Moving to Texas — Complete Relocation Guide (2026)
Texas gained over 470,000 new residents in 2025, according to U.S. Census Bureau estimates, making it the top destination for domestic migration. Low state income tax (zero, specifically), a strong job market, and rental prices well below coastal averages drive most of that growth.
This 8-step guide walks you through everything you need to handle before relocating to Texas — from picking a city to signing your lease. Whether you are moving from out of state or across Texas, follow these steps in order.
Step 1 — Pick the Right Texas City for Your Situation
Texas has 30+ metro areas, but four cities absorb the majority of new residents. Each has a distinct rental market, job base, and cost of living.
| City | Avg. 1BR Rent | Top Industries | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dallas, TX | $1,350/month | Finance, tech, healthcare, corporate HQ | Career-focused renters near a major airport hub |
| Austin, TX | $1,500/month | Tech, government, university, live music | Tech workers and renters who prioritize walkability and culture |
| Fort Worth, TX | $1,150/month | Aerospace, defense, logistics, manufacturing | Renters seeking lower costs with DFW metro access |
| Waco, TX | $950/month | Education (Baylor University), healthcare, retail | Students and renters seeking small-city affordability |
Dallas-Fort Worth is the largest metro, with 7.6 million residents and the most rental inventory. Austin has the highest rents but also the strongest tech salary base. Fort Worth offers DFW airport access at roughly 15% lower rent than Dallas proper. Waco is the most affordable option with a growing downtown and direct I-35 access to both Dallas and Austin.
If you are considering the Fort Worth area, our guide to apartments in Fort Worth, TX breaks down neighbourhoods and pricing in detail.
Step 2 — Understand Texas Cost of Living Before You Budget
Texas has no state income tax, which increases your take-home pay compared to states like California, New York, or Illinois. However, property taxes are higher (averaging 1.7% of assessed value), which landlords factor into rent.
Monthly cost comparison for a single renter in Texas (2026 estimates):
| Expense | Dallas | Austin | Fort Worth | Waco |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR rent | $1,350 | $1,500 | $1,150 | $950 |
| Electricity | $130–$180 | $120–$170 | $130–$175 | $110–$150 |
| Internet | $50–$80 | $50–$80 | $50–$75 | $45–$70 |
| Groceries | $350–$450 | $375–$475 | $325–$425 | $300–$400 |
| Car insurance | $150–$250 | $140–$230 | $145–$240 | $120–$200 |
| Est. monthly total | $2,030–$2,310 | $2,185–$2,455 | $1,800–$2,065 | $1,525–$1,770 |
Texas uses a deregulated electricity market in most metros. You choose your electricity provider through sites like PowerToChoose.org. Locking in a fixed-rate plan before move-in can save $20–$40/month compared to variable-rate plans.
Step 3 — Set Your Apartment Search Timeline
Start searching 6–8 weeks before your target move-in date. The best units in high-demand neighbourhoods lease within days of listing, especially during peak season (May–August).
Recommended timeline:
- 8 weeks out: Research cities and neighbourhoods. Browse listings on RedRiver Rent to compare pricing and availability.
- 6 weeks out: Shortlist 5–10 properties. Schedule virtual or in-person tours.
- 4 weeks out: Submit applications. Most Texas landlords charge $50–$75 per application and respond within 48–72 hours.
- 3 weeks out: Sign your lease and pay deposits.
- 2 weeks out: Set up utilities, schedule internet installation, and arrange moving logistics.
- 1 week out: Confirm key pickup, move-in balance, and parking access.
If you are moving from out of state, many Texas properties accept virtual tours and digital lease signing. Ask the leasing office directly — most large communities in Dallas and Austin support remote applications.
Step 4 — Gather Your Application Documents
Texas landlords typically require proof that your gross monthly income is 3x the monthly rent. Have these documents ready before you apply:
- Government-issued ID (driver’s license or passport)
- Proof of income — 2–3 recent pay stubs, offer letter, or tax returns (self-employed)
- Rental history — Contact information for your last 2–3 landlords
- Credit report — Most properties run their own, but having yours helps you anticipate issues
- Pet documentation — Vaccination records, breed, weight, and photos (if applicable)
If you don’t have Texas rental history, expect landlords to request a higher security deposit or an additional month’s rent upfront. Some properties accept a co-signer instead.
