homebuyers. Edinburg’s median home value sits at $176,800, making it an attractive choice for families. Harlingen proves even more budget-friendly with homes averaging $123,400, ranking it among the state’s most affordable cities.
Cost Comparison
Texas housing prices show remarkable savings compared to other populous states:
| Location | Housing Cost vs. National Average |
|---|---|
| Houston | 17.8% below average |
| California | 58% higher than Texas |
A median-priced home in Dallas-Fort Worth needs an income of $116,238, but many Texas cities are much more affordable. Houston stands out as one of the most budget-friendly options among America’s 20 largest cities.
Texas shows its steadfast dedication to affordable housing through urban development projects. Houston changed its minimum lot size rules, which led to 34,000 new townhomes between 2007-2020. This change brought family-sized homes at lower prices to the city’s urban core.
Rich Cultural Heritage
Texas brings together an array of traditions that create a vibrant heritage and enrich its residents’ daily lives. The state’s multicultural legacy remains one of the most cherished parts of life in the Lone Star State.
Texas Traditions
The state’s cultural identity combines influences from German, Mexican, African American, and Native American communities. These unique traditions have become synonymous with Texas. The annual Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo showcases this cultural fusion and attracts more than 2.5 million visitors who celebrate Western heritage and support youth education.
Cultural Festivals
Texas features some of the nation’s most distinctive cultural celebrations. Here are the attendance figures for major festivals:
| Festival | Annual Visitors |
|---|---|
| Fiesta San Antonio | 3.5 million |
| State Fair of Texas | Millions |
| Wurstfest | 100,000+ |
Historical Landmarks
Texas’s rich history lives on through its historical sites, which include:
- The Alamo – Symbol of Texas independence
- Mission Concepción – One of the oldest unrestored stone churches in America
- Washington-on-the-Brazos – Known as “Where Texas Became Texas”
The state shows its steadfast dedication to preserving heritage through more than 16,000 historical markers placed throughout Texas. These landmarks tell stories of the state’s rich past, from Native American settlements to Spanish missions and pioneer ranches.
Modern celebrations like South by Southwest (SXW) in Austin add to the cultural scene. This festival brings together global innovators while keeping strong Texas roots. The mix of traditional and contemporary culture makes Texas a unique and appealing place to call home.
World-Class Food Scene
Texas boasts many claims to fame, but its food scene shows the state’s rich heritage and culinary breakthroughs. The new MICHELIN Guide Texas awarded stars to 15 restaurants, proving Texas’s status as a world-class food destination.
Texas BBQ Specialties
Texas BBQ creates its own identity through special smoking methods with post oak wood that result in unique flavors. Franklin Barbecue in Austin draws BBQ lovers worldwide, making it a global destination. The key features include:
- Slow-smoking over post oak wood
- Simple salt and pepper rubs
- Focus on beef, particularly brisket
- Emphasis on meat quality over sauce
Tex-Mex Cuisine
Tex-Mex ranks among America’s best fusion foods and perfectly blends Texas and Mexican cooking traditions. Yellow cheese, cumin, and beef set it apart from traditional Mexican dishes. Texas’s food industry gets more and thus encourages more than $100 billion in yearly sales, with Tex-Mex restaurants adding substantially to this amount.
Local Food Festivals
Texas celebrates its food heritage through many festivals year-round:
| Festival | Location | Highlight |
|---|---|---|
| State Fair of Texas | Dallas | Big Tex Choice Awards |
| Wurstfest | New Braunfels | 10-day German food celebration |
| Houston BBQ Contest | Houston | 250+ competitive cooking teams |
Texas’s steadfast dedication to great food goes way beyond traditional dishes. Events like the Fort Worth Food and Wine Festival showcase talented chefs, craft brewers, and food artisans. This vibrant food scene keeps growing while staying true to authentic Texas flavors that make it a must-visit food destination.
