Many people are drawn to Texas because of its attractive features such as low taxes, strong economy, rich culture, and pleasant climate. However, the idea of moving to the Lone Star State doesn’t appeal to everyone. Discovering seven unexpected facts reveals the reasons why certain people are hesitant to choose Texas as their new home.
Expensive Cost of Living
Although Texas does not have a state income tax, there are other taxes that can still place a considerable financial burden. The property tax rate is quite high, averaging 1.69% of home value. In different locations, sales tax rates can vary from 6.25% to 8.25%. The cost of living in major cities like Austin, Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio is higher than the national average. This includes expenses such as housing, transportation, food, and healthcare, which all exceed national norms.
Troubles with Traffic
If you’re not a fan of traffic, Texas might not be the best place to visit. The state is dealing with significant congestion issues, especially in urban areas. Houston, Austin, Dallas, and San Antonio were included in the top 25 most congested cities in the U.S. according to a 2020 report by INRIX. Drivers in these cities spend an average of 50 to 75 hours in traffic each year. Several factors contribute to this issue, including the rapid population growth, limited public transportation options, frequent road construction, and the vast size of the state.
Weather Conditions at Their Most Extreme
Texas is known for its sunny and warm climate, but it also faces a variety of extreme weather events such as hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, droughts, wildfires, hailstorms, and snowstorms. This state has unfortunately experienced the highest number of declared natural disasters in the U.S., with a total of 268 since 1953. The recent winter storm in February 2021 caused extensive power outages, water shortages, and unfortunately, loss of life, highlighting the unpredictable and occasionally dangerous nature of weather events.
Also read: The Historic Castles You Might Not Expect To Find In the U.S.
Plenty of Insects
Texas is home to a wide range of insects and arachnids, some of which can be harmful to your health. The state’s bug population is quite diverse, ranging from fire ants and disease-carrying mosquitoes to scorpions and tarantulas. These bugs can be quite bothersome and even pose a threat to our well-being. Getting rid of these pests can be a constant struggle for residents.
Politics with a conservative perspective
Texas, being a predominantly red state, tends to align with conservative policies and has consistently shown support for Republican candidates. Some of the noteworthy political stances include advocating for strict abortion laws, supporting lenient gun regulations, opposing immigration reform, resisting environmental regulations, and favoring the death penalty. Some individuals with liberal or progressive beliefs may find themselves feeling out of place or unwelcome in this political landscape.
Difficulties in Education
Texas performs poorly in education rankings, with the state placing 39th in public education and 43rd in higher education. Several factors, including graduation rates, test scores, college readiness, and funding, play a role in determining this assessment. In comparison to the national average of $61,730, the state has the lowest teacher pay in the country, with an average salary of $54,122.
Issues in Healthcare
Healthcare in Texas encounters various obstacles, given that the state’s rankings for access, quality, affordability, and outcomes are 37th nationally. Additionally, Texas has the lowest health insurance coverage rate, with 18.4% of its population uninsured. The estimated life expectancy in Texas is 78.5 years, which is slightly below the national average of 78.9 years.
Conclusion
Ultimately, although Texas has numerous appealing features, it also has its own set of disadvantages. Prior to making a decision, it is important for individuals to thoroughly evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of living in the state, taking into account the difficulties and compromises that may arise. Before making the decision to move to Texas, it’s important to carefully consider if it aligns with your needs and preferences.
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