What Do You Need to Know Before Moving to Texas?

Moving to Texas requires setting up utilities (electricity is deregulated), getting a Texas driver license within 90 days, understanding property taxes (no state income tax), and enrolling children in school. For military families PCSing to JBSA, BAH rates in San Antonio range from $1,404 to $2,334 monthly in 2025, and VA loans offer $0 down payment options.

Who Is This Texas Relocation Guide For?

This comprehensive Moving to Texas checklist is designed for:

• Military families PCSing to Joint Base San Antonio (Lackland AFB, Fort Sam Houston, Randolph AFB)

• Veterans relocating to San Antonio using VA loan benefits

• First-time homebuyers moving to Texas from other states

• Families seeking top-rated school districts in Helotes, Boerne, Stone Oak, and Hill Country

• Remote workers attracted to Texas's no state income tax

Why San Antonio Is the #1 Destination for Texas Relocations

Top Reasons Families Choose San Antonio Over Other Texas Cities

San Antonio consistently ranks among the fastest-growing cities in the United States, offering a unique combination of military culture, affordability, and quality of life that other Texas metros cannot match.

No State Income Tax: Texas is one of only nine states with zero state income tax, allowing families to keep more of their hard-earned money.

Military-Friendly Community: With Joint Base San Antonio hosting Lackland AFB, Fort Sam Houston, and Randolph AFB, the area has the largest concentration of military personnel in the Department of Defense.

Affordable Housing Market: The median home price in San Antonio is approximately $284,000, significantly lower than Austin ($450,000+) or Dallas ($380,000+).

Award-Winning Schools: Districts like Northside ISD, North East ISD, Comal ISD, and Boerne ISD consistently earn top ratings for academics and extracurricular programs.

Booming Job Market: San Antonio leads in cybersecurity, healthcare, tech, and logistics employment opportunities.

Step 1: How Do You Set Up Utilities in Texas?

Texas Electricity: What You Need to Know About Deregulated Power

Texas operates a deregulated electricity market, meaning homeowners must choose their own electricity provider—unlike most states where a single utility serves your area.

Action Steps for Setting Up Texas Electricity:

1. Visit PowerToChoose.org to compare rates from multiple providers

2. Compare plans by rate, term length, and renewable energy options

3. Schedule activation 2-5 business days before your move-in date

4. Weekend installation slots fill quickly, book early

Best San Antonio Electricity Providers:

• TXU Energy

• Reliant Energy

• Green Mountain Energy (renewable options)

• Constellation

Water and Wastewater Service in San Antonio

Most San Antonio area homes use SAWS (San Antonio Water System) for water, sewer, and trash billing. Service is not deregulated—SAWS is the sole provider.

SAWS Setup Process:

1. Visit saws.org or call (210) 704-7297

2. Provide proof of residence (lease or closing documents)

3. Allow 1-3 business days for activation

Best Internet Providers for San Antonio Remote Workers

Pro Tip: Schedule internet installation 2-5 days before move-in. Weekend slots fill up fast during peak PCS season (May-August).

Step 2: How Do You Get a Texas Driver License and Vehicle Registration?

Texas Driver License Requirements for New Residents

Texas law requires new residents to obtain a Texas driver license within 90 days of establishing residency.

Documents Required for Texas Driver License:

• Proof of Texas residency (lease agreement, closing documents, or utility bill)

• Social Security card or W-2 with full SSN

• Current out-of-state driver license

• Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful presence

How to Get Your Texas Driver License:

1. Schedule an appointment at your local DPS office (appointments fill quickly)

2. Complete the online application at texas.gov

3. Bring all required documents to your appointment

4. Pass vision screening

5. Pay the $33 fee (valid for 6-8 years depending on age)

Texas Vehicle Registration Process

Step-by-Step Vehicle Registration:

1. Get a Texas Vehicle Inspection at any state-licensed inspection station ($7.50 for most vehicles)

2. Gather documents: inspection report, current out-of-state registration, proof of insurance

3. Visit Bexar County Tax Office with all paperwork

4. Pay registration fees (varies by vehicle value, typically $50-80)

Best Times to Visit Bexar County Tax Office: Weekday mornings (Tuesday-Thursday) typically have the shortest wait times.

Step 3: How Do Texas Property Taxes Work for Homebuyers?

Understanding Texas Property Taxes by County

Texas has no state income tax, but this is offset by property taxes that fund local schools and services. Property tax rates vary significantly by county.

Texas Veteran Property Tax Exemptions: How Much Can You Save?

Texas offers some of the most generous veteran property tax exemptions in the nation.

Veteran Disability Tax Exemptions:

How to Apply for Veteran Tax Exemptions:

1. Obtain your VA disability rating letter

2. File with your county appraisal district (Bexar, Comal, or Kendall)

3. Submit before April 30 to receive exemption for that tax year

Important: A 100% disabled veteran in Texas pays ZERO property taxes, this can save $5,000-$15,000+ annually depending on home value.

Step 4: How Do You Enroll Children in Texas Schools?

Best School Districts Near San Antonio for Military Families

Texas School Enrollment Checklist

Documents Required for School Enrollment:

• Proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement)

• Child's birth certificate

• Immunization records (must meet Texas requirements)

• Previous school transcripts or report cards

• Parent/guardian photo ID

Military Child Education Protection: Interstate Compact

Military families benefit from the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children, which protects students during PCS moves.

