Moving from Texas to Pennsylvania can feel like moving countries. From Southern culture to Mid-Atlantic life, from warm weather to cold winters, the transition requires some preparation. To help you navigate your move more smoothly, here are 10 essential things to know about the differences between these two states.
Cost of Living
While Pennsylvania’s cost of living comes in almost 6 percent lower than the national average, it will still likely cost you more to live here than in the Lone Star State. On average, Pennsylvania is about 4.1 percent more expensive than Texas, with prices higher in groceries, healthcare, and transportation.
However, the good news is that these price differences are not usually extreme. You can probably live comfortably in Pennsylvania on your Texas salary. And, with a slightly higher average salary, Pennsylvania also makes it easier to afford these small price fluctuations. Just make sure you create a workable budget using realistic numbers from your current life and your new Pennsylvania life to ensure financial comfort after your move.
Housing
While Pennsylvania and Texas both come in well below the national average in housing, Pennsylvania actually offers less expensive options to migrating Texans. Homes in PA are almost 20 percent less expensive than the national average, while homes in Texas are 16.5 percent less expensive than the national average.
So how much can you expect to pay for a home in your new state? The median home price is $242,800. In Texas, the median price is $297,600. With a price difference of about $55,000, PA homeownership could be within your grasp.
Weather
The temperature differences between North and South are well-known, and there are no exceptions when it comes to moving from Texas to Pennsylvania. You can expect, in particular, much colder winters, with significant snowfall, in your new state.
In addition, weather tends to be significantly cooler every month of the year in PA. If you hate the heat of summer, you may enjoy average summer temps in the 70s and 80s. If you love skating and snowmen, you might love regular snowfalls. But if you prefer warmth, you may want to prepare with an appropriate wardrobe and a plan for managing the colder weather.
Seasons
As with many of the states on the East Coast, the year has four distinct seasons: Spring, summer, fall, and winter. Each of these seasons come with distinct weather patterns that create a predictable rhythm to the year.
Texas may have four seasons, but some of them tend to be very short. When moving from Texas to Pennsylvania, you will enjoy longer, fuller changes in the weather that many people find very desirable.
Gun Laws
Texas is known for its non-restrictive gun laws that are not always reflected in other states. However, when you move to Pennsylvania from Texas, you will find a similar approach to guns. Pennsylvania, for example, will accept your concealed carry license from Texas, with certain restrictions, in a process known as reciprocity.
In addition, here are some other similarities in gun laws between the two states:
- No waiting period to purchase a gun
- No required license or permit before you buy a gun.
- Minimum age for gun purchases is 21
- No ban on assault rifles
As a result, you should be able to move your guns to your new state without too much trouble. Just make sure to familiarize yourself with any pertinent requirements or laws before you relocate.
Driver’s License
Pennsylvania gives a generous grace period to individuals who want to transfer their out-of-state driver’s license to Pennsylvania – 60 days. As a result, you do not have to hurry to complete this process. However, you can also be sure that this process is relatively simple. Here are the basic steps you should take:
- Surrender your out-of-state license.
- Fill out and turn in an application form.
- Show ID.
- Show proof of residency.
- Show your Social Security card.
- Pay the relevant fees.
The transfer can take place at your closest Driver License Center. However, just be aware that you may not be able to complete this task on a Saturday.
East vs. West
Texas is a large and diverse state. When you move to Pennsylvania from Texas, you will discover that, while smaller, Pennsylvania has a distinct difference between its western and eastern portions. Philadelphia is the central city in the eastern part of the state, while Pittsburgh is located in the western part of the state.
These two areas are very different from each other. For example, Eastern PA is known for being faster-paced, direct and urban. Western PA is known for being more laid back and rural. The one you prefer depends upon your personality and preferences – So make sure that you choose a location that fits with your preferred lifestyle.
Sports
Texas, of course, is known for its die-hard dedication to sports such as football and baseball. When you move from Texas to Pennsylvania, you will move from your favorite Texas teams but you will not be moving away from sports dedication.
In Eastern PA, you will discover a passion for the Eagles, Flyers, Phillies and 76ers. In Western PA, you will find many people dedicated to the Steelers and the Penguins. Enjoy settling into an area that loves sports almost as much as your old home state used to.
Cuisine
When you relocate to Pennsylvania, you should plan to encounter an entirely different culinary landscape. The food possibilities are limitless in your new state, but they are not likely to be the same as what you become accustomed to in Texas. Here are some of the must-try dishes in your new state:
- Pretzels
- Hoagies
- Scrapple
- Philly Cheesesteak
- Pierogies
- Shoofly Pie
- Water Ice
Not familiar with some of these dishes? A culinary adventure awaits – Look forward to the new flavors that await you after your move.
Taxes
One of the biggest ways that a move to Pennsylvania could impact you would be in the taxes you pay. Pennsylvania has the 4th-highest tax rates in the United States, putting it up there with states like California and New York.
When compared with Texas, some differences in taxes include the existence of a state income tax in Pennsylvania and a tax burden that could leave you with less take-home income in PA than in TX. Be aware of how taxes could influence your finances in your new state.
There are many things you can do to ready yourself for your relocation. However, the most effective thing you can do is to hire Ward North American. Our impeccably-trained teams and comprehensive services deliver the care you and your belongings need for a seamless and stress-free move. Contact us today for your quote!
