![\"Texas](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/texas-flag-iStock-1263064174.jpg\")
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GOBankingRates’ editorial team is committed to bringing you unbiased reviews and information. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and services – our reviews and ratings are not influenced by advertisers. You can read more about our editorial guidelines<\/a> and our products and services review methodology<\/a>.<\/p>\n 20 Years<\/strong> Trusted by<\/strong> 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<\/a> destination. He sold his house, packed up and moved to Dallas. But now, three years later, he regrets his decision. \u201cLiving here is like nothing I imagined,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n Here\u2019s what Jim wishes he had known before moving to Texas.\u00a0<\/p>\n Also see why one retiree regrets moving out of New York<\/a>.<\/p>\n High Property Taxes<\/p>\n Texas doesn\u2019t have state income tax, but property taxes<\/a> are relatively high. With rates among the highest in the country, homeowners often end up paying thousands each year, regardless of whether they\u2019re working or retired. <\/p>\n<\/p>\n \u201cI was shocked when my first property tax bill came,\u201d Jim said. \u201cIt was over $7,500 for a modest home.\u201d For retirees living on fixed incomes, living in states with high property taxes can quickly eat into retirement savings<\/a>.<\/p>\n Extreme Weather<\/p>\n While Jim was looking forward to more sunny days and milder winters, he couldn\u2019t anticipate the severity of the weather<\/a> in Texas. <\/p>\n \u201cThe high heat can become unbearable during summer months, and it can get extremely cold during winter,\u201d he said.\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/p>\n Expensive Healthcare\u00a0<\/p>\n 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<\/a>, many find out-of-pocket costs add up quickly. <\/p>\n \u201cI thought Medicare would cover most of my needs,\u201d Jim said. \u201cBut between high co-pays, prescriptions and surprise bills, I\u2019m spending hundreds more a month.\u201d<\/p>\n High Sales Tax<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cdn.gobankingrates.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/icon-20.svg?webp=1&quality=75\"){kind=icon}
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