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 decrease by approximately $179 per month ($2,148/year) when you move from Virginia to Texas.
If you sell your median-priced Virginia home ($400K) and buy in Texas ($310K):
Your Virginia equity covers the 20% down payment on a median Texas home with $58K left over. That surplus can cover closing costs, moving expenses, or go into savings.
Over 10 years, this move saves you approximately $21K in housing costs alone.
Your dollar stretches further in Texas. The median home costs 23% less than in Virginia, which translates to a $90K difference in purchase price. This means a smaller loan, a lower monthly payment, and less total interest paid over the life of your mortgage.
Watch out for Texas's 1.8% property tax rate — that's $2,300 more per year than you're used to in Virginia (0.82%). Property taxes are often the hidden cost that surprises relocating buyers.
Insurance will cost you more in Texas — $3,800/year compared to $1,700/year in Virginia. That's an extra $2,100 annually ($175/month). High premiums are driven by severe weather risk in the region.
When you buy in Texas, expect about $5K in closing costs (1.7% of purchase price). Texas has no transfer tax, which helps keep your upfront costs lower. Budget for this amount on top of your down payment.
Texas's TDHCA My First Texas Home offers Up to 5% DPA grant. If you haven't owned a home in three years (or are buying in Texas for the first time), you may qualify. Check eligibility requirements and income limits on Texas's housing finance agency website.