Fortunately, my job allows me to live where I want. I've lived in 10 other states and traveled to 49 of 50 states (not Alaska yet). And while Texas isn't perfect. It's perfect for my family and we love it. Here is my breakdown of the pros and cons of Texas.
PROS:
* Great job market. If I ever did lose my job, Texas would be an easy place for me to find another one.
* Cheap real estate. Prices are going up. But, still good relative to many states.
* Good schools. There are some bad ones for sure. But, it's not hard to find pretty good schools if your near any of the major cities.
* Diversity. This surprises a lot of people. But, the Texas cities are very diverse from a political, religious, racial, etc. perspective. Dallas especially, is a city of transplants. People are from all over the place. Literally none of our immediate neighbors are from Texas. Rural Texas isn't this way. It is much more homogeneous. And sure, Texas is still a Red state. But, you won't feel out of place if you're more left leaning than average. Just don't bring that liberal commie crap to small town Texas
. There are already a ton of people here from California, due to so many businesses moving here. You wouldn't be alone.
* Get your guns and enjoy them! We have tons of gun shows and they are awesome.
* No state income tax.
* Great churches. If you're interested in attending church, we have tons of good ones. We also have a few crazy televangelists. But, their easy enough to avoid.
CONS:
* Way too hot. Ugh.
* Hunting sucks. There is no public land to speak of. There are a few pockets where you can find a reasonable lease. But, you aren't going to go pick up an OTC tag and start wandering in the woods. I rarely hunt here anymore. But, due to the lower cost of living, I can spend money going out of state. Last year I went on a fishing trip in Wyoming, a fishing trip in Montana, first rifle elk in Colorado and cow elk in New Mexico. There are plenty of opportunities driving distance away.
* High sales tax and property tax. Even though we don't have a state income tax, the government will get their money somehow. Here they get it through high property and sales tax. In Dallas, sales tax is 8.25%.
* Did I mention it's crazy hot.
I'm sure I've left some pros and cons out. But, this was the stuff that came to mind. Best of luck in your decision.