Also Read: 15 Good Things About Florida
Excellent Education System
Texas manages one of the world’s largest education databases to maintain high-quality learning standards for students. This makes the state a prime destination for families and educators alike.
Top Universities
Texas is home to several prestigious universities nationwide. The University of Texas—Austin and Texas A&M University serve about 40,000 undergraduate students each. These institutions provide excellent education in a variety of fields. The state has:
- 102 public colleges
- 73 non-profit private colleges
- 64 for-profit private institutions
Quality Public Schools
Texas demonstrates its steadfast dedication to education through 1,200 public school districts. More than 300 of these districts have earned an “A” rating from the Texas Education Agency. Eanes Independent School District leads public schools with outstanding SAT, ACT, and college-readiness scores.
Educational Resources
Students and educators benefit from numerous state initiatives. The Texas Education Agency provides:
| Resource Type | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Online Learning | Free access to TEALearn professional development |
| Progress Monitoring | CIRCLE system for skill assessment |
| Curriculum Support | Research-based instructional materials |
Texas’s educational excellence goes beyond traditional academics. Programs support multilingual learners and address special education needs effectively. This integrated approach makes Texas an ideal choice for families who want quality education opportunities.
Outdoor Recreation Paradise
Texas’s big outdoor recreational world stretches from pristine beaches to rugged mountains, making it a dream destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The state boasts 89 state parks and natural areas that are available to both locals and tourists.
State Parks
The state park system in Texas gives visitors exceptional outdoor opportunities. These range from the tropical Palmetto State Park near San Antonio to the spectacular Colorado Bend State Park with its 70-foot waterfall and 400 underground caves. The Texas Outdoor Family program makes nature exploration easy with workshops that cost $75 for groups up to six people.
Family Activities
Year-round outdoor adventures await families:
- Guided cave tours and educational programs
- Kayaking and paddle boarding at South Padre Island
- Camping workshops with provided equipment
- Fishing programs (no license required for shore fishing in state parks)
Natural Attractions
Texas’s natural wonders cater to every interest. Big Bend National Park features elevations from 2,000 feet along the Rio Grande to nearly 8,000 feet in the Chisos Mountains. Guadalupe Mountains National Park stands as Texas’s highest point at 8,749 feet. The Big Thicket National Preserve showcases nature’s diversity with 85 tree species and almost 1,000 flowering plants.
| Natural Wonder | Key Feature |
|---|---|
| Moody Gardens | Educational amusement park with aquarium |
| Big Bend | Rio Grande boating and hiking |
| South Padre Island | Tropical waters for water sports |
Strong Sports Culture
Texas’s love for sports creates deep bonds between communities and generations. The state’s passion shines through everything from Friday night lights to professional championships, giving families and communities an exceptional sporting experience.
Professional Teams
The Lone Star State proudly boasts 12 major league sports teams, which keep fans excited all year round. Sports fans can watch the legendary Dallas Cowboys and Houston Texans battle it out in the NFL. Basketball enthusiasts have three NBA teams to root for – the San Antonio Spurs, Houston Rockets, and Dallas Mavericks. The Houston Astros and Texas Rangers carry on baseball traditions that make the state a sports lover’s dream.
Youth Sports Programs
Local organizations and the YMCA run structured youth sports programs that shape character and develop skills. These programs emphasize key fundamentals:
- Teamwork development
- Leadership skills
- Life skills training
- Positive competition
Game Day Traditions
Texas college football creates memories that last a lifetime. Thousands of standing fans come together for Texas A&M University’s 12th Man tradition to support their team. The University of Texas lights up the UT Tower in burnt orange to celebrate victories. Fans across generations unite with the iconic “Hook ’em Horns” signal. The Dallas Cowboys pack their home games with massive crowds, proving why people call them “America’s Team”.
Sports culture runs deep in Texas communities. High school football fills stadium stands every Friday night during fall. World-class facilities, diverse sports options, and this deep-rooted passion make Texas perfect for families who cherish athletic traditions and community spirit.
