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When Jim B. retired from his teaching career in Illinois, he was ready for a fresh start. Like many retirees, he saw Texas as a dream retirement destination. He sold his house, packed up and moved to Dallas. But now, three years later, he regrets his decision. “Living here is like nothing I imagined,” he said.
Here’s what Jim wishes he had known before moving to Texas.
Also see why one retiree regrets moving out of New York.
High Property Taxes
Texas doesn’t have state income tax, but property taxes are relatively high. With rates among the highest in the country, homeowners often end up paying thousands each year, regardless of whether they’re working or retired.
“I was shocked when my first property tax bill came,” Jim said. “It was over $7,500 for a modest home.” For retirees living on fixed incomes, living in states with high property taxes can quickly eat into retirement savings.
Extreme Weather
While Jim was looking forward to more sunny days and milder winters, he couldn’t anticipate the severity of the weather in Texas.
“The high heat can become unbearable during summer months, and it can get extremely cold during winter,” he said.
Expensive Healthcare
Access to affordable and good healthcare is one of the biggest concerns for many retirees. Healthcare in Texas can be costly, especially for retirees who need regular checkups, specialists or prescriptions. Even with Medicare, many find out-of-pocket costs add up quickly.
“I thought Medicare would cover most of my needs,” Jim said. “But between high co-pays, prescriptions and surprise bills, I’m spending hundreds more a month.”
High Sales Tax
Texas also has one of the highest combined sales tax rates in the nation, especially in cities where local taxes are stacked on top of the state’s current 6.25%. “Every time I shop, I feel like I’m spending more than I should,” Jim said.
From groceries to home supplies and medication, those extra costs quickly add up.