What's the real cost of living for a family in Texas?

For a family of four in major cities like Austin or Dallas, expect $4,500–$6,000 monthly (excluding rent), covering groceries (~$1,000), utilities ($250–$400), transportation ($800–$1,000 for two cars), healthcare ($1,200–$1,500), and childcare ($1,100–$1,600). Add $2,000–$3,500 for housing to reach $6,500–$9,500 total. Austin's index is 139.5 (40% above U.S. average), while Dallas is slightly lower at ~101; no state income tax helps, but high property taxes offset it.

How will the $100,000 H-1B fee rumor affect me?

The $100,000 annual fee for new H-1B petitions (effective September 21, 2025) applies only to new applicants outside the U.S. for FY2026+. It won't affect current visa holders or extensions. However, it may limit sponsorships to senior roles (e.g., median $123,600+), reduce entry-level opportunities, and increase costs for startups/employers, potentially suppressing junior IT salaries or shifting hiring to U.S. workers. Monitor USCIS for updates.

Do I really need a car?

Yes, absolutely—Texas is car-dependent, with limited public transit outside downtown Austin or Dallas. Expect 20–40 minute drives for groceries/work; gas averages $2.98/gallon, insurance $150–$229/month. Families need at least one (two ideal), adding $800–$1,000 monthly in costs.

What are the best school districts?

In Austin: Eanes ISD (top-ranked nationally, A+ academics), Round Rock ISD, Leander ISD (strong STEM/college prep). In Dallas: Carroll ISD, Coppell ISD, Highland Park ISD, Frisco ISD, Plano ISD (A grades, 99% graduation rates). Enrollment requires translated vaccination records, proof of residency (lease/utility bill), and address verification. Public schools are free for residents.

Is there really no state income tax?

Yes, Texas has no state income tax in 2025—you pay only federal taxes (10–37% brackets). This saves high earners 5–13% vs. states like California, but offsets via high property taxes (1.63% average, ~$3,872/year) and sales tax (up to 8.25%).

Moving to Texas: The Ultimate Expat Guide & H-1B Visa Landscape in 2025

Cody Johnson

Author

November 28, 2025

Planning a move to Texas? Discover the 2025 H-1B visa changes under Trump, the $100,000 fee impact, and essential tips for the H-1B lottery and settling in.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about this topic.

Sources

References and sources used in this article.

Texas Department of Public Safetyhttps://www.dps.texas.gov/

USCIS H-1B Informationhttps://www.uscis.gov/

CBP I-94 Retrievalhttps://i94.cbp.dhs.gov/

Moving to Texas: The Ultimate Expat Guide & H-1B Visa Landscape in 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources

Related Articles

Workin in Texas 2025: The Ultimate Job Search & H-1B Survival Guide