Step 5 — Budget for Total Move-In Costs
Your move-in balance is more than first month’s rent. Request an itemised move-in statement in writing before signing anything.
| Fee | Typical Range |
|---|---|
| First month’s rent (or prorated) | $950–$1,800 |
| Security deposit | $200–$1,500 |
| Administrative/application fee | $50–$300 |
| Pet deposit | $200–$500 |
| Monthly pet rent | $25–$75 |
| Renters insurance | $15–$30/month |
| Vehicle registration + TX license | $90–$200 (one-time) |
| Moving costs (out-of-state) | $2,000–$6,000 |
Total move-in costs for a 1-bedroom in Texas typically range from $2,500 to $5,000, excluding long-distance moving expenses. If you are moving from out of state, factor in vehicle registration ($50–$90) and a new Texas driver’s license ($33) within 90 days of establishing residency.
Our guide to the Texas apartment move-in checklist covers every fee and step in detail.
Step 6 — Research Neighbourhoods, Not Just Cities
Picking the right neighbourhood matters more than picking the right city. A 20-minute commute difference can save you $200–$400/month in rent.
High-demand neighbourhoods by city:
Dallas, TX
Uptown Dallas, Deep Ellum, Oak Lawn, and Bishop Arts are the most popular rental neighbourhoods. Uptown skews toward newer luxury builds ($1,400–$2,200/month). Deep Ellum and Bishop Arts have more character and slightly lower rents. Browse Dallas apartments on RedRiver Rent.
Austin, TX
Downtown Austin, South Congress, Barton Hills, and East Austin lead in renter demand. Expect 1BR rents of $1,300–$2,000 in these areas. Properties near UT Austin campus fill quickly during August and January. Browse Austin apartments on RedRiver Rent.
Fort Worth, TX
West 7th, Downtown Fort Worth, Southside, and Near Southside offer walkability and nightlife access at $1,000–$1,500/month for a 1BR. The Cultural District has quieter streets with park access. Browse Fort Worth apartments on RedRiver Rent.
Waco, TX
Downtown Waco and areas near Baylor University are the primary rental zones. Students and staff can find 1BR units starting at $800/month. Our guide to off-campus housing near Baylor University covers the best options.
Step 7 — Prepare for Texas-Specific Logistics
A few things work differently in Texas than in other states. Handle these before or immediately after your move.
Driver’s license and vehicle registration: Texas requires new residents to obtain a Texas driver’s license and register their vehicle within 90 days of establishing residency. You will need a vehicle inspection ($7–$40) before registration.
Electricity setup: Texas has a deregulated electricity market. You must choose your own provider in most metros. Set up service 3–5 days before your move-in date through PowerToChoose.org.
Renters insurance: Most Texas apartment communities require active renters insurance before key pickup. Policies typically cost $15–$30/month and can be purchased online in minutes.
No state income tax: Texas does not collect state income tax. Update your payroll withholdings with your employer if relocating from a state that does.
Heat preparedness: Texas summers regularly exceed 100F in Dallas, Austin, and Waco. Confirm your unit’s A/C is functional before move-in, and budget for higher electricity bills from June through September ($150–$250/month is common).
Step 8 — Sign Your Lease and Schedule Move-In
Before signing, read your entire lease. Pay attention to these clauses:
- Early termination fee — Typically 2 months’ rent in Texas
- Lease renewal terms — Does rent increase automatically? By how much?
- Guest and subletting policy — Especially relevant for remote workers with visiting family
- Maintenance request process — How quickly must the landlord respond?
- Move-out notice period — Usually 60 days in Texas, sometimes 30
After signing, confirm your key pickup date and time, your move-in balance in writing, and your parking and access details. If your property has a gate, garage, or elevator reservation system, arrange access before moving day.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping neighbourhood research. Two neighbourhoods in the same city can differ by $400/month in rent and 30 minutes in commute time. Visit or virtually tour before committing.
- Not budgeting beyond rent. Electricity, renters insurance, parking fees, and pet rent add $200–$500/month on top of base rent.
- Waiting too long to apply. Units in Uptown Dallas, West 7th Fort Worth, and Downtown Austin lease within 3–5 days during peak season.
- Ignoring the electricity market. Failing to compare Texas electricity providers can cost you $30–$50/month more than necessary.
- Forgetting the 90-day residency deadlines. Texas requires a new driver’s license and vehicle registration within 90 days. Late fees apply.
Ready to Start Your Texas Move?
RedRiver Rent lists verified apartments, townhomes, and houses across Dallas, Fort Worth, Austin, and Waco — with full cost breakdowns, neighbourhood details, and real-time availability.
Search Texas rentals on RedRiver Rent
More relocation resources:
- Texas Apartment Move-In Checklist Before You Get Keys — A 9-step checklist covering lease pickup, deposits, utilities, and unit inspections.
- What Rising Apartment Supply Means for Texas Renters — How new construction is shaping rent prices across Texas metros in 2026.