Friendly Community Spirit
Texas neighborhoods buzz with community spirit. Residents build lasting bonds through shared experiences and traditions. The state’s dedication to promoting connections reflects in its dynamic community life, from local markets to neighborhood programs.
Neighborhood Events
Communities across Texas bring people together through regular gatherings. Richmond area’s Sunday Market Days connect local vendors who sell everything from homemade bagels to handcrafted jewelry. These bi-monthly markets serve as natural meeting spots where families connect while supporting local businesses. Blockhouse Coffee’s backyard events show this spirit through weekly yoga classes and monthly story times.
Community Programs
Residents actively embrace healthy living and social connections. The It’s Time Texas Community Challenge brings neighbors together in an eight-week competition to build healthy habits. Participants earn points by walking and eating healthy food. The state’s 28 workforce boards run community initiatives that help residents find local resources and opportunities.
Social Activities
Texas’s community spirit shines brightest during cultural celebrations. Fiesta San Antonio welcomes 3.5 million visitors to its 11-day celebration with parades, live music, and cultural events. More than 100,000 participants gather at the annual Wurstfest to celebrate German heritage with polka music and traditional festivities. These gatherings showcase the warm, welcoming nature that makes Texas communities wonderful places to call home.
Entertainment Options
Texas cities buzz with entertainment that enriches residents’ lives through culture and family activities. The state’s entertainment landscape ranges from historic venues to modern cultural hubs, with something for everyone.
Music Venues
Texas has a rich music scene that spans both historic and modern venues. Gruene Hall, a 145-year-old dance hall, remains the state’s oldest active music venue. The Moody Theater hosts Austin City Limits Live, bringing together big names and rising stars for the famous PBS series. Notable music venues include:
- Stubb’s Waller Creek Amphitheater (2,200 capacity)
- The Continental Club (locations in Austin and Houston)
- Billy Bob’s Texas (127,000 square feet of entertainment space)
Cultural Centers
Cultural facilities celebrate the state’s artistic excellence and heritage. The Asian American Resource Center creates a welcoming space that promotes community healing. The Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center showcases Latino cultural arts. These venues feature programs that highlight Texas’s multicultural heritage throughout the year.
Family Attractions
Space Center Houston stands out as a premier family destination where kids work with astronauts and engineers. Natural Bridge Caverns welcomes adventurers to explore underground wonders. Moody Gardens combines education and entertainment with:
| Attraction | Features |
|---|---|
| Aquarium | Marine life exhibits |
| Indoor Rainforest | Tropical wildlife |
| Ropes Course | Outdoor adventure |
Diverse City Choices
Texas provides an array of living options that cater to every lifestyle priority, ranging from bustling metropolises to charming suburbs. The state’s cities display remarkable diversity in both size and character, making them perfect for families searching for their ideal home.
Major Cities Overview
Texas proudly hosts three of America’s ten largest cities. Houston leads with 2.3 million residents, followed by San Antonio with 1.4 million and Dallas with 1.3 million residents. Each city brings its own unique character. Houston stands as America’s most diverse large city. San Antonio celebrates its rich historical heritage, and Dallas shines with its artistic offerings.
Suburban Life
Texas’s suburbs have grown into vibrant communities that blend urban amenities with peaceful living perfectly. These areas saw rapid growth as families looked for spacious homes and green spaces. Southlake, a Dallas-Fort Worth suburb, showcases this development with 63 businesses per 1,000 residents and exceptional schools.
Best Places for Families
Many Texas cities rank consistently among the nation’s most family-friendly locations. Plano features outstanding schools and safe neighborhoods. The Woodlands boasts extensive green spaces. Flower Mound creates a strong sense of community, while Round Rock combines affordability with quality education.
| City | Known For |
|---|---|
| Plano | Education Excellence |
| The Woodlands | Green Spaces |
| Fulshear | Safest City |
| College Station | Affordability |
These diverse city choices highlight Texas’s many advantages, giving families the freedom to choose communities that match their lifestyle priorities and needs perfectly.
