Everything might be bigger in Texas, but so are the surprises that come with living there. From unpredictable weather to everyday inconveniences that outsiders never consider, life in the Lone Star State comes with its fair share of unexpected challenges. While Texas has plenty of charm, these struggles can make day-to-day living a little more complicated than you’d expect. If you’re thinking about making the move, here are 15 realities that might take you by surprise.
1. The Unpredictable Weather Swings
Texas weather is notorious for its rapid and extreme changes, which can catch outsiders off guard. The state is known for experiencing temperature swings of 30 degrees or more in a single day, according to the National Weather Service. One moment, you’re enjoying a sunny afternoon, and the next, you’re caught in an unexpected thunderstorm. These sudden shifts make it tricky to plan outdoor activities and require a wardrobe that covers all seasons at once.
The unpredictability extends beyond temperature, with hurricanes, tornadoes, and flash floods posing a constant threat. Central Texas is part of Tornado Alley, while the Gulf Coast is regularly battered by hurricanes. Even in drier regions, flash floods can occur with little warning, turning roads into dangerous rivers. Keeping up with weather alerts is essential, as conditions can change in the blink of an eye.
2. The Battle Against Bugs
If you’re not a fan of insects, Texas might be a tough adjustment. The state is home to massive mosquitoes, fire ants, and cockroaches that seem impossible to get rid of. According to Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, fire ants are particularly notorious and have a painful sting that can cause an allergic reaction in some people. These pests thrive in the warm climate, making bug spray and pest control a year-round necessity. Fire ants, in particular, can make walking barefoot in your own yard a painful mistake.
Scorpions, tarantulas, and even kissing bugs add to the list of unwelcome critters that can find their way inside. Many Texans have learned the hard way to check their shoes before slipping them on, as even small insects can cause big problems.
3. The Vast Size of Texas
The sheer size of Texas is one of the most shocking things newcomers quickly learn to deal with. According to the Texas Almanac, the state is so large that it takes about 12 hours to drive from one side to the other. This vast expanse can make travel within the state a time-consuming task, especially when visiting family or attending events in different cities. While the scenery may change dramatically from east to west, getting from one place to another requires careful planning.
Living in a state this large also means that each region has its own culture and even its own unique set of challenges. From the bustling cities in the north to the desert climate in the west, you’ll need to adapt to different ways of life depending on where you are. That kind of diversity is one of Texas’ most interesting features but also one of the most complex.
4. The Constant Need for Sun Protection
If you don’t already use sunscreen regularly, you’ll quickly learn the importance of it in Texas. The state’s hot climate and abundant sunshine make skin protection essential year-round. According to the American Cancer Society, Texas has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the country due to its long summers and strong sun exposure. It’s a good idea to stock up on sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to keep your skin safe from the harsh rays.
In addition to sunscreen, many Texans also use protective clothing or invest in tinted windows to block out harmful UV rays. Staying cool during the summer months is a real challenge, and the sun plays a major role in making the heat even more intense.
5. The Heat and Humidity
Texas summers are notoriously hot and humid, and the relentless heat can take a toll on even the most seasoned residents. The temperatures regularly hit over 100°F, and the humidity can make it feel even hotter. Many newcomers are surprised by the constant sweat and the inability to escape the heat, even when inside. Air conditioning quickly becomes your best friend, as outdoor activities can feel unbearable during the peak summer months.
The heat can also impact daily life in unexpected ways. It’s not just uncomfortable to be outside, but it can also affect your health, with dehydration and heatstroke being real concerns. Even simple tasks like grocery shopping or walking to your car can feel like an exhausting challenge during these extreme conditions. The humidity only adds to the problem, making everything feel heavier and more tiring.
6. The Traffic
While Texas is known for its vast highways and roads, it also faces significant traffic congestion, particularly in major cities like Houston, Austin, and Dallas. Rush hour traffic can be unbearable, with long commutes becoming a part of daily life for many Texans. The lack of extensive public transportation means that many residents rely on their cars to get around, which can only add to the frustration. Navigating through construction zones or accidents often leads to hours of gridlock.
City living can be especially difficult when you factor in the expanding population. As more people move to Texas, the number of cars on the road increases, making traffic even more of a headache. Local government initiatives to address traffic congestion are often met with mixed results, leaving drivers stuck in frustrating bottlenecks.