Key Protections Include:

• Flexible enrollment timeline for military families

• Transfer of credits from previous schools

• Continuation of class placement and grade level

• Extracurricular eligibility preserved

• Graduation requirement flexibility for senior transfers

Step 5: What Are the 2025 BAH Rates for Joint Base San Antonio?

How BAH Works for Military Families at JBSA

Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) is a non-taxable monthly stipend that covers off-base housing costs. Your rate depends on three factors:

1. Rank (enlisted E-1 through O-10)

2. Duty station ZIP code (78234 for JBSA)

3. Dependency status (with or without dependents)

2025 San Antonio BAH Rates by Rank

Note: San Antonio BAH rates decreased 0.4% from 2024, reflecting the area's stable and affordable housing market.

Best BAH-Friendly Neighborhoods Near JBSA

West San Antonio (Close to Lackland AFB):

• Alamo Ranch

• Helotes

• Mico

North San Antonio (Close to Fort Sam Houston):

• Stone Oak

• Timberwood Park

• Schertz

Hill Country (Close to Randolph AFB):

• Boerne

• Fair Oaks Ranch

• Cibolo

How BAH + VA Loan Helps Military Families Build Wealth

Why Many Choose to Buy Instead of Rent:

• $0 down payment with VA loan

• No PMI (Private Mortgage Insurance)

• BAH covers most or all of mortgage payment

• Build equity instead of paying landlord

• Grossed-up BAH increases VA loan qualification (lenders add 25% to non-taxable income)

Example BAH-to-Mortgage Calculation:

An E-5 with dependents receives $1,980/month BAH. Lenders "gross up" this non-taxable income by 25%:

• Grossed-up BAH: $2,475/month

• Estimated home affordability: $250,000-$300,000

• Monthly mortgage payment: ~$1,800 (30-year fixed at 6%)

Result: Your BAH can cover your entire mortgage payment while building equity.

Step 6: How Do You Update Insurance When Moving to Texas?

Texas Auto Insurance Requirements

Texas requires minimum liability coverage:

• $30,000 bodily injury per person

• $60,000 bodily injury per accident

• $25,000 property damage

Recommendation: Most families choose full coverage including comprehensive and collision protection. Military members and veterans often find competitive rates with USAA.

Texas Homeowners Insurance Considerations

South Texas weather requires specific coverage considerations:

Essential Coverages to Consider:

• Wind and hail protection (critical in Texas)

• Flood insurance (especially in certain floodplain areas)

• Foundation endorsement (recommended for clay soil zones common in San Antonio)

Step 7: What Should You Know About San Antonio Neighborhoods?

Exploring Your New Texas Community

Once paperwork is complete, familiarize yourself with local resources:

Essential Local Knowledge:

• Best commute routes to JBSA bases

• Grocery stores: H-E-B is the dominant Texas chain (locals love it)

• Medical and dental providers accepting TRICARE

• Parks and recreation: Natural Bridge Caverns, Government Canyon State Natural Area

• Veteran-friendly businesses and organizations

San Antonio Cultural Events:

• Fiesta San Antonio (April)

• San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo (February)

• River Walk events year-round

• Military appreciation events at JBSA

Step 8: Why Work With a Veteran-Owned San Antonio Real Estate Expert?

What Makes Veteran Real Estate San Antonio: The Beal Group Different From Other San Antonio Realtors?

Choosing an experienced, veteran-owned real estate team ensures your military relocation is handled by someone who understands PCS timelines, VA loan requirements, and BAH calculations.

Christopher Beal Credentials:

• U.S. Army Veteran

• Top 25 San Antonio Realtor

• Platinum Top 50 Award Winner

• Military Relocation Professional (MRP) Certified

• 256+ homes sold, $100M+ sales volume

Services for Military Families and Veterans:

• BAH-to-mortgage calculations customized to your rank and dependency status

• VA loan expertise including $0 down and no PMI strategies

• PCS timeline coordination with lenders, inspectors, and closing attorneys

• Neighborhood recommendations based on commute, schools, and lifestyle

• Veteran tax exemption guidance for maximum savings

 

Frequently Asked Questions: Moving to Texas

How long do I have to get a Texas driver license after moving?

You must obtain a Texas driver license within 90 days of establishing residency. Appointments at DPS offices fill quickly, so schedule early.

Does Texas have state income tax?

No. Texas is one of nine states with zero state income tax. However, Texas has higher property taxes to fund local services and schools.

What are the 2025 BAH rates for San Antonio?

2025 BAH rates for San Antonio (ZIP 78234) range from $1,404 for E-1 without dependents to $2,334 for O-5 with dependents.

Can my BAH cover a mortgage in San Antonio?

Yes. San Antonio's median home price of $284,000 aligns well with BAH rates for most enlisted and officer ranks, especially when combined with VA loan benefits.

What school district should I choose near JBSA?

Top choices include Northside ISD (Helotes, Alamo Ranch), North East ISD (Stone Oak), Comal ISD (Bulverde), and Boerne ISD (Hill Country).

Do 100% disabled veterans pay property taxes in Texas?

No. Veterans with 100% VA disability receive a full property tax exemption in Texas, potentially saving $5,000-$15,000+ annually.

 

Download Your Free Moving to Texas Checklist PDF

Want the printable version of this complete Texas relocation guide? Contact us for your free PDF.

Christopher Beal, Realtor®
Veteran Real Estate San Antonio: The Beal Group
eXp Realty

📲 (210) 882-8583
📧 gobealgroup@gmail.com
🌐 www.veteranrealestatesa.com