Year-Round Activities
Texas buzzes with excitement all year round. The state’s packed calendar of events and celebrations makes it a top destination for family fun in America. Families can find memorable experiences from winter festivities to summer celebrations.
Seasonal Events
Each season brings unique celebrations to Texas. The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo attracts huge crowds and promotes agriculture while supporting youth education. The state comes alive with holiday celebrations in winter that feature dazzling light displays and festive parades.
Family Festivals
Texas’s rich heritage shines through these annual celebrations:
- Fiesta San Antonio welcomes 3.5 million visitors for 11 days of parades and cultural events
- State Fair of Texas features 70 carnival rides and unique food creations
- Wurstfest draws more than 100,000 visitors for its 10-day German heritage celebration
Local Celebrations
Local culture and traditions take center stage at distinctive events in communities throughout Texas. The annual calendar includes:
| Season | Signature Events |
|---|---|
| Spring | Fiesta de la Flor |
| Summer | Outdoor musicals |
| Fall | Oktoberfest celebrations |
| Winter | Holiday light displays |
The USA’s largest Native-Sand Sculpture Competition happens at Texas Sandfest. Professional sculptors join tens of thousands of visitors in this three-day celebration of artistry and family entertainment. These activities create lasting memories and deepen their commitment to community across the Lone Star State.
Growing Tech Hub
Texas’s technology sector shines as the state leads the nation in net tech jobs. This achievement adds to Texas’s growing reputation in the modern era.
Tech Companies
Austin alone houses over 2,000 tech companies. Tech giants like Apple, Google, and Amazon have set up major operations in various Texas cities. The tech industry generated an impressive USD 469.75 billion for the state’s economy in 2022. This represents almost 20% of Texas’s total GDP.
Innovation Centers
Texas promotes innovation through several university-linked centers. The Texas Innovation Center helps turn discoveries into successful startups. These centers provide:
- Startup development support
- Commercialization assistance
- Research partnerships
- Educational workshops
Career Opportunities
The tech workforce shows promising growth potential. Experts predict it will grow at twice the rate of the overall U.S. workforce in the next decade. Since 2017, IT services and custom software services have generated 52% of new jobs. This creates opportunities for professionals in various fields. Texas currently has more than 82,000 technology jobs. These roles range from software development to cybersecurity.
This vibrant tech ecosystem makes Texas an ideal place for families looking for stable careers in tech-driven industries. Tech giants and emerging startups create an environment where professionals build lasting careers while enjoying the state’s family-friendly atmosphere.
Shopping Destinations
Texas is a shopper’s paradise where giant malls stand alongside charming local markets. The state blends modern convenience with traditional charm that appeals to every type of shopper.
Popular Malls
Texas proudly houses some of America’s most impressive shopping centers. Houston’s Galleria leads as the state’s largest mall with 2.4 million square feet of retail space and more than 400 stores. Dallas’s NorthPark Center welcomes 26 million visitors annually and combines retail with art beautifully. These retail giants give shoppers much more than stores:
| Mall | Location | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| The Galleria | Houston | Ice skating rink, 60+ eateries |
| NorthPark Center | Dallas | Art collection, 230+ stores |
| The Domain | Austin | Open-air shopping, dining |
Local Markets
Texas farmers’ markets highlight the state’s agricultural wealth and creative talent. Producer-only markets maintain high standards, and each farmer and rancher undergoes inspection to verify their growing methods. The Dallas Farmers Market has served the community since 1941 and brings seasonal produce and artisan goods to weekend shoppers.
