Relocating for a new role in Houston can be exciting and a bit overwhelming. You want a fast, confident start, a smart housing plan, and a smooth landing at work. This checklist walks you through the key steps, from timing your move and setting up utilities to understanding local taxes, flood risk, and home inspections. Let’s dive in.
Before you move
- Time your move with weather in mind. Houston’s hurricane season runs June 1 through November 30, so build in contingency plans if you are closing or moving during that period. Review seasonal patterns from the National Hurricane Center.
- Shortlist neighborhoods by commute, budget, and flood history. Check flood maps early if you plan to buy or rent near bayous or low-lying areas, using FEMA’s Flood Map Service Center.
- Align your budget to local taxes. Texas has no state personal income tax, and local sales tax often totals up to 8.25 percent in many Houston ZIP codes. Property taxes vary by neighborhood, school district, and special districts, and they are a major part of homeowner costs.
- Set expectations for the housing market. Inventory, pricing, and insurance can change with storms and policy shifts. Plan a scouting trip to tour homes and drive commute routes during peak hours.
30–90 day tasks after arrival
Identity and vehicles
- Get a Texas driver’s license. New residents are generally expected to obtain a Texas license within about 90 days. Review ID requirements and plan ahead for your appointment using this new resident guide.
- Title and register your vehicle within 30 days. The usual sequence is Texas auto insurance, required inspection, then county tax office registration. Start here with the TxDMV new-to-Texas steps.
- Confirm current inspection rules. Emissions testing is still required in certain counties, including Harris County. Requirements can change, so verify before you schedule.
Addresses, mail, and voting
- File a USPS change of address and update banks, payroll, subscriptions, and benefits.
- Register to vote at your new address. Check local deadlines for upcoming elections.
Utilities and internet
- Electricity is deregulated in much of Houston. You will choose a Retail Electric Provider while CenterPoint delivers power and handles outages. Plan activation before move-in and compare plans using resources like this Houston electricity overview.
- Water, sewer, and trash are managed by the City of Houston or local MUDs in the suburbs. Ask for the provider list when you sign a lease or contract, then set up service in advance.
- Internet providers vary by address. Check fiber availability and lead times for installation.
Insurance and health care
- Update your health coverage and confirm in-network providers. The Texas Medical Center is one of the largest healthcare hubs in the world with extensive options for specialists and research facilities.
- Review auto and housing insurance. Get quotes early, especially if your target home is near the coast or a mapped flood zone.
Homebuying essentials in Houston
Property taxes and the homestead exemption
- Expect variation by neighborhood. Texas property taxes are assessed by multiple entities that add up to your final bill. New homeowners should review how rates combine and how appraisals work.
- File your homestead exemption after you move in. This can lower your taxable value, especially for the school district portion. See state guidance on eligibility and filing through the Texas Comptroller.
Flood risk and insurance
- Check the flood zone for any address. Use FEMA’s Flood Map Service Center and ask about elevation certificates if a property is in or near a Special Flood Hazard Area.
- Understand coverage. Standard homeowners insurance usually covers wind and hail in most of Houston, but it typically does not cover flood. Lenders may require separate flood insurance for high-risk zones. For a plain-English overview of disaster insurance basics, review this guide from Texas Law Help.
Foundations, soils, and drainage
- Many areas have expansive clay soils, which can contribute to slab movement. Budget for a thorough home inspection and, if needed, an engineer’s opinion. Learn more about “Houston black” clay soils here: Houston black soil.
- Evaluate grading and drainage. Gutters, downspouts, and yard drainage matter in a high-rainfall climate. Ask for repair histories and warranties where applicable.
Work and commute strategy
- Know the major job hubs. Downtown, the Energy Corridor, the Texas Medical Center, Port-adjacent logistics, and NASA’s Johnson Space Center drive many commutes. Proximity is often more important than mileage because of freeway traffic at peak hours.
- Test real-world commute times. Drive your route during rush hour from your top neighborhoods. If you use METRO bus or light rail in the core, confirm schedules and park-and-ride options.
- Confirm professional licensing early. If you are in medicine, law, engineering, architecture, teaching, or real estate, check Texas board requirements and processing timelines.
Emergency readiness
- Build a simple kit and plan. Include 72-hour supplies, medications, key documents, and a backup power option if possible. Know local evacuation routes and where you would go if advised to leave.
- Mind the calendar. If you are shopping or closing between August and October, assume weather could delay inspections, appraisals, movers, or material deliveries. Discuss contingency timing with your agent and lender.
- Do not wait on flood coverage. If your home is in or near a mapped zone, explore policies early since some have waiting periods.
How we help you land smoothly
You deserve a move that feels organized, informed, and on your timeline. With 600 plus closed sales and more than $500M in volume, our team pairs market strategy with hands-on execution so you can focus on your career while we guide the real estate.
- Buyer representation for single-family, executive, and luxury homes across central Houston and targeted suburbs.
- Investment and value-add acquisition strategy for relocators who want long-term returns.
- Design-forward staging, pre-list improvements, and remodel project management through our Modern Houston platform, all under one accountable team.
Ready to plan your Houston move with a local partner who delivers? Connect with Jaime Fallon to start a tailored relocation and home search plan.
FAQs
How long do I have to get a Texas driver’s license after moving?
- New residents are generally expected to obtain a Texas license within about 90 days. Schedule early and bring required documents.
When do I have to title and register my car in Texas?
- You typically have 30 days from establishing residency. Get Texas insurance first, confirm any required inspection, then complete registration at the county tax office.
Does homeowners insurance cover hurricanes and floods in Houston?
- Wind and hail are usually part of standard policies in most of Houston, but flood is typically excluded. Homes in high-risk flood zones often require separate flood insurance.
How can I check if a home is in a floodplain?
- Search the address on FEMA’s Flood Map Service Center and ask your lender or insurer for an official flood determination during the purchase process.
What should I know about property taxes in Houston?
- Property taxes vary by district and can be a significant monthly cost. After you move in, file a homestead exemption to reduce your taxable value if you qualify.
