Moving to a new state comes with its own set of challenges. Even though Texas and Louisiana are close neighbors, sharing borders, some things can be radically different. And when moving from Texas to Louisiana, you need to know about these differences beforehand to ensure a smooth transition into the Pelican state.
In this article, we will share 10 things everyone should know before moving from Texas to Louisiana.
Moving costs from Texas to Louisiana
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Moving Estimates
| FROM | TO | Studio Apartment | 1 Large Bedroom | 2 Bedrooms | 3 Bedrooms | 4 Bedrooms |
| TX | LA | $1,500-$3,400 | $1,800-$3,800 | $2,400-$5,200 | $3,800-$6,300 | $4,400-$8,000 |
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Fond Memories of Texas Will Remain
First things first, Texas is culturally similar to Louisiana. Especially the western part of Louisiana is very much in line with Texas. They share the same culture, heritage, and history. Even in music and musical festivals, you can see overlap throughout your stay in the Pelican State. Thus, you won’t be distanced from Texas after moving to Louisiana.
Even if you are homesick, you can always drive down or fly into Texas. Dallas, TX, is only 500 miles away from New Orleans. So, a weekend trip is all you need.
Comparable Weather
Being located next to each other, there are not a lot of differences in weather. Thus, the climate conditions in Louisiana are more or less similar to Texas’s.
Louisiana’s climate is characterized by longer summers and shorter winters with year-round precipitation. The summers, which run from May to September, are hot and humid. The temperature can touch or go upwards of 110°F in some places during August. However, you can also expect rain. The Gulf of Mexico regulates the climate, especially in southern Louisiana. The temperature and precipitation become more variable as you move into the northern part. Winters are short-lived and mild.
The Pelican State, like the Lone Star State, receives no snowfall. So you shouldn’t expect drastic change when moving between states.
Fewer Days of Sunlight
Louisiana is among the US states that see more sunny days. But this is comparatively less than that of Texas. The Pelican State, on average, sees 216 sunny days per year, while Texas sees 234 sunny days a year. Part of the reason for the fewer sunny days is higher precipitation. The skies, on rainy days, remain cloudy and block sunlight.
This has a direct effect on solar energy production. So, if you plan to install solar panels when you move into Louisiana, you have to be content with fewer sunny days and lower solar energy. Louisiana produces 4,725 KJ/square mile, while Texas clocks 5137 KJ/square mile of solar energy.
Lower Cost of Living
Like the weather, Louisiana has a similar cost of living to Texas. But compared to the cost of living index, it is slightly lower. Housing, food, healthcare, and transportation costs are expected to be the same. The difference arises in utilities. In Louisiana, utilities are 12% lower than the national average. Texas relies heavily on natural gas for energy production, so utilities are 2% higher than the national average.
For a family of four, $72,727 is the average yearly cost of living. Of course, the figure varies based on location. Places like St. Charles Parish fall on the higher side, while locations like Madison Parish are cheaper. Housing, transportation, food, child care, and healthcare costs are on par with Texas.
Affordable Housing Market
Housing is deemed affordable in Texas, with the median home prices hovering in the $350,000 mark. When you move to Louisiana, it becomes even more cheaper. The housing market is quite affordable in the Pelican state. Even in New Orleans, the rates are quite low compared to similar cities like New York.
The median home sale price in Louisiana is around $257,400. This is far lower than the median US home sales price of $436,800. Thus, owning a home shouldn’t be a financial concern.
The rental market is likewise affordable, with the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment around $850.
Different Economic Landscape
One of the major drawbacks of moving to Louisiana is its inferior economy. Except for a few vibrant places like New Orleans, Shreveport, and Baton Rogue, the rest of the state performs poorly.
An ALEC report reports Louisiana is last of all the 50 states in the state economic competitiveness index. In the same report, Texas was ranked 7th. Consequently, the wages are lower than the national average, with higher unemployment. Thus, moving to Louisiana from Texas means fewer economic opportunities.
But not all is gloom. Louisiana is rich in natural resources and has a reputed mineral and energy sector. Tourism is another sector where the state is picking up. So, you’ll have opportunities to gain employment and participate in entrepreneurial activities.
Be Prepared for Income Taxes
Texas is preferred by many because there is no income tax. Thus, you might be accustomed to not paying income tax in Texas. But once you move to Louisiana, you need to start paying taxes on your income. The state has a graduated individual income tax that varies from 1.85% to 4.25%, depending on your income and other factors.
Likewise, the Pelican State has a sales tax of 4.45%, which goes up to 9.55% when combined with local taxes. There’s also a corporate income tax in the range of 3.5% and 7.5%. Overall, the state’s tax system is not predatory. Social security benefits and a diversified pension system make living easier.
A Sportsman’s Paradise
In Louisiana, you can dive into year-round fishing, hunting, and hiking opportunities. The state boasts the largest game preserve in the US and expansive hiking trails. Since it sees more sunny days, there are no restrictions on when you can gear up.
You can visit both inland and the gulf for outdoor opportunities. You’re bound to witness many rare and endangered species you haven’t seen elsewhere.
Golfers also love the warm weather, and there are ample golfing opportunities in the state.
Rich Cultural Diversity
Compared to Texas, Louisiana has a more diverse culture. The state has a mix of French and Mexican roots enriched over the years by English, Africans, and Spanish cultures. It has been a cultural melting pot for several decades.
Likewise, the state has been welcoming to all categories of people. Sadly, the state is not friendly to LGBT people, but things will improve over time. All in all, the state is pretty diverse, with all cultures blending uniquely.
Variety of Delectable Cuisine Choices
Texas food is brilliant but can be limited to the so-called Tex-Mex. Drive into Louisiana to experience what diversity in food means. You’ll find varied options with Cajun, French, Spanish, African, and Native American cuisines available throughout the state.
Seafood rules in Louisiana, but you’re going to find a lot of meat, veggies, dairy, and vegan options too. The prices are reasonable for the most part. So keep your taste buds ready.
Moving into Louisiana, especially with your family, requires much work and planning. Hiring an expert long-distance mover to handle your shipping can reduce some of that workload. So, contact us today to learn more.