Shopping Districts
Each shopping district adds its own flavor to Texas cities. Dallas’s Bishop Arts District boasts 60 unique boutiques, while Austin’s South Congress Avenue fascinates visitors with vintage stores and local boutiques. Deep Ellum shows how Texas honors its past while embracing new retail trends – this historic freedman’s town has become Dallas’s trendiest shopping destination.
Healthcare Excellence
Healthcare is the life-blood of Texas’s commitment to family wellbeing. The state boasts world-class medical facilities and complete care options. UT Southwestern ranks among the top 20 hospitals nationwide and stands at No. 1 in Texas. This achievement shows Texas’s dedication to medical excellence.
Medical Centers
Texas has some of the nation’s finest healthcare institutions. The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center guides the country in cancer treatment. UT Southwestern’s eleven specialties, including cardiology and neurological care, rank among the nation’s best. Houston Methodist Hospital continues to be the state’s premier healthcare facility and provides complete medical services.
Healthcare Options
The state makes healthcare available through several programs:
- Children’s Medicaid and CHIP for young families
- Medicare coverage for adults over 65
- Community health centers with sliding fee scales
Family Care Services
Texas puts family health first through specialized programs. The Family Care initiative helps families with functional limitations. Community health centers deliver quality, affordable care whatever your insurance status. A network of 28 workforce boards coordinates healthcare resources to give families the medical support they need.
| Healthcare Achievement | Ranking |
|---|---|
| UT Southwestern | #1 in Texas |
| MD Anderson | #1 in Cancer Care |
| Houston Methodist | Top State Hospital |
Good Things About Texas Frequently Asked Questions
What is so great about Texas?
Texas is great for its diverse landscape, ranging from deserts and mountains to forests and beaches, providing a variety of outdoor activities. The state is known for its strong economy, with booming industries such as energy, technology, and agriculture. Texas also offers a rich cultural history, a vibrant food scene, and a unique sense of pride among its residents.
What are some benefits of Texas?
One of the major benefits of living in Texas is the lack of a state income tax, which can significantly reduce the cost of living. The state also has affordable housing options and a relatively low cost of living compared to other parts of the U.S., especially in cities like Austin and Dallas. Additionally, Texas offers a thriving job market, a wide range of recreational activities, and great weather, making it an appealing choice for many people.
What makes Texas special?
Texas is special for its size, diversity, and unique culture. It has its own distinct identity, with a strong focus on independence and pride in its history, particularly its time as an independent republic. Texas is also known for its music scene, world-class BBQ, and being home to some of the best universities and tech hubs in the country.
What is cool about Texas?
There are many cool things about Texas, from its fascinating history to its dynamic cities. Texas offers a wide range of experiences, from exploring the Alamo and other historical landmarks to enjoying modern attractions like the Space Center in Houston. The state’s diverse food culture, including Tex-Mex, barbecue, and chili, is also a major draw for visitors and residents alike.
Is Texas nice to live in?
Texas can be a great place to live, depending on personal preferences. The state offers affordable housing, warm weather, and a relatively low cost of living. Additionally, Texas boasts a strong job market, with booming industries such as tech, healthcare, and energy. The state’s friendly communities and cultural diversity make it a popular choice for many people.
What part of Texas is best to live in?
The best part of Texas to live in largely depends on what you’re looking for. Austin is known for its vibrant tech scene, music culture, and outdoor activities, making it a great option for young professionals. Dallas and Houston offer more urban amenities, job opportunities, and entertainment. For a slower pace of life, smaller cities like San Antonio or Fort Worth may be appealing, while areas like the Hill Country offer natural beauty and a quieter lifestyle.
What does Texas have the best of?
Texas is known for having some of the best barbecue, with unique styles like Texas brisket being famous worldwide. The state is also renowned for its Tex-Mex cuisine, with dishes like tacos and enchiladas being staples. Texas is home to some of the best college football teams, a strong music scene, and a wide range of outdoor activities, from hiking in Big Bend National Park to boating on its many lakes.
