The Hidden Costs of Moving to Dallas — and How to Budget for Them

By Steven, Refind Realty

Moving to Dallas has a lot of perks — great jobs, no state income tax, and plenty of housing options. But like any big move, there are some expenses that catch people off guard. I help clients plan for more than just the down payment. Here's a breakdown of the real (and often hidden) costs of relocating to Dallas and how to budget for them.

1. Moving Services and Transportation

Whether you're moving across Texas or from another state, transportation isn't cheap. Hiring professional movers in Dallas can cost between $1,200 and $5,000 depending on how far you're coming from and how much you're bringing. If you're renting a truck and doing it yourself, factor in fuel, equipment, and time off work.

Tip: Get quotes from at least three movers and ask about hidden charges like long carries, stairs, or storage.

2. Utility Deposits and Setup Fees

Electricity, water, gas, internet — every provider may charge a setup fee or deposit for new accounts. In Dallas, electricity deposits alone can run between $150 and $300 per account depending on your credit.

Tip: Use PowerToChoose.org to shop for electricity plans and avoid contracts with high fees.

3. Temporary Housing or Storage

If your move-in date doesn’t line up perfectly, you may need to pay for short-term housing or storage. Temporary rentals in Dallas average around $1,800 per month and storage units can cost $100 to $300 depending on size and climate control.

4. Furniture, Appliances, and Home Essentials

Many homes in Dallas don’t come with refrigerators, washers, or dryers — especially new construction. That means you’ll likely need to budget for major appliances. Add in blinds, curtains, trash bins, and tools, and you could easily spend $2,000 to $5,000 just to get settled.

Tip: Big-box retailers in Dallas often offer package deals or seasonal sales.

5. Vehicle Costs

Texas has vehicle registration, inspection, and possibly new insurance requirements. Expect to pay about $90 for registration and $25 for an inspection. If you're coming from a state that uses different license plates or emissions systems, you may need modifications.

Tip: Handle registration and inspection quickly to avoid fines.

6. Higher Cost of Commuting

Dallas is a commuter city. Gas prices, toll roads like the Dallas North Tollway, and vehicle wear can add hundreds each month to your budget if you're commuting daily.

Tip: Consider homes closer to your job or ask your employer about toll reimbursements or hybrid work policies.

7. Property Taxes and Insurance

Texas doesn’t have state income tax, but that savings is often offset by property taxes. Dallas County’s effective tax rate is about 2.1%. And homeowners insurance in Dallas is among the highest in the country, averaging $4,945 per year.

8. Eating Out and Entertainment

It’s tempting to explore your new city through food and events — and you should. But budgeting for this up front can help avoid overspending. Dallas has amazing restaurants, concerts, and sports, and those little splurges can add up quickly.

How to Budget for the Move

Here's a basic budget example for a family moving from out of state:

Expense CategoryEstimated CostMoving Services$3,000Utility Deposits$500Short-Term Housing$1,800Furniture/Appliances$3,500Vehicle Setup$150First Month Groceries$500Entertainment$300Total$9,750

Final Thoughts

Moving to Dallas can be a fresh start, but it's important to go in prepared. My goal is to help you make a smooth transition without financial surprises. If you’re planning a move to the DFW area, I’m here to answer your questions and walk you through it.

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FAQs

What is the average cost of moving to Dallas from another state?
Around $9,000 to $12,000 depending on distance, services, and home setup needs.

Do I need to buy appliances when moving into a Dallas home?
Often yes. Many new homes do not include a refrigerator or washer/dryer.

How do I reduce utility setup costs in Dallas?
Use comparison sites and ask about no-deposit options from providers.

What should I know about property taxes in Dallas?
They’re higher than the national average and vary by county and school district.

Is it cheaper to rent or buy when first moving to Dallas?
It depends on your timeline and budget. Buying offers equity but has upfront costs. I’m happy to run the numbers with you.