How your housing costs change when you relocate. Based on 2026 data with 10% down, 6.5% rate, 30-year fixed.
Your housing costs will increase by approximately $15 per month ($180/year) when you move from Texas to Arizona.
If you sell your median-priced Texas home ($310K) and buy in Arizona ($380K):
Your Texas equity covers the 20% down payment on a median Arizona home with $17K left over. That surplus can cover closing costs, moving expenses, or go into savings.
Over 10 years, this move costs you approximately $2K in housing costs alone.
Housing costs more in Arizona. The median home is 18% higher than in Texas — a $70K jump. You may need to adjust your expectations on square footage or location, or come with a larger down payment to keep your monthly costs manageable.
Good news on taxes: Arizona's 0.62% property tax rate is significantly lower than Texas's 1.8%. You'll save approximately $3,224 per year on property taxes, which adds up to $32K over a decade.
You'll save on insurance moving to Arizona: $2,100/year versus $3,800/year in Texas. That's $1,700 less per year in premiums, putting $142 back in your monthly budget.
When you buy in Arizona, expect about $6K in closing costs (1.6% of purchase price). Arizona has no transfer tax, which helps keep your upfront costs lower. Budget for this amount on top of your down payment.
Arizona's Home Plus AZ offers Up to 5% DPA grant. If you haven't owned a home in three years (or are buying in Arizona for the first time), you may qualify. Check eligibility requirements and income limits on Arizona's housing finance agency website.