7. The Cost of Living
While Texas is often seen as an affordable state, housing prices have been steadily rising in some of its biggest cities. The rapid population growth in urban areas means that the cost of living is climbing, with home prices reaching new highs. Renting can be expensive as well, especially in cities like Austin, where rent can rival those in places like California or New York. Even though there are still affordable areas, the rapid growth of tech hubs and major corporations has pushed costs higher.
Utilities and property taxes are another cost to keep in mind. Even if housing prices are reasonable in certain parts of Texas, higher-than-average utility bills due to air conditioning usage and property taxes can still hit your budget hard. Many people moving to Texas may find themselves unprepared for the unexpected costs that come with the state’s growth.
8. The Allergies
Texans are no strangers to the powerful pollen and allergens that fill the air each spring. Trees like cedar and oak are notorious for releasing huge amounts of pollen, and people living in the Hill Country or Central Texas often find themselves battling itchy eyes and constant sneezing. Seasonal allergies can feel like an unavoidable struggle for many residents, and the allergy season can last longer than in other regions of the country.
The constant flow of allergens can affect both outdoor and indoor living, as even homes with air filters struggle to keep up with the volume of pollen and dust. Many newcomers to Texas are caught off guard by the persistent allergy symptoms, which can linger for months on end. The Texas weather only exacerbates the problem, with winds blowing pollen far and wide.
9. The Lack of Natural Water Sources
Texas is known for its dry terrain, with many areas experiencing drought conditions during the hot summer months. While the state has some major rivers and lakes, much of the land is devoid of easy access to fresh water. This can be a major adjustment for people who are used to living near oceans, lakes, or other natural bodies of water. Many areas rely on man-made reservoirs, but these can be unpredictable and unreliable, especially during times of drought.
Even residents living in areas with access to lakes and rivers may find that the water quality and availability are not as dependable as they’d expect. The ongoing threat of drought often leads to water restrictions, limiting how much water can be used for things like outdoor irrigation, washing cars, or even showering. Those hoping to enjoy lakeside activities may find themselves disappointed when the water levels dip.
10. The Wildlife
Texas is home to an impressive array of wildlife, but some creatures can make life a little more challenging. While seeing deer, armadillos, and wild boars might seem charming at first, the reality is that these animals can cause damage to property, gardens, and vehicles. In rural areas, there’s also the risk of encountering larger wildlife, such as mountain lions and bears, though these are less common.
In addition to the larger animals, smaller creatures like snakes, spiders, and scorpions can pose a real threat to safety. Copperhead and rattlesnake bites are not uncommon in certain parts of the state, and venomous insects like fire ants and black widow spiders can add to the danger. Many people moving to Texas are shocked by how often they encounter these animals and the precautions they need to take in order to stay safe.
11. The Storms
Texas is no stranger to severe weather, from intense thunderstorms to the occasional tornado. While some areas are more prone to extreme weather, the entire state experiences heavy rain, hail, and strong winds throughout the year. These storms can cause extensive damage, including flooding, power outages, and downed trees. For many residents, storm preparedness becomes a regular part of life, as the weather can change rapidly and unexpectedly.
Additionally, the threat of hurricanes looms large in coastal areas of Texas. Every year, Texans watch closely as hurricane season approaches, and many residents living near the Gulf of Mexico are forced to evacuate when storms become too intense. While not everyone experiences the worst of these weather events, the constant worry about what a storm might bring is a significant challenge for many living in the state.
12. The State Pride
Texans are known for their immense pride in their state, but for newcomers, this can sometimes feel overwhelming. From “Don’t Mess with Texas” bumper stickers to heated debates about Texas history, the pride in being a Texan runs deep. This can be intimidating for those who are new to the state, as it may feel like an outsider can never truly become part of the “inner circle.”
Though Texas pride can be a source of camaraderie and unity, it can also feel exclusionary to some. Many newcomers may find it difficult to assimilate into communities where people have lived their entire lives, and they may feel like outsiders for a long time. However, as time passes, many find that they are welcomed into the fold, especially if they embrace the culture and traditions of the state.
13. The Size
Texas is the second-largest state in the U.S., and this means that everything is on a much bigger scale. The vast size of the state often leads to long travel times between cities, meaning that even short trips can take hours to complete. For newcomers used to more compact states or regions, this can feel like a never-ending journey.
Additionally, the large size of Texas leads to a variety of different climates, landscapes, and cultures within the state. What you experience in one part of Texas may be completely different from what you encounter in another region. From the deserts of West Texas to the lush greenery of East Texas, the diversity within the state is both a blessing and a challenge for those trying to navigate it all.
